These are officially the best Pilates socks that money can buy, tested by team MC UK
FYI, they're also great for hot yoga and Barre
If you've made it a goal of yours to try a new Pilates workout this month, making sure you have the right equipment is an easy way to help you feel more confident for your first class, whether you're doing it at home or in a studio.
Pilates has fast become one of team MC UK's favourite workouts, and it's no wonder, considering there are so many benefits of Pilates - from strengthening your core to improving your mental health. But without the right equipment, you might find yourself feeling a little overwhelmed (not to mention slipping and sliding all over the place).
Enter stage right, Pilates socks. Wondering what makes these socks different to normal socks? Well, the key is in the sole. Most Pilates socks will have non-slip soles with rubber grips, which means a better grasp of your mat or the Reformer machine during your workout.
Here at Marie Claire UK, we've all been giving the trending workout a go, so we took it upon ourselves to book a group Reformer Pilates class and test out some of the most popular brands to see which socks were really worth investing in. We roped in our Senior Health Editor, Ally Head, Producer Sofia Piza, Junior Shopping Editor Valeza Bakolli and Writer, Grace Lindsay to give the socks a thorough test.
If you want all the info about how we test the products that make it into our buying guides, make sure to check out our guide. If you're after more Pilates-friendly clothing and accessories, our shopping guides are a great place to look - from Pilates sliders to the best unitards, we've got you covered.
And for more Pilates inspiration, don't forget to check out our guides to Pilates for beginners, the best Pilates exercises, a spicy Pilates ab workout , plus the difference between Pilates and yoga.
What did we look for when testing the best Pilates socks?
- Did they stop us from sliding around during our workout?
- Were they comfortable to wear?
- Were they sweat-wicking?
- Was the material sustainable and longlasting?
- Were they affordable or an investment?
Pilates socks: 4 of the best to buy now
1. Most stylish Pilates socks
Alo Yoga Pivot Barre Socks
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
"I'm obsessed with Alo Yoga's trendy workout gear, and these socks further solidified this obsession. One of my biggest fears when doing Reformer Pilates is the thought of slipping. These socks have a very strong no slip grip (and cushioning!) throughout the sole that helped me feel comfortable whilst allowing me to fully concentrate on engaging my muscles rather than avoiding a fall. The design of these socks is also perfect for anyone who loves the ballet core aesthetic and, like me, loves a stylish workout sock moment." - Sofia Piza, Producer
2. Most versatile Pilates socks
Sweaty Betty Barre Gripper Socks 2 Pack
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
"Sure, these are technically Barre socks, but I've generally found that Barre and Pilates socks are the same, apart from the style. I much prefer the crew cut of the Barre design, and this option from Sweaty Betty is a great - they're soft yet grippy and wash well, too."
"They're meant to be a little sheer, so don't be alarmed if they feel thin. That said, I've had mine for around a year now and they've always remained in place, never rolling down or slipping out of place, as well as offering a secure grip on both my mat and a Reformer machine. An investment, sure - but worth the money if you're a regular Pilates-goer, IMO." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
3. Best low Pilates socks
Lululemon Power Stride No-Show Socks with Active Grip 3 Pack
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
"These lululemon socks made my at-home Pilates class so much easier. I have wooden floors and even on my workout mat, I found my feet were sliding all over the place before trying these out. The grippy soles work really well, and the socks also have a grippy band around the middle to stop them from falling off. One thing to note, my feet did get quite sweaty, so these might not be the best choice for more intense workouts." - Grace Lindsay, Writer
4. Best high ankle Pilates socks
Psycle Tube Barre Socks
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
"I love the classic design of these Pilates socks - they suit pretty much every pair of leggings and cycling shorts I own. The rubber balls on the sole are super grippy (perfect for Reformer Pilates workouts) and they have a cushioned sole for extra comfort. They have a mid-range price point but have washed incredibly well after loads of uses. I'm a fan." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
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Grace Lindsay is currently Junior Beauty Editor at Who What Wear UK and previously was Marie Claire UK's E-Commerce Writer. With over three years of experience in the fashion and beauty industry, she covers everything from the best make-up and skincare deals to how to shop the stand out trends of the season. When she's not typing away at her laptop, Grace can be found shopping her favourite vintage markets IRL, or catching up on her never-ending list of books to read.
- Valeza BakolliJunior Shopping Editor
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