Reformer Pilates Essentials
(2026): What to Bring & Wear

A 20L tote with a separate shoe compartment and a wet pocket — exactly the two features a reformer bag needs. Shoes go in their own section at check-in, used grip socks go in the wet pocket afterwards, and nothing damp touches your post-class layer. It also has room for a mat on days you do a mat class instead.

If you commute to class from work or prefer a structured holdall, this BAGSMART duffle is the lowest-priced option in our pool at $21.43. It works as a gym bag and a weekender, so it earns its keep outside the studio too.

Not a class bag, but a small crossbody for the essentials you want on you rather than in a cubby: phone, keys, card, a claw clip. Handy if your studio has open shelving instead of lockers. Not sold on Amazon — this links to lululemon.com.

The Owala FreeSip lets you either sip through the built-in straw or tip it back from the spout, which is useful when you have ten seconds between footwork and the next series. At 24 oz it is compact enough to sit beside the carriage frame. Sold by Amazon.com.

The 40 oz Quencher holds far more water, which suits back-to-back classes or a long day. The trade-off is size: check that your studio has floor space beside each reformer before bringing a tumbler this large. Sold by Amazon.com.

toesox is the original studio grip-sock brand, and this low-rise 2-pack is its full-toe design, sold on Amazon by The Active Footwear Store, the official distributor. Two pairs means one to wear and one in the wash.

Six pairs for $7.99 from seller UISIC. If you take three or more classes a week, a multi-pack means a fresh, dry pair every time. Ideal for a first month of classes before you know which style you prefer.

TAVI's Stacy is a slouch-style Pilates sock, sold as a 2-pack by The Active Footwear Store. You are paying for the look more than extra function — but if you like a slouch sock over the ankle, this is the one.

Tucketts builds specifically for barre and Pilates. The Allegro is a toeless cut, which many people with wide feet or painted toenails prefer.

Half-finger gloves with full-coverage grips across the palm, from TAVI, sold by The Active Footwear Store. Full palm coverage matters more than finger coverage on a reformer, where you mostly press into flat surfaces or hold loops.

At $7.65, a low-risk way to find out whether you like training in gloves at all. Gaiam is a long-established yoga and Pilates accessories brand.

Varley is a studio-favourite label, and the Freesoft Piped leggings are a full-length, clean design with no hardware to catch on the carriage. This listing (Marina colourway) is sold via Shopbop, an Amazon company. It is the pair to buy if you are committing to reformer as a habit.

CRZ YOGA's Butterluxe is the pick for anyone starting out, at a third of the Varley price. The 25" inseam sits around the ankle on many heights, which keeps fabric clear of the footbar and springs.

Alo's Airbrush is the legging many studio regulars already own, and it is a smooth, high-waisted design with no hardware. Not sold on Amazon — this links to aloyoga.com.

A soft bralette from Varley's Freesoft range, and the same Marina colourway as the leggings above if you want a matching set. Sold via Shopbop, an Amazon company.

CRZ YOGA's Butterluxe U Back bra pairs naturally with the Butterluxe leggings, and the U-back cut keeps straps out of the way of the shoulder rests.

A mat-size Stickyfiber towel with a silicone-dotted back so it grips whatever it is laid on. Use it over a studio mat, over the carriage where the studio permits, or at home.

The GRID 2.0 is a firm, textured roller from an established recovery brand. Sold by Amazon.com. Useful for quads, IT band area and upper back — and for mat Pilates exercises that use a roller.

Therabody's WaveRoller adds vibration to the roller format. If you already use a roller and want more from it, this is the step up; if you have never rolled before, start with the GRID.

The TheraGun Relief is Therabody's entry model, sold by TheraGun on Amazon. A good choice if you want percussive therapy from a recognised brand without paying for pro-level features.