Where and How to Buy the Best Cheer Pom Poms for Your Team

Cheer pom poms are an essential part of any cheer team's uniform and spirit. Selecting the right pom poms can make a big difference in how your team looks together and the energy they project during performances. With so many options available, it's important to know what to look for when buying pom poms for your cheer squad. Follow this guide to learn where to find the best pom poms and what factors to consider when making your purchase.

Buy In Bulk For the Best Prices

The first step is deciding where to buy your pom poms. Purchasing in bulk quantities can help you get the lowest price per pair. Here are some top places to buy quality pom poms at bulk rates:

• Cheer Supply Companies: Companies like Getpoms specialize in cheer gear and offer pom poms in team packs of 12-144 pairs. This allows you to outfit your whole squad in matching poms.

• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and Walmart sell multi-pack sets of pom poms at bulk rates with free shipping options. Look for packs of 12, 24, or 36 pairs in your team's colors.

• Local Sporting Goods Stores: Stores offer cheer gear and might provide team discounts for bulk pom pom orders. Be sure to inquire about color customization options as well..

Buying in bulk means paying $3-7 per pair instead of $10-12 for individuals. Just make sure to factor in shipping costs for online bulk orders. Waiting for sales and off-season pricing can also help lower costs.

Match Pom Pom Size to Age Group

Pom size should be suited to the age and skill level of your cheer team. Youth squads look best with smaller, lighter poms that match their energy and build skills. Consider these common sizes:

• Junior (10-12"): Best for elementary school ages 5-11 years old. Allows easy wrist motion.

• Petite (12-16"): Ideal for middle school cheerleaders. Provides good visibility.

• Standard (16-20"): The most common adult size. Gives maximum presence and visibility.

• Collegiate (20-22"): Extra large poms designed for advanced college squads to make a high-energy impact.

Measuring wrist to elbow gives a guide for the ideal pom length in inches. Allow a couple of extra inches for optimal movement. Buy poms sized proportionate to your team members' ages and abilities.

Select Durable Construction and Materials

Cheer poms see a lot of wear and tear, so durability is key. Look for these ideal construction features:

• Double layered: Two layers of fabric with pom strands secured between create fuller, bouncier poms.

• Stitched edges: Pom strands sewn into double-hemmed edges prevent fraying and shedding.

• Secure centers: Dense stitching and fabric backing at the pom center keep strands in place.

• Flexible handles: Vinyl, cloth, or elasticized handles allow wrists to flex freely.

• Thick pom strands: More strands laid evenly means better visibility, motion, and impact.

Avoid cheaply made poms with loose strands, weak center backings, and thin, wispy materials prone to tangling. Pay close attention to pom quality and durability when buying in bulk packs.

Choose a Vibrant School or Team Colors

Select pom colors that boldly match your cheer team's official colors and uniforms. Common options include: 

• Primary school colors: Show your spirit in your school's signature shades.

• Complementary colors: Contrasting colors can highlight lead squad members.

• Multi-colored: Alternating strand colors for visual energy and depth.

• Metallic accents: Adds shine and spirit to neutral or primary-coloured poms.

Avoid light white or pale poms that will look washed out from a distance. Brighter, saturated colors project energy and make the motions really pop.

Add Optional Upgrades and Personalization

Many pom pom manufacturers offer add-ons and customization to take team spirit to the next level:

• Glitter strands: Add sparkling accent strands for extra flash.

• Printed messages: Show team spirit with printed phrases like Go Tigers!

• Team names: Add your mascot name, squad name, or initials.

• Decorative handles: Choose color-coordinated or patterned hand straps.

• Carrying bags: Matching bags keep poms neat, clean and organized.

Optional personalization creates a sense of team unity and pride. Allow 2-3 weeks extra for custom orders.

Order Early to Ensure Delivery by Season Start

To get your poms prior to the season's first event, order at least 4-6 weeks in advance. Rush shipping can cost extra. Check turnaround times and order ahead:

• Start of summer camp season: Order by early May

• Start of fall sports season: Order by end of July

• Start of competition season: Order by end of September

• Start of spring competition season: Order by end of January

Place a slightly high initial order since you may add squad members. Extras can fill in if replacements are needed down the road due to damage or loss.

Buying well in advance ensures your squad will be outfitted in their team colors from day one. Late orders risk not having poms in time for key events.

Proper Use and Care Prolongs Pom Life

With the right care, high-quality cheer poms should last 1-2 seasons before needing replacement. Advise your squad to:

• Fluff poms well before/after use to prevent matting and tangling of strands.

• Keep poms in bags and avoid crushing or damaging them.

• Spot clean gently with mild detergent; allow to fully dry.

• Do not machine wash, iron, bleach, or dry clean.

• Store over summer in breathable bags off floors and dry areas.

• Shake out dust and gently tug loose strands to refresh the appearance.

• Replace poms with excessive damage, fraying, or holes that reduce appearance and motion.

Proper use and care keep poms looking vibrant all season long. Rotate replacements as needed each new season.

Shop Smart for Top Value and Team Spirit

Finding the best cheer pom poms means getting a balance of quality, durability, and affordability. Shop popular cheer brands, compare construction, and buy in bulk for big savings. Select vivid colors in size options suited to your cheerleaders' ages and skills. 

Add custom upgrades to show off your team's unique personality and spirit. Order well in advance so your squad can wave their team colors proudly all season long. With the right poms, your cheer team will stand out and impress crowds every time!