The Evolution of Sports Uniforms

Over time, sports uniforms have changed drastically. Athletes now are wearing what would have been the undergarments of uniforms back then. That leads to the question of why. Have sports uniforms evolved over time to benefit the athletes? 

 Pictures show women in the very early 20th century playing tennis in floor-length, long-sleeved dresses and men in dress shirts and pants. Both “uniforms” looked more like tea-time attire than tennis uniforms. Uniforms have become more comfortable and much easier to move in. The fabric materials now, which are specifically designed for sports, are also more breathable. Uniforms have evolved in order to benefit the athlete’s comfort and mobility. 

Women’s uniforms in particular have especially changed. In many cases, skirts have gotten smaller, tops tighter, and uniforms just more revealing in general. Some claim that women’s uniforms have gotten smaller because they are more practical. Compared to uniforms with excessive clothing back in the early 20th century, uniforms now are easier to move in. But why haven’t men’s uniforms decreased in size as much as womens? Women are sexualized both on and off the playing field. Their uniforms compared to mens’ are an example of unfair gender norms. Not only do the uniforms objectify them, but they also take away the focus from their actual athletic ability. 

On the contrary, uniforms at Samo are more gender neutral. Although they differ between girls and boys sports, neither is more skimpy or concealed than the other.