3 Factors To Consider When Buying A Gymnastic Leotard
Leotards have been the outfits of choice for gymnasts for many years. The stretchy material that is used to create modern leotards allows a gymnast to bend and flex as needed.
There are many different types of leotards available to today's gymnasts. Selecting the right one will help you improve your comfort, aesthetic, and performance the next time you hit the gymnastics equipment.
Here are three factors that you should take into consideration when buying a gymnastics leotard.
1. Purpose
What will the purpose of your new leotard be? Are you looking for something that you can wear to practices, or will the leotard be part of your competition wardrobe? Knowing the answers to these questions can help you determine the style of leotard that will suit you best.
Practice leotards tend to be plainer than their competitive counterparts. A practice leotard can be paired with shorts or sweats for additional comfort. Competition leotards will usually be made from material that has some sparkle or shine. Rhinestones or sequins can be added to competition leotards to make them flashier.
You can easily narrow your leotard options just by defining how the piece will be used in the future.
2. Construction and Design
The way that a leotard is made should be taken into consideration when you are purchasing new items to add to your gymnastics wardrobe. Modern leotards are usually separated into two categories: sleeved and sleeveless.
A sleeveless leotard will cost less because less material is required to make the piece. Sleeveless options are also cooler and pose no risk of interfering with certain gymnastics equipment. Most practice leotards are sleeveless.
Sleeved leotards feature sleeves that are actually three-quarters length. These leotards are much warmer than their sleeveless counterparts. A sleeved leotard can provide added space for embellishments, so many competition leotards feature sleeves.
3. Fit
The fit is one of the most important factors that should be considered when investing in a gymnastics leotard.
You want your new leotard to fit your body like a glove. It's important that you take the time to try on any leotard that you are interested in. Never make a purchase based on the marked size, as the fit can vary from one manufacturer to the next.
You will want to utilize your torso length as a guiding factor when choosing a leotard. The last thing you want is a leotard that rides up when you are practicing or performing.