Issue link: https://bluemagazine.uberflip.com/i/25248
MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE SPENDING TIME ON THE YOGA MAT. THIS IS A GOOD THING. MIRRORING THIS SURGE OF INTEREST. TRADITIONAL APPAREL COMPANIES SUCH AS THE NORTH FACE AND PATAGONIA HAVE DEVELOPED LINES OF YOGA WEAR. AND NEW YOGA-SPECIFIC COMPANIES SUCH AS LULULEMON ATHLETICA AND PRANA HAVE SPRUNG UP TO MEET THE DEMAND. Whether you practice yoga to sculpt some muscles or strive toward enlightenment, the threads you wear won't get you there faster. But they can certainly define the quality of the process. Many hardcore yogis shower before they practice, rather than after, although the clean freaks do both. Why? They want to step onto their mat, clean and presentable out of respect for the practice. This concept dates back to the ancient temple t raditions still practiced in India today, where a devotee never approaches the temple unless they are clean and bathed. Well, the same principle can be applied to what you wear. To practice yoga is an act of offering. Would you offer something that was worn, grubby and moth-eaten? The clothes highlighted here were tested for fit, wickability, breathability and st yle within the rigorous con- ditions of a daily ashtanga yoga practice-a strenuous, sweat-soaked two-hour practice. They are the best of the best. Om shanti. TEXT: CLAIRE HOCHACHKA How well does the piece move with your body during especially difficult postures? Does the shirt flop down over your face during headstand? Does it stretch when you draw your legs behind your head? How well does the piece lift sweat away from your skin and carry it to the surface of the fabric for evaporation? Do you clothes feel like shrink-wrap, or does the fabric and design promote airflow during practice? How long does the piece take to dry? ,, A **BEST WOMEN'S TOP** I .••. I I I I t---- - -_ ---_. . ~- •• -.-------.-------- •• ---------.-------.-.-____________ J I A super-slim fit mirrors the contours ofthe female body, and it wicks like a dream. Contoured mesh side panels allow for continuous airflow, a sup- portive built-in bra offers an obvious advantage, and a narrow strip of fabric runs up the back, leaving your shoulders free for optimal arm movement. The piece worked incredibly well in the yoga room, but would also be great for low impact activities like bikin g, rock climbing and in- line skating. Your sun salutations will be more exuberant than ever before. RLX Ralph Lauren, www.polo.com. 866-879-7656, $60 . ------ -.- _. ~ -_ .. 62