What Do You Wear To Pilates?

When you work out at home, you can wear whatever you’re comfortable in. But what do you wear to Pilates class in the studio? Does everyone wear high-rise leggings and bandeau tops? Do you need grippy socks? Here’s what I tell my new students. 

The Best Clothing For Pilates

When it comes time to choose what to wear to Pilates, choose something comfortable and simple. What does that mean? Pilates clothing needs to be easy to move in, so stretchy and soft materials are best. Also, fitted or semi-fitted clothing is recommended because anything flowy can get caught in the apparatus springs and is just plain old distracting. You also don’t want to over-expose yourself when your legs are up in the air or you’re bent over. Clothing with tight cuffs works well in this regard, too. 

Choose what you feel best in. Depending on the time of year, you may want to start with a long-sleeve top or sweatshirt layered over a tank or tee-shirt so you can remove layers. I will say there are some things to avoid, such as hoods that get in the way. Those trendy bandeau tops look cute, but you may be too focused on keeping it on than on your workout! Finally, please avoid any zippers, metal details, etc., that can scratch or rip the vinyl on the apparatuses. 

Are There Special Socks?

When I first started doing Pilates, I was taught to go barefoot. It was also okay to wear regular socks that you simply remove for certain exercises. It wasn’t until I attended a Pilates conference that I first saw the grippy socks. They have a little bit of grip on the bottom to help you stay secure on the apparatus while keeping your feet warm. There are different styles, like those that have openings for your toes or those that even look like gloves for your feet!

ToeSox and Tavi Noir were the first brands I discovered, which are still my favourites for colder days. Some studios require you to wear socks, but my preference is still bare feet. I feel more connected and secure without socks, which can sometimes twist and lose their grip over time. Since we clean the apparatus after each use, cleanliness isn’t a problem. Again, choose what feels most comfortable to you!

How To Wear Your Hair

In Pilates, you will find yourself in all sorts of positions! You’ll be face up, face down, bent over, and moving your body in all directions. If you have long hair, it’s going to get in the way. I find that either a high or very low ponytail works best. Then I can lay on my back without that hard ponytail bump in the middle of my head. Whether you have long or short hair, though, it will likely look a mess after Pilates! Pilates hair, don’t care. 

The Final Say

Whatever you decide to wear to Pilates, remember that Pilates is about movement. As long as you can move well in all directions and your clothing and hair isn’t in the way, you’re set. Keep it simple and comfy, and we’ll see you in the studio!