For male dancers, finding dancewear that truly supports their movement and confidence has often been a challenge. Limited options and ill-fitting designs have long been the norm. Now, a new Australian brand, Gents Active, is stepping in to change that narrative. Founded by former ballet dancers Gabriel Rogers and Daniel Gaudiello, Gents Active offers a meticulously designed range of dancewear specifically for men, prioritising quality, function, and expression. Dance Australia sat down with the founders to discuss their vision and what sets Gents Active apart.
The inspiration for Gents Active stemmed from a shared observation: the significant gap in the market for dancewear tailored to male dancers. “We wanted to offer more variety, more functionality, and more freedom of expression,” explains Gabriel. “Our goal was to create garments that male dancers could feel proud and confident wearing, rather than having to settle for limited options not made with them in mind.”
As former dancers themselves, Rogers and Gaudiello experienced the frustrations firsthand. “A couple of the major issues were transparency — Lycra that went see-through, poor durability, or cuts that just didn’t support or flatter a male physique,” Daniel recounts. “We’ve experienced these problems firsthand and wanted to change that.” Their design process is deeply rooted in innovation, focusing on “function, feel, and form — how the garment supports movement, how it feels on your body, and how it looks in motion.”
The name "Gents Active" itself carries significant meaning. “‘Gents’ represents confidence,” Gabriel shares. “It’s about standing tall in an art form that still comes with stereotypes, and encouraging bold, expressive, fearless men to thrive in this space. Elegant, strong, and unapologetic.”
Gents Active's philosophy centres on “the essentials” - the core pieces male dancers need for their daily training, rehearsals, and performances. This includes tights, short tights, bike suits, shirts, socks, and underwear, all designed to integrate seamlessly across various movement styles.
Their extensive combined experience as dancers profoundly informed the specific cuts and designs. “We were always very particular about what we wore, how it fit, stretched, supported, and looked,” Daniel explains. “Gents is about guiding dancers through that process, empowering them with garments that are technically strong and personally expressive.”
A cornerstone of the Gents Active range is their commitment to “ultra-durable high-stretch fabrics with reinforced stitching.” The development process involved rigorous testing to find materials that offered the right feel, strength, and support. Their GT 1.0 range, for instance, features Italian Lycra with 86% recycled materials and reinforced seams, built to withstand the demands of classical training. “The development was trial and error, but also driven by inspiration — we drew from motorsports, tailoring, and the traditions of ballet to create something that felt elevated and purposeful,” Gabriel reveals.
Beyond functionality, aesthetics play a crucial role. “It’s incredibly important,” Gabriel emphasises. “We want men to feel strong and expressive in what they wear. Our colour palette and design lines are informed by masculinity — but we don’t see that as limiting. We want young male dancers to feel confident and bold, but also free to explore and experiment with their identity through movement and style.”
The GT 1.0 range boasts a unique blend of inspirations, drawing from 70s motor racing, surfing, and free-diving. These seemingly disparate influences translate into dancewear that is both stylish and performance-driven. “The side piping on our tights is a direct nod to racing stripes on vintage cars, while the fitted silhouette channels 70s surf and dive suits,” Daniel illustrates. “These influences may seem unrelated, but they all share a focus on performance, precision, and aesthetics — qualities that align perfectly with dance.”
Gents Active stands firmly against fast fashion, with sustainability and ethical production at its core. The use of premium Italian Lycra made with recycled materials and local Australian production were crucial from the outset. “Sustainability isn’t a trend for us; it’s a responsibility,” Gabriel asserts. “By using premium recycled materials and keeping production local, we’re supporting ethical practices while delivering a product we can truly stand behind.”
The brand's small production run model allows for unparalleled quality control. “Small runs mean greater control,” Daniel notes. “We can keep a close eye on every detail — from the stitching to the fit — and make sure each piece reflects our standards.” This approach also fosters agility, allowing them to respond quickly to feedback and build a strong community around the brand.
Gents Active views their dancewear as “creating tools for movement.” The GT 1.0 range is designed to empower male dancers by providing garments that feel like a second skin, offering freedom of movement, necessary support, and durability to match the rigours of a professional dancer’s day.
Being handmade in Australia by skilled artisans is central to Gents Active's identity. “We’re proud to be supporting local industry at a time when Australian manufacturing needs it most,” Gabriel states. While acknowledging challenges like higher costs and longer lead times, he highlights the immense payoff: close collaboration with makers, strong relationships, and a product that carries a story and trust.
Looking to the future, Gents Active is a “living project,” constantly evolving and expanding based on customer feedback. Plans include new ranges, performance lines, and further building their community.
Ultimately, Rogers and Gaudiello hope Gents Active will have a profound impact on the male dance community globally. “We’ve already seen the beginnings of a shift, a wave of confidence and unity forming around the brand,” Daniel shares. Their goal is to connect male dancers worldwide, offer them superior choices, and create a space where their stories are shared and celebrated. “We want to break down the taboos, educate families, and champion what it means to be a male dancer — with strength, vulnerability, and pride.”
Their advice to male dancers seeking supportive dancewear is clear: “Know your body. Pay attention to how garments make you feel: what enhances your lines, what fits your style, and what gives you the confidence to perform. Think like a professional, even if you’re just starting out.” They also encourage connection within the wider male dance community, as a wealth of experience and knowledge exists.
The Australian dance community has embraced Gents Active with open arms. “The response has been incredibly encouraging,” Gabriel confirms, citing positive feedback from professionals, students, and even other brands. “There’s a real sense that the industry is ready for this, for better options and more inclusivity in men’s dancewear.”
Dancers in Australia can discover the full Gents Active range online or Instagram and at select retail outlets, including their biggest partner, Step by Step in Queensland.