I was in the locker room at the gym recently when I saw a woman whose T-shirt read, “My yoga pants have never been to a yoga class.” Talking with her, I discovered the message was two-fold: although she wasn’t a fan of yoga, it didn’t mean she didn’t love her yoga pants. In fact, she practically lived in them.

There’s been a lot of controversy in the media about women’s clothing, namely leggings and yoga pants. I’ve read numerous comments from people—primarily men—that say it’s inappropriate for women to wear leggings or yoga pants in public because they’re too revealing. These critics obviously haven’t experienced the comfort and confidence we have with our new best friends.

Yoga pants complement our active lifestyles, work as hard as we do, and fit into any budget. We can dress them up or down, and wear them to the gym, grocery store, or wherever we decide to curl up with a good book. They make for comfortable travel wear, and take up little space in our closet or suitcase. The breathable material helps us make it through stressful days.

Not only do yoga pants make working out easier, but they also allow us be more motivated. They’re functional for all ages—much more than hip-suffocating bell-bottoms, polyester short shorts or mini-skirts. They also come in a variety of colors and prints, giving us a form of self-expression and confidence that we can’t wait to show the world.

However, let’s get one thing straight: we don’t wear yoga pants to evoke attention from men. We wear them because they’re comfortable, versatile and instill confidence.

“It’s about functionality and how we feel about ourselves,” said Carrington Schaeffer. “Women should be free to wear what frees their body and allows movement that traditional clothes don’t.”

Schaeffer’s mother, Sue King, said people’s opposition to wearing yoga pants might be generational, as she still struggles with wearing them outside of the gym even when she radiates confidence in her own flashy sportswear.

“I’ve been losing weight but I still see my fat self in the mirror,” said King. “Maybe after another 10 pounds.”

Even though she loves her yoga pants, Kathy Leech, a retired real estate broker of 30 years, said it’s hard to break the habit of feeling the need to look professional when she’s out in the community.

Don’t be quick to judge the next time you see a woman wearing leggings or yoga pants in public. Men can enjoy the same feelings of comfort and freedom that women do with yoga pants that are designed for them, too.

“Yoga pants say you are comfortable with who you are,” said athletic instructor Andrea Minnick. “It’s not size that matters. The stronger you feel, the more confident you’ll feel.” ■