Buying grip socks might seem simple, but it’s surprisingly easy to get it wrong. From poor sizing to weak grip strength, the wrong choice can affect your comfort, stability, and performance in class. Whether you're shopping for high-performance grip socks or pairs that hold up over time, knowing what not to do is key. Avoid these five common mistakes when buying grip socks—and learn how to choose the right pair from the start.

Choosing the Wrong Size

One of the most overlooked (yet critical) mistakes when buying grip socks is selecting the wrong size. Whether you're deep into your Pilates practice, finding your flow in yoga, or stabilizing in barre, your grip socks should act as a second skin supportive, comfortable, and distraction-free.

If your socks are too loose, they can slide around, bunch up, or even slip off entirely mid-class. That kind of movement not only disrupts your focus but also impacts your form and stability. It becomes harder to stay grounded in your poses or maintain control during transitions, especially on smooth studio floors. On the other hand, socks that are too tight can create pressure points or cut off circulation, leading to discomfort, numbness, or irritation. 

That’s why getting the right fit is so important. SHASHI grips are designed with a sleek, custom-feel fit and are available in a range of sizes to suit every foot. Before checking out, always refer to our SHASHI size chart to find your most accurate fit. If you’re in between sizes, consider your personal preference—some like a snug fit for a more secure feel, while others may prefer a touch of wiggle room.

Overlooking Grip Strength

When it comes to performance, grip strength is everything. Not all socks labeled "grip" offer the same level of traction. In reality, the design, placement, and quality of the grip can vary drastically, and that can make or break your workout. Before you buy, take a close look at the sole. Is the grip surface wide and evenly distributed? Are the materials known for durability and performance?

Weak, minimal, or poorly placed grip patterns can lead to slipping, sliding, or instability, especially on smooth studio floors or polished hardwood surfaces. When you’re focusing on balance, alignment, or core engagement, the last thing you want is to feel unsure of your footing. A strong grip can help you fully engage your body, making each movement more effective and efficient. You’ll feel more grounded, more connected, and more confident with every rep.

SHASHI’s signature grip technology is engineered for serious traction. We use strategically placed, high-performance grips that span the sole to help anchor your movements—whether you're holding a lunge, moving through a flow, or pulsing at the barre. Unlike socks that offer a few dots of silicone, SHASHI’s grips are designed to support you from the heel through the toe, providing stability exactly where you need it most.

Ignoring Sweat Control

When you’re moving through an intense workout or spending extended time in a heated studio, breathable, high-quality fabrics make all the difference in how you feel. Poor fabric choices can lead to overheating, moisture buildup, or discomfort during class. That means more distractions, less focus, and sometimes even a less effective workout. Finding your flow is harder with a stuffy, damp, or restricted feel.

Socks that trap dampness can lead to slipping inside your footwear, skin irritation, or just plain discomfort. When shopping for grip socks, feel the fabric. Is it soft, breathable, and lightweight? Does it allow for movement and airflow, or does it feel dense and restrictive?

Our socks are made with lightweight, breathable fabrics that are designed to enhance comfort, keep you cool, and allow your feet to move naturally. Many of our styles feature a signature mesh top promoting airflow where you need it most. SHASHI’s performance blend fabrics are made to wick away moisture and dry quickly, helping you stay comfortable and focused from start to finish. This helps prevent that overheated, suffocating feeling some socks can cause, especially during high-rep sequences or longer sessions.

Skipping Quality for Price

Cutting corners on quality to save a few dollars can cost you more in the long run. One of the biggest mistakes is choosing the cheapest option without considering how well the socks will actually hold up under regular use.

Lower-priced grip socks are often made with thinner fabrics, weaker stitching, and low-grade grip material that starts to fade or peel after just a few wears. You might notice the soles lose traction, the fabric stretches out or develops holes, or the fit becomes loose and misshapen. Not only does this affect your comfort, but it can also impact your safety especially in high-movement classes where you rely on stability and support.

Opt for grips crafted with premium materials and tested for long-term durability so you don’t have to worry about worn-out grips or socks that lose their shape after a few washes. Moving with you, class after class, session after session. SHASHI socks are designed to elevate your look and your performance, with sleek silhouettes, elegant details, and quality you can feel from the first wear to the twentieth. 

Just like a well-made yoga mat or a trusted pair of sneakers, a high-quality sock provides the foundation you need to train with confidence. It’s worth spending a little more for a product that won’t let you down.

Forgetting Proper Care

You’ve found the perfect grip socks—great fit, strong traction, and beautiful design. But even the best pair won’t last if you don’t take care of them properly. One of the most common and easily avoidable mistakes people make is ignoring the care instructions that come with their socks.

Grip socks are performance gear, and just like any other piece of fitness equipment, they need the right kind of care to stay in top shape. Tossing them into a hot wash or running them through a high-heat dryer might seem harmless, but over time, this can cause major damage. The heat can break down the grip, weaken the fabric, and stretch out the fit—leaving your socks less secure, less comfortable, and less effective.

It’s also worth avoiding bleach, fabric softeners, or rough fabrics like towels in the wash, as these can accelerate wear and tear. Keeping your socks in a mesh laundry bag can add an extra layer of protection and prevent them from getting lost in the mix.

At SHASHI, proper maintenance is top of mind. We recommend washing your grips socks in cold water on a gentle cycle, then laying them flat or hanging them to air dry. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference, helping to preserve both the feel and function of your socks. When cared for properly, a pair of SHASHI grip socks will deliver consistent support, comfort, and style—without slipping, stretching, or fading before their time. Plus, proper care helps you get the most value out of your investment, making each pair go the distance.

Grip socks may be a small part of your fitness wardrobe, but they play a big role in how you move, feel, and perform. By avoiding these five common mistakes: choosing the wrong size, overlooking grip strength, ignoring sweat control, skipping quality for price, and forgetting proper care—you can ensure your socks work with you, not against you.

At SHASHI, we believe the right grip socks should do more than check a studio requirement—they should support your movement, enhance your comfort, and elevate your style. From premium materials to thoughtful design and long-lasting grip, our socks are built to meet the demands of every class and every step.

Invest in the right pair so you can focus on what matters most: your practice.