How to Choose a Rhythmic Gymnastics Leotard

Written by Raysport Team

Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport where both technique and artistic expression are essential, but a gymnast’s appearance also plays an important role. A well-chosen leotard helps the gymnast feel comfortable on the competition floor, provides freedom of movement during the performance, and enhances the beauty of her movements.

A rhythmic gymnastics leotard should combine comfort, elasticity, high-quality materials, and an elegant design. Today, gymnasts can choose from both ready-to-ship models and custom-made creations for individual and group competitions.

Gymnasts now have access to a wide variety of designs: simple leotards or fully embellished rhinestone models, ready-to-ship designs or personalized creations, for both individual routines and group performances. In this article, we will explain how to choose a rhythmic gymnastics leotard and which factors are truly important before making a purchase.

Raysport - Justaucorps de gymnastique rythmique (justaucorps de GRS)

How to Choose the Right Leotard Size

Size is one of the most important factors when choosing a rhythmic gymnastics leotard. Even the most beautiful design will not flatter the gymnast if the leotard is too loose or, on the contrary, too tight and uncomfortable.

A leotard that is too small may restrict movement during training and competitions, while a model that is too large can create wrinkles and interfere with the execution of technical elements. It is therefore essential to take accurate measurements before ordering.

To choose the correct size, it is recommended to consider the following measurements:

gymnast’s height;
bust circumference;
waist circumference;
hip circumference;
torso length.

For an even more precise fit, the following additional measurements may also be taken:

sleeve length;
shoulder width;
bicep circumference;
wrist circumference;
front skirt length;
back skirt length, etc.

These detailed measurements are particularly important for custom-made competition leotards, as they help achieve a fit perfectly adapted to the gymnast’s body shape.

On our website, you can consult our detailed guide on how to take measurements, as well as the Raysport size chart, to select the most appropriate size. This is especially important for competition models and custom-made creations.

It is also important to keep in mind that different fabrics offer different levels of stretch. Accurate measurements therefore remain the foundation of a perfectly fitted leotard.

Which Fabrics to Choose for a Rhythmic Gymnastics Leotard

The quality of the fabric directly affects the comfort, durability, and appearance of the leotard. During routines, gymnasts perform a wide range of movements, so the fabric must be stretchy, lightweight, and comfortable to wear.

The most commonly used fabrics for rhythmic gymnastics leotards are:

lycra;
velvet;
tulle;
decorative stretch fabrics.

Lycra is particularly appreciated for its elasticity and its ability to perfectly follow the body’s shape. It offers excellent freedom of movement, outstanding comfort during training sessions, and allows the leotard to remain perfectly fitted without creating wrinkles. High-quality lycra also retains its color and shape even after numerous training sessions and competitions.

Velvet is often used in competition leotards thanks to its premium appearance and elegant texture. Under spotlights, this type of leotard creates a particularly rich and refined visual effect on the competition floor. Modern stretch velvets also remain comfortable and do not restrict the gymnast’s movements.

For decorative details and inserts, stretch tulle and semi-transparent fabrics are also widely used. They help create a lighter visual effect, enhance the silhouette, and add sophisticated design elements without making the leotard appear heavy.

The quality of the materials is equally important. A good fabric should:

retain its shape after stretching;
not be transparent;
feel comfortable against the skin;
withstand intensive training;
support the application of rhinestones and decorative elements;
maintain its appearance over time.

It is particularly important that the materials remain comfortable during jumps, stretches, and technical movements, ensuring that the leotard never interferes with the gymnast’s performance.

At Raysport, we use high-quality European materials suitable for both training wear and competition leotards. Our collections include models made from lycra, velvet, and combined fabrics, offering comfort, elasticity, and visual elegance.

Rhinestones and Decorative Elements: Why Are They Important?

Today, rhinestones are an integral part of rhythmic gymnastics competition leotards. They make the leotard brighter, more visible, and more spectacular during performances.

Under spotlights, high-quality rhinestones reflect light beautifully and highlight the gymnast’s movements on the competition floor. During competitions, visual appearance plays a major role in the overall perception of the routine.

When choosing a leotard, it is important to pay attention to:

the quality of the rhinestones;
the precision of their application;
the harmony of the decoration;
the balance of the overall design.

Today, there are many different types of rhinestones that vary in material, size, shape, and application method. Glass rhinestones are generally considered the highest-quality option because they provide intense and deep brilliance under stage lighting. Acrylic rhinestones are also used; they are lighter and more affordable, although their sparkle is usually less intense.

To create a dynamic and elegant design, designers often combine several rhinestone sizes. Larger rhinestones create visible focal points from a distance, while smaller stones provide subtle gradients and additional sparkle.

Rhinestones can also come in various shapes:

round;
oval;
teardrop;
navette;
special decorative shapes.

Justaucorps de compétition pour gymnastique rythmique, twirling et majorette sur mesure - Raysport

The method used to attach rhinestones is also very important. The most common options are:

hotfix rhinestones;
sew-on rhinestones;
hand-applied decorative crystals.

Hotfix rhinestones are particularly popular in competition leotards because of their neat appearance and strong hold on the fabric. Sew-on rhinestones are generally used for larger decorative elements or in areas requiring extra-secure attachment.

In professional designs, it is not only the number of rhinestones that matters but also the quality of their application. Careful placement allows decorative elements to better withstand fabric stretching, intensive movement, and regular competitions while maintaining a flawless appearance over time.

A successful design always maintains a balance between sparkle, elegance, and visual harmony in order to enhance the gymnast’s routine.

Raysport leotards use high-brilliance rhinestones and high-quality application techniques, making each model particularly elegant both in person and in competition photos and videos.

Ready-to-Ship or Custom-Made Leotard: Which Should You Choose?

Today, gymnasts can choose between ready-to-ship models and custom-made creations. Each option offers its own advantages.

Ready-to-ship models are particularly suitable for those who:

want to receive their leotard quickly;
need a solution for an upcoming competition;
prefer selecting from existing designs;
want to order a model that is immediately available.

A custom-made leotard allows the creation of a completely unique design based on the gymnast’s preferences, music, routine theme, and chosen colors.

With a custom-made creation, it is possible to:

modify colors;
adapt the design;
choose fabrics;
add decorative elements;
create a completely exclusive model.

Raysport offers both ready-to-ship models and custom-made leotards. We create designs for both individual gymnasts and groups.

Leotards for Individual Gymnasts and Groups

Leotards designed for individual routines and group performances have different requirements.

For individual routines, the focus is generally placed on originality and the gymnast’s visual identity. The leotard helps reinforce the character of the routine and makes it more memorable for judges and spectators alike.

For groups, visual harmony is essential. Leotards must be coordinated in terms of colors, patterns, and decorative elements to create a cohesive image on the competition floor.

When choosing group leotards, it is particularly important to consider:

consistency of the cut;
a shared style;
color harmony;
the comfort of each gymnast.

This is why many clubs choose custom-made designs for their groups.

How to Care for a Rhythmic Gymnastics Leotard

Even a high-quality leotard requires proper care. This helps preserve the fabric’s elasticity, the vibrancy of its colors, the brilliance of the rhinestones, and the overall appearance of the garment despite frequent training sessions and competitions.

Competition leotards featuring rhinestones, tulle, velvet, and decorative elements require particularly delicate care, as these materials are more sensitive to heat, friction, and harsh products.

Some important recommendations:

wash the leotard by hand only;
use cold or lukewarm water;
choose mild detergents without bleaching agents;
avoid prolonged soaking;
do not wring the fabric after washing;
avoid tumble drying;
do not iron rhinestones or decorative elements;
store the leotard in a separate garment bag;
avoid friction against rough surfaces.

After training sessions or competitions, it is recommended to let the leotard dry flat, away from radiators and direct sunlight. High temperatures can damage both the fabric’s elasticity and the adhesive used for rhinestones.

Velvet fabrics and tulle also require particularly careful storage, as they can more easily lose their shape or become damaged.

If the leotard contains a large number of rhinestones, it is best stored separately to avoid scratches, snags, and damage during transport.

Proper care will help preserve the original appearance of the leotard and the brilliance of its decorative elements for much longer.

Conclusion

Choosing a rhythmic gymnastics leotard means finding the right balance between comfort, quality, and aesthetics. It is important to consider size, fabrics, decorative elements, and the type of routine—individual or group.

A well-chosen leotard helps the gymnast feel confident during training sessions and competitions, enhances the routine, and makes the performance even more expressive.

Raysport offers ready-to-ship and custom-made rhythmic gymnastics leotards for both individual gymnasts and groups, crafted from high-quality materials and elegant decorative elements. You can discover our collections on our website and choose either a ready-to-ship model or a personalized creation tailored to your project and preferences.

If you have any questions regarding sizing, fabrics, design, custom-made creations, or your order, you can always contact us via WhatsApp or by email at support@raysport.com. We will be delighted to advise you and answer all your questions.