Cheerleading Accessories: Shoes, T Shirts, Pom Poms And Cheerleading Mats

Cheerleading started out as a means for Princeton students to show support for their school team. A Princeton graduate named Tom Peebles then brought the concept to the University of Minnesota. As a result, the first fraternity that supported cheerleading was "Gamma Sigma. Since then, cheerleading enjoyed the respect of high school teams, college squads and even professional athletic groups as a sport that requires gymnastic skills and flexibility.

Aside from the incredible routines and captivating chants, cheerleading is also known for the vividly colored uniforms. Accessories used in cheerleading are many and varied including shoes, t-shirts, pom-poms and mats. They can be purchased at sporting shops specializing in athletic gears or through online stores that sell cheerleading uniforms. Additionally, many clothing stores offer customized outfits and accessories.

Cheerleading t-shirts should be durable enough since cheerleaders do all sorts of movements -- tumbling, stretching, tossing-- and other forms of gymnastics. The fabric used should be stretchable or flexible to allow smoother movements. Cheerleaders need shoes that can protect them from foot injuries such as broken ankles or blisters. Fortunately, there are various types made especially for cheerleaders. Special, lightweight rubber varieties with adequate cushioning are ideal since these can provide the flexibility needed.

Exercise mats used should also be durable enough, especially if used on a regular basis. Look for those made of special materials such as polyethylene foam, since this durable material can provide additional cushioning when doing stunts. Also, pom-poms should not fray easily. Ideal pom-poms should be made of sturdy, lightweight materials such as metallic papers, vinyl strands or thin plastic strips.

The colors and styles of cheerleading accessories should all be based on the style of the uniform. The usual colors used are based on the school or team emblem. The cheerleading accessories should not clash with uniforms, for they are meant to compliment them. Each member of a squad should have matching outfits, as these things can create a unifying look.

Price is definitely a big factor when choosing cheerleading accessories. Despite a limited budget, never sacrifice quality for affordability; low-quality products can lead to injuries and accidents. To get the best deal, ask around and look at product catalogs.

Always remember that accessories should always complement the entire outfit. They should also help achieve a coordinated look while doing their routines. Plenty of practice, hard work, determination and the right accessories can definitely help a cheerleading squad give their best when rooting for their team.


Sources:
Bean, Keith. "History of Cheerleading." EzineArticles. 24 Sept. 2007. 26 Oct. 2007. http://ezinearticles.com/?History-of-Cheerleading& amp;id=748811.

Packer, Bowe. "Cheerleading Clothes - Their Style And Durability." EzineArticles. 14 Aug. 2007. 26 Oct. 2007. http://ezinearticles.com/?Cheerleading-Clothes---T heir-Style-And-Durability&id=688493.

Wasilewski, Jennifer. "Happy Feet - Tips for Buying Cheerleading Shoes." EzineArticles. 17 Aug. 2007. 26 Oct. 2007. http://ezinearticles.com/?Happy-Feet---Tips-for-Bu ying-Cheerleading-Shoes&id=692173.

Nesheim, Leif-Harald. "Cheerleading Uniforms." EzineArticles. 26 Aug. 2007. 26 Oct. 2007. http://ezinearticles.com/?Cheerleading-Uniforms&am p;id=704322.

"Accessories." CheerGeer. 26 Oct. 2007. http://www.cheergeer.com/more/accessories/accessor ies.html.

"Cheerleading." Resilite Sports Product Inc. 26 Oct. 2007. http://www.resilite.com/cheer.shtm.