Are you wondering what to wear to your first aerial silks class? If so, then you’re not alone. In fact, this is one of the most common questions asked his is one of the things we’re asked about the most when first-time students call aerial studios.
The fitness requirements for aerial dance are different from those of other forms of fitness. If you’re a dancer or gymnast, you probably have an idea of what to wear. Here are a few specifics to consider before you suit up.
What to Wear for Aerial Silks?
The clothes you wear to an aerial silks class can make or break your entire experience. So, before you pick out that outfit, here are the top 4 things to consider:
- Your knees should be covered by pants that are tight-fitting and stretchy. Tights or leggings are great options.
- If you want to cover your midriff, make sure the shirt will not ride up or be able to be tucked in.
- Wear nothing that may catch on the fabric or tear it, such as a belt. Avoid big earrings, spiked rings, zippers, etc. If you can’t remove your spiky piercings, use tape to cover them. Also, avoid your dangly pendant.
- Aerials can’t be done with shoes on, so as long as you take them off, your footwear doesn’t matter.
What Types Of Shirts Are Appropriate?
Many students opt to wear wifebeater-style tanktops to class. It’s probably best to get one that’s a little longer than your waist. As you’ll most likely be upside down, you’ll want to be able to tuck in your shirt if it makes you uncomfortable to have it hanging around your bra.
A longer shirt is also beneficial for protecting the skin on your lower back. That will protect your lower back from silk burns.
T-shirts are typically not recommended. Silks can easily eat these loose-fitting clothes, and they expose the stomachs when you turn upside down, making learning more uncomfortable as beginners struggle.
Can I Wear Pole Shorts Or Short Tights?
Make sure your legs are covered! You shouldn’t wear running shorts. When you wear a loose fit, people are going to see everything you probably don’t want on display. A yoga pant is a great alternative.
If you prefer shorts, make sure they fit form-fittingly and are comfortable on your thighs. They should be worn with footless tights. You can also snip off the feet from your tights. You don’t need fancy tights. The same applies to the guys. Get runners leggings and wear basketball shorts over them if you’re uncomfortable with tights.
When it comes to pants, make sure they aren’t see-through. The fabric may look fine when you’re standing upright, but what happens when you’re bent over and strained? Unless you want the whole class to see all you have to offer while you are practicing your tricks, get proper pants.
Do You Need Special Underwear For Aerial Silks?
Not necessarily, but many students have suggested avoiding thongs, or uncomfortable undergarments. You will become very intimate with your apparatus. Trapeze bars and lyras will catch you in diaper wraps, and silks will catch you up in your crotch. Small fabric strips make it even worse.
Are Bodysuits Appropriate?
Bodysuits are actually a popular alternative in most aerial silk studios. Under or over a pair of leggings, a leotard or bodysuit will provide extra coverage and won’t move as much as a tee.
Are There Specific Hairstyles Prefered For Aerial Silks?
A simple bun held in place with two small octopus or spin clips is a popular aerial studio go-to. The twist, spiral, and clip methods work quite well (no hair elastic needed), and it only takes a few seconds. It has to be redone if you do something bouncy, however, like a mat run, but otherwise, it tends to stay in place.
For something more secure, consider going for a full-on classical ballet bun. To get it done, get your hair damp with a spray bottle, put it in a ponytail, and pin the crap out of it. A two-stranded bun holds up the best and tends to look the nicest.
Even though it may not be good for your hair, it is practically indestructible. What’s even better is that It can be jazzed up with twists, french braids, a twist-and-braid combination, or a bunch of other things.
References
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See you there 🙂
