If you have not yet experienced a hot yoga class, we're here to give you the encouragement to try it.
People love hot yoga for all kinds of reasons: the challenge, the focus, the post-class endorphins, and the feeling of moving in a warm environment. And, of course, some people simply love to sweat.
The room may range from comfortably warm to "AY! It's hot in here!" Depending on the studio, class style, and humidity level, you may notice the heat right away, or it may build as everyone settles into practice.
The good news? You don't need much to get started. A few hot yoga essentials can help you stay comfortable, feel confident, and focus on your practice instead of worrying about slipping, sweating, or what to pack.
What Should You Bring to a Hot Yoga Class?
Here's the quick answer:
- A yoga towel
- A yoga mat that performs well in heated conditions
- Moisture-wicking apparel
- A water bottle
- Electrolytes for particularly intense sessions (optional)
Let's take a closer look.
Hot Yoga Towel
If there's one item many people wish they had brought to their first hot yoga class, it's a towel.
Whether hand-sized or full-length, a quality yoga towel helps manage sweat and adds comfort throughout practice. Keep a hand towel nearby to wipe away perspiration, or place a full-length towel over your mat to create additional traction as the room heats up and your practice progresses.
And when it's time for savasana? Fold it into a makeshift pillow and thank yourself later.
Not every studio provides towels, and bringing your own means you get to choose the size, feel, and performance features that work best for you.
Manduka offers two towel collections, each designed with hot yoga in mind:
Equa Towels feature an ultra-absorbent microfiber material with a soft, suede-like feel. Better yet, they become grippier as moisture builds.
Yogitoes Towels offer vibrant prints and patented silicone nubs on the underside to help keep the towel securely in place throughout class.
Shop the Yogitoes Hot Yoga Towel→
Whether you prefer a hand towel, a full-length mat towel, or both, having one in your yoga bag can make a big difference in a heated room.
Personal Yoga Mat
When choosing the best yoga mat for hot yoga, one of the most important factors is understanding the difference between closed-cell and open-cell construction.
Closed-Cell Yoga Mats
Closed-cell mats, including the PRO, eKO, Begin, X Mat, prevent moisture, dirt, and sweat from absorbing into the mat. Everything stays on the surface, making cleaning simple and helping maintain the mat's long-term performance.
For hot yoga, practitioners typically pair a closed-cell mat with a full length yoga towel. The towel provides the traction needed as sweat builds while the mat provides a stable, supportive foundation underneath.
Open-Cell Yoga Mats
Open-cell mats, such as the GRP Series, are designed to absorb moisture and deliver exceptional grip in heated conditions. Many practitioners specifically choose an open-cell mat for hot yoga because traction often improves as the practice gets sweatier.
The tradeoff is maintenance. Because moisture can penetrate below the surface, open-cell mats require more thorough cleaning than closed-cell alternatives. If the mat belongs to you, that's simply part of caring for your mat. If you're using a shared studio mat, keep in mind that open-cell construction can't be fully deep cleaned in the same way as a closed-cell mat. For that reason, many practitioners prefer to bring their own mat or practice on a closed-cell mat paired with a yoga towel.
Ultimately, the best yoga mat for hot yoga comes down to personal preference. Some practitioners prefer the versatility of a closed-cell mat and towel combination, while others love the built-in grip of an open-cell surface.
Whichever route you choose, it's worth considering how your mat performs when the heat is on.
Mat Care Guide: How to Clean Your Yoga Mat→
What to Wear to Hot Yoga
The best hot yoga apparel is the apparel you barely notice once class begins.
Whether you prefer shorts and a sports bra or a fitted tank and leggings, choose pieces that allow you to move comfortably and confidently through practice. Moisture-wicking fabrics are especially helpful in heated classes, helping manage sweat while maintaining comfort from the first pose to savasana.
For practitioners looking for apparel designed specifically for heat and performance, explore the Vahni Collection, engineered to move with you through even the sweatiest sessions.
Water (Don't Forget It)
Hydration is key.
Arriving well-hydrated can make a significant difference in how you feel during and after class. Keep a water bottle nearby and don't hesitate to take a sip when needed.
Hot yoga affects everyone differently. Room temperature, humidity, class intensity, and your own physiology all play a role in how much you sweat and how much fluid you lose.
And yes, it may be more than you expect.
For particularly intense sessions, electrolytes can help replenish minerals lost through sweat and support recovery afterward.
Most importantly, listen to your body. Taking a moment to rest, rehydrate, or regroup during class is completely normal. Your practice will be there when you're ready to return.
Ready for Hot Yoga?
Hot yoga doesn't require a lot of gear. With a mat, a towel, comfortable apparel, and plenty of water, you'll be well prepared for your first class.
The room may be warm. The sweat may arrive quickly. And at some point you may find yourself thinking, "AY! It's hot in here!"
But once you're settled into the rhythm of practice, you'll likely understand why so many people keep coming back.
Now, get in there and get hot! 🔥
