Dancers are constantly on the move. From the moment you wake up to the second you go back to bed, from home to work, to class, you are in constant motion. For that, it’s important to stay comfortable and agile, and the right pair of dance leggings can do just that.
Leggings for dancing aren’t just for comfort. They provide freedom of movement, enhanced performance, and style. Their versatile designs and lightweight fabrics are a perfect fit for both practice and the big stage. From brightly coloured tights to stylish flared leggings, there is something eye-catching for every performer.
If you feel lost in the world of dance apparel, here’s a short guide to help every buyer find the ideal pair of leggings for dancing.
Why Do Dancers Wear Leggings?
Leggings are one of the most versatile clothing items, both in the dance world and in everyday style. They have played a significant role in the dance industry for multiple decades, starting as just a practical item for practice and evolving into stylish performance essentials.
Dancers and athletes began incorporating leggings into their wardrobes during the post-WWII fashion revolution. This was thanks to professionals needing tight-fitting pants that allowed them freedom of movement while performing difficult motions.
During the rise of jazz and disco in the late 70s and early 80s, leggings were no longer seen as just performance enhancers, but also as stylish accessories that elevated the dance experience. Artists such as Jane Fonda and Olivia Newton-John, in the movie Grease, played a significant part in turning leggings into the fashion statement they are today.
Over the years, popular brands started incorporating spandex fabrics into their designs, adding breathability and durability to their products. Now, leggings are a must-have item in every dancer’s bag. Whether you are going to ballet class or just trying out moves for fun, leggings are a great item to have for both practice and performance.
What Features Should I Look for in Dance Leggings?
Leggings are a generally easy clothing item to shop for. They are stretchy, soft, and light, making them a perfect fit for most dancers across many sizes. Still, when you are shopping, you want to find the perfect pair. One you can wear for a long time without the signs of wear and tear.
Here are some important features to look for:
1. Material
For fabric material, look for something stretchy and breathable. Materials such as nylon, spandex, Lycra, and various blends in between fit snugly around your legs without restricting your range of motion. Refer to your preferences towards moisture-retaining fabrics that prevent sweating and sticking to your skin.
2. Length and Fit
Just like jeans and most other styles of pants, leggings come in different lengths and fits. Different dance disciplines often use different fits of leggings as well. Flared for jazz and snug for ballet, choose your fit wisely. The same goes for length. You can select full-length, short, or knee-length leggings based on temperature and the rules in your studio.
3. Style
The material isn’t the only thing that makes a difference in the style of leggings. The type of finish also plays a significant role. You can find matte, shimmery, or metallic leggings, all based on the amount of attention you want to attract.
What Is the Right Pair of Leggings for My Style of Dance?
Just as there are dozens of different dance styles, there are also certain styles of leggings associated with each one.
Ballet
Ballet is sophisticated and elegant. For that, you need skin-tight, high-waisted, and oftentimes pastel-colored leggings. The leggings need to fit flat under the leotard and ballet skirt, without drawing attention away from them.
Hip-hop
Hip-hop generally offers freedom of choice. You can wear tighter leggings if you prefer, but most dancers wear loose or jogger-style leggings for easy and free movement.
Ballroom Dance
Ballroom is a dynamic dance discipline. Bootcut or flared leggings perfectly sway to the music and follow your every movement. You want something that will leave an impression and make your silhouette stand out.
Contemporary
Contemporary dance focuses on fast and elegant moves. You should choose neutral tones and seamless leggings that fit with the aesthetic and theme of the dance.
How to Care for Your Leggings the Right Way
Once you buy a pair, you want to make them last as long as possible. For this, you need to be familiar with all the ways to properly care for them.
Washing
Just like any of your regular clothes, you can wash dance leggings in the washing machine. Before you throw them in, turn them inside out to protect their colour and material. You should never wash your leggings at temperatures higher than 40°C, as it can damage their elasticity. Wash them with a softer fabric detergent that doesn’t use any harsh chemicals and with fabrics of similar materials and colours.
Drying
Leggings are made from elastic and light materials. You should avoid drying them in the electric dryer, as it breaks down their elasticity. Gently squeeze the water out of them before stringing them outside to dry on the clothing line or lay them away from strong heat and direct sunlight.
Maintenance Tips
Store your leggings folded, not strung on a hanger, to prevent the fabric from sagging. You don’t need to iron them as they are made from elastic material that can be damaged by heat. As you can get quite sweaty while dancing, wash your leggings every 2-3 wears.
Conclusion
Leggings are the ideal dance bottoms that fit the style and aesthetic of countless disciplines and training processes. Their versatility in design and material, paired with their durability, provides free motion even while performing splits or aerials. Dancing should be fun and freeing. You should always be comfortable and secure. Choose leggings for dancing for the ultimate dancing experience.
