Leotard Rankings: Regionals

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Gymnastics fans love leotards, it’s just a fact. We love seeing new designs, creating our own, and especially judging them. That’s why we’re back for another season of leotard rankings!

Each week we’re analyzing new designs to find our weekly faves. Leos can earn up to three points for design; up to two points for construction, which includes fabric, fit, and sparkle; up to one point each for school/theme spirit and creativity; and up to three points for overall appearance. This week Izzi, Jessica, Julianna, and Savanna are joining editor-in-chief Elizabeth for judging.

Don’t agree with our ranking? Make your opinion heard by voting in the fan poll at the end of the article each week or by voicing your thoughts on social media!

Nebraska: 9.350

A gymnast is shown wearing a long-sleeved leotard that fades from sheer black mesh at the top to a deep red in the center of the bodice, transitioning to solid black at the bottom. The leotard features an intricate pattern of small silver rhinestones forming geometric shapes, including diamonds and radiating lines. The high neckline is also embellished with silver rhinestones. The sleeves are sheer black mesh with rhinestone accents. An inset image in the lower right corner shows the back of the leotard, which has a large circular cutout at the upper back and a solid black lower portion. The rhinestone pattern continues on the back, and a small rhinestone design that says "huskers" in red at the center of the mid back.

View images of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 9.600

Design 2.9/3, Construction 2.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.9/3

This might be my favorite leotard of the weekend. The shimmery red fabric is fantastic, and it really popped on the screen. I also love the rhinestone design and how the different sizes were used to emphasize various parts. The only part I don’t love is the Huskers font on the back. I know it’s the official logo/font, but it looks a bit cheesy on the otherwise elegant leotard.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 9.200

Design 2.8/3, Construction 2.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 3.0/3

This is the best leo of the weekend. On TV, the red underlayer looked even more shiny and elegant than it does in the still photo. I love the geometric rhinestone design and how it continues on the arms. It looked absolutely gorgeous in competition!

Julianna: 9.300

Design 2.9/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 1/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3

Wow. This is beautiful! I love that it was described as ‘dark mode’ because this is so different than anything I’ve seen from Nebraska, especially in some of the recent years. I love the small and big gems patterned, as well as the wrap around gems on the sleeves. This might be one of my favorite from Nebraska! 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 9.300

Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3

This is stunning. I’m so used to Nebraska having white in its designs that I had to do a double take on this one. I love the ombre look on the front and even the encrusted collar–which I normally hate–adds another element to this that makes this a top design of the weekend. 

Oklahoma: 8.900

A gymnast is wearing a long-sleeved leotard that features an ombre effect, transitioning from white at the shoulders to a deep crimson at the hips. The leotard is heavily embellished with numerous small silver rhinestones that create horizontal lines across the bodice and sleeves. The word "OKLAHOMA" is prominently displayed across the chest in crimson rhinestones. An inset image in the lower right corner shows the back of the leotard, revealing a simple, rounded neckline and the continuation of the ombre and rhinestone design.

View a video of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 9.800

Design 2.9/3, Construction 2.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 1.0/1, Overall Appearance 2.9/3

I’ve been underwhelmed by Oklahoma’s leotards this season, but this one is different. I love the subtle ombre, the different-shaped rhinestones used, the contrasting crimson in “Oklahoma,” and the subtle “Sooners” throughout. This design absolutely fit the occasion and easily could have been a national title-winning leo.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 8.900

Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.5/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 1.0/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3

Oklahoma’s leotards this year are so much simpler than in the past and I absolutely love it. Similar to my feelings about the Washington cherry blossoms from this week, I wish the top and bottom were all one ombre fabric rather than the harsh change to mystique fabric.

Julianna: 8.500

Design 2.5/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3

I really love this. It’s definitely not the most unique leotard, but it is stunning. I love the details in the different shaped gems, the ombre, and the little ‘Sooners’ in gems. It’s simple, but beautiful. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 8.400

Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3

I’m loving the mix between simplicity and elegance in this design. The ombré in the front is stunning and very subtle, while the crystals throughout each contribute to the design in their own way. It’s a lot tamer than what we normally see from the Sooners and quite frankly, it should stay that way.

Michigan State: 8.825

On the left, a gray leotard with sheer black mesh sleeves and upper chest. The leotard features a swirling design made of numerous small silver rhinestones across the bodice and sleeves. The neckline is embellished with a band of black and silver rhinestones. The word "B1G" is visible on the hip in silver rhinestones. On the right, the back has a distinctive open design with gray fabric creating curved shapes and cutouts. Silver rhinestones accentuate the edges of these gray panels. A logo featuring a Spartan helmet in silver rhinestones is located on the center of the upper back. The sheer black mesh continues across the upper back and sleeves. A black band with silver rhinestones trims the neckline.

View a video and images of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 9.800

Design 2.9/3, Construction 2.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 1.0/1, Overall Appearance 3.0/3

Fantastic. The gunmetal gray is superb and really leans into the armor vibes the leotard is going for. I normally wouldn’t like how the solid fabric up top gives a cap sleeve look, but it works here. I also love the rhinestone design and think it’s executed well. No other team is doing it like Michigan State.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 6.700

Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

The silver looks awesome here, and I absolutely love the Spartan armor theming. I don’t like all the mesh cutouts, and the back just looks like a pair of underwear.

Julianna: 10.000

Design 3.0/3, Construction 2.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0 /1, Creativity 1/1, Overall Appearance 3/3

This is my favorite of the weekend. WOW. This was stunning in person. The silver is the most perfect chrome and I love how they always tap into the Spartan theme when creating the leotards. I literally have no notes, I would give it an 11 if I could. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 8.800

Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3

Michigan State rarely misses and this is yet another winner. The grey is so different than what we normally see from the Spartans, and I love the armor vibes we get from the design. I almost wish the black mesh was more of a grey to continue leaning into the armor theme, but this is still a fantastic leotard.

Arizona: 8.550

White long-sleeved gymnastics leotard with red and blue details, shown front and back. Front: large blue "A" with red outline and stripes, red and blue rhinestones on the white bodice, blue rhinestone sleeves, blue/red rhinestone neckline. Back: large oval cutout edged in red rhinestones, wide blue lower back band with crisscrossing thin blue lines, sheer white mesh lower sleeves over red and silver rhinestone upper sleeves, scattered red and silver rhinestones on upper back.

View images of this leotard here and a video here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.300

Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.5/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

I love an ode to a throwback, and this one worked really well. The blue rhinestones on the blue fabric gave it a cool textured look, and I love the red rhinestones on the white body. It’s a simple yet effective design for Arizona.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 8.800

Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3

I absolutely love this! It’s simple, sporty, clean, and cohesive. More teams need to lean into this vibe.

Julianna: 9.100

Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 1/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3

I’m in love! I’m notoriously scared of white leotards, but these have really gotten so big this season and this might be one of my favorites! This was debuted as a ‘90s’ theme, and I love the simplicity of it but also all the little aspects in the colored gems as well as the U-shaped back lined with the gems. This is gorgeous!

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 9.000

Design 2.7/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3

Arizona has killed the throwback leotard trend in recent seasons and this one is probably my favorite. There’s a perfect amount of red and white crystals on the front and the U-shaped back has its own unique touch with the crystals. This is probably my favorite leotard of the entire weekend. 

Missouri: 8.425

A close-up shows a long-sleeved gymnastics leotard featuring an ombre effect, transitioning from white at the top to black at the bottom. The upper white portion of the leotard is heavily embellished with scattered silver rhinestones. A large, stylized letter "M" with a yellow fill and black outline dominates the chest area; the "M" itself is also filled with silver rhinestones. The sleeves have black bands with one horizontal yellow stripes near the wrists and two thin white bands. An inset image in the lower right corner displays the back of the same leotard, revealing a unique open back design with multiple thin yellow straps crisscrossing and connecting to the lower back area. The ombre effect and rhinestone detailing continue on the back.

View images of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 9.100

Design 2.7/3, Construction 1.9/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3

Love. The white to black ombre is superb and really allows the block M on the chest to pop, as well as the sleeve bands. I appreciate how Missouri is leaning into the variety of its school spirit in its leotards this season.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 8.700

Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3

I love this! The sporty stripes at the wrist go nicely with the style of the block M, and I don’t mind the back straps since the rest of the leo is simple. Missouri has been killing it this year!

Julianna: 9.000

Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.7 /3

Mizzou does NOT miss. I love this. It could have been on the simpler side, but is absolutely elevated by the open back design. I also love the sparkles lining the open back, one of my favorites of the weekend. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 6.900

Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

This feels so different than a lot of what I’ve seen from Missouri in the past. The block “M” is nice, it’s not something I typically associate with the Tigers, but it’s nice. I really love the ombre and the crystals on the back add a nice elegant touch. 

Washington: 8.125

On the left, a purple leotard with sheer purple mesh sleeves and upper bodice. The leotard is decorated with a pattern of white and pink cherry blossom branches and scattered white rhinestones. The lower portion of the leotard is a shiny, darker purple with the word "B1G" written across the hip in silver rhinestones. The leotard has a high, embellished neckline. On the right, the back of the leotard with sheer purple mesh sleeves and upper back. The leotard features a design of silver rhinestones that curve along the sides and across the lower back. The back of the leotard has a large, open cutout with a horizontal mesh band and two thin vertical straps.

View a video of this leotard here and back pics here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.400

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

The leo looked great on the screen, and while I think I prefer George Washington’s cherry blossom design, this is still a good one.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 8.300

Design 2.7/3, Construction 1.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3

It is a bummer to be the second team to debut a cherry blossom leo, because I would be more impressed with this idea if I hadn’t just seen it on GW. The front is pretty impeccable, though I wish the whole leo was one piece of fabric without the seam around the waist. The back is…horrifying.

Julianna: 8.000

Design 2.4/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

This is stunning! I love that we are tapping into the cherry blossoms in D.C. and in Washington and using this as inspiration! I love the open back and the side sparkles that go down to the back. This is definitely going to be a staple for a long time in UW’s collection! 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 8.800

Design 2.5/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3

If GWU hadn’t JUST done a cherry blossom design, I would find this a little more unique. Nevertheless, this is still a stunning design. I’m loving the touch of sparkle on the sides moving into the back and, while the back is a bit too bra-like for me, it’s still a beautiful touch to the design.

LSU (Round Two): 7.925

A gymnast is wearing a long-sleeved gymnastics leotard in shades of purple and gold. The main body of the leotard is a deep, shiny purple with a "V" shaped design outlined in gold and filled with small white dots that create a gradient effect. The sleeves are sheer purple mesh, also adorned with clusters of white dots that appear denser towards the wrists, which are finished with a gold band. The leotard has a gold trim around the neckline. On the left hip, the letters "LSU" are visible in gold. In the upper left corner, there is a smaller inset image showing the back of the same leotard. The back features a keyhole cutout at the upper back, outlined in gold. The purple mesh sleeves and the white dot gradient design are also visible from the back view. A gold band with the words "Geaux" and "Tigers" in purple lettering is seen across the lower back.

View images and a video of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.200

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

Without the crown concept, this would read more Washington to me than LSU, especially with the W shape on the chest in rhinestones. I do like the gold fabric on the chest and the crowns on the sleeves, but otherwise, it’s fine but nothing too extraordinary.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 8.300

Design 2.4/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

I love this one! It is simpler than LSU has been doing recently which I really appreciate. The crown theme is subtle yet fun and unique. I love the use of negative space for the front design. 

Julianna: 8.500

Design 2. 5/ 3, Construction 1.5 /2, School/Theme Spirit 1/1, Creativity 1/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

The “crown” has become such a big part of LSU so I’m so happy to see this in a leotard. I love the front and I love the simplicity of it, but my favorite part is the sleeve details and how this also mimics the crown. Great addition for LSU! 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 7.700

Design 1.9/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 1.0/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3

Okay, I will likely be an outlier here, but I really like this. I am loving the implementation of the crown throughout, especially on the sleeves. I am not the biggest fan of the gold in the chest area, it’s not super flattering, but it’s a minor complaint overall.

Rutgers: 7.925

A gymnast is shown wearing a long-sleeved leotard that transitions from white at the top to red at the bottom in an ombre style. The white portion of the leotard, extending down to the waist, is heavily embellished with silver rhinestones in swirling and geometric patterns. The red portion is also adorned with silver rhinestones, particularly around the midsection and wrists. The leotard has a high neckline. On the left hip, the letters "B1G" are visible in a stylized font, also appearing to be made of rhinestones. A smaller inset image in the lower right corner shows the back of the same leotard, featuring a unique open back design with crisscrossing white straps that connect to a red band across the lower back displaying a stylized "R" logo.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 9.000

Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.9/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.6/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.9/3

Yes, Rutgers! This is a leo befitting of the occasion! While the leo is very “Temple” in vibes, I do still think it works for the Scarlet Knights. I love the ombre, the rhinestone design, and the unique, “twisting” back straps.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 7.800

Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

This is nice! I like the open back in contrast with the higher mock neck in the front, though I could do with straps that weren’t twisted together like that. The ombre is really well done and the sparkle design does look knight-like to me, though I can’t tell you why.

Julianna: 7.800

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 1/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3

This was the perfect time to debut a new leotard for Rutgers and a gorgeous one to do so! I love the back and R on the bottom, as well as the ombré effect (and if I’m seeing it correctly that it also goes to the arms). I like the front, I think a more simple design with the same amount of sparkles would have made this even better! 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 7.100

Design 1.9/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3

I really like this! The rhinestoning job on this is immaculate, it definitely gives off armor vibe for the Scarlet Knights. The ombre is pretty, it’s a little harsh for my liking, I could’ve done with a little more subtlety in the transition from white to red. 

Air Force: 7.300

A gymnast is shown wearing a long-sleeved black leotard. The leotard features red accents along the shoulders, sleeves, and neckline, all of which are embellished with silver rhinestones. The front of the leotard has a central mesh panel, also adorned with a pattern of silver rhinestones that create a pointed design towards the chest and a horizontal band at the waist. A patch with a circular logo containing a stylized image and text is visible on the gymnast's left sleeve. On the left hip of the leotard, a small, stylized lightning bolt design is made of silver rhinestones. An inset image in the lower right corner shows the back of the same leotard, featuring a large, detailed logo with a winged emblem in shades of white and gold, along with the text "AF SOC" visible below it.

View a video of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.700

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 1.0/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

The only thing that would make this leo better would be a navy base—really lean into the patriotic nature of this leotard. I do still love it without that, though. It’s so special and personal to Slife.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 5.900

Design 1.5/3, Construction 0.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3

The school spirit gets major points for this leo, but I don’t really like anything else about it. I hate the black mesh and rhinestone design on the chest; it looks like a random hole exploded. The seaming at the shoulders also seems sloppy with the black fabric seam slightly lower than where the sleeve actually connects to the body. 

Julianna: 8.200

Design 2.3/3, Construction 1.8 /2, School/Theme Spirit 1/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3

I am always a fan of the Air Force leotards and I love that this one got to see a big stage! The back is definitely my favorite, as well as the sleeve designs with the incorporation of the academy logos, etc. I like that the front was kept simple with the rest of the leotard having more to it. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 7.400

Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

I love that this is the second year Slife has been given a new leotard for her regionals. I do really like the front design, especially the rhinestoning. I’m not the biggest fan of the black mesh in the chest area, but I love how the academy is represented with the logos and other paraphernalia. 

UCLA: 7.200

A smiling gymnast is shown wearing a vibrant blue long-sleeved leotard. The leotard features sheer blue mesh sleeves and upper chest. A dynamic geometric design in lighter shades of blue and white, outlined with silver rhinestones, adorns the front of the bodice. The sleeves are also embellished with clusters of silver rhinestones near the wrists. An inset image in the lower left corner shows a closer view of the upper back, revealing a continuation of the geometric design and the sheer mesh fabric. The leotard has a round neckline.

View images and a video of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.500

Design 2.3/3, Construction 1.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

This leotard photographed incredibly at the Utah regional thanks to the bold shades of blue and hints of white. I love everything about it except the somewhat bunchy sleeve seams. Why couldn’t the seam have been where the solid meets the mesh like other better-constructed leotards?

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 7.500

Design 2.4/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3

This is really nice, but unfortunately all I can think about when I look at it is this Florida leo. And this one. I also feel like they missed an opportunity to use yellow here instead of white, which would make it feel much more UCLA.

Julianna: 7.700 

Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3

I love all of the different shades of blue incorporated into this. I feel like this is a revamped leotard UCLA already has in its collection, but I do like this a lot! I love the ombré sleeves on this and it definitely screams UCLA!

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 6.100

Design 1.7/3, Construction 1.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

There’s a lot of blue happening here, and normally I wouldn’t like that much, but the different shades work here. It’s definitely one you can associate with UCLA, it just needs a little more pop of a secondary color to make it a true Bruin masterpiece.

Georgia: 7.050

The image showcases a red and black long-sleeved gymnastics leotard, displayed in front and back views. The red mesh sleeves and upper bodice feature an elaborate pattern of small silver rhinestones. A horizontal rhinestone band divides the red top from the solid black bottom. The back has a unique open design with crisscrossing straps. Logos in silver rhinestones, "SEC" on the front hip and "Dawgs" on the back.

View a video of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.200

Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.5/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

The shade of red is fabulous, and I like the sleeve design and how the black rhinestones really pop. I do wish the bulldog stood out way more on the chest though. You can hardly see it as it is now.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 7.500

Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

This is nice! I love the use of black rhinestones on the red. I could do without the odd back cutouts, but they don’t bother me too much since they are relatively simple and clean.

Julianna: 7.100

Design 2.0/ 3, Construction 1.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 1/1, Creativity 0.4/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3

This is beautiful and stunning, I just feel like Georgia has debuted this before. I know that is different from the others, but I just wish there was more differentiation to make it stand out more. That being said, I do like all the little details, especially on the sleeves and the single gem belt; just in need of something different from the Bulldogs. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 6.400

Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

All the Georgia leotards look the same at this point. I do like all the detail this one has though, the sleeves are probably my favorite part. I wish the bulldog was a little more noticeable in the design, and for the love of everything, can we stop with the straight lined bottom? It’s not quite diaper-like, but more like a sparkly diaper. 

Arizona State: 7.025

Red and black long-sleeved gymnastics leotard. The upper red section features a prominent, stylized trident emblem formed by numerous white rhinestones. The red fabric transitions into a black lower section. The neckline is black with silver rhinestones. An inset image shows the back of the leotard with a keyhole cutout and a horizontal "Sun Devils" across the back.

View images of this leotard here and additional pics and a video here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 6.800

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

I feel like a lot of leotards debuted this weekend were relatively boring. Sure, this is a nice design, the red really pops, and the cut is flattering on the gymnasts, but it’s nothing special, especially compared to some of the designs Arizona State put out even this season.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 7.600

Design 2.5/3, Construction 1.5/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.4/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

This shade of maroon is really beautiful, and I like the pitchfork design. I don’t think the back adds anything to the design. I feel like this particular type of thick strap back has become almost stock-design-ish.

Julianna: 7.000

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 1/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

Another beautiful one, but I also feel like I’ve seen this before. I love the top half, I wish it went down a little more before the black bottom, and I love the pitch fork incorporation and the Sundevils on the back. I really do like this, just wanted something more different for a big stage knowing what they have come up with in the past. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 6.700

Design 1.9/3, Construction 1.1/2, School/Theme Spirit 1.0/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

It’s nice, but compared to some of the others I saw this weekend, it doesn’t totally stand out to me. I love the school spirit, bonus points for the pretty pitchfork in the front. I’m not the biggest fan of the back, it’s too sports bra like for my personal taste.

Utah State: 7.025

The image shows a close-up of a white gymnastics leotard with navy accents. The left side of the image shows the front of the leotard, which has a navy midsection and navy and silver rhinestones scattered across the white fabric. The right side of the image shows the back of the leotard, which has a crisscrossing black strap design that creates a lattice-like open section.

View images of this leotard here and a video here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.800

Design 2.4/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

I love Utah State leaning into the matte white look recently. It really works for the team’s leotard style. My only negative is using black rather than navy. I don’t even mind the hole at the neckline on the front.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 8.500

Design 2.7/3, Construction 1.8/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3

This is really simple and I imagine others might find it boring, but I love it. The matte white makes it feel really clean, which to me enhances the intricacy of the straps on the back. I also love a negative space rhinestone design. I refrain from commenting on the keyhole on the front.

Julianna: 6.000

Design 1.5/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 0.4/1, Overall Appearance 2.0 /3

I love a mascot leotard, but I wish there was more to it or it stood out more. I do think the leotard itself is simple and beautiful but if this was supposed to be the mascot leotard I wish it had more to it. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 5.800

Design 1.4/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

It’s a classic mascot leotard, nothing particularly special. I like the strappy back and how the rhinestones just make it stand out a little more. Selfishly, I wish the black at the bottom was velvet, but I’m okay with it otherwise. 

Auburn: 6.425

A gymnast wearing a navy blue long-sleeved leotard. The leotard features sheer blue mesh sleeves and upper chest. The navy blue fabric is heavily embellished with numerous small silver and iridescent rhinestones in swoops and geometric patterns across the bodice and sleeves. A stylized "SEC" logo in silver rhinestones is visible on the left hip. An inset image in the lower right corner shows the back of the leotard, revealing a teardrop-shaped cutout at the upper back. The rhinestone patterns continue on the back.

View a video of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 6.600

Design 1.7/3, Construction 1.5/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

It’s not my favorite Auburn leotard, but that’s not to say I dislike it. The leopard (?) patterned fabric is fun, and I like the rhinestone design and unique collar. The sleeve mesh contrasts a bit too much with the solid body, though, making it look like a vest, which isn’t my favorite.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 6.000

Design 1.6/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

I feel like Auburn constantly uses these printed leotards that just make the design that’s on top look overly busy. I’m really torn on the neckline; I truly can’t decide how I feel about it. It looked nice on TV, but I don’t really care for the design.

Julianna: 7.300

Design 2.4/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3

This is definitely something that stood out to me watching, and I love how different this is for Auburn. This reminds me a lot of the Rutgers leotard with the same neck, but I don’t believe we have seen it from any other team since then. The front is the slightest bit too busy for me, but I appreciate the sparkle on it. I do think this is a perfect postseason leotard in that it stands out just enough and makes a statement on a big stage. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 5.800

Design 1.6/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

There’s a lot going on in this design, from the collar in the front to the rhinestoning throughout the entire design. It’s unique in some ways, but very busy with too much going on in others.

Michigan: 6.350

A young woman with light skin and brown hair poses in a dark blue, sparkling leotard with long sleeves and a high neckline. An inset image shows a close-up of the leotard's hip, featuring the word "Michigan" in cursive script. The background is blurred stadium seating.

View a video of this leotard here. 

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 6.700

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

It’s so funny how this leotard is called “Chaos” when it’s just a solid blue base with some rhinestones on top. What’s chaotic about it? It’s a fine leotard, but I’m honestly kind of bored. I’m sure it would have been much better in person to truly see the amount of sparkles.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 6.500

Design 2.0/3, Construction 0.9/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

I really like the way the sparkles create this kind of wrap design on the body of the leo, but I wish there was some yellow incorporated here. Even having some of the rhinestones be gold or yellow would really elevate the design. I don’t really love the sweetheart competing with the higher mock neck–pick a neckline and stick to it.

Julianna: 6.500

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

Again seeing this in person was definitely more of an experience and it was sparkly. I love the sparkles so I’m okay with it! I do think this leotard is super heavy, just from personal experience, so that is the only thing that took down my constriction points. I love the Michigan in script, I think that’s really beautiful, just not the most unique leotard for the Wolverines but I do like it a lot. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 5.700

Design 1.3/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.7/3

I liked it in pictures, but seeing it in videos, it’s not my personal favorite. I do appreciate the criss-cross pattern in the rhinestones and the “Michigan” on the back, but the neckline is just not it for me. 

LSU (Regional Final): 6.325

A close-up shows a black long-sleeved gymnastics leotard with sheer black mesh on the upper chest and sleeves. The leotard is heavily embellished with purple and clear rhinestones in geometric patterns across the mesh and solid black fabric. The neckline is trimmed with purple rhinestones. An inset image in the lower right corner displays the back of the same leotard, revealing a unique open back design with multiple crisscrossing purple straps. The rhinestone patterns continue on the back, and "LSU" in rhinestones is visible across the lower back.

View videos and images of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 5.300

Design 1.5/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.2/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3

Why does LSU always wear its most boring, stock-design leotard for the regional final of all meets? This is fine, but a team like LSU should never wear a stock design if I’m being perfectly honest. Don’t “waste” the money. It’s also funny how the caption on the social post says color in motion when it’s a black leotard with just a little bit of purple.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 6.600

Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.4/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3

Meh. There’s nothing wrong with this, but the front leaves you wanting something more exciting, and the back straps feel weirdly slapped on top of a finished leotard.

Julianna: 6.800

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3

I have mixed feelings about this one; it is stunning and seeing it in person it is flattering, but, you can’t see the intricacy of the design from TV or in person as well as you can up close with these pictures. I really like the sparkles that go over the mesh top and make it look layered, I almost wish something was a bit lighter in this leotard to be able to see the design more. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 6.600

Design 1.9/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3

Yes, it’s a stock design and yes, it’s a bit plainer than what we are used to seeing from LSU. However, it is still a stunning design. I love the criss cross back and the sparkles giving a layered look. It’s pretty in pictures, just needs a touch of something lighter to make it a winner.

Iowa: 6.225

The image displays a black long-sleeved gymnastics leotard with a sheer black mesh upper bodice and sleeves, shown in front and back views. The front of the leotard features numerous small, white rhinestones that create dynamic, vertical lines radiating from the center of the upper chest and extending down the body and along the sleeves. The sheer mesh allows the skin to be visible underneath. The back of the leotard has a similar design with white rhinestones accentuating the mesh upper back and sleeves. A vertical row of black buttons runs down the center of the upper back. A logo featuring a stylized hawk made of silver rhinestones is located on the lower back. The leotard has a classic scoop neckline.

View images of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 5.500

Design 1.4/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.6/3

The gold-ish fabric on the body is nice, but that’s really all I like about this one. I wish more yellow or gold has been incorporated in, and while the buttons are a fun concept, I can’t imagine how annoying it was to put on.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 6.300

Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

In theory, I really like this leotard. It immediately reminded me of this Oklahoma leo, which I love. I just feel like something’s missing. While I love the idea of using both yellow and silver rhinestones, the alternating pattern ends up looking like pinstripes. Clearly the snaps are supposed to be a design element, but they’re so unnecessary that it just feels odd that there are snaps at all.

Julianna: 6.900

Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.4/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

I always love a black leotard and I love the amount of sparkles in this. I don’t think this is the most unique from the front even though it is very flattering, but from the back, it is very different. If those buttons are closing the leo, or if it’s just mimicking it, I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like that so that is a very cool aspect to this. I like this a lot, just not the most unique in terms of judging it as a whole.

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 6.200

Design 1.7/3, Construction 1.1/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 1.0/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3

The buttons on the back are an interesting concept which automatically makes this design unique. Other than that, it is really similar to a lot of other leotards that Iowa has debuted in recent seasons. The cascading crystals on the front and the Hawk on the back are nice little bonuses but it’s still missing something for me.

George Washington: 6.075

On the left, a person wearing a dark blue leotard. The bodice of the leotard features a pattern of thin, light-colored lines forming a plaid-like design, with clusters of small, sparkling gold embellishments at the intersections and along the sides. The leotard has a high, mock-neck collar and the sleeves also incorporate the plaid and gold sparkle design. A small gold logo is visible on the left hip. On the right, a person wearing the same dark blue leotard. The back of the leotard has a distinctive open design created by multiple crisscrossing straps that form a lattice pattern. The plaid and gold sparkle design continues on the back of the sleeves and upper back.

View videos of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 5.900

Design 1.3/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 1.4/3

It’s kind of funny to say that this leo is a LOT when it’s just a basic blue base with some rhinestones on top, but it really is. The plaid, while clever, just doesn’t work for me, and while I’m always a fan of back straps, this is just overkill.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 5.100

Design 1.0/3, Construction 0.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3

The still photo is not doing this justice. I really liked it on TV, particularly the rhinestones on the arms. The sheer number of back straps feels a little silly but I appreciate that it mimics the rhinestone design. Unfortunately, the vertical sparkle line on the chest really interrupts the interesting pattern. 

Julianna: 7.000

Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3

Seeing this is in person is much better when the sparkles are sparkling. I think there are a lot of elements, especially with the straps in the back, that might have only been the aspect that was too much for me, but seeing it in person it is a beautiful leotard. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 6.300

Design 1.6/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3

This design has a lot of elements and I don’t know if I like how they’re all thrown together here. I love the use of the color scheme and I normally love a strappy back, but this is almost a little too much. I do like the rhinestoning, I wish the pattern at the top wasn’t cut off by that midsection piece though.

Arkansas: 6.000

A gymnast wearing a vibrant red, long-sleeved leotard. The leotard features sheer red mesh on the upper chest and shoulders. The red fabric underneath has a subtle sheen and is adorned with a pattern of silver rhinestones forming geometric shapes, including diamond outlines and radiating lines across the bodice. The high neckline is also embellished with silver rhinestones. The sleeves are sheer red mesh with scattered silver rhinestones. An inset image in the lower left corner shows the back of the same leotard, revealing a unique open back design with multiple thin red straps crisscrossing and connecting to the lower back. The rhinestone pattern continues on the upper back.

View a video of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 7.200

Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

There’s not a ton of variety in Arkansas leotards, but that doesn’t make this one inherently bad. I like the rhinestone design on the chest, and the relatively simple base. It’s nothing to write home about, but it’s a solid design nevertheless.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 5.000

Design 1.2/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.4/1, Creativity 0.2/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

I liked this one more on TV when I couldn’t see the mesh cutting the chest in half. It’s just so, extremely… fine.

Julianna: 6.300

Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

This was another pretty in person leotard, it definitely shined a lot more and looked great under the lights! I like the back, but the rest of it doesn’t feel different from a lot of Arkansas’ leotards. My favorite part of this is the arm sparkle band near the shoulder, that is a really nice addition to this.

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 5.500

Design 1.3/3, Construction 1.4/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.5/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

It’s nice. It’s reminiscent of a lot of other leos in their closet though. I know Arkansas is one of those schools that limits what colors their athletic department uses, but surely, there’s a way to follow the branding and create a standout design, right?

Clemson: 5.925

The image shows a gymnast wearing a long-sleeved, deep purple leotard. The left side of the image presents a front view of the gymnast from the waist up. The leotard features a high, mock-neck collar and is decorated with sparkling orange diamond shapes scattered across the front and sleeves. Thin vertical lines of smaller orange sparkles also accentuate the bodice. The right side of the image shows a rear view of the same leotard. The back of the leotard mirrors the front design with orange diamond shapes and vertical lines of sparkles. It also has a distinctive open back design with two oval-shaped cutouts. An orange paw print logo is visible on the arm of the leotard.

View a video of this leotard here and images here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 5.700

Design 1.7/3, Construction 1.7/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

I love the mostly purple base, and the orange rhinestones. The diamond design isn’t my favorite, but this is hardly the most egregious leotard in Clemson’s collection.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 4.200

Design 0.8/3, Construction 0.9/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 0.8/3

I don’t think this one bothers me as much as it bothers other people, but it is kind of an objectively strange design. I hadn’t seen the back before, and the circles really annoy me. The whole rest of the design is sharp and angled; why make this part round?

Julianna: 6.400

Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.9/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0./3

Clemson leotards are always a little different and this definitely fits into that unique category. I always appreciate the use of the school colors in Clemson’s leotards, but I feel like there’s a little too much happening here. I almost wish it was just the sparkles down the chest even if it would be on the simpler side. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 7.400

Design 2.3/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3

The argyle pattern is an interesting choice here, but I don’t necessarily hate it. I love that purple is the primary color here with orange instead of white as the secondary. I especially love the cascading crystals down the center. 

Oregon State: 5.775

On the left, the leotard has sheer black mesh sleeves and upper bodice. Silver rhinestones create radiating lines from the chest area, extending across the mesh and onto the solid black portion of the leotard. The cuffs of the sleeves and the neckline are also embellished with silver rhinestones. On the right, the back features a distinctive open design with multiple thin white straps crisscrossing and connecting to a white band across the lower back. The radiating silver rhinestone pattern continues on the upper back and sleeves. The solid black portion of the leotard extends upwards to meet the white band.

View a video of this leotard here and images here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 6.900

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.6/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

My initial thought was this is very Jade-coded and also kind of boring, but after seeing it during the meet, I liked it a bit more. The gunmetal gray is fun, and I like the falling-rain look of the rhinestone design.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 5.600

Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.3/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

The rhinestone design here makes this leo way more interesting than it would be otherwise. The different length vertical lines give it a lot of depth and movement. I do not like the back, though. The open part seems too far to the sides and the strap design is kind of random. It would have been cool if the strap design could mimic the vertical rhinestone pattern on the front somehow.

Julianna: 5.100

Design 1.5/3, Construction 1.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.3/1, Creativity 0.3/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

I always love a simple black leotard, but to debut it at regionals, I wanted something more Oregon State. I do like the front with the dropping sparkles, but this is just not the most exciting for me. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 5.500

Design 1.2/3, Construction 1.1/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.8/1, Creativity 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

It’s a little bleh for a regionals debut, I feel like a lot of the other ones the Beavers debuted this season would’ve been more of a standout than this one. I do like the crystals on the top and the encrusted beaver on sleeve, but without that, I wouldn’t have known this was an Oregon State leotard. It definitely fits the theme of dark mode.

BYU: 5.025

The image displays a gymnast in a white, blue, and black leotard. The left side shows a front view of the gymnast from the chest up. The leotard has a white bodice with a blue and white stylized design featuring rhinestones on the chest. The sleeves are sheer white with blue accents and rhinestones at the cuffs. The lower portion of the leotard is blue velvet. The back of the leotard has a similar white and blue design with rhinestones. It also features a unique open back design created by crisscrossing white straps.

View videos of this leotard here.

Illustrated headshot of Elizabeth GrimsleyElizabeth: 6.100

Design 1.5/3, Construction 1.3/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3

When I first saw this, I wasn’t impressed, but it’s grown on me. At the very least, it’s gotten the “I saw it in person” bump. I actually like the unique sleeve design, and the ombre is lovely. What I don’t care for is the bunchiness of the front neckline area, and the way the rhinestone under the overlaying fabric just looks like nipples.

Izzi Baskin illustrated headshotIzzi: 2.200

Design 0.4/3, Construction 0.2/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.6/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 0.3/3

Oh, dear. Not even the velvet body can save this leotard. This overlay fabric situation on the top is just not working for me. It’s bulky, poorly placed, and makes the leo look ill-fitting on everyone. 

Julianna: 6.200

Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.0/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3

There are aspects about this that I like but I think I would like it better as two separate leos. I like the blue ombré with the crystals, but I could have done without the extra fabric on the chest and back. I LOVE the blue velvet bottom, I have no notes on that. I like the idea for this, just not too sure if these “pieces” went together. 

Savanna Whitten illustrated headshotSavanna: 5.600

Design 1.4/3, Construction 1.1/2, School/Theme Spirit 0.7/1, Creativity 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3

The front of this one looks like a child’s superhero cape tied on. I love love LOVE velvet and it definitely makes me not notice the front design as much. I don’t particularly like the thick back straps, it would’ve looked better with either thinner straps or less bulky fabric. 

Fan Poll

Congrats to Utah for winning the conference championships fan poll! Vote for your favorite design from this week here.

READ THIS NEXT: Michigan State Breaks 37-Year Dry Spell, Qualifies for Nationals

Article by Elizabeth Grimsley, Izzi Baskin, Julianna Roland, and Savanna Wellman

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