If you are a track and field athlete, wearing the appropriate apparel can be a key component in your overall performance. As with most any sport, you need to wear lightweight, polyester athletic clothing that allows you to move freely and easily and keeps you cool by wicking away sweat. As a competitor, you must follow the rules and guidelines set by the track and field governing bodies, or you will be disqualified.
NCAA Uniform Rules
As a track and field competitor, know the rules about what you are allowed to wear. If your uniform does not meet code, you can be disqualified. According to NCAA Track and Field Rules, Section 3, Article 1, an official uniform for competition consists of two school-issued items, shorts or briefs, and a top. One-piece body suits are also acceptable. Along with the school's logo, the competitor's uniform is allowed to have a single, maximum 2 1/4-square-inch manufacturer's trademark.
NCAA Footwear Rules
NCAA Rules, Section 3, Article 5, states that as far as footwear for competing, you can choose to run barefoot if you like. If you wear spikes, there can not be more than 11 spike positions per shoe, and the spikes themselves can not exceed nine millimeters in length. High-jump and javelin shoes can have spike length of up to 12 millimeters. Your shoes are also allowed to have zippers, and straps are also allowed for security and stabilizing.
Performance Clothing
Most running apparel manufacturers realize that no track and field competitor will buy or wear their clothing if they don't conform to the uniform rules. This means that you can wear clothing that has the latest and lightest textile technology to keep you warm or cool and allows you to perform at your best, while conforming to the rules. With this in mind, you have a multitude of manufacturers to choose your running and throwing apparel from. Your team may, however, require you to wear a certain manufacturer's gear.
Clothing Suggestions
Outside of the special uniform rules set by the governing bodies, apparel and clothing for track and field are not really that different from what the daily jogger wears. Today's athletic wear is mostly composed of high-tech polyester textiles, with smaller amounts of lycra, acrylic or nylon. Track and field competitors may, however, benefit from wearing compression-type or tight, torso-fitting tops or shorts. This type of clothing reduces any type of wind drag and helps your performance.
The Right Advice
As a track and field competitor, if you have any doubts about rules for your uniform or the best type of clothing and shoes to train and race in, seek out your coach, or ruling organization for the right advice. Check with the National Collegiate Athletic Association, your state's high school track and field governing body or USA Track and Field for what they endorse for you to wear. Wearing the right clothing and shoes can definitely help you perform your best.
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