[August 03, 2011] Hit the mat in style with stuff that's made for the yoga crowd Tweet Aug 03, 2011 (McClatchy Newspapers - McClatchy-Tribune News Service via COMTEX) -- Yoga is cool, and judging by its growing popularity, getting cooler by the day, even when it is practiced in 105-degree heat. More than 16 million Americans practice some form of yoga. Not surprisingly, all this interest in yoga has fueled a nearly $7 billion industry. Yoga studios, specialty shops, even big-box retailers sell clothes designed to move with you, whatever pose is taken. There are bags that make it easier to take your yoga practice on the road and mats that make sure you put your feet in the right place. Some studios focus on gear by local artisans; others empower women in developing countries around the globe. Brands such as rocklovepeace offer eco-friendly gifts designed to "educate, motivate and activate change." Its tote line is perfect for yoga gear and carries messages that are sure to resonate. Speaking of carrying a message, handcrafted shirts by LuckyUschi help support and empower women in India, Bali and other countries. Lululemon Athletica offers complimentary yoga classes and goal-setting workshops at its stores. The bottom line, no matter where you practice, you'll find there are plenty of fun and practical products to make your downward facing dog a lot prettier. ___ Reverse Groove Short and Let it Loose Tank Think of these shorts as the abbreviated version of the pants that are famous for making your backside look gorgeous. Made from Luon, Lululemon's signature fabric that provides support while allowing for freedom of movement, they are perfect for hot yoga classes. $48. Pair them with a Let it Loose tank, which gives you plenty of room to move up and has a band at the bottom to make sure it stays in place during inversions. $64 at Lululemon Athletica. ___ Bali Malas Wrap these colorful beads from Bali around your wrist or drape them around your neck and surely good things will come your way. Each stone has been handpicked, blessed and chosen for its energy level. Amethyst, quartz and other stones add meaning. For example, the rare rudraksa beads used in the handcrafted jewelry are believed to strengthen the heart, destroy negative thoughts and grant the wearer peace of mind, clarity and purpose. $116 at Urban Yoga. ___ Rocklovepeace tote This colorful tote not only makes it easy to carry your yoga stuff around, it helps you do your part to save the planet. It's from rocklovepeace, which sells recycled gifts. $35 at Urban Yoga. ___ Bon Voyage duffel and The Mat Stash your stuff in this bag, zipping your sweaty things in a separate pocket and slipping your mat in the space designed to keep it secure, and you are good to go a long way. The Mat sucks sweat and moisture away from your body and is super-grippy, thanks to the same technology that is used on the grips of tennis rackets. The mat's four layers will provide just enough cushion for your hips, knees and spine. Plus, it is treated with an additive that prevents the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew and fungus. The Mat is $68, and the duffel $108. Both from Lululemon Athletica. ___ Silk top by LuckyUschi After yoga class, slip into this silk top that combines Indian style with a Western edge. It's so silky and soft that you may not want to take it off at the end of the day. This is just one of the tops by LuckyUschi, which works with women's collectives, to help empower women in India by teaching them skills to make a living. $75 at Urban Yoga. ___ Flip-flops You'll find lots of flip-flops piled outside the door of most yoga classes but this is one pair that stands out from the rest. Made by Okabashi, they deliver style and comfort without breaking the bank. And believe it or not, they're dishwasher-safe. Made from 100 percent recycled materials, these sandals provide arch support and massage beads that stimulate circulation. They also are anti-slip and anti-odor. About $15 at CVS, Walgreens and www.okabashi.com. ___ (c) 2011, Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Visit the Star-Telegram on the World Wide Web at http://www.star-telegram.com. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. _____ PHOTOS (from MCT Photo Service, 202-383-6099): fash-yoga-gear For reprints, email [email protected], call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]