What to Wear for Reformer Pilates? The Complete Guide 2026

Leggings or shorts, what's better for the Reformer?

High-waisted leggings are the standard in all Reformer studios, and it's not about aesthetics. They cover the back of the knees and inner thighs, the two areas most frequently in direct contact with the carriage or footbar. They don't ride up when your legs are in the air. And they allow the instructor to clearly see the angle of your knees and hips, which shorts don't always allow.

Shorts are an option, provided they are fitted (no swim shorts, no Bermuda shorts) and long enough not to ride up during supine exercises. Fitted bike shorts work very well. But if you're unsure for your first session: go for leggings.

Why are zippers not recommended?

In Reformer, you spend most of the session lying on the carriage, supporting yourself on your back or side. A zipper on the back of leggings or a top creates hard, continuous pressure against the machine's upholstery, making it uncomfortable for you and potentially abrasive for the carriage fabric.

The same logic applies to buttons, clasps, and metal elements. Opt for clothing with a smooth elastic waistband, without any hard components. This is why seamless leggings, without closures or zippered pockets, have become the norm in studios.

Are non-slip socks really mandatory?

In almost all Reformer studios, yes, and for two reasons that have nothing to do with style. First, hygiene: you share the machine with dozens of practitioners daily, and bare feet on the carriage or footbar pose a real sanitation problem. Second, safety: the Reformer platform is smooth, and without plantar grip, your feet will slip during pushing exercises, which distorts alignment and can cause a fall.

Socks with silicone grips are the standard – the small, short socks you see everywhere. If you forget yours, most studios sell them at the reception between €8 and €15. Bringing your own pair is more economical and hygienic.

What top should I choose: sports bra, tank top, or t-shirt?

All three work, provided the top is fitted and stays in place when you're lying down. The key criterion: does it come out of your pants as soon as you raise your arms or legs? If so, it will distract you throughout the session.

A medium-support sports bra is the most practical option: it provides support, doesn't compress the rib cage (which you need for deep breathing), and stays in place in all positions. A fitted crop top or a form-fitting t-shirt also work. Avoid tops with rigid underwire and overly loose tops that fall towards your head in inverted positions.

Can you wear jewelry during Pilates Reformer?

No, and this is one of the most unanimous rules in studios. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches: all create potential snag points with the straps and springs, and generate uncomfortable pressure when you're bearing weight. Small stud earrings are usually fine, but anything dangling or bulky around the wrist or hand should be removed before entering the studio.

Should you tie your hair back?

Yes, if your hair is long. When lying on the carriage, loose hair can get caught under your neck, distorting your head's position, which disrupts the alignment of your entire spine. Additionally, in some exercises with a strap behind the neck, loose hair can get caught in the mechanism.

A ponytail, low bun, or braid are the best options. Avoid very high buns (uncomfortable when lying down) and large metal hair clips (same logic as jewelry). A classic fabric hair tie is perfect.

What to wear for Reformer Pilates when pregnant?

The same basic rules apply: fitted, no zippers, with non-slip socks. What changes is the waistband. A maternity legging with a soft, high waist and an expandable abdominal panel that doesn't compress the belly is a good alternative to standard leggings from the second trimester onwards. For the top, a sports bra with softer support than usual is recommended, as the rib cage changes during pregnancy and needs more space.

Regarding the practice itself: consult your doctor before starting or continuing Reformer during pregnancy, and ensure your instructor is trained in prenatal practice.

Does the legging material make a difference in Reformer?

Yes, more than you might initially think. There are two concrete criteria related to the machine. First, stretchability: leggings that stretch well horizontally but resist vertical flexion will restrict movements like legs in the air or lateral extensions on the footbar. 360° stretchability ensures that no movement will be limited by the material.

Second, breathability: in Reformer, you work lying down and sweat differently than in cardio. A synthetic fabric that retains heat quickly becomes uncomfortable after 30 minutes in a static position on the carriage. Natural fibers like Tencel™ are thermoregulating; they adapt to temperature changes without sticking to the skin.

Does the same outfit work for both yoga and Reformer?

If it meets the Reformer criteria – high-waisted, no thick seams, 360° stretchable, no closures – then yes, absolutely. Leggings designed for yoga with these characteristics will work perfectly for Reformer. It's not the practice that differentiates, but the construction of the garment. This is why many practitioners who do both end up looking for a single piece that does everything, rather than managing separate outfits.