The Best Leotards for a Sunburn (Trust Us, We've Been There)
Written by The Hall Closet Team
We’ve all been there—whether it’s a beach day gone too long, a pool party with forgotten SPF, or just too much time in the sunshine—suddenly you're left with a bright red burn and a packed gymnastics schedule. If you’ve ever tried to pull on a scratchy leotard over sunburned shoulders, you know the struggle is real. But don’t worry—we’ve tested the worst of it (so you don’t have to), and we’re here to share our top picks for the most sunburn-friendly leos out there.
🌞 Our #1 Pick: Destira (Lycra Styles Only!)
When your skin is screaming for mercy, Destira’s Lycra-based leotards are here to save the day. These lightweight, ultra-smooth leos are gentle on sunburned skin, don’t cling too tight, and come in a huge variety of fun summer prints that make you forget you’re even hurting. From bold florals to beachy vibes and tie-dye explosions—Destira makes it easy to look cute and feel comfortable.
Just make sure you’re grabbing their Lycra styles—not all Destira leos are created equal when it comes to softness. Avoid their Mystique materials when your skin is sensitive.
Pros:
✔ Lightweight and breathable Lycra
✔ Super soft and stretchy
✔ Tons of fun, summery prints we LOVE
✔ Many styles with wide straps (less pressure on burns!)
Fun Fact: Destira also makes swimwear—perfect for gymnasts who spend just as much time in the water as they do on the beam.
🧈 Runner-Up: GymGear
If you’re looking for something ultra-soothing with a bit more weight, GymGear is your go-to. Their buttery soft fabric feels like heaven on sunburned skin. While they’re a little thicker (and warmer), that extra weight feels comforting—like a soft hug on your sore spots.
Pros:
✔ Buttery soft fabric = zero scratchiness
✔ No irritating seams or textures
✔ Supportive without being tight or restrictive
Watch out for: Their thickness means they run a bit warm—great for air-conditioned gyms, not ideal for outdoor training.
What to Avoid When You're Burned 🔥
Not all leotards are sunburn-friendly. Here’s what to skip until your skin’s back to normal:
🚫 Mistique and sparkly fabrics – Pretty, yes. Kind to your sunburn? Absolutely not.
🚫 Stone embellishments – Rhinestones and gems can scratch and irritate already sensitive skin.
🚫 Too-tight fits – Sunburn + tight seams = ouch. Go for stretchy, easy fits and even consider sizing up.
🚫 Criss-cross backs and strappy styles – The more seams and straps, the more potential irritation. Stick with smooth-back or tank styles.
🛍️ Pro Tip: Keep Some Upsized Leos on Hand
Sunburn days sneak up on us like a big sneaker wave—one minute you're carefree, the next you’re crispy. That's why we highly recommend keeping a couple of upsized, soft, sunburn-friendly leotards in your gym drawer. They’re perfect not just for burns, but also for growth spurts, period days, or those “nothing feels right” mornings.
🎯 Go check out the Hall Closet Marketplace and stock up now!
👉 Visit the Marketplace
Bonus Tips 🌼
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Ditch the bra liner—less fabric = less friction
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Bring a backup leo—changing mid-practice helps with comfort
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Toss some aloe spray in your gym bag—instant relief before or after class
Whether you’re sun-kissed or sun-toasted, comfort is key—and The Hall Closet has your back (literally) with the softest leotards from the best brands. Destira’s Lycra styles and GymGear’s buttery-soft fabrics are our top sunburn picks—but whichever you choose, remember: your skin deserves kindness.
Now go slay that summer (with SPF next time 😉)!
☀️💛
The Hall Closet – Gymnasts Gold Medal Gear