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Unlike regular socks, which can feel slippery on smooth floors or inside shoes like football boots, grip socks stick with you (and to the floor) through every lunge, squat or side-step.
Let's be honest: socks don't usually get the spotlight when it comes to workout gear. But grip socks? They're in a league of their own. Whether you're holding a plank in Pilates, flowing through a barre sequence, or sprinting down the field, grip socks keep you grounded – literally.
But what are grip socks, why are they so popular, and are they really worth it? (Spoiler: Yes. We think they are.) This guide unpacks everything you need to know – from their benefits to the best types for different activities.
What Are Grip Socks?
Grip socks, also called non-slip or anti-slip socks, are specially designed socks with rubber or silicone patterns on the soles to give you extra traction. That means less slipping and sliding and more stability when you need it the most.
If you're thinking, “Hey, don't baby socks have those too?” You're absolutely right. Grip socks are basically the grown-up version of what toddlers have been wearing for years. Turns out, even tiny feet know how risky polished floors can be.
Unlike regular socks, which can feel slippery on smooth floors or inside shoes like football boots, grip socks stick with you (and to the floor) through every lunge, squat or side-step.
Benefits of Wearing Grip Socks
So, what makes grip socks so great? Here's why they're worth pulling on:
1
Better Grip = More Stability
Whether you're in a yoga studio or on a football field, grip socks help you plant your feet and stay steady. They reduce slippage, making every move more controlled.
2
Injury Prevention
No one wants a rolled ankle or awkward fall mid-workout. Grip socks improve traction and reduce the risk of accidents, especially in slick environments like polished studio floors or artificial turf.
3
Hygiene Hero
Studios and shared spaces can harbour germs and sweat. Grip socks add a barrier between your feet and public floors, keeping things a bit cleaner.
4
Improved Performance
From sharper turns on the soccer field to firmer footing in barre class, grip socks help you perform movements more precisely and more confidently.
5
Comfortable Compression
Many grip socks come with arch support or light compression, which can reduce fatigue, support your muscles and improve blood flow.
Types of Grip Socks (and When to Wear Them)
While all grip socks have, well, grip, the design, material, and fit can vary quite a bit depending on what they're made for. What works for a Pilates session might not hold up in a pair of footy boots, and vice versa. Here's a breakdown of the most popular types, so you can match your socks to your sport:
1. Grip Socks for Pilates & Barre
These are probably the most iconic grip socks. Usually worn without shoes, they're lightweight, breathable, and can feature open toes or ballet-style straps for added flexibility. The grippy bottoms keep you stable through bridges, planks and pulses.
Best for: Pilates, barre, yoga, and dance
Features to look for: Breathable fabric, arch support, full or open toe, strong sole grip
SHOP2. Grip Socks for Football & Soccer
In football, even the smallest slip inside your boot can throw you off. Football grip socks are designed to reduce slippage inside the boot and improve responsiveness. They're especially popular among pros and are often worn over or under regular socks, depending on the league.
Best for: Football, soccer, rugby
Features to look for: Internal and external grip panels, snug fit, compression support
SHOP3. Grip Socks for General Training & HIIT
If your workouts involve burpees, box jumps, or strength circuits, grip socks can help you stick the landing, especially on slick gym floors or mats. These socks offer stability and reduce the risk of slipping when training without shoes (e.g. at home or in reformer classes).
Best for: Home workouts, circuit training, reformer Pilates
Features to look for: Cushioned heel, grippy sole, snug fit, moisture-wicking fabric
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between grip socks and normal socks?
The key difference is in the sole. Grip socks have rubberised or silicone traction on the bottom, while regular socks don't. That traction helps reduce slipping, making them better for workouts or slippery surfaces.
Do you wear shoes with grip socks?
It depends. For Pilates, yoga or barre, grip socks are usually worn instead of shoes. For football or rugby, grip socks are worn inside your boots, often with another sock over the top to comply with team kits.
Are grip socks worth it?
If you train regularly or want extra stability and safety, then yes grip socks are 100% worth it. They can enhance performance, improve hygiene and reduce the risk of injury.
Can you wash grip socks in the washing machine?
Yes! Most grip socks are machine washable, but it's always a good idea to check the care label before washing. Wash them inside out to protect the grip and avoid using fabric softener (it can reduce stickiness).
Why do footballers cut their socks and wear grip socks?
Many footballers cut the feet off their team-issued socks to wear their preferred grip socks underneath. Then they tape or layer the official sock over the grip sock to meet uniform rules while still getting better traction. But be sure to check with your coach to ensure it complies with your team kit before making any changes!
Are grip socks good for sweaty feet?
Yes, many grip socks are made with moisture-wicking fabrics, so they keep your feet dry and reduce the chance of blisters, even during intense sessions.
So, whether you're balancing on a reformer, pushing off the line in a footy match, or just trying to stay upright on your living room floorboards (we hear you), grip socks are a simple way to add stability, performance, and comfort to your day.
Ready to Shop?
Browse our range of grip socks designed for Pilates, Barre, football and more.