The Pilates shake is one thing, but slippery feet have no place in a studio.
The best Pilates socks have become our uniform for our weekly reformer and mat Pilates sessions. But it’s not just us that has caught the low-impact bug — A-listers love it too. From Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner, to Margot Robbie and Jennifer Aniston, this challenging yet slower form of fitness blends breathwork, strength and balance in one feel-good package.
Unlike HIIT or padel, Pilates is about controlled movements, not demanding drills, so it’s suitable for all ages and abilities. Founded by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, it encourages people to “build deep strength — especially through your core, glutes, and postural muscles. It also helps improve balance, flexibility, and stability by moving with control and confidence,” explains Pilates PT founder, Hollie Grant.
What’s more, while Pilates has a long list of physical benefits, it also supports our mental health, too: “Moving with your breath draws a deeper connection to the body, which can help reduce stress, improve mental focus, sleep and increase energy”, adds Pilates expert, Hannah Page.
But, whether you practice mat or reformer Pilates, and at home or in a Pilates studio, there is one often-overlooked piece of kit that will help elevate your workout. “Pilates socks are specially designed socks for mat and reformer Pilates,” explains Salma El-Ansary, a Pilates, yoga and barre instructor, plus wellness coach. “They include non-slip silicone grips at the bottom of the foot and are quite snug, so they do not bunch up while exercising. The grippier, the better in my opinion.”
With that in mind, we’ve spent the last six months testing pilates socks to see which are worthy of a place in your gym bag. So, read on to find out which we rated as the best Pilates socks for 2026, as well as answers to common activewear FAQs from industry experts.
How we tested the best Pilates socks:
The right pair of Pilates socks is not only comfortable to wear ‚ even if you’re not with your legs akimbo on the carriage. They’re also practical, warm and, most importantly, supportive.
Ahead of writing this round-up, we spoke to numerous Pilates experts to pinpoint the key specifications to look for when shopping for the best Pilates socks, whether you are a beginner or seasoned pro. While most cited a non-slip sole grip as paramount, elasticated straps and moisture-wicking fabric are other important factors to note.
When reviewing each style, we rated them against the following criteria:
| Design | Are they practical, fit for purpose and aesthetic? |
| Fit | Are they true to size? Are there options in terms of length and style? |
| Price point | Would we be willing to spend that much again? Are they good quality? Will they last, and do they wash well? |
| Delivery | How quickly did each pair arrive, and what were the associated costs? |
We also tested the Pilates socks during our home Pilates By Bryony sessions and in-class Reformer sessions. Here, we assessed how effective the grip was, if the socks stayed securely in place or slipped off during the workout, and if they were comfortable. Alongside sole grip, we also noted additional stylistic features, such as ribbed detailing, arch support, materials, size range, colour options, and price, in our search for the best Pilates socks.
For those we haven’t yet tested, we asked industry experts whether the pairs selected would get their stamp of approval, and read countless customer reviews.
Why you can trust me: Freelance contributor, Cat Hufton
I’m an experienced lifestyle journalist who has tested hundreds of products in my quest to find those worthy of your hard-earned money. I became particularly interested in wellness and health after having children seven years ago, and I needed a little extra helping hand in feeling my best. Yoga and Pilates has become a personal passion of mine over the past few years – not only because of its physical benefits but its huge impact on my overall wellbeing and mental health.
As such, I’ve spoken to countless industry experts, tested a wide variety of wellness products, and become pretty astute at knowing what really makes a difference to that all-important fitness routine.
Breathe Balance Pilates Socks
- Materials: Polyester and elastane.
- Colours: Three.
- Grip: Arch support and grip sole.
- Sizes: S or M.
Under Armour has thought of every finite detail with its Breathe Balance Pilates socks. They feature embedded arch support, silicone grip soles, and a seamless construction for optimum comfort, stability and support. This unique design also boasts a cut-out bridge, which is unlike other Pilates sock designs, while the ankle strap, combined with the exaggerated back tab, ensures these socks stay firmly in place during your workout.
The fabric is breathable, lightweight and sweat-wicking, which, combined with the seamless finish to reduce any chafing, achieves a comfortable design. Plus, the added stretch across all three sizes ensures a snug, yet secure, fit – no matter your shoe size.
What really sets these Pilates socks apart is the genius left-right foot construction. These socks have been cleverly designed to specifically fit each foot, which means every element has been strategically placed for optimum comfort, support and stability.
Women’s Strappy Siren Grip Sock
- Materials: Nylon, polyester and spandex blend.
- Colours: Seven, including a limited edition Bright Red and Candy Heart Pink.
- Grip: Non-slip silicone grip sole, cushion sole and elasticated straps.
- Sizes: S/M and M/L.
These unique Pilates socks are a hybrid between trainer socks and leg warmers. The socks feature no-slip silicone grips on the sole, slimline ballet-style elasticated cross straps, cushioned interior and ribbed ankle cuffs, for an uber-comfortable and supportive pair of Pilates socks. The cuff can be ruched down or pulled straight up the leg; either way, it functions to provide extra warmth.
Pilates Grip Socks
- Materials: Organic cotton, nylon, polyester, and elastane blend.
- Colours: Two, including Graphite Grey and White.
- Grip: Silicone non-slip grip sole.
- Sizes: One size.
With non-slip silicone soles, an elasticated ribbed mid-section offering arch support, and protective heel coverage, Adanola’s Pilates socks combine fashion and function. The cotton-elastane blend offers comfort and added stretch. While one size fits most, it may be a dealbreaker for some.
Save when you shop the best Pilates socks with these Adanola discount codes.
Unisex Find Your Balance Grip Crew Socks
- Materials: Nylon and elastane blend.
- Colours: Three, including Twilight Rose, Black and Light Ivory.
- Grip: Dual grip (interior and exterior).
- Sizes: S, M, L and XL.
Lululemon has gone one step further with its dual-grip Find Your Balance Grip socks. The internal grip keeps these crew socks securely on your feet, while the external grip creates traction between your foot and the surface for added stability. The 360° arch support, combined with the tailored left-right toe construction, ensures a snug and supportive fit.
Reformer Trainer Gripper Socks
- Made from: Organic cotton, polyester and elastane.
- Colours: Three.
- Grip: Non-slip grip sole.
- Sizes: 2-5 and 6-8.
These tab trainer socks combine arch support with an extended anti-blister heel to offer optimum comfort and to prevent them slipping down during a pilates class. The real hero is the targeted gripper panel placed for optimal traction and foot circulation. Choose from six stylish colours, and the option to find a better fit as the sizes match your shoe size, instead of the often-ambiguous small, medium, large sizing. However, some shoppers have claimed the fabric is thin.
Save when you shop the best Pilates socks with these Sweaty Betty discount codes.
V1 Tab Sock
- Materials: Recycled polyester, polyamide, recycled cotton and elastane blend.
- Colours: Four – black, white, heather grey and charcoal.
- Grip: None.
- Sizes: Small, medium and large.
Although not technically a grip sock, Vuori’s V1 still earns a spot for its form-fitting shape. I have worn these socks for a number of weeks during home and reformer Pilates classes, and I am impressed by how supportive and budge-proof they are. With a snug ankle tab and heel cushioning, these socks are ultra-comfortable and prevent any pesky blisters. It may not have a grip sole, but the elasticated centre, as well as the elongated heel detail, prevents these socks from slipping off. These socks are a solid choice for reformer and mat Pilates, a 5k run, or a walk.
Non-Slip Pilates Slipper Socks
- Materials: Cotton, polyester and elastane blend.
- Colours: One.
- Grip: Non-slip grip sole and elasticated cross bands.
- Sizes: One size.
Seeking an affordable and supportive pair of non-slip socks? Tezenis’ creation delivers on all counts. Crafted from a soft, breathable cotton fabric blend, with the all-important grip sole and elasticated cross strap detail on the bridge of the foot to keep your feet from sliding off the mat, or out of the socks. For under £5, it’s a no-brainer.
Ozaiic Yoga Socks
- Materials: Cotton, polyester, elastane and silicone grips.
- Colours: Eight.
- Grip: SilicaGel grip sole and elasticated straps.
- Sizes: One size.
The Ozaiic grip socks are an Amazon bestseller and have garnered over 32,000 glowing reviews. The SilicaGel grip sole provides the necessary traction when your foot hits the mat, while the elasticated cross straps ensure your socks stay on, and the cushioned padding provides extra comfort.
The breathable cotton and polyester blend is gentle on the skin, while elastane is essential to provide the necessary stretch, especially as these socks come in one size. Choose from over 10 colours, including festive designs, and multi-pack options.
Save when you shop the best Pilates socks with these Amazon discount codes.
Kendrick Grip Sock
- Materials: Cotton and nylon blend.
- Colours: Three.
- Grip: Silicone grip sole.
- Sizes: One size.
With a stylish ribbed ankle, contrast accents, and a terry-cushioned footbed, this neutral sock delivers on comfort and style. The silicone grip sole offers the all-important traction on all surfaces. However, it is only available in one size and is selling out fast.
Yoga Low-Cut Socks
- Materials: Cotton, recycled polyester, recycled nylon, and elastane.
- Colours: Two.
- Grip: Silicone grip on sole.
- Sizes: Small, medium, large, extra large.
These low-cut tab socks may look like your typical trainer socks, but don’t be fooled. The silicone grip sole ensures stability, while the seamless toe, fabric blend and mesh upper offer a breathable, lightweight, and comfortable fit. The real tick box is that these unisex socks are available in small to extra large, which is a wider size variety than other brands.
Matcha Pilates Socks
- Materials: 85% Cotton, 12% Polyester, and 3% Spandex.
- Colours: Multiple colours and themes.
- Grip: Love heart silicone grip on the sole.
- Sizes: One size fits all.
If you’re looking for a gift for a Pilates-loving friend, or maybe a little twinning moment for you and a bestie, there’s no cuter brand than Elliosa. This Pilates & Matcha design is as Instagrammable as it is effective, and a firm favourite of one of our featured Pilates experts, Salma El-Ansary. They’re made from a buttery soft and breathable cotton-blend, and one size fits (just about) all foot sizes.
Pilates socks, FAQs, answered:
Can you wear regular socks for Reformer Pilates?
“Technically, yes, you can but it makes the class feel a little more uncomfortable; especially in reformer Pilates where there are moves that rely on grip against the machine,” says Salma El-Ansary, a Pilates, yoga and barre instructor and wellness coach.
“Movement can also feel unsafe when exercising with regular (smooth) socks as there is a sensation of not feeling supported on equipment like a reformer bed”. El-Ansary adds that many studios do not allow non-slip socks and sell them at reception for safety, but some do not: “Pilates socks come in various pricing, too, so you do not have to spend a lot of money for them to be effective.”
Pilates expert, Hannah Page, adds: “Normal socks will provide the wearer comfort and hygiene, but no additional benefits. Whereas grip socks provide the additional traction and support helping you focus on precision, control, flow and centring. They provide better traction than normal socks or bare feet, which can sometimes become sweaty and slippery, and will aid stability.”
Put simply, while Pilates socks may not be deemed an essential by everyone, most instructors agree they are a smart studio investment.
How do Pilates socks enhance your performance during reformer Pilates?
Many joke ‘all the gear, no idea’ when it comes to buying new activewear, but that’s not the case with Pilates socks, which offer support, stability and can boost performance, too.
“Pilates socks provide better traction, helping to prevent slips or stumbles during your practice,” says Pilates Instructor, Georgia Olley. “Not only does this enhance your safety, but the better traction and balance allows you to focus more on your movements, and engage the correct muscles effectively without worrying about losing your balance. Ultimately, this can improve your overall performance, and allow you to push yourself during the class.”
El-Ansary adds: “Pilates socks provide safety in movement. They will not prevent slipping completely but will improve stability and alignment, provide a sense of confidence when moving and allow for proper push and pull precision through the feet on the mat and reformer.”
Pilates PT founder, Hollie Grant, highlighted Pilates socks are also particularly useful for “single-leg work or anything dynamic.”
What other activewear do I need for reformer Pilates?
Comfort and support is key when working out, regardless of the sport. While you are free to wear whatever you choose when exercising, the experts recommend form-fitting clothing, such as gym leggings over wide-leg trousers to prevent bunching, or excess material getting caught under your feet causing you to slip.
“Form-fitting clothes help the teacher see your rib connection, and check your alignment, which is trickier in baggy clothes,” says East of Eden founder, Abby McLachlan.
El-Ansary also recommends snugly fitted clothing to avoid clothing being caught on the reformer equipment: “Clothing made of softer materials such as cotton and Lycra combinations are recommended, so that you feel comfortable and so less distracted about what you are wearing.
“I would also recommend a long sleeved layer for warm up and cool down (like a light wrap or exercise top), as some studios tend to be slightly cooler. A hair tie for longer hair to keep hair away from your face is a good idea too. The good news is that most smaller studios tend to offer those if you forget.”
Buying and Merchandising Director at Reebok, Lynette Dear also has recommendations when it comes to fabric composition. “Seamless, sweat-wicking fabrics that move with your body and provide gentle support without restriction is key,” she says. “It’s also important to avoid fabrics with excessive compression, as they can limit mobility, and hinder your range of motion during exercises.”