Cheerleading and Uniforms – The Beginning

Cheerleading began in 1898 not as a cheer squad but as a one man cheerleader for the University of Minnesota, later formed into a “yell leader” squad. In 1903 the first organized cheerleading fraternity was established and, up until the 1920’s, was limited to males. When women became involved in cheerleading, the elements of tumbling and megaphones were added.

These pictures give us a glance into the first years of cheerleading and the uniforms used through the 1930’s. Let us know what you think!

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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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Cheer Uniforms – Strappy & Sassy Styles for 2010!

The 2010 CheerZone Catalog has arrived and is overflowing with great new looks for your team.

Here is a sampling of what is hot this year!

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Create Cheerleading Uniforms and Cheer Routines, Competitions and More – Cheerleading Games for Fun!

Looking for something fun to do in your downtime between cheerleading practices and workouts? Check out one of these great cheerleading games. Whether it simulates tryouts, practices or competitions, each game will help you polish your cheerleading skills and knowledge while having fun. They also make great gifts for any cheerleader!

Video Games

All Star Cheer Squad (Wii)

Wii All Star Cheer Squad

In All Star Cheer Squad, players will follow a year in the life of a cheerleader as you learn new moves and cheers, participate in practices and create your own cheerleading routines in the hopes of making the cheerleading squad and eventually becoming its captain. High-energy game includes cheerleading squad competitions and cheer-offs using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to perform real-world cheer and dance moves and full body cheer experience using the Wii Balance Board (optional). Customize the look of your team including facial features, hair, style & color, make-up and cheerleading uniforms.

We Cheer (Wii)

Wii Cheer 2

Putting players in the middle of a nationwide cheerleading competition, We Cheer uses Wii Remotes as virtual pom-poms to create a realistic cheerleading experience. Players mimic moves as directed on screen to learn cheerleading routines, using a full range of arm and body movements. Game includes 30 hit songs, character customization, and real, active game play.

Imagine Cheerleader (Nintendo DS)

Imagine Cheerleader DS

Become the new girl who wants to be a cheerleader. Learn different cheers, jumps, lifts, and cheer routines that will excite the crowds and enable your teams victory!

Online Games

High School Cheerleader – www.addictinggames.com

Want to make the cheer squad? Show us what you’ve got with this virtual cheerleading tryout!

Spirit Fever – www.spirit-fever.com

Your goal is to start a new cheerleading program and lead it to win a cheerleading competition. You can hold tryouts to gain cheerleaders for your team, create cheer routines, compete in cheer competition, and design your own cheerleading uniforms. You can train your team and individual cheerleaders to tumble, jump and stunt too. Achieve all this by playing mini-games that are fun and educational, teaching you about safe cheerleading. Spirit Fever is a good way to learn cheerleading basics and have fun.

Board Games

Cheer Monopoly

Just like the regular Monopoly® game, this cheerleading version will give you and your friends hours of play. Game references many cheerleading companies on the game board, money and playing pieces.

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Fall Season Checklist

There is something about this time of year that can excite almost
anyone. Fall is the beginning of a new year…a time when you can
start over..start fresh. With this fresh start comes a brand new
football season for every high school across the country. If you’re a
cheerleader or cheer coach this time of year is more important than
for most. You’re preparing for your teams homecoming, hoping to have a
great season, and leave a lasting impression that will be imprinted in
the memories of all who are involved with games. Make sure your
prepared for the season with the checklist below:

1) Uniforms: It’s not too late to buy In-Stock Uniforms for this
season. Check out the 2008 CheerZone Catalog and our online store.

2) Shoes: Put your best foot forward wearing your favorite cheer
brand. We carry Nike, Nfinity, Adidas, Kaepa, Asic, Power, and much
more.

3) Warm-Ups: Our custom and in-stock cheerleading warm-ups are a great
way to keep warm this fall season. Warm-ups can be purchased to match
uniforms to unify your team look. Lettering and Embroidery are also
great ways bring function and style together.

4) Bodywear: If you put your bodywear to the test during last years
football and basketball seasons stock up on some new gear to complete
your look for the new year. Remember bodywear is a great way to add
color to an In-Stock Uniform, so be creative.

Feel free to reply with any questions or tips you might have for this
season. Stay true to the Sport!

Cheerz!

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