Beach Volleyball Uniforms At the Olympics: Controversy, Dress Codes & More

Beach volleyball, officially added to the Olympics in 1996, has quickly become one of the Games' most popular sports. Star athletes like Team USA's Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh Jennings have turned the sport into a household favorite, captivating audiences with their remarkable performances. However, as much attention is given to the athletes' uniforms as to the game itself.

Over the years, the typically small women's uniforms have faced criticism, but athletes often defend their choice of attire. This article talks about the origins, evolution, and reasons behind the preferred beach volleyball uniforms inspired by WWD.

A 'Brief' History of Beach Volleyball Uniforms

The seaside origins of beach volleyball explain why athletes have traditionally worn swimwear-like uniforms, such as bikini briefs. Olympic medalist April Ross highlighted this historical context in 2021, noting that the sport developed on the beaches of Hawaii, Southern California, and Rio. Playing in hot conditions and often near the water made swimwear a practical choice. Even inclement weather doesn't deter the game; for instance, beach volleyball athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics have continued to play despite showers.

Evolution and Options of Uniforms

Today, female athletes are not restricted to wearing bikini briefs during competitions. While bikinis remain an option, women can also choose one-pieces, short-sleeve tops, full-length leggings, and long-sleeve tops, especially in cold weather or for religious reasons. These additional uniform options were introduced ahead of the 2012 London Olympics to encourage more countries to participate. The sport's governing body, the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), sought to accommodate players from diverse backgrounds by making the uniform regulations more flexible.

For male athletes, the standard attire includes tank tops and board shorts, with the option to go shirtless in many non-Olympic competitions. Men can also wear long-sleeve tops and leggings in cooler conditions. All players, regardless of gender, are permitted to wear hats and sunglasses.

Uniform Guidelines

The FIVB enforces specific measurements for each type of uniform. Bikini bottoms, for instance, must have a waistband no wider than 2.8 inches, and men's shorts cannot be longer than 3.9 inches above the knee. Uniforms must fit closely to the body to prevent movement and distraction during play. As retired Olympic beach volleyball player Jennifer Kessy explained, a tailored fit is crucial to avoid the uniform shifting into uncomfortable positions.

Women's briefs should be cut at an upward angle towards the top of the leg, while one-pieces must have an open back and upper chest design. Knee-length pants are recommended to be around 18.5 inches long and 1.2 inches above the knee, and full-length pants should be approximately 35 inches in length. Teammates must wear matching uniforms, and there are specific guidelines for the size of logos and text on the attire. Non-compliance with these rules can result in fines, penalties, or even disqualification.

Why Some Athletes Prefer Bikinis

Many beach volleyball players prefer bikinis because they prevent sand from getting trapped in the uniform, which can be distracting. Jennifer Kessy recounted her experience with one-pieces, noting that they were restrictive and often filled with sand, leading to constant adjustments during play. This not only caused embarrassment but also diverted her focus from the match.

However, some athletes choose more modest uniforms. For example, Doaa Elghobashy of Egypt competes wearing a hijab and more covered attire. She has emphasized that her choice of uniform does not hinder her ability to enjoy and excel in the sport she loves.

While bikinis remain popular for their functionality, the introduction of more diverse options ensures that athletes from various cultural and religious backgrounds can compete comfortably and confidently. The ongoing dialogue about uniforms highlights the importance of balancing personal preference, cultural sensitivity, and the demands of high-performance sport.