Gymnastic leotards and competition leotards are essential equipment in this corner of the athletic world. They’re for training, performance, and are something the gymnast practically lives in. The right (or wrong) size can impact comfort and confidence, so here’s how to correctly measure for a leotard when you're about to order a new one.
Here are expert tips to get the right size and a perfect fit!
Table of Contents
Introduction
The leotard is designed to provide easy, free movement in gymnastics. Just a small difference in size can really hang up the athlete. Understanding how to properly measure for this piece of performance wear is key. A perfect fit has the power to influence a training session or an important competition.
What You’ll Need
Obviously, when it comes to accurate measurements, a soft tape measure is Item #1.
A full-length mirror is also ideal in order to ensure that the tape measure is level. The wearer should either be dressed in tight-fitting clothes, another leotard, or underwear, in order to get the most accurate measurements for comparing to a size chart.
Having someone for assistance can also come in handy. They can note the measurements as you take them.
To get the most realistic sizing, the wearer should stand up straight with their feet together and their shoulders and tummy relaxed. You want the leotard to fit comfortably but also naturally.
Key Measurements to Take
Start with the bust and chest area. With the arms held naturally at the sides, measure around the chest at the fullest part.
Next is the waist. Place the tape at the natural waist, where a costume, pants, or a skirt would sit.
The hip area is next. With the feet together, measure around the fullest part of the buttocks and hips.
Finally, the torso. Measuring the torso is the most important measurement of the process. As the wearer stands naturally, place the tape at the top of one shoulder (on the bone), then extend it down to the crotch area. Wrap the other part back up to the same shoulder bone. Keep the measuring tape snug, but not too tight.
These techniques will give you the most accurate measurements to compare to a leotard size chart and find the correct size.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
Using a flexible measuring tape, and while wearing either underwear or another leotard, here’s how to correctly measure for a new leotard.
Standing naturally, arms relaxed at the sides, wrap the measuring tape under the armpits at the fullest part of the chest. The tape should be snug but not tight.
Wrap the tape around the natural waistline above the belly button. Measure that part of the waist where a skirt, pants, or a costume might sit.
With the feet comfortably together, measure around the fullest part of the hips and buttocks.
This is the most important measurement, but it can be the trickiest. The torso length ensures that the leotard will be long enough to have a proper overall fit.
Remove shoes. Place the tape measure atop the shoulder bone. Extend it down to the crotch, then bring it around through the legs and back up to the same shoulder bone to get the right torso length.
The inseam measurement is optional. It ensures that the leg openings of the leotard hit at just the right place. A proper inseam helps prevent chafing during tricky gymnastics moves on the floor or beam.
Stand with feet together and use a soft measuring tape. Start at the crotch and measure down the inside part of the leg to where you prefer the leg opening to be.
Using Your Measurements with Size Charts
After taking measurements, compare them to those on the size charts for a leotard. The most important one is for the torso/girth.
Take into account leotard types, the material used, and the style. If the measurements are “between” sizes as compared to the chart, it’s a good rule of thumb to go the next size up. This is especially true if the wearer is a child or a girl who is still growing.
Style & Fabric Considerations
Some leotard fabrics will have more or less “give” than others (think stretchy spandex over cotton); this doesn't necessarily mean you need a different size. Just keep it in mind when considering overall fit. The style of the leotard also plays a role. Strappy backs, long sleeves, and high necklines will play a role in overall comfort and fit. However, the size itself won't really vary.
Conclusion
Gymnasts practically live in their “leos,” so a proper fit is essential. When they don’t have to think about it, they’re free to train and perform at their best. Taking a little time to get the correct body measurements (especially the torso measurement) will pay off in comfort and confidence. If you have questions about the right size, even after shopping on our website, contact us. RoBe Athletic Wear offers professionally designed leotards for young athletes, and we're passionate about supporting their performance.
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