What to Wear to an Aerial Class: A Practical Guide

InFlyte Entertainment

5 days ago

2 min read

You've signed up for your first aerial class. Now comes a surprisingly important question: what do you wear?

The right clothing makes aerial more comfortable, protects your skin and keeps the equipment in good condition. Here's a simple guide.

Leggings That Cover

Choose fitted leggings that reach at least past your knees. Full-length is best, especially for silks and sling. The backs of your knees do a lot of work in aerial, and fabric or a metal bar can rub bare skin.

Avoid loose pants or shorts. They can slide, bunch or tangle in the fabric.

Tops That Stay Put

Go upside down in a loose T-shirt and it'll be over your head in seconds. Choose a fitted top that:

Covers your underarms (many hoop and silks skills use the armpit)
Stays tucked or fitted when inverted
Is comfortable to move in

A fitted long-sleeve or a tank with a fitted layer works well for most classes.

Aerialist in a fitted t-shirt and leggings practicing on aerial silks at InFlyte in Hudson, MA

No Jewelry or Hardware

Before class, remove:

Rings, bracelets, watches and necklaces
Earrings that dangle or could catch
Belts and anything with zippers, buttons or metal

These can snag and damage fabric apparatuses and can injure you if they catch. Small stud earrings may be OK, but ask your instructor.

Hair and Accessories

Tie long hair back securely in a ponytail or braid. Avoid hair clips or claw clips, which can dig into your head or catch on equipment. Keep a spare hair tie handy.

Feet

Aerial is typically done barefoot so you can feel and grip the apparatus. Check with your instructor about studio policies for footwear when you're on the mat or moving around the space.

Skip the Lotion

Lotion, oils and moisturizers make skin and equipment slippery. Avoid applying them on class day, especially on your hands, arms and legs.

Silks and Sling Tips

Silks and sling work through friction, which means fabric rubs against skin. Full coverage on legs and underarms helps prevent friction burns. Avoid slippery athletic fabrics that make it harder to grip and stay in wraps.

Hoop and Trapeze Tips

Hoops and bars press into the backs of knees, hips and underarms. Coverage reduces discomfort, and some flyers like slightly thicker fabrics in these areas. Expect some bruising at first; it's a common part of getting used to hoop.

Pack a First-Class Bag

Bring:

A water bottle
A small towel
An extra layer for warming up or cooling down
A spare hair tie
Any medication you may need (and let your instructor know)

Kids' Clothing

The same rules apply to youth flyers: fitted leggings, a fitted top that covers the underarms, no jewelry and hair tied back. Avoid dresses, skirts and clothing with decorations that could catch.

Questions?

If you're unsure about anything, reach out to the InFlyte team at inflyteentertainment@gmail.com or (978) 618-7816. We're happy to help you feel prepared.