What can figure skaters wear?
Officials' detail · Officials and the event · 1 of 1Costumes must be modest and fit for sport, not garish or theatrical, though they may reflect the music. Men must wear full-length trousers, and props are banned, with a 1-point deduction for breaches. Every program is skated to music, and vocals are allowed. Skaters may not use earbuds or headphones on the ice.
How it works
- Costume: modest, dignified, fit for sport; may reflect the music.
- Men: full-length trousers.
- Props: not allowed.
- Decorations: must not detach; any piece falling on the ice is -1.
- Music: required for every program; vocals allowed.
- Music file: each program on a separate track, with a backup.
- Headphones: banned on the ice in practice and competition.
- Blades: flat to concave cross section, without changing the width.
The glossary has the clothing, the skate blade, the rink, the deduction, the program and the ice dance music.
Tricky cases
Can a skater carry a fan or hat in their program?
No. Accessories and props are not permitted.
Can a woman wear trousers?
Yes. The trouser rule is a requirement for men only.
Can the music have lyrics?
Yes. Vocal music with lyrics is permitted.
Can an official coach a skater during a program?
No. Officials may not give encouragement or advice of any kind during skating.
Why the rule exists
Costume rules keep the focus on skating. Banning props and loose decorations protects the ice, and banning earbuds stops coaching through a device.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Singles and pairs | Costume and prop rules | ISU 501 |
| Ice dance | Exceptions may be announced | ISU 501 |
| Ice dance music | Must have a beat | ISU 709, 710 |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Single & Pair Skating and Ice Dance (as of 12 June 2026), rules 343, 351, 500 and 501. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's ISU Communications.