Pilates Socks With Grips: Crew or Ankle, and How to Choose
Pilates socks with grips are fitted socks with a textured sole that holds on the reformer, the mat and the studio floor. Choosing the right pair takes three decisions: the cut, the size and the design. Crew socks give coverage, ankle socks give a lighter feel, and both come in a breathable cotton, nylon and spandex blend. This guide takes you through each decision in order.
Prefer to browse first? Shop the full range of Reforman pilates socks with grips, with free UK delivery.
What do pilates socks with grips actually do?
They stop your foot sliding. The grip on the sole holds against the footbar, the carriage and the floor, and the snug fabric keeps the sock fixed to your foot. The result is a stable base that lets you focus on the movement.
They also act as a hygiene barrier on shared equipment, which is why most reformer studios ask for them. Our essential guide to pilates socks explains the basics in more detail.
Key takeaway: grips give stability, and the sock gives a barrier.
Step one: which cut of pilates socks with grips suits you?
Choose crew if you want coverage over the ankle, a secure cuff and a sock that works with trainers and trousers. Choose ankle if you prefer a low profile and less fabric. Both are made from the same type of blend and follow the same grip logic.
| Question | Crew grip socks | Ankle grip socks |
|---|---|---|
| Sizes | EU 39-44 | EU 38-46 |
| Coverage | Over the ankle | At the ankle |
| Fabric feel | Breathable, moisture-wicking, stretchy | Breathable, stretchy |
| Shape retention | Stretchy, secure cuff | Holds shape wash after wash |
| Typical choice for | Reformer classes, everyday wear | Mat, gym and lower-profile wear |
The Classic crew grip socks and the ankle grip socks sit at the centre of the range.
Key takeaway: pick the cut you will wear most often.
Step two: what size of pilates socks with grips should you buy?
Buy by your EU shoe size. Crew socks fit EU 39-44, and ankle socks fit EU 38-46. The sock should feel snug, with no fold at the toe and no slack at the heel. If you sit between two sizes, choose the range that centres your size.
The ankle range is wider, so it suits those at the smaller or larger end of the scale. A loose sock reduces grip, so snug is correct.
Key takeaway: size by EU shoe size, and aim for snug.
Step three: which design suits you?
Design is a matter of preference once cut and size are settled. Reforman designs are clean and gender-neutral, with no cutesy graphics. The range includes the Classic, Dude, Bro, Foothills, Laters, Palms and Wave designs.
- Dude pilates grip socks and Bro pilates grip socks
- Foothills pilates grip socks and Laters pilates grip socks
- Palms and Wave print grip socks
Key takeaway: choose design last, once the fit is correct.
Are pilates socks with grips worth buying in a bundle?
Often, yes. Most people train several times a week and need clean pairs ready. A bundle gives you a rotation, which helps each pair last. The Millennial Edit and the Wildground Collection are Reforman's two bundles.
See the Millennial Edit bundle or the Wildground Collection. Our post on grip sock bundles explains the value case.
Key takeaway: a rotation protects your socks and your routine.
How do you care for pilates socks with grips?
Wash them regularly, turn them inside out and avoid fabric softener. Follow the care label, and air dry where you can. Good care keeps the stretch and the fit, which keeps the grip effective.
Key takeaway: care preserves fit, and fit preserves grip.
Where can you buy them and how does delivery work?
Buy directly from reformanlife.com. Delivery is free within the UK. Delivery is UK-only. The grip socks collection shows every cut and design in one place.
Buying for someone else? A Reforman gift card lets them choose their own size and design. For the full background on the category, read the ultimate guide to pilates grip socks.
Frequently asked questions
Are pilates socks with grips the same as yoga socks?
They are similar. Both use a textured sole for traction. Pilates versions are designed for the reformer and the mat as well as floor work.
Can I wear pilates socks with grips every day?
Yes, at home or for gym sessions. For outdoor use, wear shoes, as pavements wear the sole.
Which is better, crew or ankle?
Neither is better in absolute terms. Crew offers coverage, and ankle offers a lighter feel. Pick what you will wear.
What size should I buy?
Crew socks fit EU 39-44 and ankle socks fit EU 38-46. Choose by your EU shoe size.
Are they suitable for men and women?
Yes. Reforman socks are gender-neutral, and sized by EU shoe size only.
You now have the three decisions: cut, size and design. Shop Reforman pilates socks with grips and choose your pair.