The 10 Best Grip Socks for Pilates, Barre and Yoga
No more slipping and sliding on the mat.
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If you frequent your local yoga studio, prefer barre to any other workout or are obsessed with Pilates classes, then you may have seen other attendees wearing special Pilates socks, or socks that have grips on the bottom to help you avoid sliding on your mat. Grip socks help you focus on your workout and feel more stable on the ground, especially as you become sweatier — plus they make a very practical yoga gift.
Analysts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab test every style of men's socks and women's socks whether you prefer wool socks to a fuzzy pair or need a set for a specific workout like Pilates. In the past year, our pros have tested more than 90 different styles to find the best socks for every type of activity, assessing performance and durability via standardized Lab tests and consumer testers. After our picks for best grip socks, check out our guides to the best workout leggings and sports bras so you're fully equipped for your next Pilates reformer class.
Pros
- Top scores for comfort and fit from users
- Comfortable grippy bottom
- Great scores in Lab evaluations
Cons
- Some shrinkage in Lab tests
Tavi Active's grip socks are the truly best we've ever tested. They received high scores across the board from our consumer testers, who told us they stayed in place during all kinds of workouts, including yoga, Pilates, barre, strength training and more. One tester raved, "I didn't feel the grips through the socks too much," and gave this style a perfect score for comfort. Other testers commended the durability of the grippy bottom, including one who said, "I haven't noticed any changes in the quality of these socks, even after months of consistent use."
The fabric also performed well in Lab tests, with great abrasion resistance and respectable moisture-wicking. The caveat is that this pair shrank more than other styles we tested, so consider sizing up if you're in between two sizes.
Sizes: XS–XL | Height: Below-the-ankle | Colors: 19
Ozaiic Non-Slip Yoga Socks (2-Pack)
Pros
- Over 42K Amazon reviews
- Cushioned sole
- Trendy design
Cons
- Some Amazon reviewers found the grip not strong enough
On the fence about buying a pair of grip socks? These come in a pack of two, so you can split with a friend or workout buddy and spend less than $15 to try them out. On top of that, they're an Amazon #1 best-seller with more than 42,000 reviews and an average 4.6-star rating. Similar socks have received high scores for their stylish ballet shoe appearance from users in our evaluations. Our analysts also appreciate that these socks feature extra cushioning on the sole for additional comfort, but some Amazon shoppers didn't find the grip to be strong enough.
Sizes: One size | Height: No show | Colors: 19
Pros
- Offer stability and cushioning
- Cute and trendy design
- Can be a lifestyle sock too
Cons
- May be too tight around the ankles, according to Amazon reviews
You may have seen some of your fellow yoga-goers wear crew socks over their leggings. If you often run cold or want to experiment with this trend, our pros recommend these crew grip socks that have over 12,800 Amazon reviews. One tester said, "I used them for a Solidcore class and felt very stable," adding that they look cute too. The socks feature a cushioned sole and padded heel tabs for comfort. Our pros think the height lends itself to being a versatile sock you can wear on or off the mat. Some Amazon shoppers noted the sock was too tight around their ankles, though.
Sizes: S–XL | Height: Crew | Colors: 6
Pros
- Thick construction for durability
- Supportive arch band
- Did not fall down during testing
Cons
- May require a learning curve based on activity
A pack of two grip socks for under $10 is a total steal — especially if they help you perform better on the mat. These non-slip grip socks are made from thick materials for durability and feature an arch band for extra support. One tester said "they didn't ride down at all during class," while another reported it "has great cushion and a very solid grip on the reformer." Note that one tester who wore these socks during boxing, kung fu and Krav Maga found the grippy bottom a little hard to navigate because of the floor they were on, but added that "once figuring them out they were really easy to work with."
Sizes: S–XL | Height: Ankle | Colors: 3
Pros
- Helps allow for even body distribution
- Ample grips along the entire sole
- Top scores for cushioning
Cons
- Can take time to get used to
While toe socks may seem intimidating if you haven't tried them before, they allow for full toe splay to help ensure that your body weight is distributed evenly. This pair features grips along every inch of the sole, which our testers found helpful for certain Pilates and yoga exercises like downward dog. Several testers praised their "excellent grip" and gave this pair high scores for its cushioned feel and snug fit. Some shared that it took time for them to adjust to the unique feel of these socks, and while it wasn't the best fit for all of our testers, some revealed that they were surprised by just how much they liked them.
Sizes: XS–XL | Height: Ankle | Colors: 8
Pros
- Great for switching between different exercises
- Top scores in Lab durability testing
- Mesh ventilation zones help prevent sweaty feet
Cons
- Thinner than other pairs
These simple, lightweight socks have mesh ventilation zones on the top of the sock that testers found great for preventing sweaty feet during different types of workouts. Several testers noted that these had the perfect amount of grip for barre, making it easy to switch from a plié to a tendu but didn't slide around too much during mat exercises. A few even commented on how comfortable these socks felt on their feet, although some testers who typically use more cushioned grip socks weren't fans of the thinness of this pair. They also excelled in Lab tests, with top scores for abrasion resistance with less shrinkage compared to other socks.
Sizes: One size | Height: Ankle | Colors: 2
Pros
- Top tested brand
- Great for cold weather
- Provide stability
Cons
- Toeless design isn't for everyone
When you like being able to feel the yoga mat or ground beneath your feet but still want the extra stability grip socks provide, this toeless pair from Gaiam is for you. Gaiam is a popular brand in our tests for their excellent yoga gear and accessories, including yoga mats. If you don't typically wear grip socks during Pilates, but want some warmth during cold months, these toeless socks give you the best of both worlds. Just note that not all users liked the toeless design when we tested it.
Sizes: 4–7 or 8–10 | Height: Not listed | Colors: 10
Pros
- Received top scores in consumer testing
- Breathable mesh panels
- Excellent grip
Cons
- Some shrinkage in Lab tests
Tavi makes our list again, but this time for their Breeze grip socks that combine their top-performing grippy soles with ventilated mesh panels for additional breathability. Testers gave these socks top scores across the board, with one tester commenting, "The grips on the bottom were very 'grippy' which means I could do any activity without fear of my feet slipping. The mesh-like material on the top of the foot was nice for keeping my feet cooler and dry." Another tester shared that this pair "provided nice grip on a Pilates reformer."
The fabric proved durable in tests, with high marks for abrasion resistance, but did shrink more than other styles, so if you're between sizes, we recommend sizing up.
Sizes: XS–XL | Height: Below-the-ankle | Colors: 1
Pros
- Soft and cozy cushioned sole
- Top scores for appearance
- Performed well in shrinkage tests
Cons
- Moved around during some exercises
Known for their celebrity-loved activewear, Alo Yoga's grip socks stood out to our testers for their "cute, sleek design," earning the highest appearance score among the grip socks we tested. Testers called the fabric "soft and cozy" and gave good scores for the cushioned sole. In Lab tests, they held up well, with respectable shrinkage scores and average abrasion resistance. Just note that for some exercises, such as planks, our testers noticed these socks moved a little more than other grip socks they've used.
Sizes: S/M–M/L | Height: Not listed | Colors: 3
Pros
- Cushioned sole
- Online reviews praise fit
- Compressive arch band
Cons
- May shrink more than other brands
If you struggle with finding a grip sock that'll stay put, this style features a compressive band around the midfoot that provides targeted compression against the arch of your feet. There's also cushioning along the sole for extra comfort. Bombas is a constant top performer in our tests, and this pair has almost 3,000 online reviews that call out these socks' high quality, great fit and overall comfort. However, we find that Bombas socks tend to shrink more than others in our tests
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Bombas Are Some of the Best Socks We've Ever Tested
Sizes: S–L | Height: Ankle | Colors: 5
How we test the best grip socks
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tests all types of socks, from specialty running and hiking socks to everyday no-show socks and warm socks. In the past year, our product experts evaluated more than 90 different styles in the Lab and worked with hundreds of consumer testers, analyzing over 18,000 data points for performance and durability.
To find the best grip socks, we sent pairs to dozens of testers who put them through Pilates, yoga, aerial silks and barre workouts to evaluate each for fit, comfort, functionality, cushioning and more. In Lab tests, our analysts evaluated dimensional stability, washability, abrasion resistance and any moisture-wicking claims.
Things to keep in mind when shopping for grip socks
Whether you're new to grip socks or have tried dozens of pairs, it can be hard to differentiate between styles. Here are some ways to distinguish between the different ones available:
✔️ Materials: Socks are typically made using a blend of fibers, including synthetic ones like polyester or nylon to add the necessary shape and structure for the sock, and spandex or elastane to add stretch for a good fit. Nylon and polyester are typically more moisture-wicking compared to natural cellulosic or protein-based fibers. Other fibers like cotton or acrylic, which mimic wool, are good for adding softness. Cotton is also known for its breathability, thanks to its fiber structure.
✔️ Style: The main styles available for grip socks vary from traditional ankle socks to those with mesh to socks with cutouts or ballet shoe-like top straps or toeless options. Each style has its own merits, so this is more a matter of personal preference. It's also worth noting that sock color offerings change regularly (which is why some of our testing images show discontinued colors), so if you like a particular hue, don't hesitate to snap up a pair.
✔️ Sizing: To ensure a proper, stay-in-place fit, those with smaller or larger feet should search for socks that come in multiple sizes.
✔️Features: Some socks have unique features, such as mesh ventilation or compressive bands, which can help add breathability for those prone to sweaty feet or provide a secure fit for users who need more grip than others. Cushioned soles are typically preferred by most of our testers but may not be ideal for those who like being able to feel the ground beneath them.
✔️ Grips: The "grips" on grip socks are typically made of silicone or a thin polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The pattern of the grips on the sole help determine exactly where the socks provide traction and stability. If you typically find yourself on your toes during your workouts, look for a pair with more grips in that area.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Grace Wu is a Textiles Product Reviews Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute who oversaw recent in-Lab and consumer tests for all socks, including no-show socks, compression socks, hiking socks and running socks. Prior to joining GH, Grace earned a Master of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University.
Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.
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