Buying the right aerial silks apparel is about way more than just looking cool in your Instagram photos. It's a safety thing, a comfort thing, and honestly, a skin-protection thing. If you've ever experienced a "silk burn" because your leggings were too thin or your waist was exposed during a drop, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Choosing what to wear to the studio can feel a bit overwhelming when you're first starting out, but once you get the basics down, it becomes second nature.
The goal is to find pieces that move with you, stay put when you're upside down, and provide a barrier between your skin and the fabric. Let's dive into what makes for good gear and why your favorite gym shorts probably shouldn't make the cut.
The Golden Rule: Tight But Not Restrictive
When you're browsing for aerial silks apparel, the first thing you need to think about is fit. This isn't the time for those cute, flowy yoga tops or baggy sweatpants. In the air, loose fabric is actually pretty dangerous. It can get tangled in the silks while you're wrapping, which can lead to you getting stuck or, worse, tripping during a transition.
You want clothes that fit like a second skin. Think high-waisted leggings and form-fitting tanks or leotards. You need to be able to see your lines and, more importantly, ensure that nothing is going to snag on the fabric as you move. If you're constantly pulling up your leggings or tucking in your shirt, you're not focusing on your technique. Plus, being upside down means gravity is working against your clothes. A loose shirt will end up around your neck the second you go into an invert, which is annoying and can totally block your vision.
Why Fabric Choice Is Everything
The material of your aerial silks apparel matters just as much as the fit. You're looking for a balance between "slide" and "grip." Most aerialists prefer a synthetic blend—something with a good amount of spandex or Lycra. This gives you the stretch you need to hit those splits while also providing a smooth surface that won't create too much friction against the silks.
Cotton is okay for beginners, but it tends to "grab" the fabric more than synthetic materials. While a little grip can be helpful when you're learning to climb, too much can make sliding down the silks during a descent feel jerky and uncomfortable. On the flip side, you don't want anything too slick. Some shiny, high-compression "liquid" leggings can be so slippery that you'll find yourself sliding right out of your foot locks. It's all about finding that middle ground.
Another thing to consider is thickness. You want a fabric that's opaque and sturdy. The silks put a lot of pressure on your body, and thin leggings can wear out quickly or, worse, offer zero protection against the heat of a friction burn.
Protecting Your Skin From Silk Burns
If you've spent more than five minutes on the fabric, you've probably felt the "bite." Aerial silks are beautiful, but they can be incredibly abrasive. That's why the best aerial silks apparel covers as much skin as possible.
The Importance of Long Leggings
Shorts are generally a no-go in an aerial silks class. You want full-length leggings that cover the backs of your knees. The back of the knee is a prime spot for friction burns, especially when you're doing wraps or holding poses like a "man in the moon." Even if it's a hundred degrees in the studio, you'll be glad you have that fabric barrier.
Midriff and Underarm Coverage
The same goes for your torso. A lot of aerialists swear by unitards or high-waisted leggings paired with a tucked-in shirt. Why? Because your waist and sides are frequently in contact with the silks. If you're doing a waist wrap and your skin is exposed, that silk is going to rub directly against your flesh. It's not fun.
Also, don't forget your armpits. While a tank top is usually fine for basic moves, as you progress to more advanced wraps that go under the arms, you might want a shirt with cap sleeves or long sleeves. It sounds specific, but "silk-burned armpits" is a phrase you never want to have to say.
Leotards and Unitards: The Aerialist's Best Friend
If you're serious about your practice, you might want to look into leotards or unitards as part of your aerial silks apparel collection. They are honestly a game-changer. Since they're one piece, there's zero risk of your shirt riding up or your leggings sliding down.
A unitard (the one with legs) is basically the "gold standard" for aerialists. It covers everything from your ankles to your shoulders in one continuous piece of fabric. This means no gaps for the silk to find your skin. If you prefer the look of leggings, wearing a leotard underneath them is a great way to ensure your midsection stays protected no matter how many times you flip over.
What to Avoid at All Costs
Knowing what not to wear is just as important as knowing what to buy. There are a few things that are absolute deal-breakers in any aerial studio.
Zippers and Buttons: Check your leggings and tops for any tiny zippers (like those pocket ones on the back of running leggings) or decorative buttons. These can snag the silks, causing expensive damage to the fabric, or they can dig into your skin when the silk presses against them.
Jewelry: This is a big one. Rings, necklaces, dangling earrings, and bracelets need to come off before you even touch the silks. Not only can they ruin the fabric, but they're also a massive safety hazard. A ring can get caught in the silk during a drop, and I don't think I need to describe how badly that could end.
Lotions and Oils: While not technically apparel, what you put on your skin matters. Avoid wearing heavy lotions or body oils before class. They make you—and the silks—slippery, which makes it much harder for you and everyone else in class to maintain a safe grip.
Caring for Your Gear
Once you've invested in some solid aerial silks apparel, you'll want to make it last. The friction and tension of aerial work can be tough on clothes. It's a good idea to wash your gear in cold water and avoid the dryer if possible. High heat can break down the elastic fibers in spandex, which means your leggings will lose their "snap" and start sagging over time.
Also, keep an eye out for pilling. The friction of the silks often causes little balls of fabric to form in high-rub areas like the inner thighs or the backs of the knees. It's usually just cosmetic, but it's a sign of where the most wear and tear is happening.
Final Thoughts on Studio Style
At the end of the day, the best aerial silks apparel is the stuff that makes you feel confident and safe. When you aren't worried about your shirt falling over your head or getting a nasty burn on your hip, you can actually focus on the art of what you're doing.
Start with a pair of solid, thick, high-waisted leggings and a tight-fitting top that you can tuck in. As you get more into the sport, you'll figure out your personal preferences—whether that's a full bodysuit, layered leg warmers for extra knee protection, or just your favorite pair of reliable black tights. Just remember: stay covered, stay tight, and leave the jewelry in your gym bag. Your skin (and your instructor) will thank you!