What to wear to hot Pilates (and what to pack).

Choose fabrics that handle sweat

Look for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly. Most technical activewear made from synthetic blends does this well. Heavy cotton tends to hold sweat, get heavy, and stay damp, so it is usually less comfortable once the room warms up.

Fit matters as much as fabric. Pilates involves a lot of rolling, lying on your back, and lifting your legs, so choose pieces that stay in place when you move. Leggings or bike shorts with a secure waistband, and a supportive top or fitted tank, are reliable choices. If you prefer more coverage, long sleeves and full-length leggings in a breathable fabric work too, especially in Mild classes.

Grip socks: recommended, not required

Grip socks are recommended at Sora for hygiene and stability. The rubber grips on the sole help your feet stay planted when your skin is damp, which can make standing work and lunges feel steadier. They are not required, and you can practise barefoot if you prefer.

If you do not have a pair yet, our shop at /pricing/retail carries grip socks you can pick up before or after class.

Wash grip socks after every class, the same way you would any activewear, and let them air-dry so the grips last longer. Having two pairs in rotation means you always have a clean, dry pair ready, which is handy if you come to class several times a week.

Bring a mat towel

We provide mats, but please bring a mat towel to lay over yours. It gives you a cleaner surface and better grip as you start to sweat. A small hand towel for your face is a nice extra.

Forgot your towel? Towel rentals are available at the studio, and mat towels are also available to buy at /pricing/retail if you would rather have your own.

Hair, skin, and small details

Tie long hair back in a way that is comfortable when you lie down. A low bun or braid tends to work better than a high ponytail, which can dig in during exercises on your back. A soft headband can keep sweat out of your eyes.

Many people prefer to skip heavy makeup and thick lotions before a heated class, since they can feel uncomfortable in the warmth and make your hands and feet slippery on the mat. Remove jewellery that might catch or press into your skin.

If you wear a hijab or other head covering, a lightweight sport or jersey style in a breathable fabric is often the most comfortable choice. Our Wednesday women-only classes, staffed by women only, are hijabi-friendly; read more at /classes/women-only.

Your packing list

Here is the short version: moisture-wicking top and bottoms, grip socks, a mat towel, a refillable water bottle, a hair tie, and a change of clothes for afterward. Add a small hand towel and a plastic or wet bag for damp clothes if you are heading somewhere after class.

We have a restroom, lockers for your belongings, and a water refill station at the studio. Phones are not permitted during active classes, so you can leave yours in a locker and enjoy the time without it.

Before your first class

What you wear afterward matters too. Your body keeps cooling for a while after a heated class, so a dry layer and a change of socks can make the walk to your car on a cool Mississauga evening much more pleasant. Give yourself a few minutes to cool down and sip water before you head out.

Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for your first visit; doors open 10 minutes before class, and entry is not permitted more than two minutes after class starts. Drink water through the day, and have a light snack rather than a full meal beforehand.

If you are new, start with a Mild class heated up to 30°C on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. You can browse classes at /classes and book at /book. Wear what lets you move freely and forget about your clothes. That is the whole goal.