The Best Pilates Clothes For Comfort And Performance

2 Jul 2025

Whether you're new to the mat or a Reformer Pilates regular, having the right outfit can make a world of difference to your practice.

The best Pilates clothes don’t just look good – they support controlled movements, enhance flexibility, and feel like a second skin.

Whether you're working on core strength, building upper body tone, or just wanting to feel comfortable while stretching, a well-curated Pilates outfit is a must.

This guide from the Slingo lifestyle blog covers what to wear for Pilates, from buttery-soft fabrics to sports bras that don’t dig in. It helps you focus on your form, not your waistband.

What should you look for when buying Pilates clothes?

Shopping for Pilates clothing is less about trends and more about function. You want outfits that move with your body, feel lightweight, and hold their shape without restricting movement.

Breathable, lightweight fabrics

Pilates is all about low-impact workouts, but that doesn’t mean you won’t break a sweat. Choosing breathable fabrics with sweat-wicking or moisture-wicking properties helps keep you dry and comfortable during class. Look out for materials like nylon blends, bamboo, and elastane for that smooth, buttery-soft feel that still holds up during stretching.

Form-fitting design

Loose T-shirts and oversized joggers might be your go-to for lounging, but they’re not ideal for Pilates. A form-fitting design allows your instructor to see your alignment and posture, and stops extra fabric from getting in the way during planks, roll-ups, or leg lifts. Close-fitting tank tops, leggings, and crop tops help you move freely while keeping everything in place.

Flexibility and stretch

Pilates involves a full range of motion, so look for clothes with four-way stretch to move with you. Whether you’re lengthening through the spine or engaging your core in a teaser hold, your outfit should stretch with your body, not against it. A stretchy fit helps reduce distractions and allows for more focus on technique.

What are the best Pilates clothes?

To get the most out of your Pilates workouts, you’ll want to wear clothes that support flexibility, stability, and breathability. Here’s what your Pilates wardrobe should include, along with our top picks.

Sports bras, tops or tees

Whether you're doing mat Pilates or flowing through Reformer moves, a comfortable, supportive sports bra is essential. Look for adjustable straps, soft linings, and designs suited to your cup size. Some Pilates sports bras double as crop tops, which can be paired with high-waisted leggings or worn solo in warmer months.

If you're after more coverage, a longline tank or fitted T-shirt can offer a streamlined alternative to bulkier gym tops.

Here are some stylish, sweat-wicking picks:

ARNE Women's Active Sports Bra (£28) – A minimalist design with a comfy fit, ideal for low impact workouts.
Lululemon Energy Bra Medium Support (£38) – Soft, barely-there support with a second-skin feel. Great for Pilates class and lighter strength training.
Tala DayFlex Twist Front Sports Bra (£42) – Combines style with support and comes in a range of fun styles.
Adanola Women's Ultimate Long Sleeve Top (£36) – A flattering fitted T-shirt that moves with your body.
Gymshark Training Cami Tank with Shelf (£25) – Built-in shelf support with a sleek, lightweight feel.

Leggings or shorts

Leggings are a Pilates staple, offering coverage and flexibility in equal measure. When choosing a pair, avoid anything too tight or low-waisted, as these can shift during movement or restrict core engagement.

High-waisted leggings offer excellent support, especially during moves that involve curling or twisting. If you prefer something cooler for the warmer months, short leggings can work well – just make sure they stay in place and don’t ride up mid-stretch.

The 5 best leggings for Pilates

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant (£88) – Known for their buttery soft feel and unbeatable comfort.
Adanola Ultimate Wrap Over Leggings (£42) – A flattering high-rise fit with a supportive waistband.
Alo Yoga Alosoft High-Waist Sunray Legging (£114) – Offers a super soft finish and flexible fit.
GAP Athleta Black 7/8 Length High-Waisted Power Stretch Leggings (£45) – Perfect for low-impact workouts with a sweat-wicking design.
Sweaty Betty Ultimate Studio 7/8 Leggings (£80) – Designed specifically for yoga and Pilates with a sculpting, non-restrictive fit.

Unitards or jumpsuits

For those who prefer a one-and-done outfit, a unitard or Pilates-friendly jumpsuit offers a streamlined look with zero fuss. These pieces move with you and eliminate the need to adjust tops or waistbands mid-flow. Plus, they nail the Pilates fashion brief effortlessly.

The best unitards and jumpsuits for Pilates

Vuori Bondi Jumpsuit (£140) – Soft, stretchy and ideal for studio and streetwear.
Gymshark Strappy All in One (£42) – A go-to for controlled movements with adjustable straps.
Adidas Yoga Bodysuit (£70) – Sleek with a modern edge, ideal for yoga and Pilates.
Adanola Ultimate Short Sleeve Romper (£46) – All the comfort of a matching set, minus the effort.

Outerwear: hoodies and puffer jackets

Because UK weather is as unpredictable as your post-class cravings, outerwear is essential for staying warm after your session (and during that well-earned matcha run). Choose comfy, breathable fabrics that layer easily over your Pilates outfit.

Here are a few standout options that strike the balance between style and practicality:

Sweaty Betty Canyon Fleece Zip Up (£135) – Toasty, stylish and soft. A studio favourite.
M&S Pure Cotton Cropped Zip Through Hoodie (£25) – A casual staple with a breathable feel.
Gymshark Everywear Cropped Zip Hoodie (£80) – Lightweight and made for layering.
Sporty & Rich Health is Wealth Serif Logo Crewneck (£129) – This understated piece from Emily Oberg's brand adds a subtle edge to your athleisure game.
Abercrombie & Fitch Logo Vintage Sunday Half-Zip – Classic branding meets cosy weekend vibes, it even has pockets!

Remember: finding the best Pilates clothes doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort for style. Whether you’re stocking up for your first Pilates class or upgrading your current rotation, the right pieces will support you through every movement, from flowing stretches to intense core strength sessions.

When it comes to buying Pilates clothes, we recommend

Stick to breathable fabrics
A stretchy fit
Designs that make you feel confident on and off the mat

Whatever comfort means to you, a unitard, leggings and a sports bra or something else, the most important thing is that your Pilates outfit works with your body, not against it.

Shape up in style with Slingo

Interested in more athleisure goodness to upgrade your wardrobe and make your workouts more comfortable? We have what you need. Explore the Slingo lifestyle blog for more, including: