Whether you're new to cheerleading or just want to sound like you know what you're talking about at your next fitting, this guide breaks down the building blocks of a cheer uniform. From fabric choices to naming every piece of the outfit, here’s everything coaches, parents, and team leaders need to know.
What Are the Main Components of a Cheer Uniform?
A traditional cheer uniform consists of three core pieces:
1. Top
The top is also called a shell in traditional sideline cheer, and comes in various styles:
-
Shell: Traditional, full-length sleeveless cheer top
-
Cropped Shell: Sleeveless cropped top that hits above the waist, common for college teams
-
Full-Length Top/Leo: Long-sleeved or short-sleeved (not sleeveless) and common for competition and high-performance teams
-
Crop Top: Commonly seen on upper level Allstar teams and competitive college teams, this sleeved top hits above the waist
-
Sleeve Options: Sleeveless, short sleeve, long sleeve, or interchangeable sleeves depending on season and use.
2. Bottom
Your team can choose from:
-
Skirt: Typically straight, A-line or pleated. Competition styles often come with built-in briefs underneath.
-
Skort: A hybrid of a skirt and shorts—functional and stylish.
-
Shorts: Becoming more popular in high-performance and youth teams for maximum mobility.
FAQ: What is the top of a cheer uniform called?
It's usually referred to as a shell, but depending on the style, it may also be called a crop top or longline top.
What Goes Under a Cheer Uniform?
-
Briefs: Fitted bottoms worn under skirts for modesty and performance. Rebel’s briefs are boy-cut short styles for optimal comfort and coverage.
-
Bodyliners: Worn under sleeveless tops to add sleeves to the look.
-
Conversion Pieces: Worn under crop tops for extra coverage or to meet competition requirements.
-
Sports Bras: Essential for support—especially in stunt-heavy teams.
FAQ: What goes under a cheer uniform?
Briefs (attached or detatched), bodyliners, conversion pieces and sports bras are the most common under-uniform items.
What Are Cheer Uniforms Made Of?
Cheer uniforms are built for performance, flexibility, and glam. Rebel most used fabrics include:
-
AthleticFlex™: Stretchy and durable—ideal for stunts and tumbling.
-
Silhouette Stretch Poly™: Offers both stretch and structure, often used in traditional sideline uniforms.
-
Mystique or Holographic Fabrics: For shine, shimmer, and high-visibility performances.
-
Mesh Panels: Add breathability and edge, especially in sleeves or cutouts.
FAQ: What are allstar cheer uniforms made of?
Usually our AthleticFlex™ fabric with embellishments like crystals, mesh, or mystique fabrics.
The Sparkle Factor: Embellishments That Matter
Want to take your look to the next level? These extras can be built into your uniform design:
-
Crystals! (like Rebel’s SuperNova Crystal)
-
Appliqué Letters
-
Appliqué Mascots
-
Custom Embroidery
-
Sublimated Artwork
These aren’t just “bling”—they’re storytelling tools that showcase team pride, identity, and attitude.
Bonus: What Are the Parts of a Cheer Team?
To help orient new coaches or parents, here’s how most cheer teams break down:
-
Flyers: The athletes lifted into the air during stunts.
-
Bases: The athletes supporting the flyers.
-
Back Spots: Add support and catch flyers—often tall and strong.
-
Tumblers & Dancers: Ground-based performers who execute technical elements and visual effects.
FAQ: What are the parts of a cheer team?
Flyers, bases, back spots, and tumblers/dancers make up most team roles. Uniforms must support the unique movements of each.
Want to See These Components in Action?
Check out our uniform galleries and lookbooks to see real Rebel designs brought to life—with labeled views showing tops, bottoms, and embellishment details.