How Sports Uniforms Can Help Keep Girls in Sport

When we talk about keeping girls in sport, we often focus on coaching, facilities, or confidence-building programs. But one surprisingly powerful tool in this mission is the uniform. What girls wear when they play isn’t just about performance—it’s deeply connected to comfort, confidence, and belonging.

Here’s how sports uniforms can make a real difference in keeping girls engaged in sport:

1.⁠ ⁠Comfort = Confidence

If a girl is worried about her shorts riding up, her top being see-through, or feeling cold or exposed, she’s not thinking about the game. Uncomfortable or impractical uniforms distract and discourage. When uniforms are designed with girls’ bodies in mind, they allow her to move freely and confidently.

Solution: Offer uniforms made from quality, breathable fabrics with styles that provide proper coverage and flexibility.

2.⁠ ⁠Choice Matters

Not every girl wants to wear a short skirt or tight singlet. When there’s only one uniform option—especially one that feels revealing or gendered—it can push girls away from the sport they love. Giving athletes choice shows that their comfort and identity are respected.

Solution: Provide options like shorts instead of skorts, looser-fitting tops, or different cuts for different comfort levels.

3.⁠ ⁠Minimising Body Anxiety

Teenage years are peak body-conscious years. A poorly fitted or unflattering uniform can amplify insecurities, especially when playing in front of others. This can lead girls to sit out games or quit altogether. A good uniform should help her feel good, not self-conscious.

Solution: Design uniforms that flatter a range of body shapes and sizes, and involve girls in the process of choosing or giving feedback.

4.⁠ ⁠Inclusion and Representation

Traditional uniforms have often been designed around male bodies and styles, leaving girls to “make do.” This sends the wrong message—that girls are an afterthought in sport. When brands and teams create gear that’s designed for girls, by girls, it tells them they belong.

Solution: Partner with female athletes and girls themselves when creating uniforms—listen to what they want and need.

5.⁠ ⁠Pride in the Game

A great uniform isn’t just functional—it inspires pride. When girls love how they look and feel in their team kit, they’re more likely to wear it with confidence, show up consistently, and feel connected to the team.

Solution: Invest in design that looks modern, fun, and empowering—because confidence can start with what you wear.

Girls Deserve Better Gear

At Hero Athletica, we believe that uniforms shouldn’t be a barrier—they should be a boost. That’s why we’re designing sportwear that makes girls feel strong, seen, and supported on and off the field.

Let’s ditch the outdated uniforms and instead give girls gear that keeps them in the game—because when they feel good, they play good.