Cotton for yoga

Yoga is Cool – In Cotton

Yoga is so cool, but did you know that your yoga clothes could be contributing to global warming?  Oil refining is the most prevalent cause of global warming, and many synthetic fibers, like polyester and nylon, are made from petroleum.  So, although politics and apparel might not have much in common, polyester does increase our dependence on fossil fuels. And when you’re tired of your pilled nylon yoga pants, keep in mind they will be off-gassing in a land fill for at least 20 years.

The Natural Performance Fabric

In contrast, cotton is a natural performance fabric. It feels soft and natural against your skin and it breathes, so you don’t get as hot and sweaty when you exercise, and you won’t get that synthetic smell that happens with polyester. Our organic cotton leggings and sports bras are perfect for yoga!

And did you know that cotton wicks?  It’s true. It pulls moisture away from your skin just like synthetic wicking fabric.

And what happens to your well-used cotton yoga pants when you’re done with them?  If they’re Blue Canoe pants, you’ll wear them for years looking great.  Then they’ll biodegrade and fertilize someone’s tomatoes in the future.

Here is a simple guide to help you choose the right fabric for the type of workout you prefer

• If you plan on changing out of your workout clothes right after your workout, cotton is a great choice – organic cotton even better.

• Cotton isn’t quick-dry, so if you’re sweating in the cold and not planning to change your clothes anytime soon, then cotton may not be your best choice.

• If you want to stay cooler, sweat less and smell better. Go for cotton.

• If you’re working out in warm weather and want to keep cool, then cottons for you. If will stay damp and keep you cool – the natural air conditioner.

Synthetics have their place, but next time you consider the latest high-tech fabric because it wicks or claims to kill bacteria, also consider this:  Polyester is a petroleum product.  Is that really what you want against your skin?

At Blue Canoe we believe that natural fibers, grown without pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers are better for you and better for our planet.  We were founded in 1994 as an organic cotton yoga company and have always made all our clothing exclusively in the USA.

Blue Canoe.

Where life meets style.