If you’ve recently started Pilates, you’ve probably noticed one thing pretty quickly: everyone seems to own grip socks. They’ve become part of the Pilates uniform - leggings, water bottle, grip socks, coffee afterwards. But beyond looking good, there’s actually a reason they’ve become such a studio essential.
Whether you’re heading to your first reformer class or your hundredth, here’s why grip socks are worth having in your Pilates bag.
What are Pilates grip socks?
Pilates grip socks are socks designed with non-slip grips across the sole to give you extra traction during movement. Unlike regular socks, which can slide against a reformer carriage, footbar or studio floor, grip socks are designed to help your feet stay more securely in position.
At Glide Crew, our socks feature heel-to-toe grip coverage, so the grip isn't concentrated in just one small area of the foot.
Do you actually need grip socks for Reformer Pilates?
It depends on the studio - some require them, while others simply recommend them. But once you start wearing a good pair, you'll quickly understand why they've become so popular. During Reformer Pilates, your feet can be positioned on the carriage, footbar or platform throughout a class. Added grip can help you feel more secure, particularly during movements where you're pushing through your feet or maintaining a position while the carriage moves. And because Pilates is all about controlled, intentional movement, the last thing you want to be thinking about is your socks slipping.
1. They give you extra grip
This is the obvious one.
The grips on the sole create traction between your foot and the equipment or floor, helping to reduce unwanted slipping. Look for a pair with grip extending across the foot rather than just a few small grip points. This gives you more coverage as your foot position changes throughout your class.
2. They create a barrier between you and shared equipment
Pilates studios are busy places, with multiple people using the same reformers and equipment throughout the day. Studios have their own cleaning routines, of course, but wearing socks creates an additional barrier between your feet and shared surfaces. It's one of the reasons many studios ask clients to wear grip socks during class.
3. They can help you feel more secure
When you're new to Reformer Pilates, the moving carriage can take a little getting used to. Having extra traction under your feet can help you feel more secure while you learn the movements and become familiar with the equipment. Even for experienced Pilates lovers, good grip is one of those little details that can make a class feel better.
4. They're more comfortable than bare feet
Some people simply prefer having their feet covered during a workout. A soft, breathable sock gives you that comfort while still providing the traction you wouldn't get from an ordinary pair of socks. We use premium combed cotton in our Glide Crew grip socks for a soft, comfortable feel that works from warm-up to final stretch.
5. They've become part of the Pilates ritual
We couldn't leave this one out. There's something about choosing your grip socks before class that has become part of the whole Pilates experience.
Neutral pair for an early morning class? Something colourful when you need motivation? A Croissant pair because there's a coffee and pastry waiting afterwards?
We firmly believe the practical things can still be fun. It's one of the reasons we started Glide Crew in the first place - creating grip socks that work in the studio but feel like an accessory you'd genuinely be excited to wear.
What should you look for when buying Pilates grip socks?
Not all grip socks are created equal.
When choosing a pair, we'd look for:
- Good grip coverage across the sole
- A secure fit that doesn't move around during class
- Comfortable, breathable fabric
- Grips designed to withstand regular wear
- And, naturally, a design you actually love wearing
If you're choosing your first pair, we've gone into much more detail in our guide to the best Pilates grip socks in Ireland, including what to look for before you buy.
Can you wear normal socks to Pilates?
Technically, you can in some studios - but we'd choose bare feet over ordinary socks if your studio allows it. Regular socks aren't designed to create traction against Pilates equipment and can be slippery, particularly on smooth surfaces. Grip socks give you the comfort of wearing socks with the added benefit of a non-slip sole. Always check your individual studio's policy before your first class, as some studios specifically require grip socks.
So, are Pilates grip socks worth it?
If Pilates is becoming part of your routine, we'd say yes. They're a relatively small addition to your kit, but one you'll use class after class. A good pair gives you grip, comfort and that extra feeling of security on the equipment. And if they happen to look very cute peeking out of your trainers on the way to class? Even better.
Ready for your next class? Explore the Glide Crew grip sock collection, designed in Ireland for Pilates, yoga and barre.