What to Wear to Reformer Pilates: A Practical First-Class Guide

Wear comfortable, reasonably fitted activewear that allows you to bend, lie down, kneel and move without constant adjustment. Leggings or fitted shorts with a secure top are practical choices. Avoid sharp zips, bulky pockets, loose drawstrings and jewellery that can catch on the Reformer. Many studios also ask participants to wear grip socks.

You do not need an expensive matching outfit to start Reformer Pilates. The best clothing is simply the clothing that helps you move confidently and lets the instructor see enough of your positioning to give useful guidance.

What should you wear to Reformer Pilates?

A straightforward first-class outfit might include:

• full-length or cropped leggings, or fitted exercise shorts;
• a supportive sports bra appropriate for your comfort;
• a fitted T-shirt, tank or exercise top that stays in place;
• grip socks if required or preferred;
• a light layer to wear before and after class.

The Reformer involves more changes of position than many beginners expect. You may move from lying on your back to kneeling, sitting, side-lying, standing or using straps. Clothing that behaves predictably through those transitions makes the session more comfortable.

Do clothes need to be tight?

No. They need to be secure, not uncomfortably tight. Very loose clothing can fall towards the face during inverted or supine movements and may obscure leg, hip or spinal positioning. A close-fitting top and stretch fabric usually provide a good balance.

If you prefer more coverage, choose a longer fitted top or layer a secure singlet under a looser shirt. The goal is not to display your body; it is to prevent fabric from becoming a distraction or catching in moving equipment.

Leggings or shorts: which is better?

Both can work. Leggings offer coverage and reduce direct skin contact with upholstery. Shorts may feel cooler, but choose a length and fit that remain comfortable when the legs lift, separate or move through straps.

Very wide shorts can shift during exercises. If you like a looser outer short, fitted undershorts can provide security. Test the outfit at home by squatting, lying down and lifting your legs before wearing it to class.

What kind of top works best?

A top that stays near the torso is easiest to manage. When you lie down, a very loose shirt may slide towards the shoulders or face. Long dangling ties, decorative metalwork and open zips can catch or press uncomfortably against the carriage.

Choose enough support for the way you expect to move. Reformer Pilates is generally low impact, but some classes include more dynamic sequences, jumping-board work or faster transitions.

Do you need grip socks for Reformer Pilates?

Studio policies differ. Some require grip socks for hygiene and traction; others permit bare feet. Check the policy before arriving rather than assuming normal socks will be suitable.

Grip socks have textured sections on the sole designed to reduce sliding on smooth equipment. They can also provide a little more coverage and warmth. Normal socks usually do not offer the same traction and may feel slippery during footbar, carriage or platform work.

Bodi Boutique’s guide to whether you need grip socks for Pilates explains the practical reasons in more detail. If you are choosing between styles, compare toeless and full-toe grip socks.

Can you wear shoes on a Pilates Reformer?

Most studio Reformer classes are performed barefoot or in grip socks rather than ordinary trainers. Shoes can reduce foot articulation, add bulk in straps and bring dirt onto the equipment. Follow the individual studio’s policy, including any exceptions made for a specific accessibility or health reason.

What should you avoid wearing?

• Clothing with sharp back zips that press into you or damage upholstery.
• Loose scarves, long drawstrings or dangling cords.
• Large belt buckles, metal studs or bulky cargo pockets.
• Very slippery ordinary socks where traction is required.
• Strong jewellery that may catch in straps or moving parts.
• Clothing you cannot comfortably kneel, bend or separate your legs in.
• Heavy perfume if the studio is a small shared space.

Avoiding hardware is partly about comfort and partly about caring for the equipment. Reformer upholstery is used repeatedly and can be marked by exposed zips or sharp accessories.

What underwear should you choose?

Wear whatever feels comfortable and secure beneath your activewear. Seamless styles can reduce visible lines, but they are not compulsory. A supportive sports bra may improve comfort, particularly in more dynamic sessions.

The simplest test is whether you can move through a wide range of positions without needing to pull, tuck or rearrange clothing.

What should you bring to class?

Requirements vary, but useful items may include:

• a water bottle;
• grip socks;
• a small towel if requested;
• any personal medication you routinely need;
• a hair tie for long hair;
• a light layer for before and after class.

You usually do not need to bring a full-size exercise mat to a Reformer class. If you prefer a personal barrier over the carriage, a purpose-designed Reformer mat is different from a large floor mat. Read the Reformer Pilates mat guide before buying one.

How should you dress for your first class if you feel self-conscious?

Choose an outfit you have already exercised in and know will stay in place. Your first class is not the ideal time to test leggings that roll down or a sports bra you constantly adjust.

Remember that other participants are usually concentrating on their own springs, straps and instructions. Reformer Pilates is not a fashion audition. Feeling physically secure in your clothes is more valuable than wearing the latest activewear.

Does your outfit change for beginner and advanced classes?

The same principles apply: stretch, security and no catching hardware. A more athletic class may make moisture-wicking fabric and additional support more useful. A gentle beginner session may allow a light layer for longer, depending on room temperature.

The class description matters more than the word “Pilates” alone. If you are unsure, ask the studio what the session typically involves.

What about long hair, jewellery and skincare?

Tie long hair so it does not become trapped beneath your head or in moving parts. Small secure jewellery may be acceptable, but remove pieces that dangle, catch or feel uncomfortable when lying down.

Avoid applying heavy body oil immediately before class because it may make hands, feet and equipment surfaces slippery. Arrive clean and follow the studio’s equipment-cleaning process after the session.

Starting Reformer Pilates at Bodi Boutique

If you are new to the equipment, Bodi Boutique’s Reformer Pilates page explains the studio approach and class pathway. The broader Pilates and Reformer page can help you compare movement options.

If learning in a group still feels daunting, a private Pilates or Reformer session can give you more time to understand springs, straps and setup before joining a class.

You may also find When Should You Replace Pilates Grip Socks? Five Practical Signs useful when planning your Pilates routine.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear baggy clothes to Reformer Pilates?

You can choose looser clothing, but it should stay secure and clear of moving equipment. A fitted layer underneath can provide coverage while reducing distraction.

Are grip socks compulsory?

That depends on the studio. Check before class. When they are required, normal socks are not an equivalent substitute because they may lack traction.

Can I wear shorts?

Yes. Choose shorts that remain comfortable and provide the coverage you want through lying, kneeling and legs-raised positions.

Do I need a special Pilates outfit?

No. Ordinary activewear that stretches, stays in place and has no sharp hardware is usually suitable.

The short answer

Wear secure, comfortable activewear, minimise zips and dangling details, tie back long hair and check the studio’s grip-sock policy. The right outfit lets you focus on learning the Reformer instead of adjusting your clothing.

Further reading

Clothing should allow comfortable movement without interfering with safe equipment use. For broader Pilates safety and client considerations, see the AUSactive Pilates Best Practice Guideline.

About the author

Jazz Collier owns Bodi Boutique in Millmerran and has worked in fitness and beauty since 2016. Her Pilates education includes Online Fitness Education, Studio Pilates Mat and Reformer training, and Core Collab. This general information does not replace individual medical or allied-health advice.