How to tell if your gymnastics leotard is high quality

When it comes to gymnastics leotards, there are plenty of choices out there. From classic looks to strap backs and halters, the question on many budding gymnasts’ lips is: where you do begin?

Your first step should always be to check with your coach or group regarding any rules or guidelines for leotards. Some organisations are more casual about the styles you choose, offering little or no restrictions, while others will want you to fit with a certain style or colour, even in class. It’s always best to check this first so that you don’t end up spending money on a leotard you can’t wear.

Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to start shopping. When it comes to finding the right gymnastics leotards, UK online stores have plenty of options. But how do you that the leotard you like is high quality? We’re here to help.

The cut

There are plenty of options to choose from when shopping for girls leotards, and this is particularly true when it comes to deciding on the cut. Think cap sleeve, long sleeve, camisole, tank, halter, biketard, turtle neck, boat neck, off the shoulder and more. The cut that you choose will ultimately depend on what looks and feels comfortable to you.

Look for leotards that are made using side, front and back darts, as they will provide a more secure and flexible fit. Another aspect to bear in mind is the importance of size charts. These can be useful because you may be a small in normal clothes but a medium in gymnastics leotards. UK sellers will usually have a size guide to help you make the right choice, as different brands and styles can run slightly smaller. If in doubt, go up a size to ensure you can move.

The best leotards will fit on like a second skin, so watch out for material bunching at the hips, shoulders, stomach or bottom. Straps shouldn’t be loose or fall down, but they also shouldn’t dig into your skin and make you uncomfortable. In short, high quality leotards will move with you.

The details

Leotards come in a wide variety of styles, from simple and plain to extremely elaborate. Some designs come with plenty of embellishments and details, such as lace and jewels. There are benefits and considerations involved with both options. For example, a bright leotard with lots of jewels might look pretty, but it could also distract from the clean line of your movements.

Look at the materials used in your girls leotards. Materials like Lycra and Nylon or Spandex are popular for a reason, as these options are extremely stretchy and provide a fitted look with lots of flexibility. There are other materials to choose from, such as velvet or metallics, but these don’t have as much give or breathability so you’ll need to be careful and do plenty of research if you’re thinking of going down this route.

The colour

Leotards come in every colour of the rainbow, so you can go for a design that’s as understated or bright and bold as you like. Bright shades like yellow, pink and red can help you stand out both in training and on the competition floor, while deeper tones such as black, navy or purple will bring an element of class to your routine. You can also go for white or another neutral shade, which brings an air of simplicity. Whatever you decide, make sure you try on your leotard and see whether it suits you in terms of both colour and cut.