Turns out the best Pilates socks aren't the priciest — we tested 16 pairs to prove it
From $7 budget picks to $24 splurges, here's which Pilates socks are actually worth the money.
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Pilates and yoga are experiencing some of their strongest momentum in years, according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). NPR, citing a 2025 SFIA report, reported that participation in Pilates has jumped nearly 40% since 2019 . It's not hard to see the appeal: Pilates offers a low-impact way to build strength, improve posture and boost alignment. All you need is a reformer or a mat — and the best Pilates socks, since grip matters more than you'd think. Socks are socks, right? Not exactly. "Just like some socks are better for running vs. hiking, you want to consider what you'll be doing in these socks," says NPCP-certified Pilates instructor Lesley Logan .
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"True Pilates socks allow for you to protect your feet from any surface that may have been touched by someone else while also providing grip so your feet do not slip on the foot bar, carriage or another surface you may be doing Pilates on," Logan adds, saying that while grip is key, it's also important to find socks that fit just right to keep your feet supported and secure, rather than sliding around inside the sock. "You may have to test out a few pairs to find the right style for you and the type of Pilates you are doing," she says.
To help you find the best Pilates socks to complete your outfit , Yahoo editors and writers (myself included) put 16 pairs to the test. Each pair was tested at least twice over a two-week period, though most were tested several times a week for several weeks or even months, at home or in a studio. The results? There were real differences between the socks we tried. Some offered excellent grip that ran the full length of the foot, while others stood out for breathability. Here are the six that made the cut.
Our top picks compared
| $24 |
Closed-toe, ankle cut |
Sweaty feat or anyone who wants a soft, padded fit |
You have narrow toes |
|---|
Best overall Pilates socks
Type:Closed-toe | Cut:Low-rise | Grip coverage:Full-sole | Sizes:S/M, M/L | Materials:Organic cotton blend, nylon, spandex
Pointe Studio has a loyal following, and we can see why. During testing, the brand's Nina Grip Sock was the only sock that earned perfect scores across the board for grip, movement, breathability and quality. This, plus the fact that it's a reasonable $16 per pair, made it our top overall pick.
Yahoo tester Lindsey Murray came away thoroughly impressed: "The grip on the bottom of these socks was among the best I've ever used," adding that she had zero issues with slipping during class, whether she was on the mat or the reformer. Pointe Studio offers several styles, all of which feature triangle-shaped grips that run the full length of the foot. However, the Nina stands out for its open-top design, which Murray said helped make the sock particularly breathable.
Murray also praised the sock for its secure fit, though she warned that the size she received was a tad small. It still fit, but because there are only two sizes — S/M and M/L — it's important to look at the size chart to determine which one is right for you. Between sizes? The company recommends sizing up, which we would also agree with.
- Excellent grip on both the mat and reformer
- No mid-class readjusting needed
- Breathable, open-top design
- Runs small
- Only two size options
More Pilates socks we like in 2026
Type:Closed-toe | Cut:Mid-crew | Grip coverage:Full-sole | Sizes:One-size-fits-most | Materials:Cotton, nylon, spandex
If there were a superlative for best-looking socks, the Boyfriend Grip Sock would've sailed to first place thanks to its retro-striped design and multiple colorways. However, this sock is more than just good looks. In fact, it was the highest-scoring sock we tested. The only reason it didn't make our best overall slot is that our tester wasn't able to test it on a reformer.
Yahoo home editor Elizabeth Berry has been practicing Pilates for several years, typically in her low-cut Tavi socks, and said she was worried this crew-cut sock would get too hot. "I am not typically working out for more than an hour or doing super intense movements, so I am not often building up an insane amount of sweat. But I do run hot, and these socks felt comfortable even in a humid studio or on a hot summer day. My feet didn't feel damp, and I could wear the socks comfortably all day to run errands around my neighborhood," she said.
The sock also scored highly for movement and security, with Berry reporting no issues with the sock bunching or rolling down during her workouts. During the testing period, she wore these while doing Pilates as part of her physical therapy routine and was impressed by how grippy and supportive they felt, noting this especially during single-leg moves like single-leg bridges.
The only real downside, according to Berry, is that the socks bunched up a bit in her Hokas , but she was able to adjust the fit to reduce the bunching. Still, she gave the socks a perfect score for overall value: "For $16, I do think these socks are a great buy for the thick, yet breathable material that is soft and cozy (I don't want to take them off!). They stay in place, keeping you feeling secure as you work through your mat movements. The stripes on the ankle are also a stylish touch I appreciate."
- Thick, yet breathable, cozy material
- Stays put through a full workout
- Stylish
- Excellent grip
- Heels bunch slightly inside sneakers
Type:Closed-toe | Cut:Low-rise | Grip coverage:Full-sole | Sizes:S, M, L | Materials:Polyester, cotton, nylon, elastane
I'm a big Bombas fan and was beyond excited when I heard the brand now offers a full line of Pilates socks. And, thankfully, the brand's Studio Gripper socks didn't disappoint. The socks are low-cut with a ballet-like feel thanks to the crisscross pattern on top. I liked the ballet aesthetic and found the materials to be wonderfully soft and breathable. That said, the crisscrossing on top did start to dig in after a 45-minute home reformer workout . Not a deal breaker, but something to be aware of, especially if your feet tend to swell during your workout.
That aside, my favorite part of these socks, and why they're our top pick for the reformer, is the full-coverage grip pattern. Not only does the grip run the full length of your foot, but the pattern is unique in that it uses lines rather than dots or triangles, which I found more comfortable to walk on and provided the best grip on the reformer. There are also interior heel grips for even more security.
That said, the socks aren't cheap — $20 per pair — and my foot slid a bit inside the sock during mat work. Still, if you're looking for a comfortable, breathable sock from a company with a strong reputation for durability, these should be high on your list.
- Full-length grip
- Excellent performance on the reformer
- Soft, high-quality material
- Holds up well after repeated washing
- Crisscross straps felt tight by the end of a workout
- Expensive
- Tester's feet moved a bit inside the sock during mat work
Type:Closed-toe | Cut:Low-rise | Grip coverage:Targeted-zone | Sizes:One size | Materials:Cotton, silicone
Priced at $14 for a two-pack or $20 for a three-pack, Ozaiic Pilates Socks are your best bet if you're on a budget or simply don't want to spend $15 or more on a single pair of socks. In fact, during one of my testing sessions, I wore one of these socks on one foot and a Bombas Studio Gripper sock on the other, and I barely noticed a difference. And that's saying something, given the Ozaiic socks are more than half the price.
These socks are among the few we tested with targeted zone coverage, meaning that instead of dots, lines, or triangles running from toe to heel, they have a large grip area around the toes and the front of the foot, a small gap, and then a circular pattern at the heel. Generally, this type of grip coverage is best for mat Pilates, though I found it plenty grippy on the reformer.
What you'll notice at the lower price is that the sock isn't quite as breathable or as soft as the Bombas. And because they're mostly cotton, these aren't the socks you'll want for a sweaty session. Another potential weak point is the crisscross design felt a tad snugger than the Bombas by the end of class.
- Excellent value
- Grip rivals pricier options
- Comfortable fit
- Crisscross straps felt tight by the end of a workout
- Slightly more foot slippage than Bombas
- Absorbs, rather than wicks, sweat
Type:Open-toe | Cut:Low-rise | Grip coverage:Full-sole | Sizes:XS, S, M, L, XL | Materials:Cotton, polyester, elastane, elastodiene
We tested two open-toe socks, and I'll be honest, neither of our testers was in love with the open-toe design. That said, the low-rise sock from Toesox was the clear winner. Compared to the pair from Tucketts, the Toesox half-toe was grippier and scored higher for fit and stability. I've never been a huge fan of toe socks, so I was surprised to find these socks more comfortable than I expected. I still prefer my closed-toe Pilates socks, but these have zero uncomfortable seams and are very soft.
The grip was excellent during floor and mat work, though, because the grips don't go far enough back on the heel, I slipped a bit on my reformer during moves like scooters. During workouts, the sock didn't move and rarely needed adjustment.
However, the materials didn't feel very breathable — if it wasn't for the open-toe design, my feet would've been sweating. I also noticed quite a bit of fraying around the toes after machine-washing them only twice, which made me a bit skeptical about their longevity. That said, Toesox has a loyal online following, so if you're a fan of toe socks for Pilates, the super-soft materials and good grip make these worth a shot.
- Surprisingly comfortable for a toe sock
- Zero uncomfortable seams
- Strong grip on the mat
- Open-toe breathability
- Grip stops short of the back of the heel
- Slipped during certain reformer moves like scooters
- Noticeable fraying after limited wear
Type:Closed-toe | Cut:Ankle | Grip coverage:Full-sole | Sizes:One size | Materials:Cotton, lycra
Let's start with the obvious: these socks aren't cheap. But, if you prioritize comfort and have the money to spend, we don't think you'll regret it. DeadSoxy Ankle Grip Socks have a breathable mesh upper, cushioned footbed and seamless toe to keep your feet comfortable whether you're on a wood studio floor or the reformer.
Yahoo commerce editor Janelle Randazza wore them three times and had very little to complain about. "They are buttery and cozy, and the ankle is so, so comfy. But my feet never felt sweaty! I think that's a tough balance, and they did it well." She also praised the socks' grip and mild arch compression, though she said they were a tad looser around her baby toe than she'd like.
Additional downsides, though not dealbreakers: DeadSoxy Ankle Grip Socks come in just one color and are only available on the company's website.
- Extremely soft and cozy
- Breathable mesh upper
- Very grippy and stable
- Padded ankle
- Slightly loose around smaller toes
- Expensive
- Only one color option
How to choose the right pair for your practice
Shopping for Pilates socks is pretty straightforward. If you're just getting into it or only do it occasionally, there's really just one main thing to look for: grip socks.
"There are several reasons to consider grip socks for Pilates," says Dr. Clint Laird , a podiatric physician at the Foot & Ankle Center, explaining that grips on the bottom help with "traction and stability — although too much grip can also be an issue — form and alignment, reduced risk of injury, performance on equipment, hygiene [compared to going barefoot] and comfort and support."
That said, if you do Pilates regularly or are moving to more advanced moves, it's important to choose a pair of socks that will keep your feet comfortable and secure. With that in mind, here are the top things to consider when making your decision:
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Grip coverage:There are two main types of coverage: full-sole, where the grips run from the toes to the heel and targeted-zone, where the grips are found on the front and bottom of the foot, with a gap near the arch. If you primarily exercise on a reformer, it's best to go with a full-sole grip, as "you definitely want to be able to trust your socks are staying where they are on your feet," says Logan. For mat Pilates, either coverage type works and comes down to personal preference.
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Toe type:Logan says she prefers toe socks (open or closed-toe) because they allow the toes to spread naturally. However, as our testing found, not everyone is a fan of how toe socks feel. If you fall into this camp, it's important to find a Pilates sock that fits right, with enough room and stretch for your toes to splay and grip the mat or footbar.
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Cut:As with other sport-specific socks , Pilates socks come in a variety of cuts, from low-rise, no-show socks to crew and tube socks. Low-rise socks tend to be more breathable with minimal or zero fabric resistance around the ankle. Crew socks are generally warmer — which may be a bonus if your studio is cooler or you're walking to class during the colder months — and can also help prevent rubbing or chafing from reformer straps on your ankle and lower shins.
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Sock materials:Some materials, like bamboo, polyester and nylon, are more breathable and may even help wick sweat. Cotton socks tend to be softer and less expensive, but can absorb and hold on to sweat.
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Thickness:While very thin Pilates socks may be less durable, Laird cautions against going too thick. "Sock thickness can affect plantar sensory feedback, which can reduce awareness of weight distribution, precise foot placement on the footbar and delay postural adjustment," he explains.
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Toe seam:Besides being uncomfortable, toe seams that don't lie flat or aren't on the top of the foot can cause issues, especially for people with certain foot conditions. "Seam placement is important — seams should not be under the foot [metatarsal head regions], which causes pressure on bunions, neuromas and sesamoids. Seams should also not be over the toes, which can cause pressure on hammertoes or claw toes," says Laird.
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Price:After testing 16 pairs, it became clear that price doesn't necessarily reflect quality. Expect to spend around $16 for a solid pair that's breathable and has good grip.
How we tested
To find the best Pilates socks, we researched the most-talked-about brands online, from Amazon to Reddit, looked into what makes for a good-quality sock and drew on our own experience with socks we've tried in our Pilates practices. From there, five Yahoo editors (all Pilates enthusiasts) put 16 pairs of socks to the test, wearing each pair at least twice during a two-week testing period. Several pairs were also tested multiple times a week over one to six months.
Each pair of socks was evaluated based on the following criteria:
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Fit and comfort
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Grip and stability
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Movement and security
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Breathability and materials
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Quality and value
We calculated overall scores, then compared weighted totals to determine which socks made our final list.
Other Pilates socks we tried
These didn't quite crack our top picks, but they're still solid options depending on your needs.
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Tavi Savvy Pilates Socks ($16):Berry said these have been her go-to socks for two years thanks to the excellent grip, neutral aesthetic and low profile, which she said makes it easy to slip them into her sneakers after a class. However, after testing three pairs for this roundup, she said she prefers the others. "They were easier to put on and take off, while the Tavi socks are pretty tight, and I am realizing now that is why I don't wear them as often as I could."
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Charmed Soles Grip Socks ($24):I have a hard time justifying paying more than $20 for a pair of workout socks. In fact, even $20 makes me hesitate before hitting the "buy" button, which is why, despite how much I enjoyed these food-inspired socks, I can't imagine buying them for myself. However, thanks to their cute designs, excellent comfort and breathable fabric, they'd make an excellent gift for the Pilates fan in your life.
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Tucketts Allegro Pilates Socks ($19):Murray wore these four times over the two-week testing period, using them on both the mat and reformer. Thanks to their open-toe design and thin material, she said they have a barefoot feel without sacrificing grip. They're also breathable. The main issue was the fit. The sock has two openings, one for your big toe and another for your other four toes, which Murray said didn't fit right. "My four smaller toes did not fit in the opening well, so I found that the sock continuously rode up over those toes and needed to be readjusted."
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Verde Vida ($13 for 2):At less than $7 a pair, these socks were a close runner-up as our best budget-friendly pick. Similar to the Ozaiic socks, the Verde Vida ones are low-rise with a targeted zone grip design. Randazza said the grip was impressive — beating even the $24 Deadsoxy socks. Ultimately, the Ozaiic socks won out for being truer to size, whereas the Verde Vida fit quite snug. "They were kinda tight! I felt the need to pull at my toe and wiggle my toes more than the other socks I tried," Randazza said.
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Lululemon Find Your Balance Grip Tab Socks ($24): These socks earned high marks for their breathability and excellent grip. However, Berry ultimately didn't feel they were worth the high price, especially since other socks scored just as well, if not better, and cost nearly half as much.
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Quince Everyday Cotton Pilates Gripper Ankle Socks ($30 for 4):While comfortable and a great price, our tester said you get what you pay for with these. There were a few loose threads, and the grip was OK, but not great. "I would be hesitant to use them for more intense classes, like Solidcore or SLT, only because they are less grippy than my other socks," she said.
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Alo Pivot Barre Sock ($38):These ballet-inspired socks have a similar grip design as the Bombas Studio Gripper No Show socks, but come with a much heftier price tag. In fact, they're the most expensive socks we tried. While Berry had zero complaints about performance and said they were the most comfortable pair she tried, she said it's hard to justify spending $38 on a single pair of socks.
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Cacti Wellness The Grip Socks ($18):If you prefer a high crew-top sock with a luxurious, thicker feel, this might be the sock for you. They were also the grippiest socks I tested, and I appreciated that the grips ran the full length of the foot and slightly up the heel for true full coverage. That said, if you sweat a lot, you're not going to love these. They're also harder to find, since they're only available on Cacti Wellness's website.
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Bombas Studio Gripper Quarter Socks ($21):These socks performed nearly identically to the brand's No Show socks and are a great alternative if you want more coverage or simply dislike the feel of the crisscross pattern on the top of your foot. I personally wasn't a fan of the frilled design on the cuff and found them just a tad less breathable.
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BetterMe Cotton Slouch Socks ($19):These are the only non-grip socks we tested. They earned a spot in the pool because several people online said they prefer them for the reformer, calling them more comfortable and stylish. I'll agree: for basic reformer footwork or strap work done lying down, they're comfortable and breathable, and they double as a nice slip-on for after class, since grip socks aren't always fun to walk around in. That said, skip these for mat work or any standing or advanced reformer moves, where grip really matters.
Meet our experts
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Lesley Logan ,NPCP-certified Pilates teacher, cofounder OnlinePilatesClasses.com
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Clint Laird ,DPM, podiatric physician at the Foot & Ankle Center
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
