Email from USFSA.ORG
Dear Steven,
Thank you for your comments on figure skating clothing requirements. SSR 19.01 is based on ISU Rule 304, which states in part “…the clothing of the competitors must be modest, dignified and appropriate for athletic competition — not garish or theatrical in design. Clothing may, however, reflect the character of the music chosen.” Rule 304 continues “Ladies must wear a skirt. The ladies’ dress must not give the effect of excessive nudity for an athletic sport. Men must wear full length trousers; no tights are permitted and the costume must not be sleeveless.”
Rule 304 reflects experience with competitors whose costumes brought more attention to themselves than did their skating. Rightly or wrongly, the ISU felt obligated to address the issue of costumes in their rulebook. I think you’ll find that most sports address uniform or clothing issues in their rulebooks. I believe that the NFL has fined players for wearing the wrong color socks.
As the National Governing Body for Figure Skating in the United States, our rules have to harmonize with those of our sport’s International Governing Body. To do otherwise would be a disservice to our skaters and officials, who would find themselves at a disadvantage when competing or judging overseas.
As Chair of the Rules Committee, it’s my job to clarify and interpret the rules. I cannot unilaterally change a rule. If you wish to see SSR 19.01 changed, I suggest that you contact the Chair of the Singles and Pairs Committee, Kristin Arneson Cutler. If she sees merit in your argument, she can ballot her committee to see if there is general support for such a change. If the committee approves, the revised rule can than be presented to the Board of Directors and the Governing Council for approval.
If I can be of any further assistance, please contact me.