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. Here’s the rubric we’re working with:
- Design (3): How strong the overall design is in terms of color, balance, composition, and visual flow. Does it feel intentional and cohesive?
- Construction (2): Quality of materials, fit, finish, and sparkle application. Does the leotard look well-made and flattering in motion and on camera?
- Concept & Identity (2): How successfully the leotard communicates a clear concept or identity through design choices — balancing team branding with creativity and cohesion. Does it feel like this team in a good way?
- Overall Appearance (3): The general visual impression: Does the leotard stand out (positively) on the floor? Is it polished, elegant, and memorable?
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!
Rhode Island College: 9.525
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 9.700
Design 3.0/3, Construction 1.9/2, Concept & Identity 2.0/2, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
I am utterly and totally obsessed with this leotard. The velvet is great on its own, but the back?!?! The most clever back strap design I have ever seen. 1000/10, RIC. The only thing I’d add would be a touch of red, maybe with some colored rhinestones.
Savanna: 9.400
Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.8/2, Concept & Identity 2.0/2, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
I love this. It was already a win for me with the velvet because I am a sucker for a good velvet leotard, but the use of the gold gives it a nice contrast. It’s missing some of the red though since that’s the primary color I am used to seeing from them. The back is unique and definitely something I can associate with the Anchorwomen.
Emma: 9.500
Design 2.9/3, Construction 1.8/2, Concept & Identity 2/2, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
This is so 90s in such a fun way. The anchor back is one of the most unique elements I have ever seen on a leotard and RIC pulled it off flawlessly with this leotard design.
Sara: 9.500
Design 2.9/3, Construction 1.8/2, Concept & Identity 2.0/2, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
RIC really outdid itself with this leotard. The gold straps on the back that form into an anchor below are very creative and add a unique touch of school spirit that we don’t always see. And the glittery “RIC” lettering is amazing and looks vintage which is also great given that we don’t see crush velvet that often anymore.
Washington: 8.975
View a video of this leotard here and images here and here.
Elizabeth: 9.400
Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.9/2, Concept & Identity 1.9/2, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
I really love this. The purple and black go so well together, and the varying rhinestone shapes and sizes create such a cool effect. Sometimes I feel like a leo only loosely fits the theme it’s going for, but this one really does scream Purple Rain.
Savanna: 8.500
Design 2.9/3, Construction 1.5/2, Concept & Identity 1.4/2, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
This is a stunning design from the Huskies! I love the mix of the jewels to create this sort of starry/meteor shower look on the front and the different shades of purple. (It’s my favorite color so I might be a touch biased on this front.) The only thing I would’ve done different is made the back open without the big straps on the back. Otherwise, this is a win.
Emma: 8.900
Design 2.8/3, Construction 1.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
This is SO pretty. I love the larger rhinestones on the front and that the rhinestone pattern continues onto the back. The dual toned purple makes this leotard pop and it really screams Washington. I don’t like the back as much, but otherwise this is a timeless leotard that I hope the Huskies continue wearing for seasons to come.
Sara: 9.100
Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.8/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.9/3
This design from Washington is so beautiful. It honestly looks like a galaxy, which I love. The sparkle effect from the rhinestones and the strappy back are just stunning. The only thing I’d change is the purple arched shape on the front as it sticks out a little too much for me.
BYU: 8.900
View videos of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 9.500
Design 2.8/3, Construction 2.0/2, Concept & Identity 1.9/2, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
BYU won the unofficial rivalry meet leo contest for me. This may be one of my favorite recent BYU leos. I love the shade of blue and especially the white design on top. The school spirit is also simple yet effective with the bold BYU on the back.
Savanna: 8.300
Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.8/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I usually really like BYU’s leos and this one is no exception! I definitely get the “crown” vibe it’s going for – even if I am tired of the crown trend. I really like how the white crown design continues to the back and how the BYU is filled in with the blue sparkles to add an extra touch of spirit.
Emma: 8.800
Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.9/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
I like the athletic design of this leotard and the contrast between the blue and white. The BYU decal on the back exudes school spirit and I love how the white stripes extend onto the arms. This is a really well constructed leotard that is very flattering on screen.
Sara: 9.000
Design 2.7/3, Construction 1.9/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
The blue leotard with the white line designs are so cool and I really like the subtle sparkles. The BYU part on the back is also a nice touch to this leo and the sparkles on each side of the sleeves by the keyhole back add so much more to this.
Auburn: 8.250
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 7.800
Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.7/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
The way the lighter blue on the front looks like what I’m assuming is supposed to be a War Eagle when zoomed out is a fun concept. I also like how the bigger orange rhinestones add an extra touch to make certain elements stand out. The fun back, coming up from the bottom rather than the sides or top like we typically see with back straps, is a fun additional touch.
Savanna: 7.900
Design 2.3/3, Construction 1.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.5/2, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I can always count on Auburn to debut classy and beautiful leotard designs. I love the front design of this, from the mix of blues to the incorporation of orange sparkles that really help associate it with the Tigers. I don’t particularly like the v-neck at the top, I think it would’ve been better minus that. The back is really nice too, I normally don’t like a mix of open and strappy back, but it’s really nice here.
Emma: 8.800
Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.7/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
Auburn always kills it with the leotard game and this is no exception. Every element of this leotard feels intentional, quintessentially Auburn, and appealing to the eye. I love the alternating orange and clear rhinestones on the back and the lighter blue stripes that cut through the body. This leotard screams school spirit but also brings elegance and sparkle.
Sara: 8.500
Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.7/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
Honestly, I like this leo a lot with the strappy back. The front design looks a little more like flames than a War Eagle but the concept is cool. The beaded neckline looks a bit odd with the color scheme and the “V” up top is interesting as well. But overall, this is a really nice leo and I hope we see it worn again.
Sacramento State: 7.850
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.600
Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.8/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
Hopping on the recent 2016 > 2026 trend with a revamp of a 2016 design is fun. This is a solid workhorse leo that Sacramento State will be able to turn to for years to come. At the same time, it’s not super exciting—but it’s not bad either. I like the shape, the relatively simple yet open back, and the colored rhinestones adding that needed touch of school spirit.
Savanna: 8.000
Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.7/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
This is fine, it’s kind of plain, but considering it’s an update of a previous design, it’ll at least get a lot of use. The open back is really nice and I like how the sparkles continue all the way around the leo. I wish there was a little more color in it somewhere though, I know there’s some green sparkles on the sleeves, but it needs more.
Emma: 7.900
Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.8/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
This is a basic design, but overall a basic design that works well and looks great on camera. This leotard has the perfect amount of sparkle, especially with the clustering of rhinestones in the back and on the cuffs. As Elizabeth said, this leotard will be a great option for Sacramento State for years to come.
Sara: 7.900
Design 1.9/3, Construction 2.0/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
This leo from Sacramento State is beautiful but I agree with my fellow editors that it’s a bit plain. The rhinestones across each sleeve really elevate this more plain design while keeping the look clean. The full sparkles down the whole front are nice but I wish there was a bit more to the leotard.
Rutgers: 7.825
View a video of this leotard here and details here.
Elizabeth: 7.200
Design 2.0/3, Construction 1.5/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
The color is really nice, and I like how the design is emphasized with the subtle white/ombre underneath the rhinestones. The back straps seem a little loose, but that’s one of my only negatives.
Savanna: 7.400
Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.6/2, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
I love the swirly pattern of this design! I see a subtle use of white to add a little dimension to the design that works really well. The mix of the size of sparkles adds to the design really well. I think I would’ve liked a little more difference between the shades of pink used, but overall this is a really nice pink leotard.
Emma: 7.900
Design 2.7/3, Construction 1.1/2, Concept & Identity 1.5/2, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
This is a beautiful leotard and the pinkness of it all makes me adore this design. The swirly pink is super unique and takes this leotard a notch up. I do dislike the back (vertical straps always look awkward to me) and I wish it had diagonal straps or even just stayed open. Otherwise, this is a hit from Rutgers and just beautiful on the screen.
Sara: 8.800
Design 2.6/3, Construction 1.7/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
I was lucky enough to see this leotard in person and it’s stunning. I love the design of the rhinestones on the front and the back straps work surprisingly well with the look. The neckline with rhinestones is also so beautiful. My only concern was also the back straps being a little too loose but I love this leo from Rutgers.
Georgia: 7.200
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.000
Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.2/2, Concept & Identity 1.5/2, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I like the concept, but the execution is lacking for me. Honestly, the same black and white bodice with “normal” mesh red sleeves would have been stunning, but the overlay look is just not my favorite. I even like the Super Gs on the sleeves, which normally wouldn’t be the case, but the fact that they just look like big clusters of sparkles works for me.
Savanna: 7.300
Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.4/2, Concept & Identity 1.8/2, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
Every time I think I’m going to love a Georgia leotard, there’s something that just irks me about it. Today, it’s the hole in the front. If it had been either red or white, I would’ve liked this so much more. The rest is fine, I like how the waist is shaped and the design of the sleeves is a win for me.
Emma: 7.400
Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.4/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I saw this leotard getting a lot of flack on social media, but I actually don’t mind it in photos. I can imagine that this leotard is much clunkier in motion, but I think the red mesh overlay and rhinestone design makes up for the choppiness of the color blocks. It’s not my favorite Georgia leotard, but I really don’t mind this one overall.
Sara: 7.100
Design 2.2/3, Construction 1.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 1.6/3
I like the idea of a red, black and white leotard for Georgia however, the stacked colors are a little odd when you look at it altogether. I love the red sleeves and the white design is ok but the black bottom doesn’t help the look. The open back is great but that’s about the only part that’s my favorite. Traditionally, Georgia does all black or red so it’s nice to see something different, but it’s not the best leotard the team has worn.
Boise State: 6.500
View images of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.300
Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.7/2, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I love the idea, and the execution is allllmost there, but there’s something about it I don’t love. I think it’s the “hall monitor vest” orange elements? Otherwise, I love the shade of blue, the bold and sparkly Broncos on the arm, and the pops of color.
Savanna: 6.700
Design 1.4/3, Construction 1.4/2, Concept & Identity 2.0/2, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
This is an interesting design. The colors and the “Broncos” on the sleeve are an immediate nod to Boise State, but why does the front design almost look like overall straps? I would’ve liked this so much more without those two straps. Keep the middle and let the chevron sparkle pattern continue and this would be my favorite of the weekend.
Emma: 6.00
Design 1.2/3, Construction 1.4/2, Concept & Identity 1.5/2, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
I appreciate the athletic vibe that this leotard was going for, but overall this one just doesn’t work for me. The text on the right sleeve is quite distracting, and so is the chevron rhinestone design on the chest and back. I wish this leotard had kept it a bit more simple, perhaps with scattered rhinestones instead of linear designs.
Sara: 6.000
Design 1.5/3, Construction 0.9/2, Concept & Identity 1.5/2, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
I appreciate the idea of a different look to a leotard but the orange strappy part in the front over the all blue looks like a version of a construction vest lines you would see in the summer. That part makes this leo stand out in a rather interesting way and I’m not a fan. That being said, I like the “Broncos” part that goes down the right sleeve for a cool addition of school spirit but not the best design I’ve seen from Boise State.
Penn State: 6.450
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.600
Design 2.1/3, Construction 1.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.6/2, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
I’m not normally a fan of combining white and pink, but this is really nice. I like the shape of the bodice, the shade of pink on the arms, and the subtle ombre. The pink and silver rhinestones tie everything together well. And as for the back, again, I typically don’t like fabric under straps, but when it’s contrasting colors like this, I can get on board.
Savanna: 7.200
Design 1.8/3, Construction 1.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.4/2, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
This is a fun new pink design for Penn State! I like how the white is incorporated in and the ombre pink on the sleeves. I’m not a fan of the white collar, I wish it would’ve been pink instead. My biggest complaint is the back. I like the strappy back, but I don’t personally see the need for the pink mesh. I do love the “Penn State” in pink cursive though, so that gives it some more points back for me.
Emma: 5.000
Design 1.3/3, Construction 0.9/2, Concept & Identity 1.3/2, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
The pink and white complement each other very well and are well incorporated into the sleeves and rhinestones. Otherwise, I feel that the awkward neck design and lack of sparkle makes this leotard visually unappealing. I will say that this leotard looked really nice in competition and the back is very flattering. I usually don’t like chunky back straps, but they actually work on this leotard in pairing with the pink mesh.
Sara: 6.000
Design 1.6/3, Construction 0.9/2, Concept & Identity 1.3/2, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
While I give credit to Penn State for using white and pink together, it is not doing much for me. I like the little rhinestones on the front but the strappy back is weird along with the small keyhole at the top. The ombre pink sleeves are a nice addition to the leo but that’s about all I really love about this leo.
Utah: 4.600
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 4.000
Design 0.8/3, Construction 0.6/2, Concept & Identity 1.0/2, Overall Appearance 1.6/3
I love the velvet and the shade of red. I do not love the way the front bra part does not extend to the back, as well as how the two nude cutouts under that faux bra aren’t symmetrical. The latter of those complaints honestly ruins the whole leo for me. It’s such an easy thing to have done right, but quality control really failed here. I also wish the sleeves and cutouts were white mesh rather than nude. Nude elements on leos feel sort of dated in 2026.
Savanna: 5.500
Design 1.1/3, Construction 1.2/2, Concept & Identity 1.5/2, Overall Appearance 1.7/3
I’ll start with the positives. I love the sparkles and the keyhole back. Those are really the only things I like about this. The nude at the midsection is not my personal favorite, I would’ve liked this so much more if it was solid red and the “U” was more in the middle instead of at the collar. This had so much potential and it didn’t quite match my expectations.
Emma: 5.300
Design 1.0/3, Construction 1.0/2, Concept & Identity 1.5/2, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
Meh. I hate nude cutouts on leotards, and this one is no exception. I wonder if I would like this more if the nude was replaced with white mesh, but I feel that the overall design of this leotard doesn’t look great in motion. I will say that I am in love with the back of this leotard, especially the rhinestones surrounding the open back.
Sara: 3.600
Design 0.6/3, Construction 0.8/2, Concept & Identity 1.2/2, Overall Appearance 1/3
If this Utah leo was fully red down the front with no mesh cutouts in the middle I’d like it a lot more. The back is fine to me with the “Utah” in the middle but the overall design with the U is not it. The nude mesh is ok at the top but this is a weird concept for a leotard.
Fan Poll
Congrats to Missouri for winning last week’s fan poll! Vote for your favorite design from this week here.
READ THIS NEXT: NCAA Gymnastics Power Rankings: Perfect 10s
Judged by Elizabeth Grimsley, Savanna Wellman, Emma Hammerstrom, and Sara Finkelstein
