Whether your child is just beginning to show an interest in cheerleading or has already attended camps, clinics and classes for the sport, she should have the proper equipment. While the organization often supplies uniforms and accessories, purchasing the proper footwear usually is left to the athlete. The type of cheerleading your child participates in will dictate the kind of shoes she needs.
Casual Cheerleading
Since organized cheerleading often isn't offered until your child reaches middle or high school, some city parks-and-recreation departments and other organizations offer cheer clinics and practices for younger children. These programs introduce your child to cheerleading without the pressure of being on a squad. Introductory cheerleading often centers on dance and easy routines rather than stunts, which is why regular tennis shoes will suffice. Just make sure they're comfortable.
Organized Cheerleading
If your child is a member of an organized cheerleading squad, requirements for uniforms and accessories are more stringent than are those of casual, non-competitive cheerleading. White, scuff-free cross-trainers are acceptable but may need to be altered or dyed (to match the team colors), depending on the squad's requirements.
Squad Requirements
Cheerleading can be a pricey activity -- especially if your child's coach requires several pairs of shoes to match various uniforms. While standard white shoes are usually acceptable, your child's coach may require colored shoes at additional cost. Read all registration material to understand uniform requirements for a particular squad and ensure your child's feet are prepared for practices and performances.
Brands
While regular cross-trainer or tennis shoes may be sufficient for kids cheerleading squads, as your child becomes more serious about cheerleading, it may be necessary to invest in specific shoes. Cheer shoes are lighter than typical tennis shoes -- a factor that can help during stunts. Some shoe brands that cater to children's cheerleading include Zephz, Nike and Reebok. You can find appropriate footwear at athletic stores and cheer-and-dance specialty retailers.
References
- KidsFirst Sports Center: Cheer/Tumbling Classes
- "Sign Me Up!: The Parents' Complete Guide to Sports, Activities, Music Lessons, Dance Classes and Other Extracurriculars"; Stacy M. DeBroff; 2003
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