If you've booked your first reformer class, or you're thinking about trying one, you may have noticed grip socks on the studio's list of things to bring. Do you actually need them? What do they do, and is there any real difference between one pair and the next?

Choosing the right Pilates grip socks comes down to finding a pair that combines comfort, fit and functionality. Understanding the features to look for, from the grip sole to the fabric and overall fit, can help you find a style suited to your Pilates practice and personal preferences.

In this guide, we'll cover what grip socks do, when studios ask for them, what to look for in a pair and how to wash them so the grip lasts.

What are Pilates grip socks?

Pilates grip socks, sometimes called Pilates socks or non-slip socks, are socks with small grippers on the sole. The grippers add traction between your foot and whatever is underneath it, whether that's a mat, a studio floor or the footbar and platform of a reformer.

They come in a few different styles. Some are a regular crew or ankle length, much like an everyday sock with a grip sole added. Others are lower cut, with straps across the top of the foot, a style often called a ballet or ballerina grip sock. You'll see the same socks worn for Pilates, yoga and barre, as all three involve balance and slow, controlled movement.

Do you need grip socks for Pilates?

It depends on the type of class and on the studio.

For reformer Pilates, grip socks are often recommended and many studios require them. A reformer has a sliding carriage, springs and a footbar, and you'll often be pressing through your feet while the carriage moves. Grip socks help keep your feet steady on the footbar and platform, so you can focus on the movement and your breathing rather than on whether your foot is about to slip.

There's a hygiene reason too. Reformers are shared equipment, and many studios prefer clients to wear socks rather than bare feet. Some studios include this in their booking terms and others sell grip socks at reception, so if you're booking a first class, the studio's website or FAQ page will usually tell you what they expect.

For mat Pilates, grip socks are usually optional. Some people prefer bare feet on the mat, while others like the extra grip and warmth of a sock, particularly in classes that move between standing and floor-based work. Both are fine, and it comes down to what feels comfortable for you.

What to look for in a pair of grip socks

Grip socks are a fairly simple product, but a few details make a real difference to how they feel in class.

Grip across the sole. Look for grippers that cover the sole of the foot rather than a small area at the heel or toe, so you have traction wherever your foot lands on the footbar or mat.

Fit that stays in place. Pilates grip socks should fit comfortably around the foot, with a design that keeps the grip sole positioned beneath your foot throughout your practice. Details such as straps across the top of the foot or a ribbed cuff can offer a more secure fit, while maintaining comfort as you move through each exercise.

Breathable fabric. Classes can get warm, so a breathable cotton blend with a little stretch is a comfortable choice.

Style and coverage. This is mostly personal preference. A low-profile style with straps feels lighter and shows more of the foot, while a crew length gives more coverage and a little extra warmth in the colder months. You can have both options and switch up as you feel.

Sizing. Many grip socks come in one size. We recommend checking the product page before ordering, as socks can't be returned once they've been tried on.

Our Pointe Ballerina Grip Socks

Our Pointe Ballerina Grip Socks are a low-profile style designed for Pilates, yoga and barre. Elasticated cross-over straps wrap around the top of the foot for a secure, comfortable fit, and the ATIA-branded grip sole adds traction to keep you steady through each movement. They're made from a soft, breathable cotton blend of 75% cotton, 20% polyester and 5% spandex.

They're one size fits all and come in two colours, Bisque and Black, at £10 a pair.

If you prefer more coverage, our Core Pilates Socks are a ribbed crew style that can be worn tall or ruched, with non-slip grippers on the sole. You can see both styles in our Pilates grip socks collection.

How to wash grip socks

Grip socks are easy to look after, and a little care helps the grip sole last longer.

Machine wash them at 30°C with similar colours. Turning them inside out before washing can help protect the grippers from rubbing against other items. It's best to let them dry naturally.

If you're using shared equipment, ensure you wash them after every class. Having two pairs means there's always a clean pair ready in your bag for your next session.

Please refer to the instructions inside each garment for the best care guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Can you wear normal socks for Pilates?

Normal socks don't have grippers on the sole, so they can slip on a mat and on the footbar of a reformer. For mat Pilates, bare feet are usually fine if you don't have grip socks. For reformer Pilates, check with your studio first, as many ask for grip socks specifically and some sell them at reception.

Are Pilates socks the same as yoga socks?

Grip socks made for Pilates also work well for yoga and barre, as all three involve balance and controlled movement, so one pair can cover all of your studio classes.

How do you wash grip socks?

Machine wash them at 30°C with similar colours. Turning them inside out before washing can help protect the grip sole. Please refer to the instructions inside each garment for the best care guidance.

How often should you replace grip socks?

There's no set timeframe for replacing your Pilates grip socks, as it depends on how often you wear them and how you care for them. To keep them in the best condition, follow the washing instructions on the label. Choosing the right care routine will help maintain their quality, comfort and functionality over time.

Can I return grip socks?

For hygiene reasons, our socks can't be returned or exchanged once they've been tried on, so check the product page for details before ordering.

Once you've found a pair that stays in place and feels comfortable, grip socks are one less thing to think about before class. Check what your studio asks for, choose a style you like and keep a spare pair in your bag.

If you're putting together the rest of your outfit, our guide to what to wear for Pilates covers leggings, tops and sports bras, or you can explore our Pilates edit for everything you need for your next class.