What to Pack in Your Pilates Bag
Heading to Reformer Pilates, Mat Pilates or Barre? From grip socks and leg warmers to the little things that make every class easier, here’s what deserves a permanent place in your Pilates bag.
There’s something satisfying about having your Pilates tote bag packed and ready to go.
No searching for your favourite grip socks five minutes before class. No forgotten water bottle. No wishing you had brought an extra layer for the walk home.
Whether Pilates is part of your weekly routine or you’re preparing for your first Reformer class, keeping a few carefully chosen essentials together makes getting to the studio that much easier.
So, what should you bring to a Pilates class?
Here are seven essentials we think belong in the perfectly stocked Pilates tote.
1. Pilates Grip Socks
f there is one item that deserves a permanent place in your bag, it’s a fresh pair of Pilates grip socks.
Many Reformer Pilates studios recommend or require grip socks for hygiene and additional traction on the equipment. But not all grip socks feel the same.
For studio movement, look for socks that offer reliable grip while still allowing your feet to feel light, flexible and connected.
SHASHI grip socks were created specifically for movement and studio workouts. Their combination of full-foot non-slip grip, breathable mesh, moisture-wicking COOLMAX® fibres, high cotton content and anatomical left/right construction creates the lightweight, close-to-the-foot feeling SHASHI is known for.
From classic styles to ballet-inspired silhouettes, open-toe designs and ankle or crew lengths, you can also choose your grip socks according to the way you move – and the way you like to dress.
Shop SHASHI Pilates Grip Socks →
Pilates bag tip: Pack a second clean pair. It takes almost no space and means you’re always ready for an extra class.
2. Leg Warmers for the Studio – and Beyond
As temperatures drop, leg warmers become one of those wonderfully simple Pilates accessories that combine function with style.
Wear them on your way to class, during your warm-up or while your body settles into the first movements of the session. Afterwards, simply pull them back on before heading out of the studio.
They also bring a subtle ballet-inspired aesthetic to your Pilates look, especially when paired with leggings, shorts and elegant grip socks.
3. A Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is an obvious one, but it is also one of the easiest things to forget.
Keep a reusable water bottle permanently alongside your Reformer Pilates essentials so you only need to refill it before leaving home.
Choose something lightweight, leak-proof and slim enough to fit comfortably inside your tote.
4. A Light Layer
Your studio may be warm, but the journey there and back might not be.
A lightweight sweatshirt, wrap or cardigan is easy to throw over your Pilates outfit before and after class. During autumn and winter, pair it with your leg warmers for an effortless layered studio look.
The goal is simple: pieces that are easy to put on, take off, fold and carry.
5. Hair Ties & Small Hair Accessories
They take up virtually no room and somehow always disappear exactly when you need them.
Keep a couple of hair ties or a soft headband permanently inside your Pilates bag.
For Reformer classes, consider avoiding large clips at the back of the head. When exercises take you onto the carriage, a simple low ponytail, braid or soft hair tie can be much more comfortable.
6. A Small Towel
Depending on the studio and the intensity of your class, a small towel can be another useful addition to your Pilates studio essentials.
Choose something lightweight and quick-drying rather than a bulky bathroom towel. It should disappear into your bag rather than take it over.
A small separate pouch for used grip socks and your towel is also a smart addition after class.
7. A Few Post-Pilates Essentials
There’s no need to carry your entire bathroom cabinet to Pilates.
A small deodorant, lip balm, hand cream, face mist and perhaps a hairbrush may be all you need to freshen up before heading to work, meeting a friend or continuing with your day.
The best Pilates bag is thoughtfully stocked – not overpacked.
And What About the Pilates Tote Itself?
Your bag should be big enough to carry your essentials but easy enough to grab whenever it’s time to move.
That’s where the SHASHI Tote Bag comes in.
Throw in your grip socks, leg warmers, water bottle and everyday essentials and you’re ready for the studio.
Your Pilates Bag Checklist
Wondering what to bring to Reformer Pilates? Save this quick checklist:
✓ Pilates grip socks
✓ Spare clean grip socks
✓ Leg warmers
✓ Reusable water bottle
✓ Lightweight sweatshirt or wrap
✓ Hair tie or headband
✓ Small towel
✓ A few personal essentials
✓ Pilates tote bag
Ready for Your Next Pilates Class?
The best routines are often built around small things that make showing up easier.
Keep your Pilates essentials together, wash and replace your grip socks regularly, refill your water bottle and leave your tote somewhere you can grab it on your way out.
And if your Pilates bag could use a refresh, explore SHASHI grip socks, leg warmers and studio essentials at SHASHI Europe.
Pack. Move. Repeat.