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All the legs who have come before us - have led the way.

Oh what a journey it's been.


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In 1835, "gymnastics trousers"

Women's pants started emerging, but they were often worn under heavy skirts and other layers.

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We'd say these are the "OG poofy shorts", worn by Fanny Blankers-Koen who won four gold medals at the 1948 Olympics in London. With a nickname like "The Flying Housewife" - did she also have to carry a frying pan?

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In the 1960's, shorts or briefs became more form fitting - and fabrics began to improve, though most were still made from cottons or canvas. Bare shoulders also became more acceptable.

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Wilma Rudolph, the first American woman to win three gold medals in track and field at a single Olympics, competing in high waisted short shorts, signature to the 1960’s.

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Mary Rand, the first British woman to win an Olympic gold medal in track and field, Tokyo Games in 1964. 

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In 1980, Marita Koch of East Germany, carries the baton. Synthetic materials, including polyester, came to rise in '80's - both on the track and in other exercises, such as aerobics and jazzercise

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In 1984, the U.S. Olympic uniforms were made by the Italian company, Kappa. It's what Joan Benoit was wearing when she won that incredible first women's marathon in Los Angeles.

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Today: Long shorts, short shorts, mid-shorts. Capris, long tights, loose pants, competition briefs. The options are infinite, as are the preferences.

What empowers you? Discover it. Wear it. Your legs know the way...

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Allyson Ely