What to Wear to Reformer Pilates: A Practical Guide
What to wear to reformer pilates comes down to three things: fitted clothing that stays in place, nothing with hard fastenings, and grip socks for your feet. The machine moves, so your kit should not. Choose breathable fabric, a close fit and a pair of socks with grip on the sole.
Everything else is preference. This guide covers each layer, what to avoid, and how to build a simple kit you can repeat every week.
Ready to sort your feet first? Browse the Reforman grip socks collection.
What should you wear to reformer pilates?
Wear a fitted top, fitted leggings or shorts, and grip socks. Fabric should stretch with you and sit close to the body. Loose clothing catches on the carriage, straps and springs, and slips out of position during exercises that put your hips above your head.
Key takeaway: close-fitting, breathable clothing and grip socks cover almost every studio.
A reformer class works the whole body through a wide range of movement. You lie, kneel, stand, pull and push. Clothing needs to cope with all of it without adjustment.
Which tops work best for reformer pilates?
A fitted tee, tank or long-sleeve top works best. The top should stay tucked against your body when you lie back and when you fold forward. Avoid anything that rides up, hangs open or bunches under the arms.
Key takeaway: if a top moves when you do, it will distract you for the full class.
Longer fitted tops give more coverage when you are on your back with your legs raised. Cropped tops are fine if they stay in place. Check by raising your arms overhead and lifting your knees to your chest before you leave the house.
Studios are often cooler at the start and warmer by the end. A light layer you can remove makes sense. Keep it close-fitting so it does not trail onto the machine.
What bottoms and fastenings should you avoid?
Choose full-length or mid-length leggings, or fitted shorts, with a flat waistband. Avoid zips, buckles, rivets, large buttons and chunky drawstrings. Reformers have upholstered surfaces, and hard fastenings can mark them or press uncomfortably into your back and hips.
Key takeaway: smooth seams and flat waistbands are more comfortable than any extra detail.
Opaque fabric matters. Many movements involve deep hip flexion and wide leg positions. Do a squat in front of a mirror in good light before you commit to a pair.
Remove jewellery that can catch. Long necklaces, large rings and dangling earrings all create problems. Tie long hair back so it stays clear of the headrest and your face.
Do you need grip socks for reformer pilates?
Most studios require socks with grip, and many sell them. Grip pads on the sole stop your feet sliding on the footbar, the carriage and the floor. Bare feet and plain socks both reduce traction, and plain socks can be the least stable option of all.
Key takeaway: grip socks are the one item worth buying properly, because your feet are your only contact point with the machine.
For a deeper look at studio requirements, read our guide on whether grip socks are required for reformer pilates. For the basics of what they are, see what are pilates socks.
Which grip socks should you choose?
Choose a pair that fits snugly, with grip across the sole and a cuff height you prefer. Reforman Classic crew grip socks come in EU 39-44 and are made from a premium cotton, nylon and spandex blend. They are breathable, moisture-wicking and stretchy.
If you prefer a lower cut, the ankle grip socks come in EU 38-46. They are breathable and stretchy, and they hold their shape wash after wash.
Key takeaway: a snug fit matters more than a specific style, since loose socks twist inside the grip.
Our design is gender-neutral. The range is built for everyone who wants clean design and reliable grip, without cutesy graphics. For a wider comparison of what is available, see our guide to the best pilates grip socks in the UK.
Choose your pair. Shop the full grip socks collection and pick the fit that suits you.
Reformer pilates kit checklist
| Item | What to look for | What to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Top | Fitted, breathable, stays in place | Loose, cropped without hold, hanging fabric |
| Bottoms | Opaque, flat waistband, stretch | Zips, buckles, thin or sheer fabric |
| Socks | Grip on the sole, snug fit | Plain socks, bare feet, loose fit |
| Layers | Light, close-fitting, easy to remove | Bulky jumpers, long trailing sleeves |
| Extras | Hair tie, water bottle | Jewellery that can catch |
How do you keep your kit working over time?
Rotate between a few pairs and follow the care label on every item. Washing after each class keeps fabric fresh and grip surfaces clean. Having more than one pair means you are never waiting on the laundry before your next session.
Key takeaway: a small rotation of repeatable kit is cheaper and simpler than a large wardrobe.
If you attend more than once a week, a bundle makes sense. Our guide on why grip sock bundles are great value explains the reasoning.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear normal socks to reformer pilates?
You can, but you should not expect good traction. Plain socks slide on the footbar and the carriage. Most studios ask for grip socks for this reason.
Should you wear shorts or leggings?
Either works if the fit is close and the fabric is opaque. Leggings give more coverage and protect your skin from upholstery. Shorts suit warmer studios.
Do you need to wear a sports bra or special underwear?
Wear whatever supports you comfortably through a full range of movement. Seams and clasps that press into your back can be uncomfortable when you lie down. Choose flat, smooth styles.
What size grip socks should you buy?
Reforman crew grip socks fit EU 39-44 and ankle grip socks fit EU 38-46. Pick the range that matches your shoe size. A snug fit keeps the grip pads under your foot.
Is it fine to wear the same kit for mat and reformer classes?
Yes. Fitted, breathable clothing works for both. See our guide on grip socks for barre, yoga and pilates for how footwear needs differ.
Final word
Wear fitted, breathable layers with no hard fastenings, and put your effort into the one item that affects your footing. Grip socks are the simplest upgrade to any reformer class.
Shop Reforman grip socks and arrive with your kit sorted.