Why womens Sports apparel Needs a New Playbook

Fashion is more than just a style choice— it's a statement of identity, inclusivity, and equality.
And we aren’t alone in this outlook.

More and more gender-fluid and trans-inclusive brands spring up all the time. But there’s one area of fashion that’s lagging far behind: women’s sportswear. The policing of female athletes' bodies, a practice that continues in most mainstream sports venues, is a glaring issue that demands a new playbook.

Take, for instance, the recent case of the Norwegian women's beach handball team. They didn’t want to wear the regulation bikini bottoms, instead opting for uniform compression shorts. Instead of accepting their position that playing in bikini bottoms was both uncomfortable and degrading, the International Handball Federation fined them 150 euros per player. This wasn’t just about comfort or personal preference; it was a protest against the unnecessary sexualization in sports attire—a sentiment echoed by many female athletes around the world.

The issue runs deep. From the enforced bikini bottoms in beach handball to the endless media coverage of a sports bra on the soccer field, there's a disappointing narrative within the world of women’s sports: women athletes are often judged more on their appearance than their athleticism. This archaic mindset not only diminishes their sporting achievements but also reinforces harmful stereotypes about femininity and body image.

The consequences of such policing are profound. It's not just about discomfort or embarrassment. These regulations feed into a broader culture of sexism and objectification, impacting the mental well-being of athletes. Studies have shown that many female athletes feel pressured to conform to certain beauty standards, adversely affecting their performance and passion for the sport.

So, what needs to change? For starters, sports governing bodies must revisit and revise their dress codes, making them inclusive, practical, and respectful of athletes' choices and cultural backgrounds. The International Volleyball Federation's decision in 2012 to allow players to wear hijabs was a positive step in this direction, acknowledging diversity and promoting inclusivity.

And it isn’t just a change needed at the peaks of performance. Change must start from the grassroots level. Young female athletes should be encouraged to prioritize comfort and functionality over aesthetics in their sportswear. This shift in mindset can be facilitated by brands, coaches, and parents, who play a crucial role in shaping young athletes' perceptions about their bodies and sports attire.

The media also has a significant role in changing narratives. Instead of focusing on the athletes' outfits or body shapes, the media should highlight their skills, achievements, and stories. By shifting the spotlight from appearance to performance, we can begin to dismantle the deep-seated biases that have long plagued women's sports.

Finally, we need more advocacy from within the sports community. Athletes, teams, and associations must continue to challenge unfair practices and support each other in these endeavors. The solidarity shown by the Norwegian team and their supporters across the globe is a testament to the power of collective action in driving change. 

We are hopeful that in the coming years this movement will gather momentum and make sports more comfortable for people of all genders. By embracing inclusivity, respecting athletes' choices, and focusing on their talents rather than their appearances, we can create a sporting world that truly values and celebrates women athletes for who they are and what they achieve. Let's work together to make sports a space where every athlete, regardless of gender, can feel empowered, respected, and proud.

Oh, that’s cool.

At Saint Andro, we understand the importance of feeling confident and comfortable in your sportswear, which is why we're thrilled with our Oh Cool Compression Top. This unique piece is more than just a swim top; it's designed to empower athletes by providing both comfort and a more androgynous form, if desired, without catering to the male gaze. The top features a high collar that offers UV protection for those who prefer more coverage, paired with a plunging neckline for maximum vibe versatility on your terms.

this article was written with the aid of ChatGPT, 
lol could you tell?