Cheer moves the crowd. Your poms finish the look. If you’re choosing between metallic vs plastic cheer poms, this guide explains the difference in simple words, so you can pick what looks best for your team and your budget.

With AthleticForce1 (AF1) you can order metallic, plastic, or mixed poms in your colors—fast.

Ready to see options? Start your order.

The Quick Answer

• Metallic poms = shiny sparkle that catches stadium lights and looks amazing in photos and night games.
  

• Plastic (vinyl) poms = bold solid color, budget-friendly, and great for day games and youth teams.
  

• Can’t decide? Choose a mix (metallic + plastic strands) or use metallic for games and plastic for practice.
  

What’s The Real Difference?

Shine & Look

• Metallic: Reflects light. Pops under stadium lights, LEDs, and camera flashes.
  

• Plastic: Matte or semi-gloss. Colors read strong and solid in daylight.
  

Weight & Feel

• Metallic: Slightly heavier; a little “crinkle” sound on shakes.
  

• Plastic: Slightly lighter; softer shake sound.
  

Durability & Care

• Both hold up well with normal use.
  

• Metallic film can crease if crammed in bags; store flat.
  

• Plastic tolerates rough practice and rain a bit better.
  

Price

• Plastic is usually more budget-friendly.
  

• Metallic costs a bit more for the sparkle effect.
  

When To Choose Metallic Poms

• You play night games or indoors with bright lights.
  

• You want maximum sparkle for photos, videos, and social.
  

• Dance/cheer routines where visual impact matters most.
  

• You need a “show” set for competitions or big events.
  

When To Choose Plastic Poms

• Mostly day games (outdoor schools, youth leagues).
  

• You want bold color blocks that match uniforms.
  

• You’re buying many sets on a tight budget.
  

• You need practice poms that can take more wear.
  

Can We Mix Them?

Yes, many teams do.

• Hybrid pom: Metallic + plastic strands in one pom = sparkle + solid color.
  

• Two-set plan: Metallic for game day/plastic for practice and travel.
  

• Accent idea: Add 10–20% metallic as a highlight color.
  

Size, Fullness, And Handles (easy guide)

• Strand length: Longer = fuller look. Shorter = snappier shake.
  

• Strand count: More strands = fuller pom.
  

• Youth vs. varsity: Youth teams often like lighter poms; varsity can carry fuller sets.
  

• Handles:
  

• Dowel/finger grip: classic hold for sharp motions.
  

• Baton/hidden handle: smooth cylinder grip; great for clean lines.
  

Color & Branding Tips

• Match your primary color, then add a white/black/silver accent.
  

• Keep it to 1–2 colors for a clean look (3 only if it’s part of your tradition).
  

• If uniforms are very bold, choose simpler poms so the look isn’t too busy.

How To Order (fast and simple)

1. Choose material (metallic, plastic, or hybrid).
   

2. Pick colors (1–2, optional accent).
   

3. Select size/handle (youth/varsity, dowel/baton).
   

4. Send your team info + date (game/competition).
   

5. Approve AF1 mockup and get tracking on shipment.
   

Most team pom orders ship in about 2–3 weeks after approval. Ask about rush if you’re close to a performance.

Care Tips (make poms last)

• Store flat or in a roomy tote (don’t crush).
  

• Fluff before use—a few light shakes open the strands.
  

• After rain, air-dry; don’t use high heat.
  

• Wipe handles with a soft cloth.
  

Budget Ideas

• Order once for the season to hit bulk tiers (10/20/40+).
  

• Use plastic for practice + metallic for game day.
  

• Keep colors simple to speed production.
  

• Add 2 spare pairs for new members or last-minute changes.
  

Final Call

Want maximum sparkle? Choose metallic. Need bold color on a budget? Choose plastic. Still deciding? Go hybrid or get one set for games and one for practice. Either way, AthleticForce1 will make it easy.

Get a free mockup + fast quote: Contact AF1 now.

FAQs

Which looks better on camera—metallic or plastic?
Metallic sparkles under lights; plastic shows strong, solid color in daylight. Both can look great—choose based on your game time and venue.

Are metallic poms heavy?
A little heavier than plastic, but still easy to stunt and dance with for most teams.

Do competitions allow metallic?
Usually yes, but rules vary. Check your event guidelines for color/reflective limits.

What’s best for rain?
Plastic handles wet conditions slightly better. Metallic can crease if crammed wet—let it air-dry flat.

What size should youth teams order?
Go lighter/shorter with fewer strands so young athletes keep form and timing.

Can AF1 match our uniform colors?
Yes—AthleticForce1 can match your palette and send mockups.