When the college gymnastics season rolls around, some fans are excited for perfect 10s while others look forward to difficult skills and fun choreography. But we’re not going to lie. While those things are great, we love the leos most of all. And so, we’re back for another season of leotard rankings!
Each week we’re analyzing new designs to find our weekly faves. As always, leos can earn up to three points for design, up to one point each for fabric, sparkle, school spirit, and uniqueness, and up to three points for overall appearance. This week Claire B, Katherine, Tara, and Aaron are joining editor-in-chief Elizabeth for judging. And, reminder that each season we save all the NCGA and USAG new team leos to judge together at the end of each division’s respective postseason, so be on the lookout for our thoughts on those then!
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!
Michigan State: 9.140
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 9.400
Design 2.8/3, Fabric 1.0/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
Michigan State rarely misses, and they didn’t here either. I love the body the most. The fabric paired with the shade of green paired with the almost corset-like design all work really well together. Normally I wouldn’t like a shoulder design like we see here, but it works so well with the rest of the leo. Plus, A+ for school spirit on the back.
Claire B: 8.400
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I’m generally not a fan of the bustier look, but this works really well. No one has a stronger ombre game than the Spartans! I’m also glad to see the return of the greek key pattern.
Katherine: 9.600
Design 2.9/3, Fabric 1.0/1, Sparkle 0.1/1, School Spirit 1.1/1, Uniqueness 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
This is just about perfect for me. I liked that the reveal video was with the throne and cloaks, because it does give a really medieval feel with the front pattern; I’m seeing stained glass. I also like how MSU has been leaning into the Greek element of the Spartan motif with that subtle swirly design; we saw it on the last new leo, too. There is simply no better leo team than MSU in the NCAA right now.
Tara: 8.500
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
OK, MSU! I’m absolutely in love with the front. Between the V and the sparkle pattern, it’s amazing. The Spartan logo on the back is a little big for my liking, but I respect it and it definitely tells me it’s a Michigan State leo.
Aaron: 9.800
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
I really like this leotard! Michigan State definfitely had a vision and it came to life. The leotard gives the effect of the belt with its V shape around the waist, but it is executed much better. This is definitely one of the better leotards from conference championships!
Temple: 8.940
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 9.700
Design 3.0/3, Fabric 1.0/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 3.0/3
LOVE. The asymmetric, geometric design is fantastic, and the way the sparkle bursts come out of the corners is superb. I also adore the back. Temple is so good at leos and at doing something new and fresh with all of its designs.
Claire B: 9.600
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 2.9/3
I have yet to see a Temple leo that I don’t absolutely love! The choker collar looks uncomfortable but is gorgeous, so I’ll call it a net neutral. That’s it. That’s my only critique. This is fabulous.
Katherine: 8.300
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
Love when Temple leans into the cherry part of the Cherry & White! This is a great shade of red that pops, the sparkles coming together at the end of the segments are so pretty, and the collar is everything. Elsewhere in this piece I mention a team that I feel is the single best at turning out leos, but if we were making top five lists, Temple would be on mine.
Tara: 9.000
Design 2.8/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
HELLO, Temple! I love just about everything about this. The asymmetrical geometric design paired with the sparkles is lovely, and the red and white look is classy. The open back is nice, too, but the front is really the star of the show.
Aaron: 8.100
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
I love the rhinestones on the neck and the openings in the back. I think the amount of sparkles is perfect, but I’m not a huge fan of the geometrical design.
Clemson: 8.460
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 8.500
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I think this is my favorite Clemson leo of the season. It’s bold but not over the top, something a lot of the other Clemson designs are, in my opinion. I love the tiger stripes on the sides, and the otherwise simple design. Plus, the sparkles really seem to pop.
Claire B: 9.200
Design 3/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.9/3
Surprise, surprise, I love the sporty, sparkly Clemson leo! I’m fairly certain the tiger stripe cutouts are an homage to the iconic Tiger Brotherhood statue that sits outside Littlejohn, which is a thoughtful enough detail to make me overlook all the mystique fabric.
Katherine: 8.000
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
Love an all-orange moment! It’s very similar to Auburn’s from last season, but I feel like this one is even more spirited because of the bolder tiger stripes on the sides. The “Team Zero” is also a nice touch, and it will be a great memory of how the program started when future teams don the design.
Tara: 7.800
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
Maybe my favorite Clemson leo of the season! The tiger pattern is present without being overbearing. The all-orange look is bold but works, and it has a good amount of sparkle.
Aaron: 8.800
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.1/1, Overall Appearance 3/3
I really like this! It reminds of an Auburn design, which I also loved immediately when they wore it for the first time last year. Since it is is so similar to that one, I rated the uniqueness on the lower end.
Arizona State: 8.120
View images and a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 8.500
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
Arizona State is the gold GOAT. It just does it so, so well. This design is so regal but in a fierce way, which is exactly how I picture Sun Devil gymnastics. The shade of red paired with black and gold is just chef’s kiss.
Claire B: 8.300
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I almost never like chest holes, and this one is no exception. That’s really my only complaint, though. The maroon and black ombre is fabulous, and the gold scallops throughout are just too cool.
Katherine: 8.000
Design 2.1/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I don’t love the chest hole, but everything else about this is great. It’s a very majestic design; I feel like a lot of teams try to name designs “Wonder Woman,” but if any leo was going to earn that moniker, it would be this one.. It does feel a bit repetitive, but as Elizabeth said, there’s no team that does gold better. I guess if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Tara: 6.800
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
Arizona State has mastered the use of gold over the past few years. I love the ombre and how the rhinestones frame the logo in front. This would be a slam dunk if it didn’t have a chest hole.
Aaron: 9.000
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
This leotard screams Arizona State. It is very flattering on the gymnasts, but I am not a big fan of the gold belt. The mesh sleeves with the gold wrapping around the arms are my favorite part.
Kentucky: 7.980
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 8.400
Design 2.6/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
I loooove the way the blue fabric looks like water. That flowy design in turn works really well with the diagonal back straps and asymmetric design. A good one from Kentucky!
Claire B: 9.200
Design 2.7/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 3/3
I love the risks Kentucky has taken with its leos this year, and this is the best of the bunch. The blue marbling is used to perfection, and I cannot get over that amazing back! Other teams take note: This is how you balance multiple strong design elements.
Katherine: 7.700
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
So many bright blue and white leos this week. This one and UCLA’s are my favorite. It’s a beautiful pattern; no issue with that at all. However, I wish the back was a strappier design rather than two straps going the same direction; I just don’t love that look.
Tara: 7.500
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
I love the front of this! It feels like an elevated version of Kentucky’s new leo from last season. I don’t love using the front pattern fabric for the back or the straps being asymmetrical, but that’s my only complaint.
Aaron: 7.100
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
This leotard has a lot of potential, but the risk they took did not pay off. I am not of fan of the slanted straps on the back and the difference between the sleeves. If both sleeves were white, my rating of this leotard would be much higher.
Iowa State: 7.940
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.900
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
I’ve been really impressed with the AMG era of leos that started this season. This design is relatively simple in concept, but it works so well at incorporating all of Iowa State’s school colors with a fun design without going overboard.
Claire B: 7.800
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
This isn’t the weekend’s most revolutionary design, but it’s a solid one that’s elevated by the attention to detail. I also appreciate how different this is from the other new leos we’ve seen from the Cyclones this season. It’s great to see Iowa State looking so sharp (both leo- and gymnastics-wise).
Katherine: 8.500
Design 2.6/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
This is my favorite Iowa State leo in a minute. The designs we saw under the previous coaching staff tended to be very repetitive with almost zero incorporation of yellow ever, so it’s cool to see that here and in such a nice V pattern. It looks great!
Tara: 7.000
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
I love how the black bottom makes the rest of the design pop. The red chest paired with the inverted V sparkles and the introduction of yellow rhinestones is nice. The “Iowa State” on the back is a good touch as well.
Aaron: 8.500
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I really enjoy the V-like design with the rhinestones on the front! I also like how they incorporated a bit of blue and purple tones in. One aspect of this leotard that I do not like is how the bottom is entirely black. It gives the illiusion of a belt, which I am not a huge fan of.
Maryland: 7.820
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.900
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
This is giving turtle shell realness! Look, I don’t know if the back straps are intended to look like a terrapin shell design, but I’m going to believe it until proven otherwise. I actually really like the rest of the design, too. The sleeves are really nice, and the front isn’t so busy that it takes away from the other more elaborate elements.
Claire B: 8.200
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 8/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 8/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
Nobody correct me if this isn’t actually a turtle shell-themed leo, because I want to believe! The relative simplicity of the design as a whole lets the big elements—the back and sleeves—pack a major punch.
Katherine: 8.200
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
There are a lot of subtle touches here that make this design great. I like how the sparkles that make up Maryland transition from silver to red in the middle then back to silver. The criss-cross sparkles on the sleeves are pretty; I like that they go up the entire sleeve, rather than just adorning the wrists. And of course, the turtle shell back is so clever. This is a B1G winner for me.
Tara: 7.800
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
This is simple yet elegant. From the sparkles to the turtle-like back and ombre sleeves, everything is great. Well done, Maryland!
Aaron: 7.000
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
I love the back! I didn’t realize at first that it was meant to emulate a turtle shell, and I’ve never seen any other team do something like it. I also love the black and red, but I am not a fan of belts at the waist, which brings down some points in the design category.
Iowa: 7.760
View a video of this leotard here and images of the front here.
Elizabeth: 8.300
Design 2.6/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
Yes, Iowa! I love matte white, I love black bodies, and I love pops of color. Iowa incorporating yellow in this way is just perfection. Plus, I like the angular sweetheart neckline, and the rhinestone design on the bodice.
Claire B: 7.900
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I don’t know why Iowa has suddenly decided to embrace yellow, but I’m so glad! This is another gorgeous offering. The neckline and thick back strap aren’t my favorites, but the design as a whole—particularly the yellow piping—is excellent.
Katherine: 7.600
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
After the yellow explosion in Iowa’s last design, of course any amount of yellow less than that is going to feel like it falls a little flat by comparison. But hey, at least it’s there. And as a whole, this is a nice design. The sparkles on the front make up a pretty pattern, and I always like a thick back band.
Tara: 7.000
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I didn’t love this at first, but it’s growing on me. The balance of colors is nice—the yellow is present without being overbearing. It’s elegant and different from a lot of other Iowa leos in a good way!
Aaron: 8.000
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.2/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
I’m a big fan of the white, yellow, and black colors that Iowa goes for! It’s very consistent in all of their leotards (except maybe the yellow part), which I like, but it brings down the uniqueness score for me. I also really like Hawkeyes written in cursive on the back strap.
UCLA: 7.600
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 8.700
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
I love everything about this except the secondary straps and how they come from the front of the design. I like how they look on the back, but I wish they were attached to the neckline rather than the front, if that makes sense. As for the body, it’s great and pairs well with the simple white sleeves.
Claire B: 7.100
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
There’s so much I really love about this leo. The watercolor of blues on the bodice complemented by crystals are phenomenal! The overly elaborate straps draw focus from that, though.
Katherine: 7.400
Design 2.1/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
This is an artistic and beautiful leo. I love the sparkly tendrils and how they get thicker the closer they get to the sides. What I don’t love as much is the back; the two straps are shaped kind of weirdly, and I’d much prefer a typical strappy look with as unique the front is.
Tara: 7.600
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
This is nice! I love the fabric pattern and how the rhinestones accentuate it. The straps aren’t my favorite, but they look better in motion.
Aaron: 7.200
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.2/1, School Spirit 0.3/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
This leotard looks great on the gymnast, but it is basic. The blue and white design is nice, but this leotard is lacking sparkle. I wish some blue and gold could have been incorporated into this leotard to embody more school spirit.
Missouri: 7.580
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.900
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
On first glance, I was underwhelmed, but this leo has really grown on me since. I love the shimmery gold belt, and the use of different sized and different colored rhinestones all over the top half of the design. Plus, I’m always a sucker for matte white.
Claire B: 8.700
Design 2.7/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
Love, love, love! This is such a simple yet elegant design, but the execution takes it to the next level. The variety of sparkles are the standout feature, though the shimmery gold belt is a close second. The tiger logo is actually the only thing that doesn’t work for me, and I can’t really tell you why.
Katherine: 7.400
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
It’s not the most exciting design, but it’s pretty. I like the tiny sparkles that make up the tiger logo, and the criss-crosses around it look cool too. I’m also generally a fan of matte white.
Tara: 7.000
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
This is good! I love the criss-cross sparkle pattern and how it frames the tiger logo. It’s simple yet elegant and not over the top. My only complaint is it reminds me of another existing Missouri leo.
Aaron: 6.900
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
This design isn’t the most eye catching, but it is definitely a solid leotard. I love the unique design of the sparkles in the front, which explains the high sparkle rating. One thing I do not like is the gold belt. The leotard could have been better off without it in my opinion.
Nebraska: 7.480
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.200
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
I really like this! It’s similar to some of Nebraska’s other leos, but I’m not complaining. The design on the front with the different shades of red is nice, and I love the simple strappy back. It’s classy without being over the top.
Claire B: 8.300
Design 2.7/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
I don’t always like sublimated designs, but this is beautifully done. I’m not sure if the motif is supposed to be corn or if my mind just automatically goes there because Nebraska, but either way, well done.
Katherine: 6.800
Design 2.1/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
Designs like these from Nebraska used to feel so unique, but I feel like I’m getting one just like it every time from the Huskers now. It’s pretty, but it feels predictable. I do like the design overall though, especially the subtle sparkles sprinkled on the shoulders.
Tara: 6.400
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
This isn’t my favorite Nebraska leo, but it’s a solid one. I especially love the criss-cross back and the ombre in the pattern.
Aaron: 8.700
Design 2.7/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
This leotard is unique for Nebraska, and the design and fit are very flattering. I also like the mesh sleeves and the crossed back. The colors scream Nebraska pride.
Oklahoma: 7.280
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.000
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I prefer Oklahoma’s more elaborate designs to its monochromatic ones, but I do have to admit, they look great in person. The back is my favorite element of this one, with the criss-cross back using the matte fabric.
Claire B: 6.900
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
There’s nothing ground-shattering here, but it’s a very simple (relatively speaking) and pretty leo that gets the job done.
Katherine: 7.400
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.4/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
This is fine, if not a bit boring by OU standards. I like the back with the cross straps and the sparkly OU. The front also has some nice sparkles too, but it feels like this is missing that extra it factor, especially considering the huge feat that was accomplished in its inaugural outing.
Tara: 6.800
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
This is solid but nothing super special. Oklahoma has an older leo that’s pretty similar to this, and I think this is an upgrade on that one. The sparkle pattern is nice and the criss-cross back elevates it.
Aaron: 8.300
Design 2.7/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.1/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I LOVE the design of this leotard. I wish some more colors would have been incorporated into the design, and it also looks very similar to other leotards we have seen from the Sooners. However, the fit is very flattering, and the amount of sparkle is perfect.
Denver: 7.280
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.200
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
It’s a bit boring, but it does the job it set out to do. I liked this way more in person than I did when seeing it in the teaser video. The sleeves work well: the red rhinestones really pop and I like the subtle pattern.
Claire B: 6.500
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
It’s exactly fine. Good crystals cover a multitude of sins, and I didn’t even notice the lace pattern when seeing this in person!
Katherine: 7.100
Design 2.4/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
I like the big, encrusted DU logo on the front, and the name on the back looks good, too. There’s not too many exciting elements about it otherwise, but I like it just fine. I think the only thing I’d change is the pattern on the sleeves, as it doesn’t fit with the rest to me.
Tara: 8.000
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.4/3
I love the deep inverted V look and the balance of white to crimson. I’m also a big fan of the use of red rhinestones—they really pop! There’s no denying it’s a Denver leo between the logo on the front and “Denver” across the back. I’m not a huge fan of the pattern on the sleeves, but it’s subtle enough you don’t really see it from far away.
Aaron: 7.600
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.1/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
I like the design, especially the bedazzled DU logo in the front. However, it looks very similar to an Oklahoma leotard, and it doesn’t necessarily stand out.
LSU: 7.160
View a video and images of this leotard here, and see the 2019 leo this design is based on here.
Elizabeth: 6.800
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I like the idea behind the concept, but the original design wasn’t my favorite in the first place. I don’t really like how a lot of LSU’s leos look so heavy for some reason. I think it’s the solid, shiny fabrics with mesh in weird places. On a positive note, I love the back here and how the two straps intertwine.
Claire B: 6.100
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
I appreciate the inspiration behind the design (even if it wasn’t my favorite leo), but there are just too many competing elements here. Full marks for the strappy purple and gold back, though.
Katherine: 6.700
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 1.0/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I definitely prefer this to the 2019 version; I think because of the darker colors. I could do without the gold line across the shoulders because I think that breaks up the design, but it’s a decent one from LSU.
Tara: 7.100
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
The way the fabric crosses in back is my favorite part of this. The front pattern isn’t bad, either, and it’s very LSU. I also love the gold stripe that extends to the arm. I feel like this could benefit from some non-mystique in areas so the design doesn’t look as heavy.
Aaron: 9.100
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
The design, fabric, sparkle, and school spirit on this leotard are perfect. It screams LSU, and I love it! However, it looks very similar to many of the other leotards that LSU has worn in the past.
Georgia: 7.140
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.900
Design 1.6/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
This looks like an elevated version of Cornell’s new leo from this season. It’s fine but nothing special, in my opinion. I like the front rhinestone design, and the back mesh panel. Otherwise, I’m lukewarm on it.
Claire B: 6.200
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.7/3
I’d like the back a lot better without the mesh panel. The logo is a fun throwback to the glory days, but the design as a whole just falls kind of flat.
Katherine: 7.300
Design 1.9/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
I actually thought of Utah’s Red Spider leo when I first saw this because of the pattern of the lines. This isn’t perfect (the mesh on the back feels like it was added as an afterthought), but it feels a little more elevated than Georgia’s usual. I also feel like the super G being red is a unique touch for the Dawgs.
Tara: 6.800
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I feel like Georgia debuted a similar leo earlier this season. I love the geometric design in the front, and the red accents are a nice touch. The back mesh panel confuses me, but this is nice otherwise!
Aaron: 8.500
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.8/3
I love this leotard! The big Georgia G is very pronounced amongst the black body, and the red accents are the perfect touch. The leotard might be a bit basic, but it is very flattering and it looks good overall.
Pittsburgh: 7.040
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 7.200
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I’m not a fan of the collar, but the rest is great; especially the use of yellow rhinestones, the shade of blue on the matte fabric, and the Script Panthers down the sleeve.
Claire B: 7.400
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
I like so much of this leo: That blue is so rich and provides a perfect contrast to the yellow and white crystals, the back is dramatic, and Panthers on the sleeve is a home run. However, that collar is a no-go.
Katherine: 7.700
Design 2.4/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
My comment on Pitt’s typical leos is the inverse of what we say about a lot of teams; the Panthers so often lean into yellow in their designs, so to see this subtle incorporation of it here by comparison is really cool. I love the script Panthers and the feather-like pattern of the sparkles on the front. Just about the only thing I could do without is the collar; I wish it didn’t have the little opening.
Tara: 6.600
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
The high neck is throwing this off for me. It’s relatively simple otherwise, but I love the sparkle pattern on the front, and the criss-cross back elevates the design.
Aaron: 6.300
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.3/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I am not a huge fan of the monochromatic look, especially with this shade of blue. The sparkles stand out in this design, but it lacks in in the other criteria. I am not a huge fan of the high neck, and it almost looks similar to the Team USA leotard that Simone Biles wore in the all-around final in at the 2023 world championships.
Michigan: 7.040
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.800
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
The pattern on the chest is very similar to last week’s new leo from Michigan, and once again I’m asking for a little yellow. This season is somehow the year Iowa remembered how to use yellow and Michigan forgot (don’t worry, I remember Michigan’s first new one from this season, hold your angry comments). As for the design, I like the front, as well as the shimmery look of the back mesh fabric and belt.
Claire B: 6.500
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.4/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
This is such a gorgeous look for Air Force!
Katherine: 6.400
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.4/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
The leo is pretty in a vacuum. The shades of blue are nice, I like the different patterns of sparkles, and the back is especially great with the V design; it looks very majestic. However, I have a hard time seeing how it connotes Michigan at all. If this leo were to be worn by an uncommitted athlete at an elite meet, I wouldn’t bat an eye.
Tara: 6.900
Design 2.3/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I feel like I should like it more than I do, but it’s still nice.The variegated blue gives it added dimension that it needs, and the back is nice. It doesn’t fully scream Michigan to me, though.
Aaron: 8.600
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 3/3
I love the look of ths leotard, but it is nothing special. I wish Michigan would have incorporated maize in, which resulted in a low school spirit rating. This leotard looks like it could be from other schools with blue school colors. Lastly, I typically am not a fan of the belt look on leotards, but this one is done well.
Auburn: 6.880
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 7.000
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
The mesh on the chest feels a bit thin and flimsy; I noticed that in videos of the leo in action. Apart from that, I love the arms and the drip design of the rhinestones on the belt. I also like the simple yet unique back.
Claire B: 5.700
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
Let’s start with the positives: The back and ombre sleeves are lovely, and the multicolored rhinestones provide some much-needed “wow!” Unfortunately, the front just doesn’t measure up.
Katherine: 6.100
Design 1.4/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
I’m not a fan of the front because I generally don’t like anything 3D on a leo (Auburn has famously been an offender of this very practice before). That’s a pretty glaringly bad element of the design for me, but it’s not unsalvageable; the ombre is great as usual, and I like the subtle incorporation of Auburn below the back hole.
Tara: 6.600
Design 1.9/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
When I first saw this, I didn’t even realize it was new. It reminds me a lot of another recent addition to the Auburn leotard collection. The ombre sleeves are my favorite part, and the rhinestone pattern is great too. I don’t love how the fabric crosses over in the chest area, but it’s a solid leo otherwise.
Aaron: 9.000
Design 3/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I really like this leotard. I love this bedazzled Auburn written on the back, and the mesh covering the shoulders and arms is very flattering. I also really like the three-quarter length sleeves.
George Washington: 6.780
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.100
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I am obsessed with the gold fabric on this design, but I don’t really care for the bodice design itself. It’s fine, but pretty stock-y. But those sleeves really elevate the whole thing.
Claire B: 4.800
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 0.4/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.0/3
I like the explosion of rhinestones on the front and the criss-cross belt, but that’s about it. The cutouts look like someone forgot to zip up.
Katherine: 6.800
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
It is a nice shade of gold here. The criss-cross sparkles around the chest are unique, and I like the front overall. I like it a lot more than the back; the long vertical opening doesn’t work for me.
Tara: 7.400
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
The rhinestone pattern on the front accents the fabric design well. The navy bodice with pops of gold is really drawing me in. I also love the rhinestone belt, and the back is solid.
Aaron: 7.800
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
I really like the design on the rhinestones on this leotard. The blue and gold are very well complemented and the rhinestones around the waist are flattering. I also love the opening in the back!
Northern Illinois: 6.680
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 6.700
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
This is a leo that I like more from far away but not as much up close, mostly because I’m not really a fan of lace. I love the sparkly husky on the front, though, and the relatively simple body and back outside of the pattern.
Claire B: 6.900
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance ⅔
The sublimated lace and faux straps don’t work for me, but I adore the bedazzled Husky and NIU logo. It’s also worth noting that the leo looks great from a distance and in motion.
Katherine: 6.600
Design 1.9/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
This is something different from NIU. I like the lace, but I think I’d have liked the whole thing better without the black lines on the front and back; on the back, especially, it feels like they make it too busy with the lace AND the detail of the NIU logo.
Tara: 5.700
Design 1.4/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.9/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall bc 1.5/3
I’d like this a lot more if the lace was substituted for another pattern or fabric; lace on leos just isn’t my cup of tea. That said, I love the incorporation of the husky on the front and the NIU logo on the back.
Aaron: 7.500
Design 2/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
I really like the bedazzled husky in the front, and it reminds me of a leotard Stanford came out with this year. Although this type of design seems to be a fan favorite, it’s becoming less and less unique, which brings it down on the uniqueness category. Also, I’m not a huge fan of the white belt at the waist.
New Hampshire: 6.680
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.100
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
It’s a different look for New Hampshire, but I like it! The matte white is nice, and I like the shade of blue-gray used on the bottom. I wish the sleeves and solid body didn’t have such a contrast and blended more, but overall it’s a good leotard for the Wildcats.
Claire B: 7.300
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.9/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.3/3
The V at the neck threw me at first, but this leo has grown on me. The color palette is gorgeous, and the crystal pattern is unexpected in a good way.
Katherine: 5.600
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
We saw a lot of matte white this week, and this was an OK iteration of it for New Hampshire. It’s just a little boring overall. Plus, the sparkles coming down to meet in the middle of the front kind of create the image of a vest, which isn’t my favorite, but the pieces overall work decently together.
Tara: 7.300
Design 2.1/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
When the teaser of this leo dropped, I was prepared to fully love this leo. It’s not as good as I thought it would be, but I still like it. The matte white combined with the blue is nice and the rhinestones give it needed pizzazz.
Aaron: 8.000
Design 2.4/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.1/3
I’m not a huge fan of leotards with white, but this one is well done. The shades of blue complement the white very well, and the amount of sparkles is nice. I really like the bedazzled “Wildcats” on the sleeve, but im not the biggest fan of the blue V below the beck.
Ohio State: 6.660
View images of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 7.600
Design 2.2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.9/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
This is funky, and I like it. Black and white pretty much always works for me, and I love the pops of red.
Claire B: 8.900
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 2.7/3
I’m obsessed with this. It’s so funky and unique while still being very Ohio State. The subtle pops of red are the perfect accent.
Katherine: 5.300
Design 1.4/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.4/3
I went back and forth on how I felt about this pattern. It’s very unique, but the lines are too straight and remind me more of something you’d see on wallpaper or art. Also, the way they bend around the O logo reminds me of an optical illusion in a bad way. The Buckeyes tend to step out of the box with their leos, but this one didn’t work for me.
Tara: 5.600
Design 1.6/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
I usually like geometric patterns on leos, but this is a little too busy. I like how it frames the logo, though, and the criss-cross back is a nice touch. Without the Ohio State logo, I may very well have assumed this was a Utah leo.
Aaron: 5.900
Design 1/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
The white pattern kind of reminds me of a maze, which I’m not sure is what they were going for. Despite that, it is very unique, and I really enjoy the bedazzled Ohio State logo on the front.
California: 6.560
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.400
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
I like it, but it’s pretty similar to California’s Bay Lights leo from last year. I also wish the back design wasn’t broken up by the zipper. I think a regular scoop back would have worked better here.
Claire B: 8.200
Design 2.4/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
The bodice ends a little abruptly, but I like this overall! The front is fairly nondescript, which allows the back to really sing. I’m guessing the design on the back isn’t supposed to be a pretzel, but that’s what I see and I’m not mad about it.
Katherine: 5.600
Design 1.6/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.4/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
I feel a little bad critiquing a leo claiming to pay homage to a certain thing about the school or area where the school is, but I wish there was more to show me how exactly this leo does that. Absent that, this design looks a little all over the place; they might have meaning, but the loops on the back don’t work for me at all. I also think the sparkles on the front look thrown on without much thought to them. I’m not a fan of this one.
Tara: 6.500
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
I love the front of this! The back is a little busy, but I’m pretty sure it has some kind of significance to the Bay Area, which is cool.
Aaron: 6.100
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.3/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.3/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
Overall, this is a nice looking leotard, but the pattern of the rhinestones is very uneven. The amount of sparkle is nice, but the design does not look very well made. California usually sticks with the dark blue color for their leotards, which looks nice but lacks uniqueness.
Arkansas: 6.540
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.500
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I’ll start with the positives: I love the use of different sized and shaped rhinestones. I also adore the back. What I don’t like is the colors and where they were placed. I don’t know if this was trying to mimic Wieber’s usual outfit, but on a leo it looks weird to me and a bit like a diaper. I think it would have worked better with a solid red body with white mesh sleeves.
Claire B: 6.800
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
I like the red half of the leo (especially the figure-eight back), and I like the white half of the leo (especially the studded belt), I just don’t like the two halves together. Full marks for the sparkles, though; I love the different sizes, and the pattern gives me “ugly Christmas sweater” vibes, which I realize sounds like an insult but isn’t. Promise!
Katherine: 6.600
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.9/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I want to love this, but I have to echo the diaper comparisons. It’s a bummer because the top is gorgeous; I love the different patterns of sparkles. Maybe it’s the sudden transition from red to white? If it had been ombre, I could see this being a slam dunk.
Tara: 7.000
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 1.0/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I want to love this, but it just doesn’t quite hit. That said, it’s still a nice leo! I love the rhinestone pattern on the front and the open back, and the balance of colors and fabrics works well.
Aaron: 5.800
Design 1/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 1/3
I absolutely do not like how the leotard is completely split between the red and white. It gives the appearance of a belt, which I am not a big fan of. However, the sparkles on this leotard are top notch, and I love the variation in shapes and styles of each rhinestone.
Central Michigan: 6.400
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 5.800
Design 1.6/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.6/3
I think I would have liked this more if not for the thick sleeve cuffs. I like the cut of the neckline and the rhinestone pattern on the sleeves, though.
Claire B: 6.300
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.4/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
This is fine, if a little heavy on the mystique, and just a bit clunky overall. I also had no clue which school this belonged to until I clicked on the link; I was surprised to learn it was CMU.
Katherine: 6.200
Design 1.9/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.4/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
This is nice but not very school spirited, which I feel like a lot of schools went hard on for their conference championship look. Overall though, it’s a tidy and a nice design. I like the waistband and sparkles along the back hole a lot.
Tara: 6.200
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.4/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
This is a nice leo from Central Michigan! It’s pretty simple overall, but the rhinestone pattern is nice and it has a good balance of colors.
Aaron: 7.500
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
The white is very bright on this leotard, which I’m not sure I am a fan of. The sparkles are great, as I prefer leotards with a lot sparkles. I rated the fabric on the lower end because I think it would look better if mesh had been incorporated into the sleeves.
Florida: 6.360
View an image of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.400
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I appreciate the attempt at using orange rhinestones to accent the design, but they pop zero percent. Because of that, I wish there was more orange. Otherwise, this is a fine leo, but it reminds me more of Kentucky than Florida (and even looked a lot like the Wildcats’ leo from this meet).
Claire B: 6.400
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
This is a very pretty (and very safe) design, but where are these alleged orange rhinestones? I zoomed in, and I still don’t see them.
Katherine: 6.400
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.8/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I had no idea the orange sparkles were orange. I’m all for a subtle accent, but if it’s basically invisible, what was the point of including it? Otherwise, the design is really pretty if not a bit boring.
Tara: 6.400
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
I like this, but it doesn’t scream Florida. The ombre is nice, and I enjoy the sunburst-esque pattern. It’s also not super sparkly, but the ones that are there are nice.
Aaron: 6.200
Design 2.5/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.3/1, School Spirit 0.4/1, Uniqueness 0.4/1, Overall Appearance 2.6/3
The overall appearance of this leotard is nice! It is very flattering, but it doesn’t embody Florida like many of its other leotards do. I am also a huge fan of the fabric on this leotard, and the blue and white color combination looks nice.
Alabama: 6.120
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 5.500
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
This reminds me of the old era of Iowa State leos. It’s fine, but it’s boring. It just doesn’t scream Alabama to me.
Claire B: 6.000
Design 2/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 2/3
“I know you can be overwhelmed and you can be underwhelmed, but can you ever just be whelmed?” I’m exactly whelmed.
Katherine: 5.500
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.5/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
I really don’t like this. It’s an intentional color, but I hate the cutouts on the front. And with the sparkle swirls and the mesh swirls shaped similarly but not quite matching up, it looks kind of haphazard and not put together.
Tara: 6.000
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
Elizabeth’s Iowa State comment made me realize what leo this reminded me of—an older Iowa State leo. I’ve been trying to pinpoint that since I first saw it! I like the V paired with the lines in front, and the sparkles in the back are lovely. There’s A LOT of mesh on the front, though, almost too much for my liking.
Aaron: 7.600
Design 2/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.1/1, Overall Appearance 2.5/3
I am a big fan of everything on this leotard except the long V neck in the front. I don’t think it is the most flattering, but the colors are nice and the sparkles are well done. It also isn’t very unique from what Alabama typically wears, and I wish it would branch out more from the crimson it always goes for.
Minnesota: 6.020
View a video of this leotard here and images here.
Elizabeth: 5.500
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
I like the back, but the white ombre on the front is weird and from far away, it draws my eye to the gymnasts’ stomachs, which I imagine isn’t the desired effect. Honestly, the overall look reminds me more of Central Michigan than Minnesota.
Claire B: 5.400
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 0.5/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.6/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
I appreciate Minnesota thinking outside the box, but there’s a weird textural effect going on where the rhinestones and white ombre converge that makes it look like they got a ton of chalk on a red leo instead of an intentional design choice. I do like the ladder effect on the back though.
Katherine: 6.500
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 2.2/3
I actually do like the white ombre on the front; it’s subtle and pretty. I also like the strappy back and how the sparkles from the front wrap around to it. I just would have liked to see a bit more school spirit from Minnesota aside from the colors; I feel like it usually leans into that quite well.
Tara: 5.700
Design 1.6/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.6/3
There’s too much going on here. The front ombre paired with the sparkles isn’t my favorite rendition of ombre. I do love the parallel straps across the open back, though.
Aaron: 7.000
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 1/1, Uniqueness 0.2/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
This leotard is nice, but doesn’t stand out from many of the other leotards we have seen from Minnesota. I appreciate the unique back, but personally I’m not a huge fan of the design there.
Penn State: 5.860
View a video of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.500
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 1.0/1, Overall Appearance 1.8/3
I should hate this—because lace and because ruffles—but I weirdly don’t. I don’t love it either, but it’s not really offensive. I think the ruffles work on the backstraps (versus on the body of the leo, ahem Auburn).
Claire B: 6.000
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.7/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.6/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.7/3
This is a solid effort from Penn State, it just doesn’t spark joy for me. I’m going to call this the Paradoxical Leo because my favorite parts—the faux lace and ruffles—are the things I don’t typically like in a design.
Katherine: 6.000
Design 1.7/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 1.7/3
I feel like artsy, floral patterns like these are really coming up in popularity in leos. This is a decent iteration of that from Penn State, but there’s a few elements that keep me from classifying it as “great” rather than just “good.” One of those would be the back straps; I like lace, but not that texture there. I also don’t love the scalloped lining on the chest.
Tara: 5.700
Design 1.5/3, Fabric 0.4/1, Sparkle 0.7/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.7/3
I don’t know who decided lace was the next leo trend, but it wasn’t me. Other than the lace and ruffly back straps, this is a nice leo. The deep V works well with the overall design, too.
Aaron: 5.100
Design 1/3, Fabric 0.1/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.5/1, Uniqueness 1/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
Like Claire said, I really appreciate the effort that Penn State put into this leotard. I have never seen another school wear one like it. I’m not a huge fan of the ruffles on the back straps, which explains the low fabric score for this leotard.
Utah: 5.780
View a video and images of this leotard here.
Elizabeth: 6.700
Design 1.9/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 2.0/3
Someone on Twitter said that the design reminds them of a seating chart when selecting seats for a concert or sporting event, and they’re so right. I like the concept, but I don’t think it was executed perfectly. Plus, the way the bottom-most back strap is sort of attached to the bottom but not really bugs me.
Claire B: 6.200
Design 1.8/3, Fabric 1/1, Sparkle 0.5/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
I love a good matte white leo, so the back works really well for me. That said, when I look at the front, all I can think of is the ASCII art we had to do in elementary school.
Katherine: 5.300
Design 1.2/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.6/1, School Spirit 0.7/1, Uniqueness 0.7/1, Overall Appearance 1.5/3
The U just being carved out of the sparkles, like someone took a U-shaped cookie cutter and removed it, is throwing me off; I think I’d prefer if it was outlined by a red or black line, or if it was just entirely red. The shape of the sparkles around it are a whole different issue—what even is that? This is a rare miss from Utah.
Tara: 6.900
Design 2.0/3, Fabric 0.6/1, Sparkle 0.8/1, School Spirit 0.8/1, Uniqueness 0.8/1, Overall Appearance 1.9/3
The back is definitely my favorite part of this. The straps pair well with the “Red Rocks” beneath them. I want to like the front more, but the execution isn’t quite there. It is a clever way to incorporate the U within the negative space of the sparkle design, though.
Aaron: 3.800
Design 1/3, Fabric 0.4/1, Sparkle 1/1, School Spirit 0.2/1, Uniqueness 0.2/1, Overall Appearance 1/3
I personally do not like white leotards, and this one would fall into that category. I do enjoy the large amount of sparkles, but it is also not very unique. Many schools wear white leotards that look very similar to this.
Fan Poll
Congrats to Utah for winning last week’s fan poll! Vote for your favorite design from this week here.
READ THIS NEXT: Winners and Losers of the 2024 NCAA Championships Draw
Article by Elizabeth Grimsley, Claire Billman, Katherine Weaver, Tara Graeve, and Aaron Doyle
As someone from the East Bay, I can confirm that the back of Cal’s design absolutely hits, although I definitely understand how people from outside the area would be unaware of the inspiration.