How to choose a rhythmic gymnastics competition leotard: the complete guide
Choosing a competition leotard for the first time may seem complex. Materials, cut, rhinestones, FFGym regulations, lead times, budget: every criterion matters and directly affects your comfort on the floor.
Maëlys Marin, former French rhythmic gymnastics vice-champion and founder of NovaRythm, knows these requirements from the inside. Her experience as a gymnast and her design work enable her to identify the details that truly make a difference in competition.
Whether you are preparing for your first competition or looking to replace your outfit after several seasons, this guide will help you choose a leotard suited to your level, body shape, and plans.
Key takeaway: start by checking the material, the quality of the embellishments, the cut, and compliance with the regulations. Your timeframe will then determine whether you should choose a catalog model or a custom design.
The essential criteria for a competition leotard
A competition leotard is distinguished by more than just its appearance. It must remain comfortable, stable, and perfectly fitted during both warm-up and your routine.
It should accommodate your breathing, retain its shape during extensions, and stay in place despite movement, heat, and perspiration. A beautiful design is not enough if it causes discomfort or distracts you when performing.
Four criteria should be examined as a priority:
- The material, which influences comfort, support, and durability.
- The embellishments, particularly their quality and method of attachment.
- The cut, which should suit your body shape and level of practice.
- Regulatory compliance, which is essential for participating in an official competition.
Which material should you choose for a rhythmic gymnastics leotard?
The material forms the foundation of the leotard. It determines its elasticity, support, appearance under the lighting, and ability to retain its shape throughout competitions.
The main materials used
| Material | Comfort | Support | Shine | Durability | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Lycra | ★★★ | ★★ | ★★ | ★★★ | Training and first competitions |
| Premium Lycra | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | Regional and national competitions |
| Velvet | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | Competition and the pursuit of a sophisticated look |
Standard Lycra
Generally composed of polyamide and elastane, standard Lycra offers good flexibility and remains easy to care for. It is suitable for training, demonstrations, and first competitions.
Its appearance may nevertheless be more matte, and its support less structured, than that of premium Lycra.
Premium Lycra
Premium Lycra offers stretch in multiple directions and better accommodates the range of movement required in rhythmic gymnastics. Its slightly shiny or pearlescent appearance also enhances colors and embellishments under competition lighting.
It is particularly well suited to gymnasts seeking a balance between comfort, support, and visual appeal.
Velvet
Velvet adds depth to colors and a highly elegant texture. It captures light particularly well and makes it possible to create outfits with a distinctive character.
Its structure is sometimes slightly less flexible than Lycra's. Its use should therefore be considered according to the design, the areas of the body concerned, and the choreography's movements.
“The fabric is the foundation of the leotard. Even the most beautiful embellishments can never compensate for fabric that lacks structure or comfort.”
— Maëlys Marin
Rhinestones: sewn or glued?
The method used to attach rhinestones directly affects their durability and the leotard's lifespan.
Glued rhinestones
Heat-applied rhinestones are attached to the fabric using heat or a suitable adhesive. This technique makes it possible to create detailed patterns and strong density effects quickly.
Over time, some rhinestones may nevertheless come loose due to friction, body heat, perspiration, or improper care. Checking them before each competition is therefore recommended.
Sewn rhinestones
Sewn rhinestones are attached individually with thread. Applying them takes more time, but provides excellent resistance during movement and when handling the leotard.
Because each embellishment is attached separately, the possible loss of one rhinestone does not weaken the surrounding elements.
NovaRythm uses Preciosa rhinestones, hand-sewn onto selected creations. Their size and placement are chosen to highlight the leotard's design without restricting movement.
For an outfit intended to be worn regularly in competition, the quality of the rhinestone attachment should be considered just as carefully as their sparkle.
Catalog or custom-made leotard: how do you choose?
Your choice mainly depends on your budget, body shape, aesthetic preferences, and the time available before the competition.
The catalog leotard
A catalog leotard is offered in predefined sizes and designs. It can generally be ordered more quickly than a fully customized creation.
This option is particularly suitable if you are looking for:
- a first competition leotard;
- an outfit available within a relatively short timeframe;
- a design that is already finalized;
- a lower budget than a custom creation.
Before ordering, always check the size availability, shipping time, and whether the design complies with your category's requirements.
The designs offered in our rhythmic gymnastics competition leotard collection are designed for competitive use.
The custom-made leotard
A custom-made leotard allows you to create an outfit tailored to your preferences, body shape, and the aesthetic of your choreography. You can choose the colors, materials, cut, sleeves, skirt, and level of embellishment.
Two elements should be planned for:
- Lead time: ideally, place your order several weeks before your first competition to allow time for design, approval, and production.
- Project preparation: precise measurements, inspirational photos, and a clear vision of your aesthetic make the creation process easier.
NovaRythm custom leotards are available from €233. The final price varies according to the design, materials, amount of rhinestones, and level of customization requested.
To discover the different stages of the project, visit our dedicated page for the custom rhythmic gymnastics leotard.
What rules must be followed in competition?
In official competitions, the outfit must comply with the rules applicable to your discipline, federation, and category.
The main points to check include:
- the leotard cut and body coverage;
- transparent areas and their placement;
- the skirt, when present;
- sleeves and decorative elements;
- the safety of embellishments and accessories;
- visual consistency for ensembles and teams.
Always consult the version of the regulations in force for your season and category. Requirements may change.
Before your first competition, also ask your coach to check the outfit. They can verify that it complies with the rules, taking into account the program and category in which you are competing.
How do you choose the right size?
A leotard is not sized exactly like everyday clothing. The outfit should fit the body without creating wrinkles, while still allowing you to breathe and move freely through your full range of motion.
Our rhythmic gymnastics leotard size guide explains which measurements to take. The main ones are:
- chest measurement ;
- waist measurement ;
- hip measurement ;
- torso or girth, measured from the top of the shoulder to the crotch and then back up to the starting point;
- arm length, for sleeved models.
If you fall between two sizes, consider growth, the material, and the recommendations specific to the model. If in doubt, send your measurements to customer service before ordering.
What budget should you plan for a competition rhythmic gymnastics leotard?
The price depends on the type of leotard, the material, the number of embellishments, and the level of customization.
- Catalog leotard: approximately €100 to €400, depending on the model, materials, and embellishment density.
- NovaRythm custom leotard: from €233.
The price of a custom creation may vary depending on:
- the complexity of the design;
- the selected materials;
- the presence of sleeves, mesh, or specific cutouts;
- the type and quantity of rhinestones;
- the time required for making and finishing.
Before comparing two prices, check precisely what is included. A minimally embellished model in standard Lycra cannot be evaluated in the same way as a custom creation combining several materials and sewn-on rhinestones.
A quality leotard can also be worn for several seasons if it remains suited to the gymnast’s body shape and is carefully maintained.
Frequently asked questions
Can a catalog leotard be worn in a national competition?
Yes. Whether a leotard comes from a catalog or is a custom creation does not determine its suitability for competition. Compliance with the regulations, fit, and overall quality are the essential criteria.
How far in advance should I order a custom leotard?
Ideally, start your project several weeks before the competition. You need to allow time to define the design, submit your measurements, approve the proposal, and make the outfit. The more materials, cutouts, or specific embellishments your project involves, the further in advance you should plan it.
How can I check that the leotard complies with the regulations before the competition?
Check your federation’s current regulations and have your coach inspect the outfit before the competition.
Can the rhinestones come loose?
No attachment is completely indestructible, especially when the leotard is worn and handled regularly. Sewn-on rhinestones are nevertheless highly durable. Check the embellishments before each competition and transport your outfit flat or in a suitable garment bag.
Can a competition leotard be machine-washed?
Hand washing remains the safest method. Use cold or slightly warm water with a mild detergent, without rubbing the rhinestones. Avoid tumble-drying, intensive spinning, and any direct contact with a heat source. Leave it to air-dry flat.
In summary
Choosing a competition rhythmic gymnastics leotard is not just about selecting the most spectacular design. Your outfit must be comfortable, well-fitting, compliant with the regulations, and suited to both your schedule and your budget.
- Is the material suitable for my level and movements?
- Are the embellishments durable enough for my intended use?
- Do I need a readily available model or a custom creation?
- Does the leotard meet the requirements for my category?
Your coach remains your primary point of contact for regulatory questions. When choosing the size, materials, or level of customization, the NovaRythm team can support you with your project.
