Different Types of Cheer Poms and How to Use Them for Maximum Impact

Cheerleading is much more than just performing chants and stunts—it's about adding energy and excitement to the crowd. One of the key tools for achieving this effect is the cheer pom. Whether you're part of a school cheer team or a professional dance group, cheer poms can help elevate your routines and performances. The vibrant colors, flashy textures, and rhythmic movements of cheer poms capture attention and boost the overall impact of a cheerleading routine.

With various types available, it's crucial to understand which cheer poms work best for your routine and how to use them to maximize their effect. Let's explore the different types of cheer poms, their specific uses, and tips on how to buy cheer pom poms that meet your cheerleading needs.

What Are Cheer Poms?

Cheer poms are lightweight, fluffy accessories that cheerleaders use during performances to enhance visual appeal. Made from materials like plastic, metallic film, or paper, they come in various sizes, colors, and textures. Cheer poms add flair to routines by creating movement patterns that synchronize with chants and Music. The way a cheerleader uses their poms can make a routine more energetic and engaging.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Cheer Poms

The right cheer poms do more than just complement your outfit. They can define the energy of a performance, catch the audience's eye, and make Choreography look more polished. Selecting cheer poms that match your team's colors and fit the style of your performance is essential for maximizing the impact of your cheerleading routine.

Types of Cheer Poms

Understanding the different types of cheer poms is the first step in choosing the best ones for your needs. Here's a detailed look at the various styles and how to use them effectively.

Plastic Poms

Plastic poms are among the most popular choices for cheerleading teams. Made from lightweight plastic strands, they create a traditional look that is commonly associated with cheerleading. They come in solid or mixed colors and offer an affordable option for many teams. The strands can be matte or shiny, adding different visual effects depending on the lighting.

• When to Use Plastic Poms: These are ideal for traditional cheer routines, pep rallies, and school sporting events. The wide range of colors makes them perfect for matching school colors and themes.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: Use plastic poms in routines that involve a lot of arm movements, as the lightweight material responds well to quick changes in direction.

Metallic Poms

Metallic cheer poms feature shiny strands made of reflective material, adding a sparkle that catches the light and draws the audience's attention. They tend to be heavier than plastic poms, which can give a different look and feel during performances.

• When to Use Metallic Poms: Metallic poms are ideal for performances where you want to add a little extra shine, such as night games, competitions, or events under bright lights.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: To showcase the shimmering effect, use metallic poms in routines that emphasize slow, dramatic movements.

Holographic Poms

Holographic poms take shine to the next level. They have a multicolor, reflective surface that creates a rainbow-like effect when light hits them. They are usually a bit more expensive than plastic and metallic poms, but they can make a routine look more dynamic and futuristic.

• When to Use Holographic Poms: Use them in high-energy performances where you want to leave a lasting visual impression, such as competitions or halftime shows.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: Incorporate them into routines that involve lots of spins or twirls, allowing the colors to flash in different directions for a dazzling effect.

Glitter Poms

Glitter poms are poms coated in fine glitter that sparkles as they move. While they may not reflect light as vividly as metallic or holographic poms, they offer a unique shimmer that adds a touch of elegance to performances.

• When to Use Glitter Poms: These are great for dance routines or performances that aim to appear more graceful and refined.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: Use glitter poms for slower, synchronized movements that allow the sparkle to be seen clearly.

Streamer Poms

Streamer poms have long, flowing strands that give them a ribbon-like appearance. They are perfect for cheerleading routines that incorporate dance and acrobatic elements, as the flowing strands add a sense of drama to movements.

• When to Use Streamer Poms: Perfect for dance-based cheer routines, cheer camps, or gymnastic-inspired Choreography.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: Use them in performances where large, sweeping arm movements are prominent. The longer strands make these movements appear more dramatic.

Mini Poms

Mini poms are smaller than traditional cheer poms, making them ideal for young children or teams that want to use them as accessories rather than the main prop. These poms add a cute touch to routines without being overwhelming.

• When to Use Mini Poms: Ideal for youth cheer teams or as accent props in larger routines.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: Use them for short, upbeat routines where the focus is on simple, synchronized movements.

Feather Poms

Made from synthetic feathers, these poms offer a unique look compared to traditional plastic, metallic, or holographic options. Feather poms provide a soft and whimsical appearance, perfect for dance or cheerleading teams that want to try something different.

• When to Use Feather Poms: These work well in dance-based cheer routines or themed performances where a unique, vintage look is desired.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: Incorporate slow, flowing movements into the routine to accentuate the feather poms' soft, floating appearance.

Custom Poms

For teams that want a truly unique look, custom poms are the way to go. Customizing cheer poms allows you to choose the color combination, size, and material and even add special features like lights or logos.

• When to Use Custom Poms: They are great for special events, high-profile performances, or competitions where originality is key.

• How to Maximize Their Impact: Tailor your Choreography to highlight the custom features. For example, if your poms have LED lights, make sure to use them in dark environments where the lights can stand out.

How to Choose the Right Cheer Poms

Now that you're familiar with the different types of cheer poms, it's time to consider what factors will help you choose the right ones. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when you buy cheer pom poms.

Material

The material of the cheer poms can significantly affect their appearance and how they feel during use. Plastic poms are light and versatile, while metallic poms offer more weight and shimmer. Consider the effect you want to achieve and choose the material that aligns with that vision.

Color

Color is an important aspect to consider, as it should complement the team's uniform and fit the Theme of the performance. You can choose solid colors, mixed colors, or even custom combinations that feature your team's logo or school colors.

Size

Cheer poms come in various sizes, usually measured by the length of the strands. Smaller poms (around 4-6 inches) are ideal for younger cheerleaders, while larger poms (8-12 inches) are better for high-energy performances where more visual impact is desired.

Handle Type

Cheer poms come with different handle types, including baton handles, dowel handles, and even loop handles. The handle type affects grip and comfort, so choose one that fits well in your hand and feels comfortable during use.

Budget

While it may be tempting to buy cheer pom poms based solely on price, consider the quality as well. Investing in high-quality poms can make a noticeable difference in your routine's appearance and performance.

conclusion

Cheer poms from GetPoms are essential tools for amplifying the energy and visual appeal of cheerleading performances. With a variety of types—such as plastic, metallic, holographic, glitter, streamer, mini, feather, and custom poms—each style offers distinct features that can enhance different aspects of a routine. By understanding the unique characteristics and optimal uses of each type, you can strategically select the right cheer poms to complement your choreography and performance environment. When choosing poms, consider factors such as material, color, size, handle type, and budget to ensure you achieve maximum impact. The right cheer poms from GetPoms not only elevate the visual experience but also help your team deliver memorable and engaging performances every time.

Name: GetPoms 

Address: 7317 La Sobrina Dr, Dallas, TX 

Phone No: 972-385-3035

The Ultimate Guide to Pom Pom Balls for Cheerleading Enthusiasts

Cheerleading pom poms are an iconic part of cheerleading uniforms and routines. These colorful pom poms allow cheerleaders to add visual flair and excitement to their cheers and dances. For cheerleading enthusiasts looking to purchase pom pom balls, there are a few key factors to consider.

Types of Pom Poms for Cheerleading

There are two main types of pom poms used in cheerleading - striped pom poms and solid pom poms.

Striped Pom Poms

Striped pom poms feature multiple strips of alternating colors. The most common color combinations are red/white and black/white, but any color combination is possible. Striped pom poms create a striking, vibrant effect when shaken by cheerleaders during routines.

Striped pom poms often feature longer streamers coming off the main pom. These accent streamers add extra movement and visual appeal. Many squads use striped poms as their main practice and performance poms.

Solid Pom Poms

As the name suggests, solid pom poms are a single, solid color, usually white. Solid white poms project a clean, classic look. They are popular for cheer teams looking for a more understated style.

Solid poms can also be any other solid color a squad prefers. Their simplicity makes them easy to match with different cheer uniforms, especially louder, busier cheer uniforms.

Pom Pom Construction

Pom poms are constructed by tying together hundreds of small strips of plastic. Higher-quality poms will have more strips, creating a fuller, fluffier shape. Two main types of materials are used:

Plastic Film Strips

Most pom poms are made from glossy strips of plastic film. These poms are lightweight and durable, shake well, and hold their shape. Plastic film poms come in the widest range of colors and styles.

Metallic Mylar Strips

For extra flash, metallic mylar strips can be used instead of plastic. Metallic poms have an eye-catching shimmer when they move. They're available in colors like silver, gold, copper, and more. Mylar poms cost a bit more but provide lots of visual appeal.

Pom Attachment

Cheerleaders need to be able to grip their poms securely during routines. Pom poms attach to the hand via either a stick or a strap:

Stick Poms

Stick poms feature a rigid plastic stick that attaches to the middle of the pom. Cheerleaders grip the stick to hold the poms. Sticks are typically 6 or 7 inches long.

Stick poms stay securely in the hand and allow for easy pom movements. However, the sticks can feel bulky and awkward at times.

Strap Poms

Strap poms use adjustable fabric straps attached to the backside of the pom. Cheerleaders slide their hands through the loops to grip the poms.

Straps provide more flexibility and a better grip on the pom, allowing the pom to sit flush in the hand. However, straps sometimes twist or slip while performing rigorous motions.

Pom Sizes

Poms come in a range of sizes, measured by their diameter across the face of the pom. The right size depends on the cheerleader's hand size and preference. Typical pom sizes include:

• Extra Small: 4 inches

• Small: 5 inches

• Medium: 6 inches

• Large: 7 inches

• Jumbo: 8+ inches

Smaller poms around 5 inches work well for younger cheerleaders with smaller hands. Older squads tend to prefer medium or large poms in the 6-7-inch range.

Larger jumbo poms make the biggest visual impact but are heavier and harder to handle. Straps help manage the weight of jumbo poms.

Buying Quality Pom Poms

With the many pom pom options available today, it's important to choose the right ones to get the best performance:

Buy from a Reputable Cheer Supplier

Check that the company specializes in cheerleading equipment and apparel. They will have the most variety and expertise. Well-known brands include Rebel, Nfinity, and Champion.

Inspect Construction Quality

Look for tightly packed strips and sturdy bindings. Lower-quality poms may appear flimsy or uneven. Check reviews to help assess durability.

Consider Durability Needs

Practice poms can afford to be lower cost. But invest in higher quality for longer-lasting performance poms.

Request Samples

Many suppliers will provide sample poms to help squads decide. Squads can compare colors, feel, and shake test samples.

Compare Prices

Pricing can range dramatically between brands. Weigh the cost against quality to get the best value.

Creating Pom Pom Routines

Pom routines require coordination between all team members. Here are some tips for putting together exciting, synchronized pom routines:

Choose Music with a Strong Beat

An energetic tempo helps unify pom motions. Make sure the beat is prominent enough to perform.

Use Simple, Repetitive Movements

Layering basic moves makes it easier to stay in sync. Examples include shakes, loops, figure 8s, claps, and hits.

Design Formations

Use formations like lines, circles, or rows. Move together into new formations on changes in the music.

Coordinate Transitions

Moving in and out of formations takes teamwork. Call-out counts to transition smoothly.

Build Up Speed and Motion

Start simpler and slower. Gradually increase speed, height, and energy through the routine to build excitement.

Incorporate Level Changes

Moves like squats, leaping, floor work, and shoulder sits add highs and lows.

Feature Skill Sections

Add synchronized skill sequences like ripples, exchanges, flips, and illusion twirls.

End on a High Note

Finish with an eye-catching move like a jump or a pyramid for a strong finish.

Caring for Pom Poms

With heavy use, pom poms can wear out over a season. Follow these care tips to maximize their lifespan:

• Shake poms gently when not performing to fluff and loosen the strips.

• Spot clean stains immediately with gentle cleaners and let air dry.

• Store poms in a dry area away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

• Place poms in a mesh laundry bag and machine wash cold on a gentle cycle if needed. Air dry.

• Check bindings regularly and re-tie knots or re-wrap handle bindings as needed.

• Consider rotating practice and performance poms to spread out wear and tear.

• Replace poms each season or whenever they appear limp, flattened out, or worn.

With the right pom poms, cheer teams can take their performances to the next level. Evaluate pom construction, materials, attachments, and sizes to select poms tailored to your squad's needs. Establish smart pom care habits to help them last. Most importantly, create fun, exciting routines that showcase team spirit and skill to pump up the crowd!

Conclusion

Pom pom balls are an essential tool for cheerleading enthusiasts, adding flair, energy, and visual appeal to performances. Whether you're a seasoned cheerleader or just starting, selecting the right pom poms can elevate your routines and showcase your team's spirit. With a wide variety of styles, colors, and sizes available from GetPoms, you can find the perfect set to match your team's identity. Embrace the excitement of cheerleading and let your pom poms shine as you cheer your team to victory!

Name: GetPoms 

Address: 7317 La Sobrina Dr, Dallas, TX 

Phone No: 972-385-3035

The Role of Cheerleading Pom-Pom Balls in Team Spirit and Performance

Cheerleading pom-pom balls have become an iconic symbol of cheer squads and an integral part of cheerleading routines. With their bright, colorful, and eye-catching nature, pom-poms attract attention and help cheerleaders visually lead cheers and engage the crowd. But pom-poms serve a greater purpose than just looking good - they have an important role in the psychology of team spirit and have a practical function in cheer performance.

A Brief History of Cheerleading Pom-Poms

Pom-poms became popularized in cheerleading in the mid-1900s, though cheerleaders waved megaphones and other props before that. Pom-poms were adopted from Broadway and performance dance troops in the early 20th century. Some credit the development of cheer pom-poms to Fred Gastoff, who owned a pom-pom manufacturing company in the 1960s. The fluffy pom-poms first made appearances at professional sporting events before trickling down to college and high school squads.

As cheerleading advanced from basic sideline crowdsourcing to competitive routines in the 1970s, pom-poms allowed for more dynamic visuals and choreography. Pom-poms became a staple in cheerleading as both a practical tool and a stylized emblem of cheerleader spirit. Professional and college dance teams and pro sports cheerleaders helped popularize choreographed pom-pom routines. The development of lighter-weight, durable plastic pom-poms also helped pom-poms proliferate.

How Pom-Poms Boost Team Spirit

Team spirit is defined as the shared enthusiasm and devotion shown by a team's fans and members. Positive team spirit is associated with increased motivation, morale, performance, and loyalty. Pom-poms give visual stimulation and energy to increase crowd and team spirit in various ways:

Visual Impact

The vibrant, fluttering pom-poms provide striking visual effects and grab attention when cheerleaders shake them in choreographed motions and formations. This amplifies their voices and helps them lead synchronized cheers. The visuals excite crowds and allow cheerleaders to display team spirit through energetic, dynamic movements.

Sound Effects

When shaken forcefully in unison, pom-poms create reports. The fluctuating noise increases the sense of movement and participation. This audible factor makes pom-poms more dynamic for leading cheers and chants. The sound effects punctuate cheers and add enthusiasm.

Unified Movement

Performing synchronized motions creates a sense of unity. When cheerleaders hold pom-poms in planned formations and shake them together on cues, they demonstrate they are moving as one. This coordination and synchronicity help generate shared eagerness and morale.

Encourages Participation

The eye-catching, energizing nature of waving pom-poms, along with the squad's cheers, motivates fans to join in. When spectators mimic the cheerleaders' motions, they feel more immersed in backing the team and boost their spirit.

Emotional Energy

Vigorously waving pom-poms in fast, upbeat motions creates feelings of excitement and enthusiasm. The physical movements and visual stimulation enhance cheerleaders' energy, which transfers to the crowd. This generates a shared emotional energy and uplifted spirit.

How Pom-Poms Enhance Cheerleading Performance

While clearly boosting visual appeal and crowd spirit, pom-poms also serve important practical purposes for cheerleading performance and skills. Pom-poms improve cheerleading routines in these key ways:

Punctuation

Cheerleaders strategically wave pom-poms in time with specific motions, words, or phrases in their choreographed routines. This sharp punctuation focuses attention and emphasizes these accents, adding power and polish to the performance.

Clean Movements

Holding pom-poms defines and frames cheerleaders' arms. This showcases their form and movements in an exact, refined way as they transition between positions and direct motions with their arms, creating cleaner lines and execution.

Balance and Control

Incorporating pom-pom movements requires cheerleaders to maintain control of their arms and balance as they transition between motions. The extra Weight challenges their strength and body control to improve their technique.

Showmanship

Pom-poms allow cheerleaders to add dramatic expression and flair. Shaking them forcefully in the air demonstrates enthusiasm and energy. Sweeping them in wide arcs and Figure-eight creates visual excitement. Pom-poms expand performance showmanship.

Connection and Interaction

Cheerleaders can use their pom-poms to direct attention and lead interactive cheers with the crowd. They can point to different sections for customized engagement during cheers or pump the pom-poms to elicit crowd responses. This ability to connect and prompt reactions enhances the interactive aspect of their performance.

Dynamic Variety

Pom-poms let cheerleaders seamlessly blend static and dynamic motions by switching from holding poses to high-energy shaking and waving. This adds diversity to visual appeal over relying solely on gymnastics and dancing. Pom-poms provide another dimension of variety.

Uniformity

Matching pom-poms in team colors and designs creates cohesive styles. Pom-poms worn by all cheerleaders unify the look of uniforms when choreographing formations, projecting a synchronized identity.

By understanding the strategic role pom-poms have in engaging crowds and sharpening performance, coaches can leverage them to maximize cheerleading's impact. Cheerleaders can use pom-poms to enhance their skills and pump up crowds. Pom-poms ultimately epitomize the infectious team spirit embedded in cheerleading culture. Whether waved at professional stadiums or local high schools, pom-poms bring exhilarating visuals and energy to cheering squads.

Selecting the Right Pom-Poms for Your Squad

While pom-poms are simple accessories, there are actually many options to choose from. The right pom-poms can amplify your squad's spirit, while the wrong ones will fall flat. Consider these factors when selecting effective pom-poms for your cheer squad:

Pom Attachment Styles

Pom-poms come in three main attachment styles:

• Sticks - Pom-poms attached to plastic sticks or rods provide the most versatility for integrated pom movements but require continuous holding.

• Handles - Pom-poms are constructed with plastic handles extending from the base. Handles allow for flourishing motions and even tosses, and they require less grip strength than sticks.

• Straps— Pom-poms tied to wrist straps. Straps free up the hands in between motions but limit motion versatility. They are best for younger cheerleaders.

Consider your squad's skill levels and preferences when deciding between stick, handle, or strap attachment styles.

Pom Weight

Pom-pom weight affects performance and comfort:

• Lightweight—2-3 ounce poms are ideal for maximum shaking motions and reduced arm fatigue. They allow for more complex, extended routines. They are best for older, experienced cheerleaders.

• Medium Weight - 4-6 ounce poms provide substantial visual impact and audible sound with less tiring.

• Heavy Weight - 8+ ounce poms deliver the loudest, fullest visuals but can strain arms, especially for long routines. Better for short cheers or use by stronger cheerleaders.

Lighter pom-poms are recommended for high school and youth cheer, while heavier poms work for quick college or professional cheers.

Pom Size

Standard cheer pom sizes range from 5" to 8" diameter. Size impacts visual presence and use:

• Small (5") - Compact and easy to hold but less visible from a distance. Allow intricate handle/stick manipulations.

• Medium (6-7") - The most versatile and balanced size for both visual impact and maneuverability.

• Large (8") - Make the biggest statement but can be bulky for complex moves. Better for the back line or male cheerleaders.

Medium 7" pom-poms offer the best all-around option for high school and younger cheerleaders.

Number of Poms

Most squads use two pom-poms per cheerleader, holding one in each hand. Pros of using two poms:

• Provides balanced, symmetrical impact.

• Allows alternating or simultaneous dual-hand motions.

• Keeps hands active without empty motions.

Some squads utilize a single pom for a greater range of motion, which allows for the integration of more dance and gymnastics movements. Single poms can be alternated between hands. The quantity depends on your cheer style and preferences.

Custom Design Options

Pom manufacturing companies offer many custom options:

• Team Colors - Matching exact hues from your school's color scheme.

• Glitter Poms - Incorporating glittery tinsel strands and metallic accents.

• Patterned Poms - Custom graphic prints or alternating color stripes/sections.

• Shape Poms - Unique shapes like stars, hearts, and megaphones.

• Mixed Media - Attaching bows, beads, and foam shapes.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, cheerleading pom-poms are not just vibrant accessories but essential tools that significantly enhance team spirit and performance. Their ability to visually and audibly engage the crowd, unify movement, and add dynamic variety to routines makes them indispensable in cheerleading. From their historical roots to their strategic use in modern cheerleading, pom-poms epitomize the energy and unity that define this sport. When selecting pom-poms, it is crucial to consider factors like attachment style, weight, size, and customization to ensure they amplify your squad's spirit effectively. For the best selection and variety, GetPoms provides top-quality options tailored to meet the unique needs of every cheer squad.