A staggering 64 percent of girls abandon sports by the age of 16, prompting an unsettling question: are they being driven away by ill-fitting, uncomfortable kit? For female athletes, the issue extends beyond aesthetics, as poorly designed kit can exacerbate insecurities, fuel anxiety, and even trigger online abuse. However, change is underway, with athletes' voices being heard and manufacturers and governing bodies responding with inclusive kit choices. England Netball international Razia Quashie has witnessed the positive impact of these changes, which offer players a range of options, including leggings, varied-length shorts, skorts, and longer vests.
This shift has been transformative for Quashie, who no longer feels compelled to wear a dress that makes her feel uncomfortable. The introduction of inclusive kit is not limited to netball; other sports, such as football, hockey, and rugby, are also adopting innovative approaches, including female-specific football boots, adjustable sports bras, and shorts replacing skorts. England rugby international Sadia Kabeya has developed a satin-lined scrum cap to protect hair on the playing field, providing a sense of freedom and comfort. These advancements aim to address the troubling drop-off in female participation in sports, ensuring that girls and women can focus on their performance, rather than their appearance.