All about legwarmers

Does the legwarmer display at your local dancewear store give you bad 1980’s aerobics memories?  Do you ever think that dancers should just wear pants if their legs are cold?  In this post, I will give you a low-down on the real purpose of legwarmers in the dance world.

Legwarmers are most popular with ballet dancers, but contemporary/modern/lyrical and jazz dancers often wear them as well.  Legwarmers are a common accent to a dance outfit consisting of a leotard and tights.

The major function of legwarmers is not to be a fashion accessory or even just to keep the body warm.  First and foremost, legwarmers prevent injury.  Joints like ankles and knees can easily get hurt if they are not warmed up and lightly supported.  Most pants are not tight enough or long enough to protect both joints. 

Legwarmers are also supposed to be snug to the body so teachers and choreographers can still see the lines of a dancer’s body.  They often come in basic colors like ballet pink and black so they can be almost unnoticeable against a dancer’s tights. 

Of course, legwarmers have become a fashion accessory in addition to a functional garment.  Bright colors and patterns are common, and many dancers use legwarmers as a bright accent against a more subdued leo-and-tights combo.

If you are a student required to wear a uniform at your dance school, legwarmers may not be allowed.  However, if you have a mild injury to a knee or ankle, many instructors will allow a single legwarmer on the injured area instead of or in addition to a brace.  To be respectful of the dress code, choose a subdued solid color like black, ballet pink, or grey, and always check in with a teacher before wearing a warmer in class.