What To Wear To Your First Pole Dance Class

Pole dancing is an exhilarating way to build strength, flexibility, and confidence. However, what you wear to your first class can greatly impact your performance and comfort. Choosing the right attire is crucial for ensuring a successful and enjoyable experience. In this guide, we will explore what to avoid, what to wear, and provide tips on selecting the perfect pole dance clothing to enhance your confidence on the pole.

What You Shouldn't Wear to Pole Dancing Class

Many beginners make common mistakes with their outfit choices when attending their first pole dancing class. Avoiding certain clothing can ensure a safer and more comfortable experience. Here are some things you should steer clear of:

Street Clothes

Street clothes like jeans, casual shorts, and regular t-shirts are not suitable for pole dancing. These types of clothes limit your range of motion, making it difficult to perform various moves. Additionally, street clothes don’t provide the necessary grip against the pole, which can lead to slips and potential injuries. Opt for attire specifically designed for pole dancing to ensure flexibility and safety.

Loose Clothing

Loose-fitting clothes, such as baggy pants and oversized tops, may seem comfortable, but they can be dangerous during a pole dance class. Loose fabric can get caught on the pole or obstruct your movements, making certain techniques difficult to execute. It’s better to wear form-fitting clothing that allows for maximum mobility and prevents any distractions caused by adjusting your outfit mid-performance.

Jewelry

Avoid wearing jewelry during pole dance classes. Rings, necklaces, and bracelets can catch on the pole, potentially causing injury or damage to the pole itself. Additionally, jewelry can be a distraction, so it’s best to leave these items at home for a smoother and safer experience.

What to Wear to Pole Dancing Class

Once you know what to avoid, it’s time to focus on what you should wear to pole dancing class. The right outfit will help you feel confident, enhance your performance, and keep you safe. Here are some recommended options:

Fitted Clothing

Fitted clothing is essential for pole dancing. Tight-fitting garments such as leggings, sports bras, and tank tops allow for a full range of motion, preventing fabric from getting in the way while you perform. This type of attire also ensures you have better control over your movements, and it helps you grip the pole with your body. Wearing fitted pole dance tops and pole dance shorts will ensure you stay comfortable while maximizing your performance.

Grippy Material

Wearing clothes made from grippy materials like spandex or lycra is another great choice. These fabrics provide extra grip, making it easier to perform spins, climbs, and other techniques without slipping. Pole dance shorts and tops made from these materials offer you maximum control and comfort during your routine, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Pole Dance Shorts

Pole dance shorts are a must-have for any dancer. They provide the necessary skin exposure for gripping the pole with your legs, while still offering enough coverage for comfort. Pole dance shorts come in various styles, colors, and lengths, so you can find the perfect pair that suits your performance and personal style. Look for shorts designed with stretchy and breathable materials to ensure flexibility and comfort during intense moves.

Pole Dance Tops

Pole dance tops, such as crop tops, sports bras, or tank tops, are designed to keep you cool and comfortable while allowing for full upper-body movement. These tops are typically made from stretchy materials that allow easy movement while providing the support you need for different techniques. Finding the right top will depend on your style and comfort level, but choosing something breathable and fitted is key to enhancing your pole dance practice.

Bare Feet or Pole Dance Shoes

When it comes to footwear, bare feet are ideal for beginners, as they provide the best grip on the pole. For more advanced dancers, pole dance shoes, such as stilettos or Pleasers, can add flair to your routine. These shoes are specifically designed for pole dancing, providing the right balance of grip and support, making them a great option once you feel confident on the pole.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Pole Dancing Clothes

Now that you know what to wear, let’s explore some key tips to ensure you select the best pole dancing clothes for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, the right outfit can significantly enhance your comfort, confidence, and performance.

Comfort

Comfort should always be your top priority when choosing pole dancing attire. Since pole dancing involves a wide range of movements, including spins, climbs, and stretches, you’ll need clothing that doesn’t restrict your range of motion. Pole dance shorts made from soft, breathable fabrics like spandex or lycra allow you to move freely without irritation. Similarly, fitted pole dance tops, such as sports bras or crop tops, should provide support without being too tight or uncomfortable.

Consider the Type of Performance

The type of performance or class you are taking can also influence your clothing choices. For beginners, it’s best to start with basics like pole dance shorts and tank tops for better grip and movement. However, if you’re performing more advanced routines or working in a specific style (e.g., exotic or acrobatic), you may need to adapt your outfit accordingly. For exotic routines, high-heeled pole dance shoes can be a great addition, while for athletic or strength-based sessions, you might want to focus on durable and stretchy fabrics.

Confidence

Wearing clothing that boosts your confidence is crucial in pole dancing. Whether it’s a pair of pole dance shorts that fit just right or a top that makes you feel strong, the right attire can help you focus on your movements and enjoy the dance. Confidence shines through in your performance, and having clothes that make you feel good in your skin will improve both your mindset and technique on the pole.

Immerse Yourself in the World of Pole Dance

Now that you understand the importance of wearing the right attire, you’re ready to fully immerse yourself in the exciting world of pole dance. The right pole dance clothing—whether it’s pole dance shorts, fitted tops, or specific shoes—will help you feel confident and perform at your best. Beyond just dressing the part, staying engaged with the pole dancing community, learning new moves, and practicing consistently will help you improve and enjoy your pole dancing journey even more.

By choosing comfortable, grippy, and confidence-boosting clothes, you’ll enhance your experience in each class. The right attire not only helps you move more freely but also keeps you safe, allowing you to focus on developing your skills. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pole dancer, never underestimate the power of the perfect outfit to elevate your performance.

Author:

Anna Fesenko

Founder & Designer of DressFit

I have been passionate about dance since childhood, exploring styles like contemporary, jazz-funk, and ballet, while also designing unique dancewear to empower women through bold and feminine fashion.