The right sport specific workout pants can make a big difference in your comfort and efficiency. As you consider the perfect pair, here are a few points to keep in mind:
Leg style: Sports pants are available in tights, straight leg, boot cut and low rise styles.
Leg length: Many also come in long and short to accommodate leg lengths. Note: Cropped and Capri styles are good choices for yoga if you feel uncomfortable in shorts but you want to avoid pant legs dragging on the floor during twisting and bending poses.
Choose tights or pants sizes based on your waist and hip measurements for standard clothing. For example, a woman who wears a size 10 would be happiest in a size medium tight. If you feel self-conscious in fitted tights, many current styles skim, rather than hug, the body, and feature either boot-cut, wide or tapered legs. Ideally, visit a store and try several pairs, since sizes vary according to brand, just as with any other pants.
But consider your sport before you buy. Many runners and cyclists prefer fitted tights to reduce chafing. For yoga or running, pants that are slightly loose give you full range of motion, but beware of very wide legs that can get in your way.
As for fabric, a polyester outer layer cuts down on wind resistance if you are exercising outdoors in extremely cold, wet or windy weather, but a 100% polyester shell that doesn't breathe can be too hot for intense activity on most days. Read the labels and look for tights or pants that are breathable for the workout itself, but a 100% polyester or polyester blend is fine for warm-ups, cool-downs, and casual running around after the kids in the yard.