The Low Down on Volleyball Practice Clothes

When you were young and wanted to play a game of volleyball you probably just tossed on a pair of sneakers or sandals and walked out into your backyard. Of course, that was when the only diving you had to do was to rescue the ball before your younger siblings sent it flying out into the road! Now that you're a competitive player, the meaning of "appropriate volleyball gear" is going to take on new meaning-and a big part of that is going to include your practice clothes.

Why are practice clothes so important? Because no matter what anyone tells you, practice doesn't make perfect. You can practice all day long, but if you aren't practicing correctly you're never going to improve. That means that your practice clothes have to afford you the freedom and flexibility you need to move the way you want to move while still being comfortable.

Most players prefer t-shirts in a lightweight cotton or a soft mesh (like that worn by track runners) for their practice gear, both for their ability to move with your body and the fact that they don't chafe your skin when you start to get a little sweaty under the collar. Ladies, don't forget to add a good sports bra to the mix! Your regular bra won't offer enough support, and the clasps will begin to chafe against wet skin. A comfortable pair of shorts (again, either soft cotton or mesh) ending above the knee is also preferable to denim, because denim does not stretch, it chafes and it's going to limit your movement-and consequently, your performance.

If you're going to be playing, always wear white socks. That is, unless you'd like to see your feet and your very expensive volleyball shoes turn strange colors. In that case, wear whatever you want! Seriously though, white socks allow your feet more breathing room, and the color won't bleed when your feet start to sweat.

Your practice clothes might not seem like the most important piece of clothing you put on in a week, but they're going to have a major impact on the way you play. Come check out our collection of practice gear at http://www.volleyballproshop.com/.