Pilates and yoga clothing consists of fitted, stretchy, zip-free garments: high-waisted leggings, a top or tank top that stays in place, and, for Pilates, grip socks. Pilates involves a lot of floor work, and the instructor needs to be able to see the pelvis and spine. Yoga requires leggings that don't slide down during inversions and a top that doesn't ride up.

What should you wear for Pilates?

In Pilates, you work lying down, sitting, and supported, and the instructor corrects your posture by observing your pelvis and spine. Therefore, you need garments that follow the body: a loose shirt will roll up and hide the very areas that need to be monitored.

The same rule applies to the torso. A fitted top or tank top that reaches the hips won't ride up when you raise your arms or roll your spine. If you have to adjust it after every exercise, it's the wrong garment for the class.

Zips, buttons, ties, and thick seams press into your back when you are on the floor. On the reformer, the machine with springs and straps, a garment with ties or hooks can even get caught. It is better to choose a smooth fabric, without closures and with few seams.

The High-Waisted Balance Leggings are made with seamless technology, with seams kept to a minimum, and feature a high waistband that hugs the waist. The composition is 62% polyamide, 30% modal, and 8% elastane. The Balance Line is designed for mat-based Pilates and yoga: if you practice on a reformer, ask the studio about their requirements first.

What should you wear for yoga?

Yoga involves twists, forward bends, and inversions. What matters most is a high waist that doesn't slide down: if you have to readjust your leggings in every downward dog, you'll be distracted from your practice.

The top must also stay in place when you bend or invert. A fitted or medium-length tank top works better than a loose shirt. The Balance Tank Top with racerback leaves shoulders and shoulder blades free, while the Double-Fabric Balance Sports Top has an inner opening to insert pads.

It is usually practiced barefoot. For the final part, when the body cools down, a long-sleeved shirt to put on over the top is helpful. The Balance Line includes a long-sleeved shirt with a round neck and side detailing, which wraps around without constricting.

What is the difference between Pilates and yoga clothing?

The difference lies in the type of movement. Pilates requires fitted garments so the instructor can see your alignment. Yoga requires garments that follow every position without shifting.

Are grip socks necessary?

For Pilates, often yes: many studios require them for hygiene and for grip on the mat or reformer platform. In yoga, you go barefoot, but socks are useful if the mat is slippery or if your feet get cold during the final relaxation.

The Balance Grip Socks have applications on the sole and an ultra-flat seam at the toe. They are made of 84% cotton, 12% polyamide, and 4% elastane, Made in Italy, and come in one size. They can be washed at 30°C. If you are looking for Pilates socks for the studio, check that the rules permit the model.

How to choose the right set?

A yoga or Pilates set should be chosen by checking five things. These apply to the Balance Line and any other garment:

• High waist: the waistband must stay at the waist even when you bend forward. If it slides down in front of the mirror, it will also slide down during class.
• Opacity: bend over in front of a mirror with direct light. Fabric that stretches too much becomes transparent, and this test should be done as soon as you receive the garment.
• Non-marking seams: on the floor, every thick seam is felt on the back. Seamless clothing keeps them to a minimum, and in the Balance Line, the fabric is soft and stretchy.
• Light support top: for low impact, a double-fabric top is often enough. To understand how much support you need, read the sports bra guide.
• Size: seamless garments are fitted, never oversized. Balance sizes are S/M and L/XL: if you are between sizes, go for the larger one.

Regarding the fabric, Balance garments use modal yarns, a soft, breathable fiber that is gentle on the skin, combined with polyamide and elastane for elasticity. They are machine washable at 30°C and, being seamless, have minimal stitching even in areas that touch the mat.

You can find all the clothing for your training in the women's activewear section, and our guide on push-up leggings explains how to evaluate a high-waisted model.

Frequently asked questions

Can you do Pilates in regular leggings?

Yes, if they are fitted, stretchy, and without zips or thick seams. If they stay in place when you bend and do not become transparent, they are also fine for yoga.

Is it better to do yoga and Pilates barefoot or with socks?

In yoga, you are usually barefoot. In Pilates, it depends on the studio, and grip socks are usually required on the reformer. If you are unsure what is needed, ask your instructor before your first lesson.

Is a sports bra necessary for yoga and Pilates?

It depends on your bust size and the intensity of the class. For low-impact practice, a double-fabric top is often enough; for dynamic yoga, you can choose firmer support, as we explain in the sports bra guide.

What size should I choose for yoga and Pilates clothing?

Choose the size that follows your body without constricting. Risalti garments are seamless and fitted, never oversized: if you are between two sizes, take the larger one. The Balance Line is available in S/M and L/XL.