The Importance of Tailored Equipment in Women's Cricket

The fit of your equipment can make or break your success as a female cricketer. Here, we discuss the importance of correctly sized women's cricket equipment and how to choose the right gear for your needs.

From breaking world records on the international stage (shout out to Belinda Clark, Mithali Raj, Charlotte Edwards… the list goes on) to being the backbone of community teams across the country, it's no secret that women have helped the sport grow from strength to strength.

Yet female cricketers are still overlooked in terms of specialist equipment. Cricket pads, gloves, and other protective gear are designed with male players and their physiques in mind, forcing many women players to settle for equipment that doesn't fit them correctly and doesn't do justice to their skills.

In this article, we'll explore the limitations for female cricketers of most cricket gear, the benefits of using women's cricket protective equipment tailored to your body, and how to choose the right equipment. Plus, we'll take a look at the historical side of women's cricket and see how female cricketers are the future of our fantastic sport.

Let's dive in!

The History of Women in Cricket

You might be surprised to know that women have probably played cricket since the Medieval times! But it wasn’t till the 1800s when the first ever female cricket teams were born in Yorkshire and London.

We don’t know much about women’s cricket before the Victorian period, but we do know that those early teams faced huge hurdles simply to play. Sexist attitudes at the time meant women were discouraged from sport, and unscrupulous managers even stole from the team’s kitty, leaving the women unable to find the money to fund their games.

Yet women’s cricket prevailed, and 1926 marked the establishment of the Women's Cricket Association, which led to organised, official competitions taking place in England.

Nowadays, we’re moving towards equality in sport — although we’ve still got a long way to go. You’ll be able to catch the England women’s team playing in an international competition on a screen near you, and every summer weekend, you’ll find local matches for women up and down the country.

However, women still face the battle for equal pay, recognition, screen time, and support — something we’re passionate about changing.

What's the Problem With Unisex Cricket Equipment?

Although unisex cricket equipment is still a popular choice for all genders, it doesn't mean it's the best choice. Even though women have been active participants in the sport for over a century, nearly all cricket equipment is still designed for male physiques.

From bulky gloves to unnecessarily wide pads, the majority of universal cricket equipment doesn't consider the female cricketer. Aside from being uncomfortable, ill-fitting equipment negatively affects gameplay and can even lead to injury.

Take a look at what some female cricketers had to say on the matter:

"Starting with the cricket bat, the majority being offered [to girls and women] are on the heavy side," explained Greenway, who is a double World Cup and five-time Ashes winner.

"If you've got pads which are too heavy, you could get run out because you can't run quickly enough.

"If you've got overhanging straps on the outside of your legs, your running might be affected, or it might be an area where the ball hits you, because it's a bit wider than you'd like it to be."

Ill-fitting equipment not only impacts performance but also discourages young female players from continuing with the sport. When you don't have access to the right gear, it's easy to feel like cricket isn't for you.

The Benefits of Women's Cricket Equipment

Women's cricket gear is designed with the female cricketer in mind.

The benefits of women's cricket equipment go far beyond just comfort. Here are some reasons why investing in gear designed specifically for women is a game-changer:

• Better Fit: Women's cricket equipment is tailored to fit the female physique, providing a more comfortable and secure fit.
• Enhanced Performance: Properly fitting gear allows for better mobility, agility, and overall performance on the field.
• Reduced Risk of Injury: Equipment that fits well reduces the risk of injury by providing adequate protection where it's needed most.
• Increased Confidence: When you feel comfortable and supported in your gear, it boosts your confidence, allowing you to focus on your game.
• Encourages Participation: Access to suitable equipment encourages more women and girls to participate in cricket, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the sport.

Investing in women's cricket equipment isn't just about buying gear; it's about investing in the future of the sport and empowering the next generation of female cricketers.

Choosing the Right Women's Cricket Equipment

Find the gear that makes you feel like a superhero on the field!

When choosing women's cricket equipment, consider the following factors:

• Size: Ensure that the equipment fits you properly, with pads covering your knees and gloves fitting snugly.
• Comfort: Look for gear that feels comfortable to wear for extended periods, with padding in all the right places.
• Quality: Invest in high-quality equipment that offers durability and long-lasting performance.
• Brand: Research reputable brands that specialize in women's cricket gear and have a track record of quality and innovation.

Don't settle for one-size-fits-all when it comes to cricket equipment. As a female cricketer, you deserve gear that's tailored to your needs and enhances your performance on the field.

Conclusion

Women's cricket has come a long way since its humble beginnings, but there's still work to be done to achieve true equality in the sport. One significant step towards inclusivity is the development and adoption of women's cricket equipment designed specifically for female players.

By investing in gear that fits properly, enhances performance, and reduces the risk of injury, we can create a more welcoming and supportive environment for women and girls in cricket. Together, let's champion women's cricket and empower the next generation of female cricketers!