A leotard swimsuit? They both look like one-piece bathing suits. They’re both body-hugging.. They both cover the torso. So what’s the real difference between a leotard and a one-piece swimsuit? Turns out, there are plenty.
It may be OK to use a leotard as a bathing suit on occasion, but it’s not recommended. RoBe Athletic Wear creates high-quality gymnastic leotards and other custom leotards. Let’s learn more about the difference between one-piece swimsuits and leotards.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Their designs may be similar, but the functions of a leotard and a one-piece suit are entirely different. The materials used vary, and the way they perform in ocean water or a chlorinated pool is where any similarities end.
Leotards support the gymnast during training and performance, with specific construction, fabrics, and design elements that offer coverage and a perfect fit that won't interfere with movement.
They need to meet certain standards for competition (such as not being transparent). Sleeve designs also have requirements: something strappy, like what might be found in sexy one-piece swimsuits, won't work in a competition leotard.
Necklines differ: a halter is OK in a bathing suit, perhaps not so much in gymnastics. On the other side, a high-neck leotard is stylish, but uncomfortable in swimwear.
Unlike a leotard, a swimsuit is built to maintain its shape and appearance when in the water.
Materials: Key Differences
The biggest difference between leotards and swimsuits is in the materials they’re made from.
For leotards, the most common fabrics used include Lycra/spandex blends. Velvet may also be part of the construction. “Mystique” is another fabric that uses metallic details to create the illusion of a hologram. RoBe Athletic Wear carries a full line of leotards for every body type and style.
While gymnastic leotards use lightweight fabrics that “breathe” to keep the athlete comfortable, most of these would be damaged when exposed to swimming conditions. Additionally, they frequently become transparent or lose their overall shape if dunked in the water. That's not the case with one-piece swimwear.
Swimsuits are made from materials specifically designed to be chlorine-resistant and to resist the fading effects of the sun. The fabrics are quick-drying, plus swimsuits are typically lined, so they won’t become see-through from exposure to water.
Features in a bathing suit that you won't find in a leotard may include everything from tummy control to bold floral prints, and flattering styles that show off more skin than a leotard does, like a bikini.
Design and Construction Differences
Swimsuits are built to maintain their shape in (and out) of the water. They are lined so that they don’t become “see-through” when you’re coming out of the pool or the ocean.
Leotards aren’t designed with the same goals. Yes, they're tight and the materials hold their shape during training or competition, but when soaked in water, not so much. Plus, unlike one-piece swimsuits, they’re unlined, which may prove awkward when climbing out of a pool. Simply put, it's not built as swimwear.
Pros & Cons of Wearing a Leotard as a Swimsuit
Similar to sexy one-piece swimsuits, the classic leotard is also form-fitting. It can be used - in a pinch - as a bathing suit. However, it's not advised to make it a regular practice at the beach; choose the right swimsuit instead.
The cons?
- Unlike the chlorine-resistant fabrics in a bathing suit, leotards aren’t designed for swimming and can be easily damaged.
- They stretch out.
- They’re unlined and can become transparent in swimming conditions; you may not feel confident in them as you would in a bathing suit.
- Leotards don't offer the same style details (like adjustable straps), don't have the same coverage options, and may not be as flattering when wet.
When It Might Be Acceptable
For something like regular or competitive swimming, you need one-piece swimwear designed for that sport.
However, if it’s a hot summer day, there’s a beach or a pool right there, and there are no other options, a leotard can step in as a swimsuit. It largely depends on what the leotard is made of. A leotard with some compression qualities will hold up better in the water than, say, one made of velvet or Mystique.
Unlike swimsuits, leotards are unlined. A dark color, like a black leotard or a blue leotard, will be potentially less transparent.
Care Tips If You Do Use a Leotard as a Swimsuit
Probably the most important “care tip” is to avoid using a leotard as a swimsuit if you can. However, if you do, wash it out afterward in cool water as soon as you can. This will prevent potential damage from chlorine or saltwater. Gently squeeze out the excess, and let it dry flat to preserve the shape.
Summary
They may look alike, but swimsuits and leotards function in different ways. The swimsuit is meant for water, the leotard for dry land. The fabrics are entirely different.
Swimsuits can handle the effects of chlorine or salt water. They dry quickly, are resistant to the UV effects of sunlight, and are lined to prevent the suit from becoming see-through. You'll have more confidence in the water.
Leotards are designed for performance under different conditions. The materials are a perfect blend of supportive but also decorative elements. The garment is thinner and unlined, and not truly suitable as swimwear.
If you do opt to turn your leotard into the occasional swimsuit, it’s best to choose dark colors and durable fabrics like Lycra and spandex. Rinse it out immediately and let it air-dry, flat.
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