For Pilates sessions that demand movement without distraction, five shorts truly deliver: YEOREO High Rise with flattering scrunch detailing, CRZ YOGA Butterluxe with stay-put waistbands, Gymreapers Infinity Seamless for chafe-free comfort, THE GYM PEOPLE with convenient pockets, and another Gymreapers option featuring squat-proof design. You’ll want high waistbands that don’t roll down, buttery-soft fabrics that stretch without becoming see-through, and enough length for floor exercises. Discover how these features transform your practice below.
YEOREO Women’s High Rise Workout Yoga Shorts
For yogis with curves, YEOREO’s High Rise Workout Shorts deliver exceptional comfort without sacrificing style. You’ll love how these buttery-soft shorts fit your body, offering just the right amount of compression to keep everything in place during your Pilates flow. They’re particularly flattering for thicker body types—a medium fits beautifully on a 5’7″, 161-pound frame.
Available in grey, black, and brown, these high-rise shorts improve your natural shape (hello, scrunch detailing!) while providing amazing stretch. Just a heads-up: they can be slightly see-through, so you’ll want to pair them with nude underwear. Trust us, you’ll be ordering more colors after your first wear!
Best For: Women with curvy or thicker body types looking for comfortable, flattering high-rise yoga shorts with good compression for various workout activities.
Pros:
- Buttery-soft material with excellent stretch provides exceptional comfort during exercise
- Flattering fit with scrunch detailing enhances natural curves and shape
- True to size with appropriate compression that holds everything in place during movement
Cons:
- Slightly see-through fabric requires careful underwear selection (nude recommended)
- Limited color options available (only grey, black, and brown)
- May not be ideal for high-intensity workouts where maximum opacity is needed
CRZ YOGA Women’s Butterluxe High Waisted Biker Shorts
CRZ YOGA Women’s Butterluxe High Waisted Biker Shorts offer the buttery-soft comfort that active women crave, without the premium price tag of designer brands. You’ll love how these high-waisted shorts stay perfectly in place during your entire Pilates flow, with no rolling down or thigh squeezing to distract you.
True to size and incredibly versatile, they’re ideal for everything from intense workouts to running errands. The thicker, non-see-through fabric maintains its shape wash after wash, making these shorts a durable addition to your fitness wardrobe. While they don’t feature pockets (bummer!), their performance and comfort make them a worthy Lululemon alternative that won’t break the bank.
Best For: Active women seeking comfortable, high-waisted biker shorts that provide excellent coverage and stay in place during workouts without the premium price of designer brands.
Pros:
- Buttery-soft, durable fabric that maintains its shape after multiple washes and isn’t see-through
- True-to-size fit that doesn’t roll down at the waist or squeeze thighs, making them comfortable for various body types
- Versatile enough for yoga, Pilates, running errands, and casual wear at a more affordable price than comparable premium brands
Cons:
- No pockets for storing small items during workouts or runs
- Some users recommend hang-drying rather than machine drying to maintain fabric integrity
- Limited to basic design without special features like compression or “scrunch butt” effect that some activewear users prefer
Gymreapers Infinity Seamless Workout Shorts for Women
Serious athletes who need shorts that won’t budge during intense workouts will find their match with Gymreapers Infinity Seamless High Waist Biker Shorts. These buttery-soft shorts offer the perfect blend of compression and stretch, hugging your curves while letting you move freely.
You’ll love how they stay put during your most challenging Pilates flows—no riding up or sagging, even during those killer leg circles! The high waistband doesn’t roll down, giving you one less thing to worry about as you focus on your form. They run a bit snug, so consider sizing up, especially if you’ve got athletic thighs. With squat-proof fabric and minimal, sleek design, they’ll quickly become your go-to shorts.
Best For: Women who engage in high-intensity workouts, Pilates, or yoga and need comfortable, secure shorts that stay in place without adjustments.
Pros:
- Buttery-soft fabric provides excellent balance of compression and stretch while maintaining shape throughout workouts
- High waistband offers great support without rolling down during dynamic movements
- Seamless design prevents chafing and creates a flattering, sculpted silhouette
Cons:
- Sizing runs tight, requiring many users to size up, especially those with athletic builds
- Limited color options available, with some customers requesting more variety
- May feel too compressive for those preferring a looser fit for casual wear
THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts for Women with Pockets
Looking for shorts that won’t ride up or roll down during intense workouts? THE GYM PEOPLE’s High Waist Yoga Shorts might be your new go-to. Priced between $14.99-$17.99, these shorts deliver premium quality without the premium price tag.
You’ll love the tummy-control high waistband that supports without squeezing, and those deep pockets are game-changers for holding your phone during runs. The thicker, non-see-through fabric stays put during your Pilates flow, though some users note they may roll up after several hours of wear. They’re true to size, breathable, and come in fun patterns like tie-dye and camo. Best part? They wash well and maintain their shape workout after workout.
Best For: Active women seeking comfortable, practical shorts with pockets for running, yoga, and strength training workouts who want quality comparable to premium brands at a more affordable price point.
Pros:
- Deep pockets securely hold phones and essentials during workouts, adding functionality without compromising comfort
- High waistband provides excellent tummy control while staying in place during intense activities
- Durable, non-see-through fabric maintains shape after washing and prevents chafing even during long runs
Cons:
- May roll up after several hours of continuous wear
- Limited size range compared to some competing brands
- Some color options may vary slightly from how they appear online
Gymreapers Infinity Seamless High Waist Workout Shorts for Women
Pilates enthusiasts who need a comfortable, high-performance short will find their perfect match in the Gymreapers Infinity Seamless High Waist Workout Shorts. These buttery-soft shorts feature a supportive waistband that won’t roll down during your most challenging poses. You’ll love how they hug your curves without digging in, creating a flattering silhouette that boosts your confidence.
The seamless construction eliminates chafing and awkward front seams, making your flow distraction-free. They’re genuinely squat-proof (hallelujah!) and stay put through every movement. Available in vibrant colors that don’t fade after washing, they’re both functional and stylish. For the perfect fit, consider sizing up if you’ve got athletic thighs.
Best For: Active women seeking comfortable, high-waisted workout shorts that stay in place during Pilates, yoga, and other athletic activities while providing a flattering silhouette.
Pros:
- Buttery-soft seamless material prevents chafing and offers the perfect balance of stretch and compression
- High waistband stays in place during movement without rolling down or digging in
- Squat-proof design with no awkward front seams, making them suitable for a variety of workout intensities
Cons:
- May run small for those with athletic thighs, potentially requiring sizing up
- Limited information about pocket options or storage features
- Higher price point compared to some competitor workout shorts
Factors to Consider When Choosing Pilates Workout Shorts
Choosing the right Pilates workout shorts isn’t just about style—it’s about improving your practice through thoughtful choices. You’ll want to reflect on key factors like fabric type, compression level, waistband support, and length to guarantee you’re comfortable throughout your movements. When your shorts work with your body instead of against it, you’ll focus more on your form and less on adjusting your clothes during those challenging hundred pumps.
Subheading Discussion Points for Factors to Consider When Choosing Pilates Workout Shorts
When you’re investing in workout gear, how do you guarantee your Pilates shorts won’t let you down mid-roll-up? It’s all about finding the perfect balance of fit and function.
Look for shorts that fit true to size with a snug (but not suffocating) feel. The fabric should be stretchy, breathable, and thick enough to pass the bend-over transparency test—nobody needs that distraction! A high waistband is your best friend, keeping everything secure as you move from teaser to roll-up.
Don’t overlook practical features like pockets for your studio key or seamless designs that prevent chafing. Remember, the right shorts won’t just look cute—they’ll support your practice by staying put so you can focus on your form, not your wardrobe malfunctions.
Fabric Type Matters
The secret to blissful Pilates sessions often lies right against your skin—in the fabric of your workout shorts. You’ll want to look for breathable materials like spandex and nylon that offer both flexibility and moisture-wicking properties, keeping you cool during those challenging hundred beats.
Thicker fabrics provide better coverage when you’re bending and stretching (no accidental peep shows, thank you!), while soft, stretchy materials give you that luxurious buttery feel you’ll appreciate during hour-long classes. Don’t overlook durability either—your favorite pairs should withstand countless wash cycles without losing their shape or color.
For ultimate comfort, consider seamless construction that prevents chafing as you move through your flow. After all, you can’t focus on your core when your shorts are causing irritation!
Compression vs. Comfort
Finding the sweet spot between compression and comfort might be your biggest challenge when shopping for Pilates shorts. Too much squeeze, and you’ll feel restricted during those flowing movements. Too little, and you won’t get the support your muscles need.
Compression shorts offer fantastic benefits—they improve blood circulation, reduce fatigue, and provide stability during challenging poses. But don’t sacrifice comfort! Look for stretchy fabrics that move with you while preventing uncomfortable chafing.
Many Pilates enthusiasts swear by high-waisted designs that support your core and won’t roll down mid-hundred. (Nobody wants to tug at their shorts during a teaser sequence!)
Waistband Support Level
Speaking of support during your Pilates practice, let’s zero in on waistband design—perhaps the most underappreciated hero of your workout shorts. A high waistband isn’t just a style choice; it’s your best ally against the dreaded mid-roll during those challenging leg circles and teaser poses.
Look for waistbands with compression features that offer tummy control without feeling like you’re being squeezed to death. Trust me, your future self will thank you! The material should stretch with you, not against you, and breathability is non-negotiable for those sweaty sessions.
If you’ve got curves, seamless construction is your friend—no more red marks or chafing! Remember, your body type matters when selecting waistband styles. What works for your instructor might not be your perfect match.
Length and Coverage
When you’re twisting, curling, and extending on the reformer, nothing ruins your flow faster than constantly tugging at shorts that won’t stay put. Finding the perfect length is essential for your Pilates practice. Mid-thigh options typically offer that sweet spot between freedom of movement and sufficient coverage, so you’re not distracted during your workout.
If you find yourself doing lots of floor work, you might prefer slightly longer shorts that hit just above the knee. They’ll stay in place and won’t ride up during those challenging hundred pumps or leg circles. Remember, your comfort matters most! Choose seamless designs without front seams to prevent chafing during longer sessions. Your ideal shorts should move with you, not against you, giving you one less thing to worry about while you focus on that perfect form.
Squat-Proof Opacity Test
Coverage is just one part of the equation—let’s talk about the dreaded see-through factor. There’s nothing worse than discovering mid-workout that your cute Pilates shorts are revealing more than your athletic abilities!
To avoid this awkward situation, perform a quick squat-proof test before committing to a pair. Try bending over in natural light while wearing dark underwear—this combination will highlight any transparency issues immediately. Your shorts should remain completely opaque throughout the movement.
Look for thicker fabrics and seamless designs, which typically offer better coverage during those deep stretches and challenging poses. Many quality brands now offer squat-proof guarantees, so check product descriptions and customer reviews mentioning opacity. Trust me, this five-second test at home can save you from countless moments of in-class anxiety!
Final Thoughts
You’re now equipped to find the perfect Pilates shorts that’ll stay put throughout your entire session! Remember to take into account factors like fabric, waistband height, and length when making your choice. Whether you prefer the buttery-soft feel of CRZ YOGA or the pocket convenience of THE GYM PEOPLE, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you. Your next flow will be distraction-free—no more tugging or adjusting, just pure Pilates bliss!
