Finding the right crop top and shorts combo for dance class should feel exciting, not stressful. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Scout Active Purple Snake Skin range, from fit and fabric to sizing tips for dancers of every age.
What Makes the Scout Active Purple Snake Skin Range Stand Out
This range is built for movement. The purple snake skin print is bold without being distracting, and the fabric holds its shape through warm-ups, centre work and across-the-floor combinations. It photographs well under studio lighting too, which matters at eisteddfods and end-of-year performances.
The collection includes crop tops and shorts designed to be worn together or mixed with other active pieces. The colour palette works across jazz, contemporary, hip hop and acro disciplines. Browse the full Scout Active Purple Snake Skin range to see current stock and sizing.
How to Choose the Right Crop Top Fit
Crop tops for dance serve a different purpose than everyday activewear. They need to stay in place during high kicks, backbends and floor work. Here is what to look for.
- Choose a snug but not restrictive fit across the chest and underbust band.
- Check that the neckline sits flat and does not gap during arm extensions.
- Look for wide straps if the dancer is still growing. Narrow straps can slip mid-class.
- The hem should sit just above or at the natural waist, not ride up during jumps.
For younger dancers, sizing up one size in the crop top is often the right call. It allows room for growth without compromising coverage during movement.
Crop Top Sizing by Age Group
Scout Active sizing runs true to standard Australian dancewear sizing. Use the chest measurement as your primary guide, not age alone. A child who is tall for their age may need to size up, while a petite teen may find youth sizing more comfortable than adult XS.
- Ages 6 to 8: measure the chest and compare to the size chart before ordering.
- Ages 9 to 12: this is when body proportions change quickly. Reassess sizing each season.
- Teens and adults: the adult crop top gives more support across the bust and a longer torso length.
Choosing the Right Shorts for Dance Training
Dance shorts need to move with the body, not against it. The wrong fit through the seat or leg opening will distract a dancer mid-class and affect confidence.
- Shorts should sit securely at the waist without a drawstring digging in during floor work.
- The leg opening should allow full hip rotation without pulling.
- Look for a gusset panel or stretch insert at the inner thigh. This prevents seam stress during grand battements and splits.
- Fabric recovery matters. After washing, the shorts should spring back to their original shape without bagging at the seat.
The snake skin print shorts in this range are cut with a mid-rise waist, which suits most body types and stays put during movement. They pair cleanly with the matching crop top or can be layered over a leotard for classes that require modesty coverage.
Shorts Length: What Works for Each Dance Style
Shorter inseam lengths suit acro and jazz where leg lines are visible and judges or teachers assess turnout. A slightly longer short works better for hip hop or contemporary where movement is broader and less structured around pointed lines.
- Jazz and acro: choose a shorter inseam, around 2 to 4 cm.
- Contemporary and lyrical: a mid-length short or bike-length option offers more coverage during floor sequences.
- Hip hop: a relaxed short with a slightly lower rise can complement the style aesthetic.
Caring for Your Scout Active Pieces
Dance training gear takes a beating. Sweat, floor work and repeated washing will wear out fabric faster if you skip the care basics.
- Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle.
- Turn garments inside out before washing to protect the print.
- Avoid the dryer. Hang to dry in the shade to prevent colour fading.
- Do not use fabric softener on activewear. It breaks down moisture-wicking fibres over time.
Treated well, quality dance activewear lasts a full training year and beyond. Stock up at the start of term so you are not hunting for replacements mid-season.
Ready to put together a training kit? Shop the Scout Active Purple Snake Skin collection here and find the crop top and shorts combination that works for your dancer.
