Choosing the right outfit for gymnastics helps your child feel comfortable, safe, and confident in class. This guide covers exactly what to wear—leotards, shorts, hair & accessories, boys’ outfits, and what to avoid—plus budget picks and pro tips from a former judge and coach.
🔎 Looking for practice leotards only? See our full guide:
Best Leotards for Gymnastics Practice (comfort, fit & budget).
Best Outfit for Gymnastics (Quick Answer)
- Girls: Leotard (tank), optional fitted shorts, hair secured, no jewelry.
- Boys: Fitted tee + shorts; no zippers/snaps.
- Shoes: Barefoot for better grip.
The “proper” gymnastics attire for girls is a leotard. You can buy leotards online, at local gymnastics/dance stores, and sometimes big-box retailers. For more buying tips, see where to buy leotards online. Younger gymnasts are usually fine in just a tank leo; older gymnasts often prefer a leo + shorts.
Jump to:
Toddlers (2–5) •
Young Beginners •
Ages 6–8 •
Tweens & Teens (8+) •
Boys •
What Not to Wear •
FAQ
What to Wear to Gymnastics by Age
What to Wear: Gymnastics Outfit for Toddlers (Ages 2–5)
Girls ages 2–5 usually wear a leotard with hair pulled back in a ponytail or bun.
Girls
Leotard or Biketard
A unitard/biketard (shorts attached) can be comfier for toddlers who wear underwear or a diaper. Tank leos also work—occasional underwear peek is normal at this age.
Hair Pulled Back
Use soft elastics/scrunchies; avoid hard clips.
Boys
Shorts & T-Shirt
Choose snug, comfy pieces with no snaps, zippers or buckles that can catch on equipment.
| Item | Sizes | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friend-Chip Goals Leotard |
CXXS (3x) – CXL (12) | Soft, donut print toddlers love. | $34.99 Check Price |
| Nude High-Cut Seamless Briefs |
Kids 3–5 – Adult L | Seamless, high cut. Optional under a leo. | $24.99 Check Price |
More toddler favorites:
Gymnastics Outfit for Young Beginners
Leotard: Tank leos are most popular at this stage.
Hair: Ponytail, bun, or braid; keep it out of their eyes.
Jewelry: None, except small studs.
What to Wear: Outfits for Ages 6–8
| Item | Sizes | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorblock Leotards |
CS – AS | Buttery soft & comfy; coral, ocean, plum. | $39.95 |
| Nude High-Cut Seamless Briefs |
Kids 3–5 – Adult L | Optional under leo; seamless & discreet. | $24.99 Check Price |
| Destira Compression Shorts |
Child XXS (3x) – Adult XL | Great over a leo for comfort/modesty. | $28.00 Check Price |
More picks for young gymnasts:
- DIY Decal Leotards
- Holographic Tie Dye Burst Leotard
- DIY Tie Dye Leotards (multi)
- Colored Stripes Leotards
Gymnastics Outfit for Tweens & Teens (8+)
Support: Many tweens/teens add a low-profile racerback sports bra under their leo.
Shorts: Helpful for comfort/modesty over a leo.
Hair: Secure bun/pony/braid.
Jewelry: None beyond small studs.
| Item | Sizes | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tie Dyin’ Love Leotard |
CS – AS | Soft tie-dye with heart detail. | $34.95 |
| Nike Racerback Sports Bra |
XS – XXL | Low-profile, multiple colors. | $27.50–$45.90 Alt option |
| Destira Compression Shorts |
Child XXS – Adult XL | Stay-put coverage over leos. | $28.00 Check Price |
| USA Rhinestone Grip Bag |
One size | Tie-dye with rhinestones. | $25.95 |
| Bailie Beginner Dowel Grips |
XXS – L | Easier break-in; more bar feel. | $34.95 Check Price |
| Work Hard Dream Big Backpack |
One size | TONS of pockets + shoe compartment. | $39.95 Check Price |
| Mindset & Meet Journal |
N/A | Mindset work + meet logs. | $25.95 |
What should boys wear to gymnastics class?
Boys: Fitted t-shirt or singlet with athletic shorts. Avoid zippers/snaps/buttons. Practice is typically barefoot.
Should you wear underwear under a leotard?
Personal preference. If your gymnast prefers it, choose seamless, nude, high-cut briefs that sit cleanly under the leo.
What Not to Wear to Gymnastics
- Baggy clothes, skirts, or loose drawstrings
- Zippers, snaps, or buttons that can catch on equipment
- Jewelry (stud earrings only)
- Socks (slippery on apparatus)
Other Things to Think About
- Bare Feet: Most gyms are barefoot for grip.
- Glasses: Use a sports strap (example).
- Hair: Tie back securely. For inspo: gymnastics hairstyles.
Want our best practice leotard picks?
We tested for comfort, fit, fabric, and budget. Read the deep-dive:
Best Leotards for Gymnastics Practice.
FAQ: What Should My Child Wear to Gymnastics Class?
What’s the best outfit? A tank leotard (optional fitted shorts), hair secured, no jewelry. Boys wear a fitted tee with athletic shorts; barefoot is typical.
What about socks/shoes? Usually barefoot for grip unless your gym says otherwise.
Cold weather? Layer a fitted top over a leo; avoid bulky sweaters.
Long torso? Check brand size charts; consider sizing up or trying brands known for longer torso fits.
Now that you’re ready for class, check out 10 Ways to Get the Most out of your Gymnastics Class!
View Comments (50)
My daughter starts today. She is only 5 yrs old and I have the least bit of idea what she should wear.
She should wear a leotard and she will be asked to take her shoes and socks of- which is known as being in bare feet
A Leo & gymnastic shorts is perfect for your little one hope she has fun!
what about me i am 13 but size of adult
My daughter starts today. She is only 5 yrs old and I have the least bit of idea what she should wear. I know the instructor said a leotard, but I also got a lilitard.
Hello.
I would buy a leotard for your daughter. remember when you get to the gymnastics class your daughter will be asked to take any jewellery out, and to take her shoes and socks of- to be in bare feet.
Where a leo or a t shirt and shirt or yoga Capri pants
Thank you SO much for this article!!!! My daughter is about to start gymnastics & i had no idea what she should wear or where to get it. Now i know. :)
So glad it was helpful! And hopefully she loves gymnastics!
Great site thanks
My daughter is a year and a half and is starting tumbling class. Does she need a leo or is there something else for a toddler to wear?
A Leo is probably the best option. You can find Leo’s at target for low prices. She could also wear a unitard. (Which are also available at target)
I agree leotard is better for females in my days it was navy blue pe knickers leotards were just catching on
In my experience a Leotard and leggings is the best thing to wear to a gymnastics class. Sports bras are not needed because the leo covers and holds a lot. Always bring water and a pair of comfy shoes! THx
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My boy (6 years) is really shy about going barefooted. Can he wear something or should I try to get him over the fear and do it in his barefeet?