You have begun pole dancing, have you? And here is where it gets wild and crazy.
You are likely to have a lot of little bruises, your hands distressing, and you are asking yourself how on earth people do it all so easily. (Spoiler: it's not.)
This is one of the things all pole dancers learn very soon, outfit is everything.
Not only because it looks good, but because it will be easier to hold on the pole and feel comfortable and be held on the pole rather than fall down like a fireman on caffeine.
Now, we can discuss the must-haves. These are the sticky pole wear necessities that every dancer must have, the type that will make your routines operate more easily, safer and a lot sassier
1. Sticky sets that actually grip (without gluing you to the pole)
There is no better thing to spend money on, than a good sticky set.
The cloth is like magic a bit, it catches you and holds you but at the same time allows you to move.
The difference? You’ll actually stick to your spins instead of praying your thigh doesn’t slide off mid-routine.
The cool part is, they come in so many cuts and colors now. Think slick black, candy pink, neon green, you name it.
You can find some seriously cute ones in Pole Gekko’s sticky pole wear collection.
Just a heads-up though: go for breathable materials. Sticky doesn’t have to mean sweaty.
2. A sports bra that holds you up and still lets you move
Pole tops can be tricky. You need grip on your sides but support in the front, not the easiest combo to find.
The best pole wear clothing balances both. Look for something snug, supportive, and non-slip around the ribs.
If it’s got adjustable straps or a longline fit? Even better.
Because the last thing you want is to be halfway into a butterfly when your top decides to betray you.
And if you’re browsing, the pole fitness outfits section on Pole Gekko has some gems. Worth a peek.
3. Shorts that don’t do the weird roll-up thing
If you’ve ever had your shorts ride up mid-spin… you get it.
God sticky shorts are ones that do not need to be tugged at, shoved into or out of their proper places, or have to be re-adjusted several times during a routine
Here's what to look for:
- Marginal squeezer (they embrace, not suffocate)
- A high waistband for support
- Stiffness in the right areas (thighs, hips)
You will know the couple once you do. It is a pole soulmate power.
4. Grip aids — because even sticky clothes have limits
Let’s be honest. Some days, your grip just ghosts you. Maybe it’s too humid, maybe your hands are tired, or maybe your skin just said “nope” today.
That’s when grip aids save your life. You can put a small bottle of liquid chalk or grip spray in your pole bag and it will improve your confidence instantly
And grab a small towel while you’re at it.
5. Cover-ups and after-class clothes
Here’s a random tip no one tells you: don’t throw your sticky pole wear in a pile after class.
It ruins the grip fabric faster than you think.
Hang it up — or better yet, use a soft robe or cover-up when you’re done. Keeps the dust off, protects the stickiness, and honestly… looks kinda chic when you’re walking around the studio.
Pole Gekko has a few cute options for hanging pole clothes too, so check those out if your laundry chair is getting out of control.
6. Knee pads — future you will thank you
If you do floorwork or transitions, you need knee pads.
There’s nothing cool about bruised knees (been there, done that).
Go for ones that are thin enough to move in but padded enough to cushion slides. Bonus points if they match your outfit — it’s always more fun when you feel cute.
7. The secret weapon: confidence
Okay, this one’s not technically clothing — but it’s just as important.
You could wear the most high-end pole wear clothing out there, but if you don’t feel good in it, it won’t matter.
Confidence shows up in your movement.
When you’re comfortable and supported, you stop overthinking. You just… flow.
So, pick what feels like you. Whether that’s sleek and sporty or sparkly and bold, own it.
Final thoughts
Pole dancing is an art and anarchy at the same time, that is why it is so addictive.
The bruises are gone, the spins are less violent and one day you find that you are not hanging on with your life anymore, you are flying
And having the right sticky pole wear? It makes that journey a little easier (and a lot more stylish).
If you’re not sure where to start, hop over to Pole Gekko’s pole wear collection. They’ve got everything from comfy basics to flashy performance fits — made by people who actually get poles.
Now go grab your favorite shorts, crank up your playlist, and get spinning. You’ve got this.