Picking Out A Gymnastics Leotard - The Right Ones
Gymnastic leotards are a vital component in any gymnast’s wardrobe. However, having a crop top and shorts set is not enough for a gymnast. It is easy for an amateur gymnast to be carried away by the multiple choices of gymnastic leotards, which are different from one another based on size, shape, color, design, and fabric. However, a gymnast must consider their preferences shaped by their gymnastic habits and the purpose for which it is bought. Finding the Gymnastic Leotard with the Right Fit Multiple opinions are in circulation regarding the definition of “comfort” in gymnastics. However, the common ground is that comfort means not having a too tight leotard or too loose. Having a leotard that is too tight will distract the gymnast, and having a loose one will make the gymnast more likely to crash into equipment when the cloth gets caught in them.
A big leotard will bulge around the waist, making the gymnast unattractive and uncomfortable. While buying a leotard, the gymnast must consider the purpose for buying it- whether for training or competition. Female gymnasts must buy girl gymnastic clothing that fits well into the shoulders and torso. If female gymnasts plan to buy girls leotards for competition, they should choose one that is sleek in fitting such that the coaches and judges can see the muscle definition and precision. It is crucial to choose a leotard that is like a gymnast’s second skin. If it is restrictive, there is the possibility of a wardrobe malfunction or interference with the gymnast’s movements. Types of Sleeves Gymnastic leotards come in three sleeve variations: tank or sleeveless, long sleeve, and three-quarter length. Tank leotards allow the gymnast’s sweat to escape. However, they cannot keep the gymnast warm in cold weather, and it is generally not preferred for competitions. Long sleeve leotards will make the gymnast warm in cold weather but are not comfortable. A three-quarter length sleeve leotard is a middle path between the tank and long sleeve leotards as it provides the benefits of both tank and long sleeve leotards make the gymnast warm in cold weather and can be used in competitions. Leotard Back Styles A gymnast has many options when it comes to choosing the leotard back style. However, the most popular ones are camel strap, tank, racer, keyhole, and open-back gymnastics leotards. Though the sleeves have their pros and cons, they are not as crucial as the sleeve length. A consideration to make while buying a leotard is the undergarment that a gymnast will be wearing while using it. The female gymnast has to worry about exposed bras while using a leotard with an open back, cami strap, and keyhole backs. This problem does not arise with the tank-backed leotard. Fabrics Used Gymnasts tend to prefer leotards made from one type of fabric out of personal preference, comfort, or body type. The most popular fabrics used in leotards are metallic fabric, Lycra fabric, nylon/spandex fabric, and Velvet or Velour fabric. Most amateur gymnasts are attracted to metallic fabric leotards because of their flashiness and brightness. However, gymnasts are likely to feel uncomfortable wearing them. Gymnasts with broad shoulders are less likely to appreciate the tightness around their shoulders and torso, and increasing the size is not a reliable option. Lycra fabric stretches easily and does not expose a gymnasts’ private parts. However, it does not go well with decorations like foil, rhinestones, and appliques. Nylon/Spandex fabric is
the middle path between metallic and Lycra fabric. They come in multiple colors but do not go well with decorations. Velour fabric holds well and is extremely forgiving. However, it causes the gymnast to sweat with minimum effort.