Walking into your first aerial yoga class is both exciting and a little confusing—especially when it comes to what to wear. You’re going to be upside down, swinging, and hanging from silky hammocks, so your everyday yoga outfit might not cut it. What feels comfy on a mat could become a safety issue mid-air. Here’s a breakdown of what works best in the air—and what you should definitely leave at home.
Fitted Athletic Tops to Prevent Fabric Entanglement
Loose tops may feel cozy, but they’re a problem once you’re hanging upside down. The last thing anyone wants is a shirt creeping into their face while they’re focusing on balance. Fitted athletic tops keep things in place, so you don’t have to constantly adjust mid-pose. Choose something that hugs your torso without cutting off your movement or breathing.
Clothes that shift around can get tangled in the fabric or distract from your form. A snug, sleeveless workout top gives you freedom to move while keeping everything secure. It also helps your instructor see how your body aligns in each pose, which makes corrections easier and more effective.
Grip-Friendly Leggings Enhance Aerial Yoga Stability
The right leggings can make or break your comfort in the hammock. You’ll want a pair with a little compression that doesn’t slide around when you’re twisting and balancing. Grip-friendly fabric helps you stay in control, especially during those slow transitions between poses. Think about stability, not just style.
Avoid overly slick materials like satin or nylon blends—they tend to slip and slide against the hammock. Opt for yoga leggings designed to stay put and move with you. A reliable pair will let you focus more on the flow and less on pulling your pants up between poses.
Sleeveless Shirts for Improved Arm Mobility
Inversions and arm-heavy poses demand freedom of movement. Sleeves, especially longer ones, can bunch up and restrict motion. Choosing sleeveless workout shirts lets your shoulders and arms move without resistance, giving you the range you need for overhead holds and wraps.
You’ll be surprised how much your arms do in class. From hoisting yourself up to stabilizing in mid-air, unrestricted motion makes a difference. A tank or muscle tee is your best friend here—functional, comfortable, and easy to move in during even the trickiest sequences.
High-Waisted Apparel to Protect Skin During Inversions
Exposed skin and aerial hammocks don’t mix well. The fabric can dig into sensitive spots if you aren’t covered properly. High-waisted leggings and tops that meet the waistline protect your midsection during deep wraps and flips. The added coverage also helps prevent skin pinching.
This extra support keeps you more comfortable and more confident during class. You don’t need to worry about your shirt riding up or your back getting scraped. The snug fit of high-rise bottoms acts like a second skin, allowing you to stay present in the movement instead of being distracted by discomfort.
Avoid Loose Jewelry for a Safer Yoga Flow
Bracelets, necklaces, rings—they all seem small until they get caught in a swing or snagged during a wrap. Loose jewelry isn’t just a distraction, it’s a safety hazard. It can catch on the silk, tear the fabric, or even hurt you or someone else in class.
Keep things simple. Leave all metal at home or in a locker before class. If you wear piercings, consider removing them or using flat studs. Not only will this keep the hammock in good condition, but it also reduces the chance of injury during more advanced poses.
Steer Clear of Zippers and Buttons to Protect Equipment
Zippers might look harmless, but they’re a major no-go in the studio. Anything with sharp edges, snaps, or buttons can snag or tear the fabric used in class. Hammocks are made of specialized material, and it doesn’t take much to damage them.
Even your sports bra or yoga pants can be a problem if they have metal parts. Stick to seamless, zipper-free options whenever possible. It’s about keeping the equipment safe and the class running smoothly for everyone. Plus, you’ll avoid that awkward moment when your outfit starts clinking mid-pose.
Barefoot Practice Maximizes Grip and Control
Shoes stay at the door, and socks often follow. Bare feet give you the grip you need to hook the hammock and stay grounded in mid-air. It also allows for more connection with your body and the movements.
If you’re worried about cleanliness, bring a towel or check if the studio has a policy on yoga socks. But unless required, going barefoot usually offers the best traction and control. Plus, it’s one less thing to think about when you’re learning a new pose.
Skip Perfumes and Lotions for Optimal Fabric Grip
That favorite scented lotion? It makes the hammock slippery. Lotions and oils, even the ones that seem dry, can leave residue that weakens your grip and stains the fabric. The same goes for heavy perfumes—they transfer to the hammock and linger long after you’ve left.
Keep your skin clean and dry before class. Your grip will thank you, and your classmates will too. Studios work hard to maintain a fresh, clean environment, and skipping that extra spray or moisturizer helps keep things that way.
Discover Your Inner Strength and Elevate Your Aerial Yoga Practice at AT OM Yoga
There’s something powerful about stepping into the air and trusting your body to move with intention. At AT OM Yoga, that experience goes beyond physical strength—it becomes a space for self-discovery, confidence, and freedom. Whether you’re curious about aerial yoga or ready to deepen your practice, this is the place to feel supported, challenged, and inspired. Our certified instructors guide each class with patience, attention, and creativity, ensuring that every student—no matter their experience level—feels safe and encouraged to take flight. The studio’s welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully designed space create a grounding experience even while you’re hanging upside down.
Aerial yoga is more than just movement—it’s an experience that connects body and breath, air and awareness. So if you’re looking for a new way to move, stretch, and grow, AT OM Yoga is where your next journey begins. today to learn more about our aerial yoga schedule, membership options, or beginner-friendly sessions. The hammock is waiting—and so is a version of you that’s stronger, more open, and ready to rise.
