The Shades of Synchronized Skating: Nadia Diary #3

by Nadia Lawrence

When I first received my Aurora tights, I don’t think I realized how big of an impact it would have on me and skating, but it has had more of an impact than I could have ever imagined.  It has been about three months now since I have started wearing Aurora Tights, and myself as well as my parents, have noticed some big changes since I made the switch.

As I had stated in my previous entry, Aurora Tights gives all skaters the ability to feel confident while skating, but especially skaters of color. For the first time, myself and so many others, are finally able to feel and experience the same feeling that our teammates have felt for years. Previously, I felt as  though I stuck out amongst my teammates in a negative way. However, switching to Aurora Tights has allowed me to grow my confidence as a skater. Since this was previously never an  option, I never even considered how I would feel if I were to ever find tights that matched my  skin tone. It has truly given me the ability to feel completely confident while skating.

This being  the first time tights have been offered in multiple skin tones just goes to show how much skaters of color have had to overcome just to have the same skating experience as our teammates and competitors. For the first time, skaters of color will no longer feel like everyone is staring at  them because their tights do not match their skin tone.

My parents also noticed this difference in me as well. When I was younger I was very hesitant and did not skate with confidence partially because I knew people were looking at me differently than my competitors. It was hard for my parents to explain to me why exactly people were staring, but at the time there were no other  options for tights and mesh other than to get something custom made. However, the thought of  getting something custom made is not only expensive but outrageous that skaters of color would have to have something custom made in order to match their skin tone.

So my parents, as well as myself are thrilled that Aurora Tights is creating a welcoming environment for the next generation of figure skaters. Although this may seem like a small thing for some, to skaters of color, including myself this is a huge step in the right direction. I truly believe that companies like Aurora Tights are bringing synchronized skating closer to becoming more diverse and  inclusive for all.