A strong Pilates workout starts from the ground up, and grip socks do more than just look the part. With secure soles that stop your feet sliding around, Pilates socks give you the stability to move with through every controlled exercise.
As a qualified fitness expert, who spends a lot of time teaching and training, I always swap trainers for grip socks during Pilates and mobility work. Unlike chunky shoes or slippery bare feet, they keep you grounded while still allowing your feet and toes to move naturally through every exercise.
Like any other form of training, Pilates works best when you wear the correct attire for it. For example, I would not go for a run without proper running socks, and the same applies to Pilates grip socks. They are designed specifically for the workout, making them far more practical than a standard pair of gym socks. Alongside improving balance and control, they also create a barrier between your feet and shared studio equipment, which is why they have become a staple in many Pilates classes, especially reformer sessions where they are often required.
Brands like Sweaty Betty, Lululemon and Alo Yoga have helped transform Pilates grip socks from a purely practical purchase into a workout staple. At the same time, affordable options from H&M Move, Myprotein and Decathlon’s Kimjaly range mean you do not need a luxury budget to find a good pair.
With the Pilates trend still going strong, there are now more styles than ever to choose from too. Some Pilates socks are lightweight and breathable for reformer classes, while others are thicker and cushioned for slower stretch and recovery sessions.
To find the best Pilates socks worth investing in, I tested a range while both teaching and taking classes at studios across London, alongside consulting fellow Pilates expert Lydia Melmeth from Virgin Active gyms for additional industry insight. This included mat Pilates, reformer sessions and low-impact recovery workouts, where I compared grip, comfort, fit and how well each pair stayed in place.
Best Pilates socks 2026 at a glance
- Best Pilates socks for sustainability: hipSwan Flow Crew Organic Cotton Gripper Yoga and Pilates Socks, £14.99
- Best ballet-style Pilates socks: ÔWEAR Ballet Grip Socks, £6.50
- Best Pilates socks for cushioning: Glenmuir Sport Cotton Yoga Socks with Grips, £6.99
- Best Pilates socks for multipacks: Myprotein Pilates Socks 3-Pack, £15.99
- Best Pilates ankle socks: hipSwan Grip Socks, £13
- Best Pilates socks for grip: ÔWEAR Crew Sporty Stripes Pilates Grip Socks, £9.99
- Best Pilates socks for comfort: Goodmove Cotton Stripe Yoga Socks 2-Pack, £10
- Best mat Pilates socks: Les Mills Yoga Socks 2-Pack, £21.99
- Best high-street Pilates socks: H&M Move 2-Pack Anti-Slip Sports Socks, £12.99
- Best minimalist Pilates socks: Lululemon Find Your Balance Grip Tab Socks, £28
- Best Pilates socks for training: Gymshark Pilates Trainer Socks, £12
- Best Pilates socks for soft-feel: Sweaty Betty Pilates Crew Gripper Socks 2 Pack, £25
- Best Pilates toe socks: Kimjaly Non-Slip Yoga Toe Socks, £6.99
- Best premium Pilates socks: Alo Yoga Women’s Pulse Grip Sock, £38
- Best Pilates socks for style: Adanola Pilates Grip Socks Black, £16
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What are the best Pilates socks?
The best Pilates socks will depend on the type of class you take and the feel you prefer underfoot. For reformer Pilates, I find close-fitting grip styles like the Adanola Pilates Grip Socks or Gymshark Pilates Trainer Socks help keep you secure on the carriage and footbar, while softer full-coverage pairs such as the Sweaty Betty Pilates Crew Gripper Socks feel more comfortable for mat classes and slower recovery sessions.
Then there’s toe socks, like the Kimjaly Non-Slip Yoga Toe Socks, for added balance and control, while minimalist styles such as the Lululemon Find Your Balance Grip Tab Socks create more of a barefoot feel. Ultimately, the best Pilates socks come down to comfort, grip and personal preference.
How we tested Pilates grip socks
As well as being a Pilates and fitness instructor, I put these grip socks through their paces at specialist classes across London studios from reformer and strength-based sessions at FRAME, FLOW and FÔLD TÔWER to gym-based workouts at Fitness First and Virgin Active.
I also spoke with fellow Pilates expert Lydia Melmeth, who shared her insight from years of teaching at Virgin Active gyms, and asked my male training partners to try a few of the men’s styles, which gave me a better idea of how different fits and designs worked across the board.
During testing, I paid most attention to grip, comfort and stability, especially during lunges, standing reformer work and balance-heavy movements. Some pairs immediately felt more premium, whether that was down to softer fabrics, better grip placement or a more supportive fit.
Alongside performance, I also considered breathability, durability, value for money and overall fit, plus which socks looked stylish enough that I’d happily wear them outside a class setting.
Best Pilates socks to buy in 2026
hipSwan Flow Crew Organic Cotton Gripper Yoga and Pilates Socks
Available from Sockshop (£14.99)
Best Pilates socks for sustainability
Pros:
- Soft organic cotton feel
- Compression arch support
- Breathable cushioned design
- Strong sustainability credentials
Cons:
- Slightly pricy for one pair
- No multipack option
Star rating: 5/5
Stability and sustainability are the standout features of these unisex Pilates socks from hipSwan. My brother, who is fairly new to Pilates, and I both wore them to a reformer class at Nuffield Gym back home in Glasgow, and immediately noticed how soft and breathable the organic cotton felt compared to the more synthetic styles we tested. He especially liked how secure they felt on the carriage during lunges and standing movements, while I found the compression arch band kept the socks firmly in place without digging in.
The grip worked well across both reformer and mat exercises, although it is slightly less intense than more performance-focused styles. The cushioned sole also made a noticeable difference during longer sessions, particularly for standing balance work. They are more expensive than basic multipack options, but the premium feel, comfort and GOTS-certified organic cotton construction make them a worthwhile upgrade if sustainability matters to you.
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ÔWEAR Ballet Grip Socks
Available from FÔLD Reformer (£6.50)
Best ballet-style Pilates socks
Pros:
- Excellent grip on the reformer
- Elegant ballet-style design
- Soft, breathable cotton blend
- Elastic strap keeps socks secure
Cons:
- No arch support
- Limited technical features
Star rating: 4.5/5
These immediately stood out for their ballet-inspired design. I wore them during a FÔLD TÔWER Pilates class at Buspace Studios, London, where the elastic strap kept them securely in place through standing exercises and footwork on the TÔWER machine.
Despite their lightweight feel, the full silicone sole provided reliable grip on the carriage, while the soft cotton-blend fabric stayed comfortable throughout. They feel less technical than compression-style socks, but strike a nice balance between comfort and stability.
The lack of arch support means they are not as supportive as some premium performance socks, but for Pilates, yoga and barre they combine style with dependable grip really well.
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Glenmuir Sport Cotton Yoga Socks with Grips (2 Pair)
Available from Sockshop (£6.99)
Best Pilates socks for cushioning
Pros:
- Excellent cushioning and comfort
- Good arch support and compression fit
- Great value at around £3.50 each
Cons:
- Less breathable than thinner socks
- Grip coverage is fairly standard
Star rating: 4.5/5
I tested the Glenmuir Sport Cotton Yoga Socks with Grips during a floor-based Pilates class with a male training partner at Fitness First in London, and both of us noticed how cushioned and supportive they felt compared to thinner studio socks. He usually trains barefoot but liked how stable they felt during balance work, while I found the compression fit and arch support kept everything feeling secure during slower strength-focused exercises, like squats and lunges.
The thicker cotton-blend fabric does run warmer than lightweight Pilates socks, so I would not pick them for very sweaty reformer classes, but they feel noticeably softer and more comfortable underfoot. The smooth toe seams also helped prevent rubbing during longer sessions. At £6.99 for two pairs, they are some of the best-value cushioned pilates socks I tested.
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ÔWEAR Crew Sporty Stripes Pilates Grip Socks
Available from Fold Reformer (£9.99)
Best Pilates socks for grip
Pros:
- Very grippy silicone soles
- Soft breathable fabric
- Stylish studio look
Cons:
- Only two size options
- Not the most cushioned style
Star rating: 4.5/5
These Pilates socks were one the more fashion-forward pairs I tested, but also backed up with performance. Coming in a selection of colours, I wore these during a reformer Pilates class at Fitness First in London and the grip felt especially secure during lunges, planks and standing balance work on the carriage.
The full arch support makes a noticeable difference compared to flatter socks, helping them feel more stable and locked in during class. The breathable cotton-rich fabric also stops them feeling too warm, even during back-to-back sessions.
The sporty stripe design gives them more of a premium studio feel than basic grip socks, and they look good enough to wear beyond class too. At £9.99 they are good value although the sizing is limited to a small UK size 3 to 6.5, and a medium UK size 7 to 9.
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Myprotein Pilates Socks 3-Pack
Available from Myprotein (£17.99)
Best Pilates socks for multipacks
Pros:
- Good value at £6 each
- Reliable grip and arch support
- Sweat-wicking fabric works well in hot studios
Cons:
- Fabric feels more sporty than premium
- Grip coverage is fairly standard
Star rating: 4.5/5
A solid studio all-rounder, especially if you’re doing multiple classes a week. I wore these for teaching reformer sessions at Fitness First, but they also worked surprisingly well for leg day training at the gym afterwards, where the extra grip helped with stability during squats and leg presses.
The silicone grip feels secure without being overly sticky, while the cushioned heel and toe make them comfortable for longer sessions. Breathable mesh panels are another highlight, helping keep feet cool during hotter classes.
The fabric is more performance-focused than soft or luxe feeling, but that does make them durable and good at handling sweat. The three-pack format also makes them one of the better-value options for regular Pilates classes.
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hipSwan Flow Grip Ankle Socks
Available from hipSwan (£13)
Best Pilates ankle socks
Pros:
- Excellent sole and heel grip
- Supportive compression arch
- Soft GOTS-certified organic cotton
- Carbon-neutral brand with strong eco credentials
Cons:
- Slightly pricey for one pair
- Need line drying
Star rating: 4.5/5
Sustainability and performance come together really well here. I wore these attending a reformer Pilates class at Frame Kings Cross, London, where the silicone grip across both the sole and heel felt particularly secure during lunges, planks and standing work. The organic combed cotton is noticeably softer than many synthetic alternatives, while the compression arch keeps everything feeling locked in without being restrictive.
Despite the low-cut design, they stayed firmly in place throughout class and the cushioned sole added comfort during longer sessions. The brand’s sustainability credentials also stood out, with GOTS-certified organic cotton, a carbon-neutral business model and a tree planted with every order.
They cost more than a basic pair of grip socks, but the combination of comfort, grip and eco credentials makes them one of the strongest all-round options I tested.
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Goodmove Cotton Stripe Yoga Socks 2-Pack
Available from Marks & Spencer (£10)
Best Pilates socks for comfort
Pros:
- Soft cotton-blend feel
- Great value at £5 each
- Comfortable stretchy fit
- Easy to wash
Cons:
- Grip can feel inconsistent
- Better for lighter studio sessions
- Fabric feels thinner than premium pairs
Star rating: 4/5
Comfort is really the main selling point here. I wore them for a gentler reformer studio class at FLOW in London and ended up keeping them on afterwards while working from home, mainly because the cotton-blend fabric feels much softer and more relaxed than most studio socks.
Grip is decent for slower Pilates and yoga sessions, but I noticed a bit more shifting during quicker reformer transitions compared to more technical pairs. They feel better suited to beginner classes, mat Pilates or lower-intensity sessions than anything especially athletic.
The stretchy fit and breathable fabric make them easy to wear for longer periods, and the simple striped design feels more like an everyday sock. For £10 for two pairs, they are a strong affordable option if comfort matters more than maximum grip.
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Les Mills Yoga Socks (2-Pack)
Available from Les Mills (£21.99)
Best mat Pilates socks
Pros:
- Soft 100 per cent cotton feel
- Reliable silicone grip
- Simple comfortable fit
- Clean studio look
Cons:
- Less arch support
- Grip coverage is fairly basic
Star rating: 4/5
A comfortable, easy-to-wear option for yoga, Pilates and other studio workouts. I wore these while teaching a floor-based Les Mills stretch class at Fitness First and they felt soft from the start, with the cotton fabric giving them more of an everyday-sock feel than a technical grip style.
The silicone grips on both sides provide enough traction for controlled mat and reformer work, although they feel slightly less secure during quicker transitions or more athletic classes. There’s also very little arch support, so these lean more comfort-focused than performance-led.
They come as a black-and-white two-pack in two size options, with small/medium fitting a UK size 3 to 5 and medium/large suited for a UK size 6 to 9. While they are pricier than some alternatives, the two-pack format, 100 per cent cotton material and classic design help justify the cost.
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H&M Move 2-Pack Anti-Slip Sports Socks
Available from H&M (£12.99)
Best high-street Pilates socks
Pros:
- Good value two-pack
- Soft cotton-rich feel
- Reliable grip for most classes
- Various designs and colours
Cons:
- Grip feels less secure than premium studio socks
- Less durable with heavy use
- Limited technical support features
Star rating: 4/5
If you are in search of affordable Pilates activewear and accessories, H&M offer a solid high-street option over a specialist studio sock, but they performed well during mat Pilates and lighter reformer sessions at FLOW studios in London. The grip feels reliable enough for most classes, especially if you are newer to reformer or mainly doing slower movements.
The cotton-rich fabric makes them comfortable straight away, and the reinforced heel and toe help them feel sturdier than expected for the price. Built-in arch support also adds a bit more stability during standing work and balance exercises.
They are not as grippy or secure as more technical studio socks, and I noticed the silicone started to feel less tacky after repeated washes. Still, for around £6.50 a pair, they are good value for regular weekly classes.
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Lululemon Find Your Balance Grip Tab Socks
Available from Lululemon (£25)
Best minimalist Pilates socks
Pros:
- Lightweight breathable feel
- Excellent arch support
- Soft underfoot cushioning
- Premium finish and fit
Cons:
- Grip feels inconsistent on machines
- Expensive for one pair
- Fit can run slightly large
Star rating: 4/5
More intensive reformer classes at FRAME’s Victoria and Kings Cross studios in London are where these socks from Lululemon worked best for me. The lightweight mesh panels keep airflow moving really well, and they feel noticeably less bulky than thicker studio socks.
Comfort is definitely the standout here. The 360-degree arch support and left-right foot shaping make them feel more refined than basic grip socks, while the cushioning adds just enough softness underfoot without feeling padded.
Grip was more mixed. They felt secure enough during slower movements and mat work, but I noticed less stability during faster reformer transitions compared to grippier studio-specific pairs. Very well made and comfortable, but at £25 for one pair they feel more luxury athleisure than performance-first pilates socks.
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Gymshark Pilates Trainer Socks
Available from Gymshark (£12)
Best Pilates socks for training
Pros:
- Good grip and stability
- Secure ribbed fit
- Durable synthetic fabric
Cons:
- Less soft than cotton blends
- Minimal cushioning
- Lacks premium technical features
Star rating: 4/5
More gym-focused than studio-luxe, but these worked really well for mixed training sessions. I wore them for a reformer class at Virgin Active in Marylebone, London before heading into a strength session afterwards, and the grip stayed reliable throughout. The ribbed structure helps keep the socks feeling secure without slipping around, while the rubber grip pattern gives good traction on both the reformer and gym floor.
They also feel more durable than softer cotton styles. Comfort is decent, though the synthetic fabric lacks the softer feel of more premium Pilates socks, and cushioning is pretty minimal. Still, for £12, they are a useful everyday training option if you move between Pilates and gym workouts regularly.
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Sweaty Betty Pilates Crew Gripper Socks 2 Pack
Available from Sweaty Betty (£25)
Best Pilates socks for soft-feel
Pros:
- Soft organic cotton blend
- Comfortable crew-length fit
- Good everyday studio sock
Cons:
- Grip feels fairly basic
- Snug fit will not suit everyone
- Slightly expensive for two pairs
Star rating: 4/5
A softer, more comfort-led option than some of the more technical studio socks I tested. I wore these for another reformer class at Virgin Active in Marylebone, London and they felt comfortable straight away, with the high organic cotton content giving them a much more natural feel underfoot.
The crew-length design gives a bit more coverage and helps the socks stay in place during class, though the fit does run slightly snug. Grip is reliable for standard Pilates and barre sessions, but it lacks the stronger traction and support of more performance-focused pairs. The styling feels very Sweaty Betty: clean, minimal and easy to pair with studio kit. At £25 for two pairs, though, they do feel slightly overpriced compared to some stronger-performing options.
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Kimjaly Non-Slip Yoga Toe Socks – Mottled Grey
Available from Decathlon (£6.99)
Best budget Pilates toe socks
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Toe separation helps balance and movement
- Good grip for mat work
- Soft cotton-rich fabric
Cons:
- Not supportive enough for intense reformer classes
- Very minimal cushioning
- Low-cut fit can slip at the heel
Star rating: 4/5
These worked best for slower yoga flows and stretching sessions rather than more intense reformer classes. The toe separation gives a more grounded, barefoot-style feel, which I liked during balance work at a FLOW infrared dynamic mat Pilates session at the Tottenham Court Road studio, and the silicone grip under the toes adds a bit more control on the mat.
The cotton-rich fabric feels soft and breathable, but the lightweight construction means they lack the support and stability of more technical Pilates socks. During quicker reformer class transitions at the same studio, I noticed more movement around the heel and arch.
That said, for under £7 they are still good value, especially if you mainly want something comfortable for yoga, mobility work or occasional studio classes.
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Alo Yoga Women’s Pulse Grip Sock
Available from Alo Yoga (£38)
Best premium Pilates socks
Pros:
- Excellent grip and stability
- Compression arch support
- Cushioned heel and toe
- Premium studio look
Cons:
- Very expensive for one pair
- Fit can feel tight
- No multipack option
Star rating: 3.5/5
Probably the most technical-feeling pair I tested. I wore these during a reformer class at the Kings Cross FRAME studio and the grip felt noticeably stronger and more secure than most others, especially during faster transitions and standing balance work.
The compression ribbing around the arch helps lock the foot in place, while the cushioning around the heel and toe makes them feel more supportive during longer sessions. Mesh stripe panels also help keep airflow moving so they do not feel overly hot.
Everything about them feels premium, from the fit to the finish, but so does the price. At £38 for a single pair, they are definitely a luxury studio buy rather than an everyday option.
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Adanola Pilates Grip Socks Black
Available from Adanola (£16)
Best Pilates socks for style
Pros:
- Soft organic cotton blend
- Reliable grip for most studio classes
- Comfortable crew-length fit
- Clean minimalist design
Cons:
- One-size fit will not suit everyone
- No arch support
- More style-focused than technical
Star rating: 3.5/5
More polished and fashion-led than most Pilates socks I tested. I wore these for a reformer class at Virgin Active in Marylebone and they felt comfortable straight away, with the organic cotton blend giving them a softer, more premium feel than synthetic-heavy pairs.
The silicone grip performs well for general studio use, especially during slower reformer work and mat Pilates, while the crew-length design helps stop the socks shifting around mid-class.
They are less technical than some others here, with no real compression or structured arch support, so they feel more everyday than performance-focused. Still, if style matters as much as grip, these are an easy pair to reach for.
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What do Pilates socks do?
Pilates socks are designed to improve grip and stability during exercises while also supporting hygiene in shared studio environments. As Virgin Active’s Pilates lead coach Lydia Melmeth explains: “Pilates socks provide extra grip on the apparatus, helping to prevent slipping during exercises. They also help maintain better hygiene in the studio, as some reformers use the same straps for both hands and feet.”
Why are grip socks important for Pilates classes?
Lydia continues: “Grip socks are particularly useful in classes where control and precision matter. They help keep your feet steady on equipment such as the reformer, especially during slower, controlled movements. This allows you to focus on technique and alignment.” They also act as a barrier between your feet and shared equipment, which is why many studios encourage or require them.
What is the difference between Pilates toe socks, toeless socks and full socks?
There are several different styles of Pilates socks, but they all serve the same purpose. As Lydia says: “All socks do the same thing but it depends on the style of sock you prefer.” Toe socks allow each toe to move independently, which some people find helpful for balance and control. Toeless styles leave the toes exposed while still offering grip through the sole, while full socks provide complete coverage and warmth.
How should Pilates socks fit for best grip?
Pilates socks should feel secure without being restrictive. Lydia adds: “A snug fit helps keep the grip in contact with the floor or equipment, supporting stability during movement. Socks that are too loose may shift or bunch up, which can be distracting. Features such as elasticated cuffs or arch support can help keep them in place.”
Are Pilates grip socks worth it?
If you go to Pilates classes regularly, especially reformer sessions, then yes, grip socks are pretty much a studio essential. Many studios will actually ask you to wear them for hygiene and safety reasons, but they also genuinely make a difference once you start moving.
A good pair can help you feel more stable on the carriage, stop your feet slipping during lunges and standing work, and make movements feel far more controlled overall. They also add a bit of cushioning and comfort during longer classes. The good news is you do not need to spend a fortune either, with plenty of affordable grip socks now available alongside more premium styles.
