Hey Sooners fans! Ever dreamed of embodying the spirit of your beloved team? One fantastic way to do that is with an Oklahoma Sooners mascot costume. Whether you're planning to pump up the crowd at a game, star at a themed party, or simply show off your Sooner pride, rocking Boomer and Sooner's look is an awesome idea. Let's dive into what you need to know about these iconic costumes.

Finding the Perfect Boomer and Sooner Costume

When it comes to Oklahoma Sooners mascot costumes, authenticity and quality are key. You want a costume that not only looks the part but also stands up to wear and tear. Here’s what to consider when searching for your perfect fit:

• Official vs. Unofficial: Officially licensed costumes guarantee you're getting a design that accurately represents Boomer and Sooner. Unofficial versions might be cheaper, but the quality and likeness can vary wildly. Always aim for licensed products when possible to ensure you're getting the real deal.
• Material Quality: Look for durable, breathable materials. Mascot costumes can get hot, so ventilation is important. High-quality fabrics will also ensure the costume lasts through many events. Durability is essential, especially if you plan on using the costume frequently.
• Size and Fit: A good mascot costume should allow for a wide range of movement. Make sure the costume you choose fits comfortably and allows you to perform all the necessary actions, like waving, jumping, and giving high-fives. Consider trying on a similar style costume to get a feel for the right size.
• Visibility and Comfort: The head of the mascot should provide good visibility. Can you see clearly? Is it comfortable to wear for extended periods? Poor visibility can be a safety hazard, so this is a crucial factor.
• Maintenance: How easy is the costume to clean and store? Some costumes require professional cleaning, while others can be spot-cleaned at home. Consider the maintenance requirements before making a purchase.

Where to Buy:

• Official University Stores: The official stores at the University of Oklahoma are a great place to start. They offer licensed merchandise, ensuring you get a high-quality, authentic costume.
• Online Retailers: Sites like Amazon, eBay, and specialty costume shops often carry a range of Oklahoma Sooners mascot costumes. Read reviews carefully to gauge the quality and reliability of the product.
• Costume Shops: Local costume shops may have options available, especially around Halloween or during football season. Check local listings for shops in your area.

Price Range:

Prices can vary widely depending on the quality, materials, and licensing. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 for a basic, unofficial costume to $1000+ for a high-quality, officially licensed mascot costume.

Accessorizing Your Mascot Ensemble

To truly bring your Boomer or Sooner persona to life, think about the accessories! These small details can make a big difference in the overall impact of your costume.

• Gloves: Over-sized gloves are a must for completing the look. Ensure they match the color scheme of your costume and are comfortable to wear.
• Shoes: The right footwear can add to the authenticity. Look for large, cartoonish shoes that fit over your regular shoes. Make sure they are easy to walk in! Safety first.
• Padding: Adding padding can help fill out the costume and give it a more cartoon-like appearance. Consider padding around the belly and shoulders for a more robust look.
• Voice Amplifier: To really get the crowd going, consider using a voice amplifier. This will help you project your voice and add to the overall performance.
• Team Flags and Banners: Carry a small team flag or banner to wave around. This is a great way to show your Sooner pride and get the crowd cheering.

Bringing Boomer and Sooner to Life: Tips for Performance

Okay, you’ve got the costume. Now it's time to bring Boomer and Sooner to life! Here’s how to make your performance memorable:

• Study the Characters: Watch videos of Boomer and Sooner in action. Pay attention to their movements, gestures, and overall demeanor. Emulation is key to a convincing performance.
• Practice Your Moves: Mascot performances are all about energy and enthusiasm. Practice your dance moves, high-fives, and other interactions. The more you practice, the more natural your movements will become.
• Engage with the Crowd: Interact with fans, take photos, and spread Sooner spirit. The more you engage, the more memorable your performance will be.
• Stay in Character: Once you put on the costume, you're Boomer or Sooner! Maintain the character's personality throughout your performance.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Mascot costumes can limit your visibility, so be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for obstacles and people.
• Stay Hydrated: Mascot costumes can get hot, so drink plenty of water before, during, and after your performance.
• Take Breaks: Don't overdo it. Mascot performances can be physically demanding, so take breaks as needed. Listen to your body and don't push yourself too hard.

DIY Oklahoma Sooners Mascot Costume: A Creative Project

For the crafty and budget-conscious fans, creating your own Oklahoma Sooners mascot costume can be a fun and rewarding project. While it requires time, effort, and some artistic skills, the result can be a unique and personalized representation of Boomer and Sooner. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Planning and Design:

• Research: Gather as many images and videos of Boomer and Sooner as possible. Pay attention to the details of their design, colors, and proportions.
• Sketch: Create detailed sketches of your costume. Plan out the different components, such as the head, body, hands, and feet. Consider the materials you will use and how they will fit together.
• Measurements: Take accurate measurements of the person who will be wearing the costume. This will ensure a comfortable and well-fitting final product.

2. Gathering Materials:

• Foam: High-density foam is ideal for creating the head and body of the costume. It is lightweight, durable, and easy to shape.
• Fabric: Choose fabrics that match the colors of Boomer and Sooner. Fleece, felt, and faux fur are good options for creating a soft and plush look.
• Mesh: Use mesh fabric for the eyes of the mascot head. This will allow the wearer to see out while maintaining the character's appearance.
• Paint: Acrylic paints are great for adding details and shading to the costume. Make sure to choose colors that match the official Oklahoma Sooners color palette.
• Accessories: Gather any additional materials you may need, such as gloves, shoes, and padding.

3. Constructing the Head:

• Frame: Create a frame for the head using wire or PVC pipe. This will provide a stable base for the foam.
• Foam Shaping: Cover the frame with foam and begin shaping it to match the contours of Boomer or Sooner's head. Use a sharp knife or foam cutter to achieve the desired shape.
• Fabric Covering: Cover the foam head with fabric, using glue or sewing to secure it in place. Pay attention to the details of the character's face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Visibility: Install mesh fabric in the eyes to allow the wearer to see out. Make sure the mesh is securely attached and does not obstruct the wearer's vision.

4. Creating the Body:

• Pattern: Create a pattern for the body of the costume using paper or fabric. Make sure the pattern is based on the measurements you took earlier.
• Fabric Cutting: Cut out the fabric pieces according to the pattern. Leave extra fabric for seams and adjustments.
• Sewing: Sew the fabric pieces together to create the body of the costume. Use a sewing machine or hand-sew the pieces together.
• Padding: Add padding to the body of the costume to give it a more robust appearance. Use foam or batting to add volume to the chest, shoulders, and belly.

5. Adding the Finishing Touches:

• Gloves and Shoes: Purchase or create over-sized gloves and shoes to complete the look. Make sure the gloves and shoes match the color scheme of the costume.
• Details: Add any additional details to the costume, such as logos, lettering, or accessories. Use paint, fabric, or other materials to add these details.
• Testing: Have the person who will be wearing the costume try it on and test it out. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and well-fitting final product.

Caring for Your Oklahoma Sooners Mascot Costume

To keep your Oklahoma Sooners mascot costume looking its best, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips to help you keep your costume in top condition:

• Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning your costume. Some costumes can be machine-washed, while others require spot cleaning or professional cleaning.
• Storage: Store your costume in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a garment bag to protect the costume from dust and dirt.
• Repairs: Make any necessary repairs to your costume as soon as possible. Repairing small tears or damage can prevent them from becoming larger problems.
• Ventilation: Allow your costume to air out after each use. This will help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or bleach to clean your costume. These chemicals can damage the fabric and colors.

Show Your Sooner Pride!

An Oklahoma Sooners mascot costume is more than just a piece of clothing; it's a symbol of team spirit and pride. Whether you buy a ready-made costume or create your own, wearing Boomer and Sooner's colors is a fantastic way to support your team. So, gear up, Sooners fans, and let your spirit shine!