When you think of cheerleading, what instantly comes to mind? Chances are, it's a bright, shimmering swirl of color flying through the air, backed by booming chants and big, unstoppable energy. And right at the heart of that visual excitement are the cheer poms.
These aren't just accessories. They're a symbol of team spirit, a visual extension of the cheerleader's movements, and a crucial tool for making routines pop. But picking the right cheer poms isn't as simple as grabbing a pair that matches your school colors. There's more to it — and if you're responsible for outfitting a cheer squad, you'll want to get this decision right.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about cheer poms — from materials to sizes, from color choices to maintenance tips. Let's help you pick poms that are more than just fluff.
Why Picking the Right Cheer Poms Matters
Sure, they sparkle and shake, but the perfect cheer poms do much more than that. They can:
Enhance crowd engagement: Bright, colorful poms catch the eye, making it easier for audiences to follow and feel involved.
Boost team spirit: Matching, well-designed poms help unify a squad's look.
Support routine choreography: The weight and length of the pom affect how a routine flows.
Showcase personality: Whether it'sthey’re glittery, metallic, or classic vinyl, poms showcase a team's unique Style.
When you consider the impact these accessories have, it's clear why picking the right set matters.
Key Features to Look for in Cheer Poms
Before you start browsing catalogs or websites, it's good to know what separates average poms from excellent ones. Let's break down the important details you'll need to consider:
1. Material Type
Cheer poms come in different materials, each offering a distinct look and feel.
Vinyl: Durable, classic, and budget-friendly. Great for both indoor and outdoor performances.
Plastic: Lighter than vinyl and often used for youth or recreational squads.
Metallic: Extra sparkle and shine, perfect for high-energy routines or competitions.
Mixed Material: Some poms mix vinyl and metallic for a balanced, eye-catching effect.
Pro Tip: Metallic strands will dazzle more if you're cheering under bright lights or in the sun.
2. Handle Style
It might seem like a small thing, but the handle impacts grip, comfort, and performance.
Baton Handle: A thin, baton-like grip, ideal for twirling and precise moves.
Block Handle: A small, square-shaped handle that fits easily into the palm.
Hidden Handle: Strands loop over a hidden grip for a seamless look.
Elastic Band Handle: Great for younger cheerleaders who might need extra security while performing.
Tip: Let your team try different handle types during practice to see what feels natural.
3. Pom Size
Size isn't just about how much material you're waving around. It affects visibility, choreography, and energy.
4" to 5" poms: Typically for youth or recreational squads.
6" to 7" poms: Common for high school and college teams.
8" poms and larger: Reserved for competitions or professional squads looking for maximum flair.
Remember, larger poms weigh more, so it's a balance between visibility and ease of handling.
4. Strand Count and Width
The fullness of pom matters. More strands equal a fluffier, bolder look.
Less than 500 strands: Light, minimal volume.
500–1000 strands: Standard for high school squads.
1000+ strands: Full-bodied, competition-grade poms.
Strand width also changes appearance:
3/16" width: Standard look.
¼" width: Fuller, chunkier appearance.
Choosing the Right Color Scheme
Colors aren't just about matching uniforms. They can amplify a message, set a mood, or distinguish your squad in a sea of competitors. When picking colors for your cheer poms, consider the following:
Team Colors
Most squads opt for poms that match their uniform colors to maintain a cohesive look.
Opponent Awareness
If you're cheering at a multi-team event, make sure your colors stand out from your rivals.
Event-Specific Themes
Some performances might call for holiday colors, awareness ribbons (pink for breast cancer awareness), or national colors for patriotic routines.
Multi-Color Blends
Many poms feature two or three colors. Metallic strands can be mixed in to boost sparkle.
Different Types of Cheer Poms
Believe it or not, there's more variety in cheer poms than most people realize. Each type serves a specific purpose.
Metallic Cheer Poms
These deliver maximum shine and are perfect under bright lights or for evening games.
Holographic Poms
They catch the light from every angle, producing a prismatic effect that really stands out.
Plastic Poms
Affordable and durable, plastic poms are a favorite for schools on a budget.
Custom Cheer Poms
Designed to match specific colors, logos, or themes. Great for competitions or special performances.
How to Pick Cheer Poms for Different Cheer Levels
Youth Cheer Squads
Focus on lightweight plastic or vinyl.
Go for elastic or block handles.
Stick with smaller sizes for easier control.
Middle and High School Teams
Mix vinyl and metallic for a balanced look.
Try baton or hidden handles for advanced moves.
Sizes between 6" and 7" usually work best.
College and Professional Squads
Opt for large, metallic-heavy poms.
Use baton handles for intricate choreography.
Consider holographic options for standout performances.
Things to Avoid When Choosing Cheer Poms
It's easy to get swept up in colors and sparkle, but a bad pom choice can weigh down a performance. Keep an eye out for:
Low-quality materials: Cheap poms lose strands and fade quickly.
Uncomfortable handles: Poor grip leads to dropped poms mid-routine.
Oversized poms for younger teams: Too heavy or bulky poms tire out young cheerleaders.
Ignoring maintenance needs: Some poms require more care, especially metallic or holographic varieties.
How to Care for Your Cheer Poms
Good cheer poms should last a season or longer if they are properly cared for.
Storage Tips
Hang them on a pom rack or pegboard.
Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Avoid stacking them, which can crush strands.
Cleaning Tips
Gently shake to remove loose debris.
Wipe vinyl or plastic strands with a damp cloth.
Avoid soaking metallic poms, as water can dull their finish.
Where to Buy Quality Cheer Poms
When shopping for cheer poms, quality matters. Reliable suppliers specialize in poms built for performance.
Top Options
Cheer supply websites
Athletic uniform companies
Local sporting goods stores
Custom pom manufacturers for unique designs
Online Tip: Check customer reviews for insights on durability and appearance before placing a bulk order.
Customizing Cheer Poms for Special Events
Special events call for special gear. Customizing your cheer poms adds excitement and creates lasting memories.
Popular Customization Ideas
Add team logos or mascots to the handles.
Mix unusual color combinations.
Include themed metallic strands (gold and silver for championships).
Use glow-in-the-dark strands for nighttime performances.
Budgeting for Cheer Poms
Costs can add up quickly, especially for large squads or multiple events. But smart budgeting helps you stay within limits without sacrificing quality.
Budget Tips
Order in bulk for discounts.
Choose mixed-material poms for a balance between cost and visual impact.
Rotate older poms for practice sessions.
Schedule annual inventory checks to plan for replacements.
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Cheer Poms
Even the best cheer poms don't last forever. Keep an eye out for:
Faded or discolored strands
Frayed or missing strands
Loose or damaged handles
Loss of fluff and volume
Pro Tip: Replace poms at the start of each season or before major competitions to keep performances sharp.
Final Thoughts on Picking the Perfect Cheer Poms
Cheer poms are more than props. They're a crucial part of what makes cheerleading vibrant, energetic, and visually engaging. Taking the time to pick the right material, size, color, and handle ensures your team looks sharp and performs at their best.
Whether you're outfitting a youth squad, preparing for a national championship, or just replacing old gear for a pep rally, the right cheer poms can elevate your squad's performance. That’s where GetPoms comes in — offering high-quality, customizable cheer poms designed to match your team’s spirit and style.
So, remember — it's not just fluff. Its spirit, precision, and performance are bundled into a burst of color in your hand.
