11 best Pilates socks for 2026, reviewed by Glamour's most-active editors

“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.

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'.

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.”

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:

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:

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.