Cheerleading Camp Wear Buying Guide

The season for cheerleading camp is underway. Your coach has probably already picked your team and chosen a camp. Now you need to pack your campwear. What will you be wearing? Will your team be wearing one unified look our will you be choosing campwear that reflects your own personal style? Here is a list of the basic necessities you will need for camp and a few of our own favorites for this cheerleading camp season.

Uniforms
Shell – For a pulled together look, your team may want a campwear uniform. These cheerleading uniforms are made of a sturdy but lightweight material and come in basic styles and colors. These uniforms are inexpensive and are perfect for camp. These cheer shells can also be embroidered for customization.

Polo – For a campwear uniform look that is more casual, a polo shirt is a great option. Usually in white, these tops have contrasting collars and trim in team colors and can also be embroidered for personalization.

Our picks:

Cheerleading Basic Shell 00410

Cheerleading Sleeveless Polo 00104

Shirts
Tees – This campwear staple does not need to be limited to a plain white tee anymore! Styles include a relaxed fit or fitted styles in all one color or with contrasting collars and/or sleeves. Tees are available plain and also with print or embroidery, with everything from a modern cheer print to a custom design featuring your school initials or team’s names.

Tanks – The perfect look for summer and more popular than ever before. Tank tops can be plain or printed and can also be customized for your cheerleading team. For a splash of color, try layering tanks in contrasting colors!

Hoodies – Hooded sweatshirts are the perfect addition for comfort and warmth. Hoodies come in a variety of styles that are sure to be a hit with any cheerleader!

Our Picks:

Fitted Cheerleading Tee

Cheerleading Ringer Halter 608

Fitted Cheerleading Tank

Spirit Stamp Tank 5658

Cropped Cheerleading Hoodie

Shorts/Skirts
Skirts & Skorts – Campwear skirts are also made of a sturdy but lightweight material and come in a variety of styles and colors. These pair well with campwear shells, polos and tees and give a more classic look. Cheerleading briefs are usually worn underneath skirts, however skorts have built in shorts that eliminate the need for bodywear.

Shorts – Shorts are always a perfect choice for any cheerleader. Cheer shorts come in a wide variety of styles with various lengths, fabric, designs and colors. Cheer shorts look great with polos, tees or tanks.

Our Picks:

3-Pleat Camp Skirt 00420

Dolphin Cheerleading Short 4517

Low Rise Mini Mesh Short 461V

Raw Edge Short K41

Bodywear/Socks
Briefs – Cheerleading briefs will be a necessity if you are wearing a skirt. Briefs are made of a breathable material in regular or boycut styles and with either a regular or low rise. They also come in a wide variety of finishes and colors.

Bras – Don’t forget a sports bra! Proper support and breathability are a must so make sure you have a good cheerleading bra.

Socks – Mini Socks, Anklets and Tube Socks are all favorites of cheerleaders. For basic practice, a mini sock or anklet is recommended. However for a fun twist try a knee high tube sock. All socks come in assorted colors to coordinate with your campwear look.

Our Picks:

Low Rise Brief 00139

Boy Cut Brief 00433

Nude Cheer Bra 261

Chevron Cheerleading Sock 2796

Knee High Tube Socks 22T

Shoes
Cheer Shoes – The most important campwear is a pair of good supportive cheerleading shoes. There are many brands and styles to choose from. No matter what shoes your team wears during performance, you will want an alternate pair for camp and workouts so your good shoes stay clean and white.

Flip Flops – Your feet need rest too and a pair of cheer flip flops will do just that!

Our Picks:

Asics Gel-Inspire IIQ064Y

Nike Air Boom II 395749

Nfinity Evolution ED-6091

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How to Guide for Choosing the Right Cheerleading Uniforms

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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Cheerleading Bags: How to Choose

You have your uniform, poms and your shoes.  Now where are you going to put them?  Show your spirit with a cheer bag.  With so many styles to choose from, there is a perfect option for every cheerleader!  But how do you choose the one that is right for you?  Here is a guide to help you do just that!

When choosing a bag, consider what you are going to be carrying and how the bag will be used.  Will you be carrying just your shell and skirt?  Carrying just your shoes or poms?  Perhaps a pom bag, backpack, or garment bag is all you need.  Or will you be carrying your entire uniform as well poms, a change of clothes, and other accessories?  Then you are in need of a duffel bag.  If you are using your bag just to carry your things to cheerleading practice, then a simple in stock bag may be all you need.  If you are using your bag for games or competitions, a more complex duffel bag may be necessary.

There are many cheerleading bag styles to consider, most depending on personal preference.

Duffel Bag:  The most traditional cheer bag style comes in a variety of sizes and shapes.  The duffel has handles and/or a shoulder strap as well as zipper closure.

Backpack:  Easy on the back, the backpack is worn over both shoulders and has a zipper closure.

Sling Bag:  Similar to a backpack, a sling is worn over one shoulder.

Tote Bag:  Simple bag with carrying straps with zippered or no closure.

Pom Bag:  A bag sized just for a set of pom poms, usually with drawstring closure and shoulder strap(s).

Garment Bag:  Hanging bag used especially for cheerleading uniforms to keep them clean and wrinkle free.

Whatever style you choose, you need to consider the features of the cheerleading bag.  Inner and/or outer pockets may be necessary to carry your water bottle, cell phone, and keys.  Sturdy straps are important as well.  You may even want to consider a bag with a removable shoulder strap, removable inner bags, and a bag with a place for an id tag.

For more on the go tips and must haves, Click Here!

No matter what style you choose, be sure to get it in your team’s colors.  Show your team unity and order matching bags for your team, complete with your school initials embroidered on them.  Most cheerleading bags can be purchased with an in-stock design, customized with a team print, or with no design at all.

Here are our top picks for cheer bags!

Competition Duffel

This sturdy bag is a basic duffel with room for everything.

Custom Pom Pom Bag

With custom colors and tackle twill, your bag is as unique as your team.

The Ultimate Cheerleading Duffel

This bag is the must have for any cheerleader who is on the go with every feature one could need.

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Choosing the Right Cheerleading Poms for Your Team

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:

1. Take a few streamer strands of the pom and gently pull them down and away from you.
2. Shake the pom vigorously after pulling several strands to help separate the streamers and fluff the pom.
3. Repeat until all the streamers are separates and fluffed.

For Narrow (3/16”) Strand Poms:

1. Take a handful of strands; lightly crush in your hand then release.  Repeat until pom is fluffed.
2. 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.
3. 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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Cheerleading Shoes – Choose the Right Cheer Shoe for Your Team

How to Choose the Right Cheerleading Shoes for Your Team

Choosing a cheerleading shoe for your squad can prove to be quite the task with so many styles to choose from. Narrow your search by deciding exactly what you need in a cheer shoe.

What purpose will the cheerleaing shoe serve?

Does your squad focus on tumbling or dance? Do you perform a lot of stunts? Knowing your goals for the squad and what the focus of the squad will be will help determine the type of shoe that is needed. The Nfinity Evolution is great for stunting and the super lightweight shoe makes tumbling effortless. If you’re looking for something for a youth team that is just beginning check out the Kaepa Pep or the Zephz Butterfly. For a team that loves to perform and dace that Nike Musique cheer shoe will be the perfect fit. Whatever your needs choose a shoe that is designed for what your team will focus on for the season or year.

Price

The price of cheerleading shoes can range from $18.25 to $69.99. With such a huge selection of prices you want to ensure that your cheerleading shoes fall within your team’s budget. After determining what features you will need you can then narrow your search even more by determining a maximum price on your selection.

Does the Shoe Fit?

Your team should always be fitted for shoes. Whether you order a sample size run or have a sales representative visit to fit your team – you should always make sure the shoes fit. Each shoe may come in different size selections. And each shoe will fit differently. For safety and comfort it is incredibly important to make sure that the shoe selected will work for every girl on your squad.

Additional Features

Are you looking for a shoe that can be customized? Does the shoe have the comfort and support features you’ll need for long performances? What about the cleanability factor?

Choosing the perfect cheerleading shoe for your team may take some time and research, but focus on the pay off. Your team will be happy and comfortable in shoe that will fit their needs.

Don’t forget to check out CheerZone’s Cheer Shoe Buying Guide to help make the choice that’s right for you!

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Ultimate Cheerleading Uniform Creator

CheerZone® invites you to join in the creation of your team’s look. Join in on the fun! Customize your cheer uniform style, colors and lettering with our new Custom Uniform Creator. Try it out and start creating a cheerleading uniform for your team! Use the applicator to show the entire team your idea of the perfect look or use it for easy online ordering!

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