The right clothing and equipment can make a significant difference in your AcroYoga practice. Here’s everything you need to know about dressing for success in partner acrobatics.
Clothing Essentials
For Upper Body
Best options:
- Fitted tank tops or t-shirts
- Sports bras (for those who wear them)
- Compression shirts
- Long-sleeved rash guards (for outdoor practice)
What to avoid:
- Loose t-shirts that fall over your face when inverted
- Tops with hoods or dangly strings
- Shirts that ride up and expose midriff (unless you’re comfortable with that)
- Delicate fabrics that can snag or tear
For Lower Body
Best options:
- Form-fitting leggings or yoga pants
- Compression shorts
- Athletic shorts with fitted underlayer
- Capri-length leggings
What to avoid:
- Loose shorts (things become visible when inverted)
- Jeans or stiff fabrics
- Pants with zippers or pockets that could dig into partners
- Slippery materials that bases can’t grip
Fabric Considerations
Good materials:
- Cotton blends (breathable, grippy)
- Performance fabrics with grip texture
- Tight-woven spandex
Materials to avoid:
- Pure polyester (slippery)
- Silk or satin (no grip)
- Mesh panels in contact areas
Footwear
The Short Answer
Most AcroYoga is practiced barefoot. Feet need to grip and feel the base’s body, and shoes interfere with both.
When Shoes Make Sense
- Walking to/from practice location
- Outdoor practice on rough surfaces
- Some standing acrobatics styles
Foot Care
Since you’re barefoot:
- Keep toenails trimmed short
- Address any calluses that could scratch partners
- Clean feet before practice
- Consider yoga socks with grip for cold studios
Accessories and Jewelry
What to Remove
- Rings (can scratch or catch)
- Watches (can pinch or scratch)
- Necklaces (can get caught or whip around)
- Dangly earrings (dangerous when inverted)
What’s Usually Fine
- Small stud earrings
- Soft fabric hair ties
- Simple wedding bands (some practitioners tape these)
Practical Considerations
Temperature Regulation
Dress in layers:
- Start warmer for warm-up
- Strip down as you heat up
- Have warm layers for rest periods
- Consider the venue (outdoor parks vs. heated studios)
Sweat Management
AcroYoga can be sweaty:
- Moisture-wicking fabrics help
- Dark colors show sweat less
- Bring a small towel
- Some practitioners use chalk or grip aids
Coverage and Modesty
Balance function with comfort:
- Higher-waisted bottoms stay put when inverted
- Longer tops don’t ride up
- Some practitioners wear a fitted underlayer
- Choose what makes you feel confident
Equipment
Yoga Mats
Essential for:
- Creating a clean practice surface
- Cushioning for therapeutic practices
- Defining personal space
What to look for:
- Thick enough for comfort (4-6mm)
- Non-slip surface
- Durable enough for regular use
- Large enough for partner practice
Crash Pads
For learning new skills:
- Provide safety cushion for falls
- Allow practice of riskier transitions
- Essential for pop-based skills
- Often shared in community settings
Blocks and Props
Sometimes useful:
- Yoga blocks for modified poses
- Straps for partner stretching
- Bolsters for therapeutic practices
- Blankets for lunar sessions
Specialized Gear
Grip Aids
When sweaty hands are a problem:
- Chalk (liquid or powder)
- Grip gloves
- Rosin
- Commercial grip products
Training Gear
For serious practitioners:
- Resistance bands for conditioning
- Parallettes for base training
- Portable massage tools
- Recovery equipment
What to Bring to a Jam
Essential Items
- Water bottle
- Small towel
- Change of clothes (optional)
- Any personal props you use
Optional But Useful
- Snacks for longer sessions
- Lip balm (outdoor practice)
- Sunscreen (outdoor practice)
- Phone for videos/photos (with permission)
Seasonal Considerations
Summer/Outdoor Practice
- Lighter fabrics
- Sun protection
- Extra hydration
- Shorter layers
Winter/Indoor Practice
- Layers to add/remove
- Warmer warm-up clothes
- Socks for waiting between practices
- Consider heated studios
Shopping Tips
Where to Buy
- Athletic wear stores
- Yoga-specific retailers
- Online (Lululemon, Athleta, Alo Yoga)
- Budget options (Target, Amazon basics)
Investment Pieces
Worth spending more on:
- High-quality leggings that last
- Supportive sports bras
- Non-slip yoga mats
Budget-Friendly Options
Save money on:
- Basic tank tops
- Practice towels
- Hair ties and accessories
Conclusion
The best AcroYoga outfit is one that stays put, feels comfortable, allows full range of motion, and doesn’t distract you or your partners. Start with basics from your existing wardrobe, then invest in quality pieces as you develop your practice.
Remember: confidence in what you’re wearing translates to confidence in your practice. Choose clothes that make you feel ready to fly.