What to wear for your first pole class!

Just signed up for your first pole class? Welcome to the best decision you've made all year. 🌟

Here's the honest, practical guide to what to wear so you're comfortable, confident, and ready to actually grip the pole — from someone who's been in the studio for over a decade and has seen every first-class outfit mistake there is.

The non-negotiables

A good sports bra or bralette

This is your most important piece. You need something that stays put when you're upside down, spinning, and generally defying gravity. We wear-test the hell out of every bra we make — if a boob even thinks about escaping during a handspring, it goes back to the drawing board. Look for something with a secure back closure, good band support, and enough coverage that you can focus on the move instead of adjusting every five minutes.

Fuller bust? Read our Boob-Approved Pole Wear guide — we go deep on which styles work best for bigger busts.

Pole shorts

Yes, they're small. No, it's not about showing off — it's physics. Your skin is what grips the pole, so you need bare inner thighs, backs of knees, and hips. Fabric between you and the metal = sliding. Not the look.

If you're not ready for tiny shorts on class one, that's completely fine. Start with something that gives you more coverage while still exposing your inner thigh — our Tie Up Gym Shorts are the most popular beginner choice, with an adjustable side tie so you can control exactly how much leg is showing.

Want the full explanation of why pole shorts are cut the way they are? Read our no-shame guide to pole shorts and skin grip.

Bare feet

Class one: go barefoot. Feel the floor, learn your balance, get used to how your body moves around the pole without the added height and instability of heels. Once you've got a few classes under your belt and you want to explore pole heels — we'll be right here waiting for you.

The things to avoid

• Lotion, body butter, fake tan, oil-based sunscreen — even from yesterday. These transfer to the pole and kill your grip. Shower, skip the body products, and apply moisturiser after class instead.
• Rings, bracelets, necklaces — they catch on poles and hurt your hands and shins. Leave them at home or in your bag.
• Leggings or long shorts — fabric between your inner thigh and the pole means you'll slide. Even thin leggings cause problems. We know it's tempting on class one, but you'll end up working three times as hard with your hands to compensate.

Optional but handy

• Pole grip — not essential for class one but worth knowing about. If your hands get sweaty or slippery, a small amount of grip aid on your palms can make early climbs and holds much less frustrating. Ask your instructor which type suits the studio's poles.
• A small mesh wash bag — pole wear lasts much longer when it's washed gently. A wash bag means your bra and shorts stay in shape for years.

What to expect at your first class

You won't be doing anything scary on day one — promise. Most beginner classes start with conditioning, basic spins, and getting comfortable with the pole. No inversions, no climbing, no "oh god is she going to fall" moments. Just you, a warm-up, some foundational moves, and probably a room full of people who also weren't sure what to wear on their first day.

The pole community is one of the most welcoming, inclusive, non-judgey spaces you'll ever walk into. Every person in that room has had a class one. They remember it. They want yours to be great.

Frequently asked questions — first pole class edition

Do I need to be fit or flexible to start? No. Pole builds both. Your instructor meets you where you are. Most students see noticeable strength gains within 6–8 weeks.

Is pole dancing only for women? Absolutely not. Pole welcomes every gender — men's pole and non-binary classes are growing fast across Australia.

What size should I buy? We size XS through 5XL and have a full size guide on every product page. If you're between sizes or have fit questions, message us — fit is genuinely our thing.

Can I wear a regular sports bra? You can, but purpose-built pole wear is designed to stay put during inversions and spins in a way that most gym bras aren't. Give yourself the best chance on class one.

What if I feel self-conscious in small shorts? That's completely normal. Start in whatever makes you comfortable — gym shorts, longer styles — and let your confidence build from there. The room will surprise you.

Ready to shop your first pole outfit?

• Gym Shorts — the perfect beginner short
• Sports Bras & Bralettes
• Pole Grip
• All Pole Dance Clothing — XS to 5XL

Australian made. Afterpay & ZipPay available. Any questions — message us. We're dancers. We'll help you get it right.