Pilates is precise. Your instructor needs to see your alignment, your clothes need to stay put through rolls and leg circles, and on a reformer nothing loose should get caught in the springs. So what should you wear to Pilates? In short: fitted, stretchy and snag-free. Here is the full breakdown for mat and reformer classes.
Mat Pilates vs reformer Pilates: does it change what you wear?
The basics are the same, but reformer classes are stricter:
- Mat Pilates: any fitted activewear works. You'll roll on your spine, so avoid bulky seams or zips at the back.
- Reformer Pilates: avoid anything loose, baggy or with hardware (buckles, big zips, drawstring toggles) that could catch on the springs, straps or carriage.
Bottoms: leggings, shorts or flares?
High-waisted leggings
The top choice for Pilates. They show your alignment, stay put when your legs are in the straps and give full coverage when your legs are in the air. Try the Lycra High Waisted Yoga Leggings or the High Rise Yoga Pants.
Biker shorts
Great for warm studios. The longer length won't ride up when you lie on your back. See our High Waisted Yoga Biker Shorts.
Flared pants
Good for mat classes and the walk to the studio, but they can get in the way on the reformer. Save them for before and after class. Here's how to style flared yoga pants.
Tops: fitted is the rule
- Fitted tank tops such as the Tight Paneling Yoga Tank Top or the Piping Yoga Tank Top stay in place when you roll up and down through your spine.
- Sports bras work well on their own in warm studios. A halter or U-neck like the U-Neck Yoga Sports Bra gives coverage when you are on your back.
- Bodysuits and rompers are a Pilates favorite: one smooth piece, no gaps, nothing riding up. Try the Tight Long Sleeve Yoga Bodysuit or the U-Neck Yoga Romper.
Don't forget grip socks
Most reformer studios ask you to wear grip socks for hygiene and to stop your feet slipping on the footbar. Check with your studio before your first class.
What to avoid wearing to Pilates
- Loose T-shirts or wide-leg pants that can catch on the equipment
- Buckles, belts or large zips on the back of your clothing
- Thin leggings that turn sheer when stretched
- Jewelry, especially rings and bracelets that can scratch the equipment
3 Pilates outfits to try
- The classic: high-waisted leggings plus a V-neck sports bra in the same color.
- The one-piece: a Quarter-Zip Yoga Romper with grip socks.
- The warm-studio look: High Rise Tight Yoga Shorts with a Ruched Yoga Tank Top.
Want your pieces to match? Read how to build a matching workout set.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear shorts to Pilates?
Yes. Fitted shorts, especially biker length, are a great choice, as long as they stay put when your legs are raised.
What do you wear on your feet for reformer Pilates?
Most studios ask for grip socks. Mat classes are often barefoot.
Is it OK to wear a bodysuit to Pilates?
Yes. Bodysuits and rompers are ideal: there's no waistband to adjust and nothing to ride up.
Shop your Pilates wardrobe
Find made-to-order leggings, bodysuits, rompers and tanks designed to move with you, starting with our Tight Long Sleeve Yoga Bodysuit.
