Have you ever climbed the pole during class, attempted your spin, and whoosh your shorts slide right out of position (or worse, you do)? Yeah, we’ve all been there.
Finding the perfect pair of pole shorts isn’t just about looking cute (though that’s a bonus). It’s about grip, comfort, confidence, and safety. The wrong shorts can totally throw off your performance while the right ones can help you feel secure, supported, and ready to nail that inverted V.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to choose the best pole shorts for your body and style whether you're a total beginner or leveling up your pole fitness game.
Why Grip Matters in Pole Fitness
Pole dancing is all about skin contact. Your thighs, waist, and even your belly act like your third hand, helping you grip the pole for climbs, spins, and tricks.
That’s why pole dancers don’t just wear shorts for fashion, we wear them for function. The more skin exposed in the right areas, the better your grip. But it’s a fine line you still want to feel supported and confident in your outfit.
That’s where the perfect pair of pole dance shorts comes in.
What to Look for in the Perfect Pole Shorts
Fit: Snug, Not Suffocating
Fit is everything.
Your pole shorts should fit like a second skin,tight enough that they won’t move mid-spin, but not so tight that they cut into your thighs or dig into your waist.
For example, when I first started, I wore loose athletic shorts. Big mistake. I spent more time yanking them into place than actually dancing. Once I switched to fitted pole fitness shorts with a little compression, my confidence (and grip) went way up.
Bonus Tip:If you are not sure of your exact size,Grab a soft measuring tape and check your waist, hips, and thighs. Most polewear brands have detailed size guides. When in doubt, size up for comfort or choose a style with adjustable ties.
Length: Show Some Skin for Maximum Grip
I get it short shorts can feel intimidating at first. But when it comes to grip, shorter really is better.
The most popular lengths for pole dance shorts are:
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Booty shorts: Great for full thigh grip and flexibility.
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Cheeky or high-cut styles: Ideal for advanced tricks where you need skin-on-pole contact.
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Mid-thigh shorts: More modest, but may interfere with thigh holds or climbs.
If you're just starting out and want more coverage, try high-waisted shorts with a cheeky cut. They give you the security of a covered tummy with the grip you need on your thighs.
Scenario: One of my students started in biker shorts for modesty, but quickly realized they blocked her thigh grip. After switching to a shorter pair, she nailed her first climb within the week.
Material: Choose Function Over Flash
The fabric of your pole shorts can make or break your performance.
Look for:
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Spandex or Lycra blends: You need a material which is stretchy,breathable and comfortable.
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Moisture-absorbing material: This material keeps you sweat free and makes you feel dry.
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Avoid cotton: It gets soggy fast and can restrict movement.
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Avoid slippery polyester (unless it’s designed with grip).
The goal is flexibility and support. Think of them like activewear for aerialists.
Waistband: High-Rise, Low-Rise, or Adjustable
Waistbands matter more than you’d think. A good waistband keeps your pole shorts in place without rolling or digging in.
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High-rise pole shorts: Offer tummy coverage and a great grip for moves like the Scorpio.
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Low-rise: Popular for freedom of movement, especially in flowy, floor-based routines.
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Adjustable or tie-waist: Perfect for finding your exact fit.
I personally love high-rise pole dance shorts for their flattering shape and extra security upside-down. But some of my pole friends swear by low-rise for their sultry, flexible feel. Try a few and see what you love!
Design Details: Built for the Upside Down Life
Pole fitness shorts aren’t your average gym shorts. You want thoughtful features like:
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Reinforced seams (because no one wants a wardrobe malfunction mid-spin)
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Gussets for flexibility
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Flatlock stitching to prevent chafing
If you're training seriously, invest in quality gear. It lasts longer, fits better, and performs when you need it most.
Your Style = Your Power
You don’t have to sacrifice style for functionality.
These shorts are all about self -expression,if you are someone who loves wild prints or bright colours,you can definitely choose them in your pole shorts,whatever makes you feel confident and fierce as your dance reflects your inner expression.
Not quite ready to bare it all? That’s okay. Start with high-waisted shorts or gripper leggings. These leggings have built-in grip zones so you can train while staying more covered up. They're a great bridge between streetwear and studio gear.
Ask the Pros: Community Wisdom Wins
Still unsure which pole dance shorts are right for you? Ask your instructor or classmates. They’ve tried it all from booty shorts, high-waisted styles, custom designs,and can give honest recommendations.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of reviews. Online polewear stores often have size guides and user reviews that include height, weight, and fit notes.
Quick Checklist: Your Perfect Pole Shorts Must-Haves
✅ Snug, comfortable fit
✅ Breathable, sweat-wicking fabric
✅ Short enough for effective grip
✅ Waistband that suits your style and moves
✅ Designed for movement (with strong seams and flexible fabric)
✅ Bonus: A pattern or color that makes you feel unstoppable
Final Thoughts: Choose Confidence. Choose Comfort. Choose Grip.
Choosing the perfect pole shorts isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about finding a pair that helps you feel secure, supported, and ready to fly.
Take your time. Try a few styles. Start with what makes you feel good, and adjust as your confidence and skill level grow.
Because when your pole shorts work with you,not against you,you’re free to focus on what really matters: the movement.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Explore our top-rated pole fitness shorts and start dancing with confidence today.