Comfort and fit: When choosing Pilates socks, prioritize comfort and fit for an optimal training experience. Consider ones that fit snugly around your feet without restricting movement. This will prevent your feet from getting tangled or developing blisters. Some socks also have extra features, such as cushioned soles, for added comfort, especially when exercising barefoot. Don’t forget to check if they have a heel tab to prevent chafing on your Achilles tendon. Finally, make sure your socks are the right size to avoid slipping and discomfort. Logan recommends choosing a sock brand that matches your shoe size for a better fit. Ideally, your Pilates socks should feel like a second skin, allowing you to focus on your practice without distractions.
Material and Breathability: Most socks are made with a blend of different fibers, giving you the best of both worlds: comfort and functionality. “Bamboo socks are great for people who tend to get hot hands and feet because they’re very breathable,” says Helen Cooperstein, a certified Pilates instructor at Club PIlates. Synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon provide structure and shape, while fabrics like spandex and elastane are stretchy and provide a snug fit. These synthetic fibers are also good at wicking away moisture and keeping your feet dry. Natural fibers like cotton and acrylic are often added to give them a soft, plush feel. Cotton is especially breathable, allowing air to circulate and keeping your feet from sweating too much.
grip: “Look for grip socks that provide good coverage at the heel, arch, ball of the foot and toes,” Cooperstein says. “These are the parts of the foot that come into contact with the equipment the most,” she continues.Grip socks usually have grips made from silicone or a thin layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
The grip pattern on the sole of your shoe plays an important role in providing traction and stability. “Some socks have a random pattern on the bottom, while others have a large grip that covers the entire heel,” Cooperstein says. “Small grip patterns are better for people with good foot dexterity, while larger, wider grip areas are better for people with special proprioception needs or neurological disorders,” she continues.
support: A snug fit will support your foot and make it feel more secure and stable, and if you need extra arch support, look for socks with added reinforcement that will stabilise your foot, distribute pressure evenly and minimise stress on the sole of your foot.
Style and Design: Pilates socks are fashionable and functional. They come in a variety of styles and heights, including traditional ankle socks, mesh options, toe socks, cutouts, straps, and toeless versions. “For Pilates beginners, styles that cover the entire foot are usually chosen,” Cooperstein says. “They’re more convenient, easier to put on, and very comfortable,” she says. Separate toe styles are a good choice if you need extra grip, as each toe grips independently, she adds. Each style has its own benefits, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
