Walking into your first hot yoga class can feel exciting — and a little intimidating.
We were just like many beginners: nervous, excited, and a little unsure — what should we bring? What should we wear? Would we be underprepared and feel awkward?
After a few classes, we realized that hot yoga is really different from regular yoga. The room is hotter, you sweat more, and being properly prepared makes a huge difference in how much you enjoy the experience.
In this article, we’ve put together everything we’ve learned from personal experience to help you get fully prepared, so you can focus on your practice and not on what’s missing from your bag.
1. Must-Have : Your Yoga Mat (Choosing the Right One Matters)
When it comes to hot yoga, grip is everything. If your mat isn’t up to the task, it’s easy to slip when you sweat, which can throw off your balance and distract you from your practice.
Common Types of Yoga Mats
TPE Yoga Mat
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Lightweight and affordable
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Great for beginners
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Can be slippery when you sweat a lot
Natural Rubber Yoga Mat
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Excellent grip that actually improves as you sweat
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Perfect for hot yoga
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Heavier and slightly more expensive
PU Surface Yoga Mat
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Excellent sweat absorption and grip
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Smooth, soft texture
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A popular choice among hot yoga enthusiasts
Our recommendation: if you plan to practice hot yoga regularly, go with a natural rubber or PU surface mat — it makes a noticeable difference in comfort and safety.
2. Must-Have : A Large Towel or Yoga Towel (Yoga Towel for Hot Yoga)
This is one of the easiest things for beginners to overlook.
In a hot room, sweat quickly covers your mat. Without a towel, your hands and feet can slip.
Tips for Choosing a Yoga Towel
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Look for non-slip silicone dots on the bottom
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Make sure it fully covers your mat
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Quick-drying, highly absorbent fabrics are ideal
Our usual combo:
Yoga mat + yoga towel for hot yoga = hot yoga essentials
3. Water Bottle: Hydration is a Must (Hot Yoga Hydration Tips)
Sweat levels in hot yoga are higher than you might expect, so staying hydrated is essential.
Simple Hydration Tips
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Drink a little water before class
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Sip water throughout the class — avoid gulping all at once
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Rehydrate after class
We recommend a 500–750ml insulated water bottle — it keeps your water at a comfortable temperature without shocking your stomach.
4. What to Wear: Comfort = Focus (What to Wear to Hot Yoga)
As a women’s yoga wear brand, we can say with confidence: what you wear matters in hot yoga.
Top Recommendations
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High-support sports bra (sweat-wicking and secure)
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Fitted but not restrictive yoga top
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Moisture-wicking fabrics are better than cotton
Bottom Recommendations
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High-waisted yoga pants (supports your core, won’t slide down)
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Four-way stretch for squats and stretches
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Dark colors for peace of mind
🚫 Things to avoid:
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Loose t-shirts (can fall into your face)
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Cotton-only fabrics (absorb sweat but don’t dry quickly)
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Too short or overly tight pieces that distract you
Wearing the right clothing lets you focus on your breath and movement, not your outfit.
👉 Check out our hot yoga clothing collection
Shop Women’s Hot Yoga Wear
5. Small Extras Beginners Often Forget (Hot Yoga Essentials Checklist)
These items aren’t mandatory, but they make life easier:
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Hair ties or headbands (keep sweat out of your eyes)
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Small towel (for quick sweat wipes)
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Change of clothes (post-class)
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Non-slip yoga socks (if your studio allows)
6. Things to Keep in Mind Before Your First Hot Yoga Class
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Don’t practice on an empty stomach, and avoid eating right before class (1–2 hours before is ideal)
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Don’t worry about perfect poses in your first class
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Listen to your body and take breaks if you need to
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Sweating a lot is normal, but stop immediately if you feel dizzy
Hot yoga isn’t about pushing your limits — it’s about connecting with your body safely and comfortably.
Final Thoughts
Having the right gear, especially a good yoga mat, yoga towel, and supportive hot yoga clothing, can make your practice so much easier and more enjoyable.
We hope this what to bring to a hot yoga class checklist helps you walk into your first class feeling confident.
If you’re just starting out: take it slow. You’re already doing great. 💛
👉 Explore our hot yoga clothing collection
[Shop Women’s Hot Yoga Wear]
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