Really clever reason behind why some Olympians are wearing all black while competing

The uniforms that Olympic athletes put on to try and win a gold medal can be extremely eye-catching.

Just look at the Team USA leotards worn by the female gymnasts, with each competitors set encrusted with 47,000 Swarovski crystals.

But some have opted for a simpler approach to that chosen by the American gymnastics team, with each leotard valued at roughly $3,000 (£2,300) each if you were to buy them on the open market.

Instead of such fancy gear, a whole load of athletes are opting to wear plain black. But there is a reason for this that goes beyond just wanting a simple set up when competing.

One company is behind the black uniforms, and that is Bandit Running.

The firm's outfits are meant to be understated and almost dismissible - but they have a hidden purpose that you might not know about.

Social media influencer Jake Heyen posted a video over on YouTube Shorts that explained why athletes often 'dress head to toe in branded gear', during Olympic events.

But those who have opted to go for an all black look are doing so in support of a campaign close to the Bandit Running heart.

Trevor Bassitt wears an all black unbranded singlet as a part of the Bandit Running’s Unsponsored Project (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Known as the Unsponsored Project, the athletes wearing the plain garb shows that they are competing not just to try and win gold, silver or bronze at the Olympics.

On top of that, these athletes are after potential sponsorship deals to fund their dreams going forward.

Jake's video said that while they could wear regular clothing with brands and logos on them, doing this would be a free advert for these brands.

Asking why this is something athletes should take on board, Jake hypothesised: "When they make history, who reaps a big reward for free? So Bandit made gear for these athletes to wear that is completely unbranded.

"But the purpose isn't to stick it to these big brands. Instead, it's about empowering these athletes to assert their independence and send a message to brands - 'Hey, I'm unsponsored, I just made history, who wants me now?'"

Jake explained that athletes should be doing this as often as they can as it brings about 'money in the pockets of these athletes from future deals, and exposure for Bandit, despite not having their logo plastered on this gear'.

In the comments section, one viewer wrote: "This is one of the coolest things ever. It's rare you see a company take the time and money to give back to the sport and the people that make the sport popular.

"Wish we had more companies like this."

Another posted: "Smart ass move by Bandit, whoever came up with this idea needs a huge raise / promotion."