When sweating bullets in a kick boxing class or quieting your mind during your morning yoga session, it’s essential to have comfortable clothing and functional accessories that help you push it to the next level. Over the years I have purchased lots of workout clothes that are cut all wrong and made out of horrible synthetic fabrics that chafe in all the wrong places. I’m sure all of you have some gym clothing horror stories of your own. Like straps breaking! Ahh! So I thought I’d write up some of my fave fitness clothing companies and also recommend some great accessories I use everyday.
Discount Dance Supply: Not just for dancers! This site offers the widest range of dance apparel, but also everything you’ll ever need in terms of workout clothing. From hundreds of tops and bottoms, to tights, to leggings and warm-ups, this site has it all. The best part is the prices!! For example, the most expensive pant is only $35 bucks. They even will send you a free catalog. Discount Dance Supply is really an untapped resource even in dance circles, so be sure to save some money on your next purchase.
Lululemon Athletica: For those willing to spend the money for amazing quality be sure to check out this up and coming athletic wear company. Lululemon stores are popping up everywhere, and for good reason. They offer about 25 uniquely cut yoga pants to fit any size and shape aside from a huge selection of other active wear. In store, the yoga pant section is reminiscent of a jean section you’d see in a department store, where there is shelf upon shelf of divine pants. To top it off, they even carry two lines that are made of 75% organic and sustainable fabrics. You definitely get what you pay for though…one pair of yoga pants can retail as high as $150 dollars. Ouch! Maybe just one pair…
Under The Canopy: Offers gorgeous, fashionable tanks and tees made from sustainable and eco friendly fabrics. Under the Canopy transcend above the rest with innovative organic fibers and fiber blends such as organic denim, organic cotton angora and soy. Average price for these earth friendly tees is between $20-40 dollars.
Now on to the gear that aides us in our EPIC fitness rountines!
Toe Sox: These amazing seamless socks are meant for those who can’t get enough of yoga and pilates. Toe Sox Women’s Yoga / Pilates Socks, Pair
are made of moisture wicking cotton and seperate the toes allowing you to strengthen and increase flexibility in your feet. They also have grippies on the bottom! No more slipping and sliding on wood floors and yoga mats. I love these socks so much a bought several pair and wear them everytime I practice. Price? $12.50 a pair.
The Original Eco Yoga Mat: According to the New York Times this mat is the best in biz when it comes to eco mats. Created by Barefoot Yoga Company, this mat is made of natural rubber and jute fiber and is offered in two thicknesses. Its rubber underside grips the floor and the jute fabric/rubber mix on top offers excellent traction. The fabric gives a highly durable and enjoyable natural surface to practice on, while the rubber gives awesome grip. So why not practice yoga with a feeling of the earth beneath your feet? Pick one up for $38-45 bucks depending on thickness.
Speaking of yoga…here’s a rad video on how to make your own fashionable yoga mat bag.
Hope this helps in the quest for finding the perfect active wear and gear for your body and various practices.
