What to Wear to a Pilates Class: The Complete Guide

What should you wear to a Pilates class?

Pilates is all about precise, controlled movement, so the goal is clothing that moves with you and lets your instructor see your body's alignment. Fitted leggings or fitted shorts and a snug, breathable top are ideal. You want to be able to fold, stretch, and invert without your clothing shifting or riding up.

Do you wear shoes or socks for Pilates?

Pilates is practised without shoes. On the reformer, grip socks (also called sticky socks) are required for safety and hygiene — they keep your feet from slipping on the carriage and straps. On the mat you can go barefoot or wear grip socks. Plain, slippery socks are not recommended.

Reformer vs. mat: does what you wear change?

• Reformer: fitted clothing is especially important so nothing catches on the springs or straps; grip socks required.
• Mat: a little more relaxed, but still fitted enough to move freely; barefoot or grip socks.
• Both: avoid anything baggy that hides your alignment from the instructor.

What NOT to wear to Pilates

• Baggy t-shirts or loose shorts that flip up during inversions.
• Clothing with zippers, buttons, or buckles that can scratch equipment.
• Dangling jewellery, watches, or belts.
• Heavy perfume or lotion that makes hands and feet slippery.

Your first-class clothing checklist

1. 01 Fitted leggings or shorts and a snug, breathable top.
2. 02 Grip socks (bring your own or grab a pair at the studio).
3. 03 A water bottle and a hair tie if you have long hair.
4. 04 Confidence — that's the only thing you can't buy at the front desk.