Cheerleading is not only fun and active but also demanding on all parts of the body. But the feet are the ones taking most of the abuse. With tumbling, stunting, and dancing, cheerleading requires a supportive yet flexible shoe made tough enough to withstand constant motion.

Important factors to consider when choosing a cheerleading shoe include price and budget, comfort and support, as well as quality and durability. As with most things, you get what you pay for. Investing in a quality pair of cheer shoes will save money on upkeep and replacement in the long run. Once you have determined your budget, choose a shoe at the upper end of your range that will offer a higher level of quality.

Cheerleading shoes must be comfortable and well cushioned for jumping and tumbling. Stunting requires finger grips or heel grooves with flexible support for adequate safety. Scalloped arches and ankle support are other additional features. A recommended shoe is the Asics Gel-Comp 2. They offer all of these features and are a good investment because they are durable. If the budget is a little tighter, the next best choice would be the Asics Cheer 5. It’s a comfortable shoe at a comfortable price, while maintaining quality.

For those who are in pom squads or squads that don’t stunt, dancing shoes must be lightweight with breathable support reinforced at the heel and ball of the foot. They also need to be flexible and supportive. Rebok’s Sis Boom Rah 2 is lightweight with all the dance essentials and is a very high quality shoe. Nike’s Sideline Cheer has good arch support at a medium price point, and for a few dollars less, Chasse Rocket’s have excellent heal and ball cushioning. Make sure that the shoes have a proper fit for each member of the squad. Allow each member to walk and move around in the shoe. Inquire about the return policy for the shoes you choose.

To determine which functions and aspects of a shoe are most important, it will be necessary to evaluate the activities of your squad. A squad that focuses primarily on tumbling or stunting should prioritize supportive and flexible shoes. If dancing is your main emphasis, shop for more lightweight and breathable shoes. Determining the needs of your squad based on activities will help you choose the right shoe.

Style is another important factor to consider. If your squad is involved in many activities, it may be wise to choose a white shoe with interchangeable color insertions. Kaepa carries cheer shoes that have inserts for two colors and gives you an entire pack of color options including metallics to choose from. They also have a variety of styles and price points available with the color kit.

Permanently colored shoes can also create a bold and sharp look for competitive cheer squads. Try to find a shoe that is easily cleaned and maintained. You’ll want a shoe that can hold up for the entirety of the cheer season.

Popularity: 53% [?]

Do you have what it takes to be a cheerleading flyer? A cheerleading flyer is the person at the top of the list for stunt performers. You have seen her in her cheerleading uniform. It is the girl who gets raised and thrown high into the air. It may be one of the most marvelous positions in cheerleading along with one of the more dangerous ones. It offers a sensational and electrifying feeling of flying through the air.

Cheerleading is a team sport. Each person on the squad is important. In order for a flyer to be successful, she must have great spotters. Weight and height do play a major role in whether you can be a flyer or not. However, if you have the awesome ability and the proper skills you could have what it takes to be a flyer.

An accomplished cheerleader should have what it takes to fill any job on her squad. Part of being a team player means doing the position your team needs you to do. Don’t set limitations by assuming you can only do one thing. You can do anything you set your mind to. However, there are skills and abilities that you will need to obtain to be a great flyer.

First of all, you need to be confident. Attitude can be everything in cheerleading. You must know in your heart that you can do it. If you think you can’t do something, you will sell yourself short in the long run. You must trust yourself and your teammates. You must know that if you fall, they will catch you. Knowing that your teammates won’t let you fall and that you won’t get hurt will help you to concentrate on getting the job done.
You must keep your hips and thighs stable. Don’t ever jolt your legs. You must be able to maintain your own weight. You have to be able to raise yourself with your arms. Maintaining your balance is very important. You must stay very stiff. Use your bases to keep yourself from wiggling. Timing is everything! You have to know what to do and when it needs to be done. Your job is to know when the correct level has been achieved to hit the stunt. You cannot have a fear of heights in order to be a flyer. It is important to keep eye contact with your audience. You will be the crowd motivator. Make sure to show the audience your beautiful smile!

As a flyer, remember to keep your legs tucked in so your feet are off the ground. When this drill is mastered, you will be able to move into stunting. During each stunt, it is important for the flyer to remember to stand up as fast as possible, stay tight, and keep those legs straight!

You need comfortable clothes in cheerleading. When practicing, you should wear cheer shorts, cheer t-shirts, cheer stretch pants, and cheer sneakers. During performances cheerleaders will wear their team’s cheerleading uniforms. It is a good idea to wear a sports bra. If you have long hair you should put it in ponytail. Headbands are good if you have short hair. It is a good idea to have a cheer bag with clothes to change into after a game or the competition. Pom-poms are a great accessory for cheerleaders and are pretty much mandatory.

If you want to be a flyer, you should know that it would take hard work and dedication. It takes a special individual to truly trust your teammates when they are throwing you up in the air. Being a cheerleader is no walk in the park. Cheerleading is not considered to be a sideline activity anymore. This sport involves intense competition, dedication, hard work and a true love for the sport.

Popularity: 97% [?]

“It’s all about the skirt” is what we often hear when people talk about cheerleading. We laugh, knowing there is so much more to cheerleading than just the cheerleading uniform, but there really is some truth to the matter. Fashion is an issue. The skirt, or more accurately, the total cheer uniform is an important part of what makes a cheerleader sparkle and light up a crowd. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the options when it comes to choosing that perfect “cheerleading skirt” to help your squad dazzle the crowds at your next event.

First, let’s start with the less exciting, practical part. How much is this cheerleading uniform going to cost? As with any product, you can pretty much spend as much as you want on a cheerleading uniform. The key is to know what you are paying for. Shop around to compare prices, products, lettering and shipping costs. Companies offer package deals that include the cheer shell and cheer skirt, but be sure you look to see how much the lettering will cost as this figure is often not included in the package price. Basic prices seem to range from $30 to $100 with lettering running around $10-20 per cheer uniform depending on whether you go with a one, two or three color design. Look for quantity discounts and consider these when you decide how many uniforms you will order. A late addition to the squad could cost you a bundle if you need to order a single uniform later. And don’t forget the accessories. If you make extras, such as briefs, socks, poms, nylon half or full tops, part of your uniform, be sure to add their cost to the bottom line when you consider your uniform budget.

Some other practical concerns are uniform comfort and fit. You want to wear a uniform that feels good, is appropriate for the sport/season, and allows you the full range of movement you need to do those cheers, stunts and moves that set your squad apart from the competition. Most cheerleading uniforms are made of polyester and spandex that allows for some stretch in the fabric, but there are also 50/50 cotton/polyester blends available and more expensive moisture wicking fabrics that are lighter and cooler. Check whether the fabric is washable or not so you are aware of the additional work and cost if you choose a “dry clean only” fabric. As to the uniform fit, most companies do not want you to order stock sizes, but rather to give them measurements. With form fitting shells and various skirt lengths, honesty is more important than modesty, so make sure you get accurate measurements from your squad members so the uniforms fit right and your squad looks sharp.

Finally, we get to the good stuff. Choosing the right cheerleading uniform is about getting the right “look” and here you have a lot of choices. Cheerleading uniform companies offer a wide variety of styles and features from the traditional to the hip to the modern. With tops/shells you can choose from crops to jumpers with or without long-sleeve full-length or crop-length tops. And then you need to choose V-neck, sweetheart neck or round neck all with or without braid options. In regard to bottoms, you have the classic A-line, modified A-line, low rise and twister skirt styles in addition to a wide range of pleated options including box, eight, knife, three or twelve pleat style. You also have short, skort and pants options available to match your shell choice. Make a choice that suits the tastes of your squad members, is suitable for your cheer purpose, complies with your school/organization dress code and colors and brings your squad to life!

So, choosing a cheerleading uniform, like cheerleading itself, is about way more than “just the skirt.” Be sure to consider all your options as you search for that perfect uniform, the one that will make your squad feel good and look great!

Popularity: 41% [?]

What’s a cheerleader without pom pons? Those eye-catching extras have added a little sparkle and flair, and let’s face it, a whole lot of fun to those cheer moves and stunts for as long as there have been cheerleaders. And, as you may know, that’s been a long time!

Coming to the US from Great Britain in the 1920’s, the original pom poms were made of crepe paper—which presented a few difficulties if you know anything about crepe paper. Crinkly, not too sturdy, with color sure to run if wet, those old-fashioned poms presented some real problems when it came to the work cheerleaders wanted them to do—shake violently, sparkle brightly and hold together come rain or shine. Thankfully, in the 1960s the vinyl and metallic “revolution” occurred and produced pom pons that could do it all. Generations of cheerleaders have since been able to cheer under those rainy Friday night lights, knowing their poms will be ready to go for their Saturday competition.

Of course, just because the materials have improved, doesn’t mean you can just disregard pom care. You want to keep those poms bright, fluffy and show-stoppingly shiny for the big event! Today’s poms can and do get wet, but it’s best to try to keep them away from moisture if possible, or at least make sure you dry them out fully before storing them. Heat is another concern as it can make your vinyl variety stick or your metallic variety melt, depending on the temperature. Finally, proper storage is important too. Don’t just throw those poms in a pile when you’re done with them. Store them carefully, preferably in a pom bag (away from moisture and heat) and when you get them out, be sure to “fluff” them by grasping a few strands at a time and scrunching them up to put that extra “body” in your pom. Paying a little “pom care” attention, will help extend their sparkle, fluff and fun!

In addition to the improved durability of poms, their material composition has also generated a multitude of choices when it comes to picking out the perfect pom for your performance. You have choices between small or large size, short or long strand, vinyl, wet look vinyl or metallic composition, mixed or single color, and flair cap, loop, baton or drill/dowel style handles for your poms. Long strand poms tend to add a more “old-school” effect, while the metallic and shorter strand poms tend to be more modern. Mixed or single color may depend on your theme or the uniform your squad is wearing and, as to the handle, again, it depends on what you will be doing with the pom. The baton or dowel style offers greater control, suitable for show and dance purposes, while the loop or flair cap will give you a more traditional pom effect and movement.

Make a good choice and take good care of your pom pons and you will keep the sparkle in cheerleading for years to come!

Popularity: 30% [?]

When making any major purchasing decision, be it a personal or cheer team purchase, it is pivotal to understand the constraints of a properly calculated budget. This is undeniably true regarding cheer gear and cheerleading uniform purchases for athletic teams. After calculating a budget, the next step in the purchasing process is deciding where to purchase the cheerleading uniforms. The items may be purchased entirely from one retailer or wholesaler, or they may be purchased from several different sellers. The decision of where to purchase cheerleading uniforms should be guided principally by the aforementioned budget.

After tallying a budget and researching various suppliers for the desired cheerleading gear, it is necessary to decide which items, if any, should be name brand, while the remaining items required to complete the purchase will be generic. Name brand gear can usually be purchased for an entire team at a discount by buying from a wholesaler or directly through the cheerleading apparel and gear company itself. Purchasing all of the necessary items (i.e., cheerleading uniforms, shoes, pom poms, etc.) from the same company can also result in further discounts, as dictated by economies of scale and the supplier’s willingness to create a strong seller/buyer bond, or even an exclusive purchasing agreement, with the team. If a price quote for desired name brand cheerleading gear falls within the delineated budget, and the need to purchase name brand equipment is rather strong, then name brand gear is probably a good purchasing decision. However, it is imperative to avoid stretching the budget too thin in the pursuit of more expensive gear, as future replacement, repair, and unforeseen cost considerations must be considered.

It is the expected and unexpected future costs that lend deference to the idea of purchasing generic cheerleading gear as opposed to name brand gear. Generic gear will not only fall within the parameters of more budgets than name brand gear, it can also give a similar air of authenticity without undermining the functionality of the gear itself. It is the opportunity cost of price versus durable functionality that truly highlights the importance of researching the products and the reputation of the suppliers when purchasing generic gear. As opposed to name brand gear, which is generally presumed to incorporate higher levels of quality into its products in order to preserve brand equity, generic gear can come at a lower price but a higher replacement cost. Therefore, product research is vital when choosing appropriate generic gear.

A compromise between name brand and generic alternatives is another way to proceed with purchasing cheerleading uniforms. For instance, a specific team might find it desirable to wear uniforms that bear a brand name logo. On the other hand, the same team may want to cut total costs by purchasing functionally sound gear that happens to be generic. Conversely, if logo-emblazoned uniforms are not a necessity, it might be more appropriate for a team to purchase generic cheerleading uniforms while investing in specific cheer shoes and other more expensive gear that are tailored to the specific type of cheerleading routine that the team performs at athletic events and competitions. For example, shoes with arches and soles that are designed for greater impacts would be necessary for routines that employ a lot of acrobatic jumps and leaps from high positions.

In conclusion, understanding the needs and funds that are available to a singular cheerleader or an entire team, and consequently creating a customized budget that accounts for future necessary expenditures, is the most necessary way to determine whether to buy brand name or generic cheerleading gear. Such a purchasing decision is independently relative to each scenario, therefore no single methodology described above can be universally correct. Understanding individual needs, and the best way in which to satisfy them within the confines of a proper budget, is the underlying bedrock of any major purchase.

Popularity: 83% [?]

Looking great on the squad is every cheerleader’s number one priority. Unfortunately, the school budget cuts and slow economy are causing many cheer teams to reevaluate how to keep a crisp sparkling appearance without overspending the budget. Every person on the team should be able to afford to participate and feel comfortable with the financial decisions. No one wants to feel slighted if they’re unable to afford to join the team and be humiliated in front of their friends. There are plenty of ways to keep the team going and give everyone who dreams of being a cheerleader a chance to excel in this versatile and fun sport.

How to Raise Funds for the Squad

The first action that needs to be done, usually by the team coaches for the younger cheer teams, is to figure out the best fundraising activities for the squad. For the high school and college level members, taking an active part in raising funds will generate team spirit and give everyone a sense of accomplishment. After the excitement of making the squad settles in, take a look at the other groups in the area, scout troops, school sports teams for example, and try and think about the ways they generate money for the group. They may be selling candy, cookie mix or wrapping paper either door to door in the neighborhood or in front of the supermarket. A clever way to raise funds without the hassle of offering merchandise that friends and neighbors may not want is to use a fund raising card. These cards provide a large profit for the group and allow each donator to choose an amount that works for them. The cheer team returns the card to redeem cash that can be used for uniforms, equipment or travel expenses. Information about the fundraising cards may be found at CheerleadingOnline (Fun”D” 2 Raise). Cheerleading is a fun and active sport that brings great joy and fulfills a dream for many young gals and guys. Getting the funding issues taken care of early on will bring a year filled with pleasure and memorable times on the squad.

Uniform and Equipment Costs

Once a squad team’s budget becomes established the fun begins. Choosing a uniform that makes a statement about the team yet provides comfort and mobility takes some research. The cost of outfitting the cheer team with quality uniforms, warm up gear and accessories could become a significant expense and exclude some members. Choosing a reasonably priced outfit will make every team member feel confident that they may enjoy the sport. Typically, a basic uniform cost ranges from $40 to $75 depending on the style and size. Add that to shoes, socks and accessories and each member may expect to pay well over $150. Warm up suits are also often required, particularly for cool weather climates, and may cost about $40 to $50. One of the least expensive sources for purchasing uniforms and equipment may be found through the website www.cheerleadingonline.com. Quality items may be purchased and are guaranteed by Campus Team Wear that has been supplying cheer team products for over twenty years.

Costs for Team Dues and Competitions

Every school district varies on the amount of dues that a cheerleading is required to submit. Many schools absorb the cost of the team and provide facilities and transportation to sports events. For cheer teams that choose to compete in events outside the resident school district, costs for housing, food, transportation and additional uniforms are required. In the high school years, a cheer team squad may have the opportunity to compete in regional events and each member is normally expected to contribute additional money toward their expenses. These costs may range between several hundred to over five hundred to a thousand dollars if the team continues to national level competitions. Cheerleading camps offer a chance to gain new skills, learn competitive techniques and make new friends with similar interests. Normally each camp attendant is responsible for paying their own fees and expenses; however, fundraising events may raise enough money for a squad to offset some of the costs. A group fundraiser generates money that is shared among all participants and could make the difference in the team’s ability to compete.

Keep Cheering and Keep the Costs Down

There is no denying that joining a cheer team means making some financial commitment from each member. The minimum expense includes a uniform, accessories and transportation to sporting events and practices. At some schools, purchasing several uniforms may be required as well as warm up clothing, school logo bags and towels, shoes and other items. Professional cheerleading lessons give a member an advantage and may help them make the team. Once they join the squad, participating in competitions and continuing their practice adds to the cost. All of this expense may seem overwhelming to a young person who only dreams of becoming a cheerleader but may feel unable to participate. The goal of every cheer team coach, every member already on the squad and parents should be to ensure that the sport is open to all who strive for a chance to make the team. By carefully considering fundraisers, evaluating where costs may be saved and keeping a careful budget, the squad will be successful. The best approach to keep the costs down is to use a proven source such as www.cheerleadingonlin.com to purchase uniforms and start a fundraising campaign with donation cards. Then all that’s left to do is concentrate on having fun!

Campus Team Wear is a leading cheerleading apparel company specializing in cheerleading uniforms, shoes, camp wear and accessories.

Popularity: 35% [?]

Campus Team Wear, your leading supplier of cheerleading uniforms and apparel, is holding a sale on printed cheerleading t-shirts that ends on Tuesday, May 19th. The printed cheer tees were originally $10.95 and have been reduced to $8.95. Here are some of my favorite printed cheerleading t-shirts

1) Eco Cheerleading Tee: Show your love for the Earth and Cheerleading with this planet-friendly tee.

2) Love To Cheer Heart Tee: A super cute “Love to Cheer” slogan is featured across this white jersey t-shirt.

3) Cheerleader Flair Tee: This white jersey tee features an adorable “button” design. Now no one can ask you where your flair is!

4) Multi Cheer Leader Tee: A black jersey fitted tee with the word “cheer” in multiple different types.

To learn more about our cheerleading shirt sale and to purchase some sale tees, go to our Twitter page.

Popularity: 41% [?]

Campus Team Wear is now offering exclusive deal and sales on Twitter! Check our Twitter page daily and you can see ongoing sales and great prices on cheerleading uniforms, cheer shoes, cheer socks, camp wear, cheerleading shorts and skirts.

Just go to our twitter page: http://www.twitter.com/omnicheer. With great deals every week on our cheerleading apparel, you can’t miss with Campus Team Wear.

Twitter is the newest micro-blogging tool that allows you to keep track of the latest cheerleading uniforms and apparel promotions.

Popularity: 94% [?]

Your team’s cheerleading uniforms are a reflection of of your squad’s cheerleading style and spirit. Updating your cheerleading look is important so that your performances are always top notch, your uniforms are always comfortable and current and your style is always modern.

From simple lines to interesting patterns, new fabrics and sequins, the popular cheerleading uniforms of 2009 are both fun and diverse.

Here are the winners for the best cheerleading uniforms of the 2009-2010 cheer year based on best patters, best new matierial and best embellishments:

Best Pattern: Double Knit Diamond Cheerleader Shell Top for $17.95.

This fashionable double knit cheer uniform top by Chassé has an attractive diamond pattern that is very flattering. It features a side zipper and straight bottom.

Best New Fabric: Nylon Stretch Sequin Cheerleader Uniform Top for $29.95.

The brand new Ultra-lite 12.5 oz. Nylon/Spandex stretch cheer unitop features a silver sequin design V-neck. This amazing material allows for extreme mobility when performing stunts. Chassé has scored again with this cutting-edge new look!

Best Embellishment: Nylon Stretch A-Line Cheerleading Skirt for $24.95

Check out this cute cheerleading uniform skirt. Made with the same Nylon Stretch material as the top that I mentioned, this a-line cheer skirt features a stunning embellishment: a silver sequin stripe on the hem. The skirt also  with front V-notch and side vents. Made by Chassé.

Best Skirt Style: Double Knit Star A-Line Cheer Skirt for $19.95

My favorite skirt of the season is this adorable Double-Knit Polyester cheer skirt with a white star side panel. The skirt is extremely comfortable for performing and has a zipper back.

Popularity: 50% [?]

Cheerleading shorts are essential for cheerleading practice and cheerleading camp. There are many cute styles that are perfect for cheerleading, and here a few of my favorite shorts styles:

1) Soffe Novelty Print Cheer Shorts - These adorable camouflage shorts are available in classic green and in pink (for a cute twist on the original camo)  These jersey knit cheerleading shorts are made by Soffe and feature the same classic cheerleader cut with a v-notch and elastic waistband, but now with a fun novelty print. Available now for $8.95

2) Bermuda Cheer Shorts with 2 Imprints - These comfy jersey knit shorts feature the word “cheerleader” with two White Glitter Imprints on the legs and a drawstring waistband. Available now for only $8.95.

3) V-Band Cheer Shorts - These cheer shorts are perfect to pair with your printed cheerleading t-shirts and cheerleading shoes.

Rather wear a skirt when you are practicing? Check out the Lycra Cheerleading Skirt With Built In Short.

And don’t forget to look for the newest styles of cheerleading uniforms for your squad!

Popularity: 83% [?]