How to Dress for Cheerleading Tryouts

Last Updated: July 15, 2021 Approved

It's the big day, cheerleading tryouts! Will you climb to the top of the pyramid or be on the bottom row? Your appearance is the first impression of the first impression, so make it a good one!

Steps

1
Start with a hot shower, to calm your muscles and wake you up. And of course, make sure you are squeaky clean. Be sure that you are relaxed and refreshed after your shower.
2
Blow dry your hair and pull it back into a high ponytail, pin back any stray hairs, so that they are out of your face. Use hairspray to keep your hair from falling down, but don't use too much- you don't want your hair to have that "crunchy" look. Wear a ribbon in your hair for added effect. It may help to have someone tie it for you, otherwise it could come undone.

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3
Wear your school colors so that the coaches know that you are true to your school.
4
Wear a clean shirt that is patriotic to your school. You should wear clean shorts. You may want to wear spandex underneath your shorts to avoid showing your underwear when stretching, jumping, or pulling a heel stretch, scorpion, or scale.
5
Wear white socks and clean white cheer shoes on your feet. If you don't have cheer shoes, coaches recommend wearing shoes that are flat on the bottom and not too bulky.
6
Don't overdo your make-up considering you will sweat it off. Your usual foundation and lip gloss will be fine. Your smile will truly shine with lip gloss.
7
Put on deodorant or antiperspirant!
8
Skip jewelry (earrings and everything) and nail polish (unless you use clear basic shine nail polish).
9
Wear something that is comfortable, and something you can move easily in. Don't wear a heavy coat or a sweater; you will sweat (a lot)!

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Community Q&A

Question

Are really short shorts okay to wear?

Community Answer

It depends if there is a dress code at your school. You don't want to give off the wrong idea, but wearing spandex shorts that fit correctly is okay.
Question

Do I have to be a certain weight?

Community Answer

No! Cheerleading is perfect for every shape and size! If you don't make the team ask the coach what you should work on to get better.
Question

Why do most cheerleaders wear black shorts in tryouts?

Community Answer

Most teams have the whole team match, so when they pick the color for tryouts, they pick the simplest one so there are no complaints. Black is the most common and basic shade.
Question

Do I need pom poms for tryouts?

Community Answer

No. Most of the time, pom poms will just get in the way. If you do make the team, your school should supply you with pom poms that are your school colors. In some schools, they might ask you to buy them if you do make the team.
Question

Should you wear a cheer bow?

Community Answer

You don't have to but it is sometimes preferred to show your school spirit.
Question

Should I try out of my teeth are really messed up?

Community Answer

It doesn't matter if you have messed up teeth or a skin condition--if you want to try out, do it. You might just be an amazing cheerleader who is way better than your peers with perfect pearly whites.
Question

Can I wear leggings?

Community Answer

Usually, yes. You should wear something comfortable. Just in case, I would suggest bringing a pair of Nike Pros or wearing them under your leggings.
Question

Would if you don't have clothes like the article suggests?

Community Answer

Well it wouldn't matter what you wear because it is only tryouts. Don't wear baggy clothes though. You want to wear clothes that are just right.
Question

Can I still try out if I've never done gymnastics before?

Community Answer

Yes. They would rather have a girl with no experience with a good attitude than a girl with lots of experience with a bad attitude. Just do your best.
Question

Can I wear a sweatshirt?

Community Answer

This is not recommended. You will be moving a lot, so you will want to stay cool and comfortable. Bulky clothing will cause you to overheat; they also will be less comfortable to move around it.