Choosing a cheerleading uniform is about more than just picking an eye catching style in your schools colors. The uniform you choose should not only reflect the colors and style of your team but should also be appropriate for the age and size of the cheerleaders, the activities of the team, and also the rules of the school or association the team represents. With so many considerations and the array of uniform options available the task of choosing can be overwhelming. Here are some pointers to help you decide what cheerleading uniform and uniform options are right for your cheerleading team.
In-Stock Uniforms
If you are looking for basic uniforms and are on a budget then you my want to consider in-stock uniforms. These uniforms are premade with braiding (the contrasting trim) already added. The style is as is and can not be changed, however tackle twill lettering or embroidery can be added. In-Stock uniforms come in limited color options. However the options are generally the most commonly requested colors in 2-color or 3-color combinations, such as Red/White, Navy/White, and Purple/Gold/White.
Custom Uniforms
The possibilities are endless when it comes to custom cheerleading uniforms! There are many skirt and shell styles to choose from which can then be personalized with the braid(s) and color(s) that you choose. Personalized tackle twill or embroidery can also be added as well. Custom uniforms come in a wide range of prices, so there is something for every budget. Some companies also offer money saving packages or kits.
Uniform Material
Most uniforms are made of either 100% polyester (either woven or knit) or a polyester/spandex blend. These fabrics have a slight give to them allowing for ease of movement. They also allow the body to breath, which is extremely important. Either of these materials is a perfect choice for most teams.
Also available is FormFlex, which is a flexible material consisting of a nylon/spandex blend that allows for unrestricted movement with a relaxed, comfortable fit. However, these uniforms are usually not meant to last for more than one season.
Shell
Cheerleading shells, also called vests, come in a variety of options which include various neckline styles, hem shapes, and even strategically placed cut-outs. Shells are personalized by the custom colors in various areas of the uniform and the placement of a custom braid, both of which are selected by you. Standard shells are sleeveless and the length falls at the natural waist. They can be worn alone or layered with a bodysuit for added coverage or warmth. These are appropriate for most teams and offer the most versatility. However, there are additional styles available to consider depending on your teams needs.
Midriffs have a length that falls just above the natural waist with placement varying depending on the height of the cheerleader wearing it. This style is going to show the stomach so be aware of your school or associations rules if your team is considering these styles.
Bodyliners are shells with long sleeves and come in a standard or midriff length. These are a great option if your climate is cool year round and eliminate the need for layering the uniform with a bodysuit.
Skirts
Cheerleading skirts come in a wide variety of styles as well and can be customized to coordinate with nearly any shell. Skirts sit at the natural waist and some even come in low-rise options which sit just below the natural waistline. While these are great for comfort, they do often allow the stomach to show. In most skirts the length hits above the knee, approximately 13-15” in length. They are designed to allow for a wide range of movement as well as for comfort. Again, you will need to keep length in mind to ensure the skirt complies with your team or associations guidelines. Most companies will customize skirt lengths per your request. Skirts can be plain or customized with various color placements and braid designs. There are many options to consider when it comes to skirts.
A-Line: The basic skirt style which skims over the hips with the slightest flare.
3-Pleat: This is an a-line skirt with only 3 pleats on one side in the front of the skirt.
8-, 12- and 16-Pleat: This is a skirt with pleats placed in the front and back of the skirt. The number refers to the total number of pleats on the entire skirt and the more pleats in the skirt, the narrower the width of the pleat. In some skirts, the color on the inside the pleat can be customized for contrast.
Flyaway Pleats: Pleats that are panels, not attached to each other at the hem, allowing for movement. In some skirts, the color underside of the panels can be customized for contrast. These skirts can be more revealing than the traditional pleated skirts so be sure to check your team or association’s uniform guidelines.
Pants: Another option is cheerleading pants. Pants come in a variety of styles and colors and many can even be personalized with braiding.
Braid
Braid is the striped trim used to customize cheerleading uniforms. It can be wide or narrow and can consist of 1 to 5 color options in any pattern that you choose. Braid comes in nearly any color, even some metallic colors. Braid gives the uniform an individual touch and makes it stand out. When deciding on braiding colors and placement, do not place a like color of braid on a like color of fabric (such as royal braid on royal fabric). The like colors touching makes the braids disappear, defeating the purpose of the braid. Use the uniform creator to help you decide on the best color selections for your cheerleading uniform.
Bodywear
With all the tumbling and stunts cheerleaders do, bodywear is often a necessity.
Bodysuit: Available in midriff or full length with bottom snaps, turtleneck or mock turtleneck styles, bodysuits are a long sleeve leotard that offers coverage and warmth. They come in a variety of colors, allowing you to coordinate them with your uniform or opt for a contrasting color.
Briefs: Available in boy-cut or regular cut, low-rise and natural rise, briefs are a staple to nearly every uniform. These come in an assortment of colors, including metallic colors. Briefs also can be customized with embroidery.
Tackle Twill & Embroidery
When you see a uniform with the school initials or mascot on it, the lettering is most always in tackle twill. Tackle Twill is a sturdy polyester fabric with an adhesive backing. It is specially adhered to the uniform to withstand wear. Tackle twill comes in nearly any color, even some metallic colors, and in a variety of script styles. Many styles can also be layered with various colors to make it stand out even more.
Some teams opt for embroidered lettering on their uniforms as well. While embroidery does not stand out as well as tackle twill, it does give the uniform a nice, polished look. This is an excellent option for teams on a budget.
Uniform Creator
If you are still undecided, try the Uniform Creator. You can build your perfect uniform by mixing and matching shell and skirt styles, adding braid and lettering, then preview your uniform. With the click of a button you can then order what you have created or start over again and create a new look.
Accessories
Don’t forget accessories, which add the finishing touch to any uniform.
Hair ribbons, also called screamers, as well as bows and headbands come in many styles and can be customized with nearly any color combination.
Cheer socks don’t have to be plain white anymore. Socks choices include colored stripes in team colors, megaphones and paw prints too. Knee socks are a trendy option that is nice in cooler weather.
Tips
Once you have picked out the perfect uniform for your team, we recommend the following tips when it comes to placing your order:
Measure to ensure a proper fit
Most manufacturers of cheerleading uniforms do not go by the standard sizing of street clothes. A size 8 cheerleading skirt is not going to fit a girl who normally wears a size 8 pair of jeans. It is extremely important to measure each of the cheerleaders properly and follow the company’s size chart carefully.
Ask for sizing samples
If you are unsure of the length or fit of a specific style, or want to get a better idea of how the sizing runs, ask for sizing samples. Samples are offered at little or no cost and are invaluable to getting a perfect fit.
Ask for color swatches
Colors can vary between companies and even from year to year. If you are matching a previous year’s uniforms or other items, ask for color swatches to ensure you get a close match.
Order ahead of time
Custom uniforms take time to produce, as does tackle twill and embroidery. Call the company and ask about production and shipping times and place your order in advance to ensure that your uniforms will arrive in time.
If you are ever unsure of a size, color, or other detail, do not be afraid to ask! Call the company and ask them questions regarding their products, sizing and policies.
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