Best Pole Dancing Grip Socks and Ankle Protectors
Grippy socks, ankle protectors with tack and dance socks for pole: which to choose for climbing, floorwork and choreo, and where to buy them in the UK, USA and Europe.
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The quick verdict
Match the sock to the move
Ankle protectors with grip are the best all-rounder for pole, because they grip the pole and still let you pivot. Grip socks are better for floorwork, stretching and warm-ups. Smooth dance socks are only for spins and choreo.
Why polers love them
- Protect the tops of your feet
- Keep your feet clean
- Stop you slipping on shiny floors
- Washable and cheap to replace
Watch out for
- Normal socks are too slippery for pole
- Grip socks can make pivots harder
- Dance socks give no grip for climbing
- Check sizes, as some brands run small
Three types to know
Each one suits a different kind of pole class.
Ankle protectors
Stretchy protectors with tacky strips on the sole and heel.
- Grip on the pole
- Ball of the foot free to pivot
- Protects the ankles
Grip socks
Socks with silicone dots and often a strap over the foot.
- Grip on the floor
- Toes free to point
- Easy to wash
Dance socks
Smooth socks or neoprene wraps that let you spin.
- Turn freely
- Barefoot feel
- Protects the sole
Our grip sock and ankle protector picks
Choose your country below and every button takes you to the right Amazon store. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Mighty Grip ankle protectors
Tacky strips on the sole and heel give grip for climbs and sits, with the ball of the foot left open so you can still pivot.
ToeSox Bellarina full toe grip socks
Ballet-style grip socks that feel barely there. Great for floorwork and stretching, but harder to pivot in.
Tavi Noir grip socks
Non-slip barre and dance socks for warm-ups, stretching and off-pole training.
Bloch dance socks
Smooth-soled dance socks for turns and choreo classes. Not for climbing, as there is no grip.
Danshuz neoprene cross wrap
Neoprene foot wraps that protect the sole with a barefoot feel. Your ankles and tops of the feet stay free to grip.
Yoga grip socks with straps
Grippy-soled yoga socks with a strap over the foot. Cheap, washable and easy to throw in your pole bag.
Why wear grip socks for pole?
- They protect your feet. Climbs and floorwork are tough on the tops of your feet, and new polers often end up with bruises. Grip socks and ankle protectors take some of that pressure.
- They keep your feet clean. Studio, gym and club floors are rarely spotless. Socks and protectors can go in the wash afterwards.
- They help you grip. Ankle protectors with tacky strips grip the pole for climbs and sits, while the ball of the foot stays free to pivot.
- They stop you slipping. Bare feet and normal socks can slide on shiny floors during warm-ups and dance moves.
Can you pole dance in socks?
Yes, but it depends on the move. Beginners use their feet a lot for grip, especially when climbing, so ordinary socks can make you slip. Grippy yoga socks help on the floor, and ankle protectors with tacky strips are the best option if you want grip on the pole itself. For choreo and spins, smooth dance socks let you turn freely.
Quick guide: climbing and sits, choose ankle protectors with grip. Floorwork and stretching, choose grip socks. Spins and choreo, choose smooth dance socks or wraps.
Grip socks, ankle protectors or dance socks?
| Type | Grip on the pole | Grip on the floor | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ankle protectors with grip | Yes, on the sole and heel | Yes | Climbs, sits, tricks classes |
| Yoga grip socks | Little | Yes | Warm-ups, floorwork, stretching |
| Dance socks and foot wraps | No | Low, for turning | Choreo and spins |
Want more grip from your hands too? See our guide to pole grip aids. Heading to class? Here’s what to wear to pole class.
Grip sock FAQs
What's the difference between pole grip socks and normal socks?
The grip. Pole and yoga grip socks have silicone dots on the sole and often a strap to keep them on. Ankle protectors have tacky strips on the sole and heel. Everyday socks can be very slippery, so they aren’t really suitable for dancing or exercise.
Are grip socks hygienic?
Yes. They keep your feet off the studio floor, and both grip socks and ankle protectors can be washed, so they stay fresh.
Can I climb the pole in grip socks?
Yoga grip socks only give a little grip on the pole. For climbs and sits, ankle protectors with tacky strips work much better, or bare skin.
Can I wear grip socks for yoga or Pilates too?
Yes. The same grippy socks work for yoga, Pilates, barre and other floor-based workouts.
Hooked since a works night out in Nottingham. She’s taken classes from Hartlepool to Malta and San Diego, tried trapeze, lyra, silks and hammock, and taught pole and hammock.
A Greater Manchester mum who’s trained pole and aerial for over a decade, mostly at home, and started Loops World to share the kit that works.