Supportive sport environments for adolescent girls through choice of sportswear

The role of uniforms in shaping adolescent girls’ sport participation has gained attention, yet limited research explores the preference of sub-groups on their preferred uniform and the related implications for choice within sport settings. Our study addressed two questions: Do sport uniform experiences and preferences differ among sub-groups of adolescent girls? How might enabling choice in sport uniform regulations influence participation outcomes when aligned with the preferences of different sub-groups of adolescent girls? Survey data was collected from 2,101 adolescent girls across eight countries and examined preferences according to activity level, age, intersectional identity, and uniform autonomy. Multivariate ordinal and binary logistic regressions revealed that while age and intersectional identity significantly influence uniform perceptions, uniform autonomy predicts appearance-related self-consciousness and physical restriction. Specifically, set uniforms increase the likelihood of self-consciousness compared to choice-based options. Among inactive older girls, preferred uniforms were associated with greater confidence to begin playing sport or physical activity. Whereas younger active girls, preferred uniforms associated with comfort, confidence, and continued participation. Findings suggest the need for responsive, inclusive uniform policies that recognise diverse needs and preferences and highlight associations between attire choice and participation-related experiences valued by adolescent girls. They also indicate the term sport uniform, used in some sports and countries, may be inconsistent with contemporary policy commitments to inclusion and equity. Adopting inclusive terminology, such as sport kit or sportswear, alongside choice-based attire provisions, may better align sport policy and governance frameworks with the diverse needs, preferences, and participation experiences of adolescent girls.