The best pilates socks to help you channel your inner pilates princess

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The best pilates socks to help you channel your inner pilates princess


Pilates socks are a seriously useful bit of kit for the practise that has been burgeoning in popularity for the past few years (and not just because Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Margot Robbie and Jennifer Aniston swear by it). Pilates is a low-impact practice which was founded by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, which blends breathwork, strength and balance.

Unlike HIIT or padel, Pilates is about controlled movements, not demanding drills – so it’s suitable for all ages and abilities. Pilates 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.

While Pilates has a long list of physical benefits, it also supports 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”, highlights Pilates expert, Hannah Page.

Whether you practice mat or reformer Pilates, practice at home or in a Pilates studio, there is one often-overlooked piece of kit to elevate your workout – Pilates socks.

The activity requires you to leave your gym trainers at the door, which is a blessing when your chunky running trainers feel like an extra ankle weight that will only intensify the Pilates shake (IYKYK). However, sweaty feet on a slippery yoga mat is not a happy marriage, either. Nor are cotton ankle socks, which often roll down throughout the class and are left hanging on by a big toe by the end. Basically, Pilates socks are beneficial.

SKIP TO: What are Pilates socks? | Can you wear regular socks for Reformer Pilates, or do you need special socks? | How do Pilates grip socks enhance your performance | What else do I need to wear?


Meet the experts:


How we test Pilates socks

The right pair of Pilates socks are 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.

I spoke to numerous Pilates experts to pinpoint the key specifications to look for when shopping the best Pilates socks, whether you are a beginner or seasoned pro. Non-slip sole grip is paramount, while elasticated straps and moisture-wicking fabric are other important factors to note.

I tested some Pilates socks during my home Pilates By Bryony sessions, and 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, I also noted additional stylistic features, such as ribbed detailing, arch support, materials, size range, colour options, and price, in my search for the best Pilates socks.


What are Pilates socks?

Pilates socks may look like your everyday sports socks, but they come with specific design features, namely grip soles and elasticated straps, to stop you slipping and sliding on the yoga mat or a reformer carriage.

Pilates instructor and founder of Pilates Prescription, Rebecca Dadoun, explained: “Pilates socks are essentially your regular socks with anti-slip pads on the sole for extra grip to stop your feet from slipping on the bar or floor.” From toeless options, crew designs to trainer socks, non-slip sole to elasticated strap detail and sweat-wicking fabrics, we have tested the lot.


Ahead, shop our edit of the best Pilates socks – that work wonders for barre and hot yoga, too.





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