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Figure Skating Attire Appropriate figure skating attire is required for all competitors. As a coach, discuss the types of sport clothes that are acceptable and not acceptable for training and competition. Discuss the importance of wearing properly fitted clothing, along with the advantages and disadvantages of certain types of clothing worn during training and competitions. For example, long pant jeans or blue jean shorts are not proper figure skating attire for any event. Explain that athletes cannot perform well while wearing jeans that restrict their movement. Show the athletes what is appropriate for practice attire and what is appropriate for competition attire.   Clothing must be suited to the activities involved. In general, this means comfortable, non-constrictive clothing, and well fitted ice skates. Properly fitting and clean clothes tend to give athletes a boost. Although the saying, "You play as well as you look," has never been proven, many athletes and coaches continue to believe in it. The appearance of the skater is considered when awarding points in competition.   Socks It is recommended that the skater wear the thinnest hose possible. Thin socks provide the best foot grip, and thus better balance, in the tight fitting skate boot. Thick socks are too bulky and promote the sweating process.   Figure Skating Outfit The outfit for female figure skaters should include tights that are comfortable and a skating dress that is well fitted. Also, the athlete should select an outfit that pleases her. That will give the athlete confidence in her appearance and perhaps tend to make her a better skater.   The outfit for male figure skaters should include a shirt and/or sweater and pants. Long pants are recommended for male skaters. Pants should cover the top of the boot, but not be so long that they touch the blade. Pants should be loose to allow for unrestricted leg and hip movements, but not so baggy that they appear ill fitted.  The shirt should be loose to provide ease of arm movement. Sweaters should not be so bulky that they look sloppy and hinder the skater's precise movements.   Shirts and Sweaters The skater should select a long-sleeve shirt for comfort and warmth. The shirt should be loose to provide ease of arm movement. Sweaters should not be so bulky that they look sloppy and hinder the skater's precise movements. Shirts should be tucked into pants at all times.   Hair For safety reasons, each competitor should have his/her hair away from the face.  It is highly recommended that the athlete does not use bobby pins in case the bobby pins fall on the ice.   Hats For recreational skating, a hat, earmuffs or headband is recommended to provide insulation and comfort. These should not be worn during competition.   Warm-up Suits Warm-up suits or sweat suits are useful for warming up before and keeping warm after practice or competition. They should not be worn during practice or competition because of their weight and bulk.   Gloves A properly fitted pair of gloves or mittens is recommended for recreational skating. They are also useful for warming up, but should not be worn during figure skating competition.   Helmets It is recommended that beginning skaters and skaters who lack sufficient muscular control wear a protective helmet.

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