What to bring and wear to hot yoga class

November 03, 2025

For First-Time Hot Yoga Practitioners

If you've never experienced a hot yoga class, we encourage you to try it at least once.

There are countless reasons to recommend hot yoga, including the sheer joy of the challenge, the euphoria from endorphins, and the effect of thoroughly loosening your muscles. Some may simply enjoy the feeling of sweating.

The class environments vary from studios that are mildly warm to those that make you exclaim, "Wow, it's hot!" Humidity might not be high at the start of a class, but it can rapidly increase once participants start sweating.

With the right equipment and a positive attitude towards trying a new yoga style, you'll be able to fully enjoy the many benefits that hot yoga offers.

Here, we recommend what to bring and what to wear to a hot yoga class.

Hot Yoga Mat Towel

A good towel significantly impacts comfort in hot yoga.

Whether hand-sized or mat-sized, a highly absorbent towel is essential. It serves various purposes, such as preventing sweat from getting into your eyes and providing support for your body.

During class, placing a full-sized towel over your entire mat helps maintain a firm grip for your hands and feet, which can become slippery with sweat. Additionally, folding the towel to use as a pillow can make Savasana (corpse pose) more comfortable.

Note that many studios do not lend out towels, so it is recommended to bring your own. You can choose your preferred size, color, and functionality. Manduka offers two types of highly absorbent towels: hand-sized and full-sized, each with different features.

YOGITOES rSkidless Mat Long

YOGITOES rSkidless (Hand Size)

eQua Yoga Mat Towel Hand Size (S)

eQua Yoga Mat Towel (L)

Please also refer to this blog post:
Hot Yoga Towel Usage Guide>>>

Personal Yoga Mat

When choosing a mat suitable for hot yoga, it's important to understand its construction. In particular, knowing whether it's "closed-cell" or "open-cell" can be beneficial.

Closed-Cell Structure (e.g., PRO, Begin, X Mat)

This structure prevents dirt, sweat, dust, and bacteria from penetrating the mat's interior, keeping them on the surface. It's easy to clean and hygienic to use. However, if using this type of mat, it's recommended to use a yoga towel that covers the entire mat to prevent slipping.

Open-Cell Structure (e.g., GRP)

Offers excellent grip, making it especially suitable for hot yoga. However, sweat and dirt can easily seep into the interior, making it difficult to keep completely clean by simply wiping the surface.

While it's fine for personal use, if a studio's rental mat has an open-cell structure, you might think of it as akin to sharing a toothbrush with others.

When choosing a mat, it's important to consider material, structure, size, weight, and density to find one that suits you. Especially in a high-temperature environment like hot yoga, the mat's performance directly affects your comfort.

GRP adapt Yoga Mat (5mm)

GRP adapt Travel Yoga Mat (1.5mm)

Attire (Apparel)

The best attire for hot yoga is whatever allows you to move most comfortably.

For those who prioritize ease of movement with minimal coverage, a sports bra and shorts combination works well. If you prefer a bit more coverage, choose a fitted T-shirt and long pants that won't slip on your legs. In either case, the key is to select moisture-wicking and quick-drying apparel that absorbs sweat quickly and dries fast.

Hydration

In hot yoga, hydration is paramount.

Drink plenty of water before class, and keep a bottle handy during the session to drink frequently. Depending on the temperature, humidity, and intensity of the class, you might sweat more than you expect. It's perfectly normal to take breaks and drink water. Listen to your body and continue without overexerting yourself.