If you’ve made it a goal of yours to try a new Pilates workout this month, making sure you have the right equipment is an easy way to help you feel more confident for your first class, whether you’re doing it at home or in a studio.
Pilates has fast become one of team MC UK’s favourite workouts, and it’s no wonder, considering there are so many benefits of Pilates – from strengthening your core to improving your mental health. But without the right equipment, you might find yourself feeling a little overwhelmed (not to mention slipping and sliding all over the place).
Enter stage right, Pilates socks. Wondering what makes these socks different to normal socks? Well, the key is in the sole. Most Pilates socks will have non-slip soles with rubber grips, which means a better grasp of your mat or the Reformer machine during your workout.
Here at Marie Claire UK, we’ve all been giving the trending workout a go, so we took it upon ourselves to book a group Reformer Pilates class and test out some of the most popular brands to see which socks were really worth investing in. We roped in our Senior Health Editor, Ally Head, Producer Sofia Piza, Junior Shopping Editor Valeza Bakolli and Writer, Grace Lindsay to give the socks a thorough test.
If you want all the info about how we test the products that make it into our buying guides, make sure to check out our guide. If you’re after more Pilates-friendly clothing and accessories, our shopping guides are a great place to look – from Pilates sliders to the best unitards, we’ve got you covered.
And for more Pilates inspiration, don’t forget to check out our guides to Pilates for beginners, the best Pilates exercises, a spicy Pilates ab workout , plus the difference between Pilates and yoga. Trying Pilates at home? Shop our edit of the best at-home Reformer Pilates machines and the more budget friendly Pilates sculpt bars, now.
What did we look for when testing the best Pilates socks?
- Did they stop us from sliding around during our workout?
- Were they comfortable to wear?
- Were they sweat-wicking?
- Was the material sustainable and longlasting?
- Were they affordable or an investment?
Pilates socks: 9 of the best to buy now
Senior Health Editor Ally Head and Writer Grace Lindsay testing the best Pilates socks
(Image credit: Ally Head and Grace Lindsay)
1. Most stylish Pilates socks
(Image credit: Alo Yoga)
“I’m obsessed with Alo Yoga’s trendy workout gear, and these socks further solidified this obsession. One of my biggest fears when doing Reformer Pilates is the thought of slipping. These socks have a very strong no slip grip (and cushioning!) throughout the sole that helped me feel comfortable whilst allowing me to fully concentrate on engaging my muscles rather than avoiding a fall. The design of these socks is also perfect for anyone who loves the ballet core aesthetic and, like me, loves a stylish workout sock moment.” – Sofia Piza, Producer
2. Most versatile Pilates socks
(Image credit: Sweaty Betty)
“Sure, these are technically Barre socks, but I’ve generally found that Barre and Pilates socks are the same, apart from the style. I much prefer the crew cut of the Barre design, and this option from Sweaty Betty is a great – they’re soft yet grippy and wash well, too.”
“They’re meant to be a little sheer, so don’t be alarmed if they feel thin. That said, I’ve had mine for around a year now and they’ve always remained in place, never rolling down or slipping out of place, as well as offering a secure grip on both my mat and a Reformer machine. An investment, sure – but worth the money if you’re a regular Pilates-goer, IMO.” – Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
3. Best low Pilates socks
(Image credit: Lululemon)
“These lululemon socks made my at-home Pilates class so much easier. I have wooden floors and even on my workout mat, I found my feet were sliding all over the place before trying these out. The grippy soles work really well, and the socks also have a grippy band around the middle to stop them from falling off. One thing to note, my feet did get quite sweaty, so these might not be the best choice for more intense workouts.” – Grace Lindsay, Writer
4. Best high Pilates socks
(Image credit: The Sports Edit)
“The design of these Pilates socks gets a big yes from me – I love that they don’t look as obviously Pilates socks as the other iterations in this round up and could also be worn for yoga and so on. The design is subtle but cute, and the grip was effective for Pilates and barre.” – Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
6. Best affordable Pilates socks
(Image credit: Amazon)
“I was pleasantly surprised by these Amazon Pilates socks – again, a higher design than your traditional design but effective nonetheless. The grip was adequate and they washed well. That said, as they’re a more budget price point that other iterations, they might not stand the test of time as well as other designs.” – Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
7. Best coloured Pilates socks
(Image credit: Free People)
8. Best multicolour Pilates socks
(Image credit: The Sports Edit)
“I LOVE these tie-dye style socks from Pointe Studio, and so does everyone else, it seems (they’re a best-seller for the brand). With a cushioned design, sturdy grip and padded ankle, I didn’t want to take these socks off. Plus, they’re super comfortable and made from soft combed cotton.” – Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
9. Best small business Pilates socks
(Image credit: Psycle)
“I love the classic design of these Pilates socks – they suit pretty much every pair of leggings and cycling shorts I own. The rubber balls on the sole are super grippy (perfect for Reformer Pilates workouts) and they have a cushioned sole for extra comfort. They have a mid-range price point but have washed incredibly well after loads of uses. I’m a fan.” – Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
