A cheerleader’s pom poms are one of the most important parts of the cheerleading uniform. They are not only used as props in a routine or cheer, but they make the uniform stand out and shine. With so many colors and styles available it can be difficult to choose which style pom is best for your team. We’ve put together this guide to explain the differences in pom poms and help you in choosing the poms that are right for you.
Pom Pom Size
Most poms come in standard sizes of 4”, 6”, 8”, and 10”. This size refers to the length of each streamer strand from where it comes out of the handle. When considering the size of a pom, consider who will be using them, how they will be used, and what the desired effect is. In general, the younger the cheerleaders the smaller the pom should be. The most commonly used size is a 6” size which is perfect for schools and most cheering. However, if you have a choreographed routine or a special use, you may want to consider an alternate size. The 4” size pom is the lightest with the 6” size being fairly light as well. These poms are more easily carried which makes them great for younger cheerleaders and for fast paced choreographed routines. The 6” pom and the 8” pom are both well suited for school cheerleading as they are easy to carry and can be seen clearly from a distance, allowing fans to see them in the football field or on the basketball court. The 10” size is the largest. This pom is much heavier but is also more dramatic and the most eye catching.
Pom Streamer Width
Most pom poms are made of vinyl streamers which come in widths of either 3/4" (wide) or 3/16” (narrow), though some brands may offer variances in this sizing. The standard width for poms is 3/4”. These poms will have 1000 streamers and provide a fluffy ball shape. The 3/16” width has 3000 strands and has a longer, flowing look which also provides for more movement.
Pompom Handle
There are four main handle styles for poms: Baton, Hidden, Standard, and Block. Some companies have additional styles that are variances of these handles, however these are the most commonly found styles.
Baton: This is the most common handle. It is a single 3”-4”tube with strands coming out of both ends. The handle is not visible when in use and is recommended for any size of pom. Many companies keep Baton Handle poms as their in stock poms.
Hidden: These handles have a 1” dowel handle with a large elastic loop off the top. The handle is not visible when in use and is recommended for any size of pom.
Standard: This handle is a large plastic loop with a 2”-3” plastic tube through the middle of the loop. The handle is usually visible when in use and recommended for poms size 6” or larger.
Block: This handle has a block with a plastic loop on top. This handle is easy to grip but is heavier than other styles. The handle is usually visible and is recommended for poms size 6” or larger.
Plastic, Wet Look, Metallic, and Glitter Pom Poms
There are several different pom strand finishes that provide different looks. The following are the most common:
Plastic: Strands have a matte finish with very little shine.
Wet Look: Strand have a shiny finish, as though the strands are wet. The finish helps reflect light.
Metallic: Strands have a high shine look to them and reflect a lot of light.
Glitter: Metallic strands that are only 3/16” wide and are used to highlight the other colors and materials of the pom.
Pom Colors
What colors and how many colors should you choose for your pom? You can choose based on your school or team colors. You may also want to match the colors in your uniform or choose colors that contrast with your uniform so the poms stand out more. You may also want to consider how you want the poms to stand out or how they will work in your routine or cheers.
1-Color Poms: Great choice when you want to stick with basic poms that will be used year after year. You can match your uniform or go with a contrasting color. 1-Color poms also look great when choosing a non-matching pair. They come in nearly every color, are usually in stock, and require no special ordering.
2-Color Poms: Add a great splash of color when using two coordinating or contrasting colors.
3-Color Poms: 3 Separate colors can really stand out if chosen carefully, especially when the third color is a glitter color for accent.
Pom Pom Styles
There are many styles to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular.
Solid Pom Pons: One single color for all strands.
2-Color Mix Pom Poms: Mixture of two different colors of strands.
3-Color Mix Pom Poms: Mixture of three different colors of strands.
Solid with Glitter Pom Poms: Mixture of one color of strands mixed with another color of glitter strands.
2-Color Mix with Glitter Poms: Mixture of two colors of strands mixed with another color of glitter strands
Solid with 2-Color Glitter Poms: Mixture of one color of strands mixed with two colors of glitter strands
Half & Half Pom Pons: Two colors of strands on one pom, each color is one-half of the pom, and colors are not mixed
Target or Bullseye Pompoms: Two colors of strands on one pom with one color on the outside and one color on the inside (not mixed), creating a bullseye or target. If this style is chosen with the Baton handle, there will be two targets, one on each side of the handle.
Matching or Non-Matching Pair
Poms are generally sold individually so it is up to you to create the ideal pair. Traditionally, poms are used in pairs with both poms being identical. Sometimes, though, you may want to have a non-matching pair of poms. Matching poms provide a cleaner look and are a good choice for most teams. Non-matching pairs can be a great eye catcher for some routines as some will require two different color poms. They also offer a great way to add more color to a uniform. Your choice will depend on your team and the type of routines that they will be doing.
Ordering Poms
When ordering poms, here are a few things to remember in order to ensure you get the look and style you want:
Ask for color swatches: Colors vary between companies and can also vary between strand finishes. To be sure you are getting the color you want or if you are coordinating with a uniform color, ask for color swatches.
Order early: Your pom may be a custom pom, made especially for you. Call ahead of time and don’t wait until the last minute as it may take several weeks for production and shipping.
Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask any questions. If you are not sure what style you need or what handle would suit your team, just call the company and ask. They have the knowledge to be able to assist you with making the right choice.
Fluffing the Pom Poms
Many poms will be pre-fluffed, however some may not be. Here is the proper way to fluffing poms.
For Wide (3/4”) Strand Poms:
- Take a few streamer strands of the pom and gently pull them down and away from you.
- Shake the pom vigorously after pulling several strands to help separate the streamers and fluff the pom.
- Repeat until all the streamers are separates and fluffed.
For Narrow (3/16”) Strand Poms:
- Take a handful of strands; lightly crush in your hand then release. Repeat until pom is fluffed.
- You may also want to gently rub the strands between your palms to help separate them but don’t overdo it. Excess rubbing can make strands look stringy.
- Be careful not to over fluff the pom which will cause the pom to lose the flowing look and movement that is unique to the narrow strand poms.
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