Menstruation is a normal part of life, but in the sports world, it often remains an uncomfortable topic. Women and girls often feel limited or insecure during their period, especially when they should be able to move freely and vigorously. Sportswear plays a bigger role in this than is often realized. That's why football club RKVV DSS Haarlem recently decided to switch from white to black shorts. A seemingly small adjustment with a major impact on the players' self-confidence.

Moodies Undies, specialists in menstrual underwear , recognises this importance and proudly supports DSS in this choice .

Why menstruation in sports is still difficult to discuss

Although there has been increasing attention for equality in sports in recent years, menstruation remains a taboo subject. Female athletes often feel reluctant to talk about it, fearing it will be seen as an excuse or simply considered "private."

That silence has consequences. Many players recognize the feeling of tension: constantly checking for visible stains, less freedom of movement, or even skipping matches. As one DSS player explains: "If I'm wearing white panties and I know I'm on my period, I just feel less comfortable. Then I'm less engaged in the game."

DSS's decision: black football shorts

DSS, a progressive football club with over 350 female members, decided this year to say goodbye to the standard white shorts for years. All girls' and women's teams will now play in black.

Chairman Martijn Egner explains: "Sport is about fun, self-confidence, and belonging. White shorts were a hindrance for many players. Black creates space and calm."

This change hits the very core of what Moodies stands for: comfort, confidence, and openness around menstruation. That's why Moodies was pleased to become a sponsor of DSS.

Co-founder Claire van Beek emphasizes: "Our mission is to support women and girls so they always feel free and confident to move. DSS's choice is both courageous and necessary. We are proud to support this."

What black shorts change for players

Switching to black shorts sounds simple, but for the players, it makes a world of difference. One DSS player explains: "I prefer playing in black shorts, especially because you can move freely and don't have to worry about leaks. Black also exudes dominance; I just feel like a powerhouse in them."

Other girls particularly mention the feeling of safety: "If you have a spot or your period, it's really comforting that you don't see it right away. You move more freely and feel more comfortable."

Confidence and focus are crucial in sports. The color of your shorts can determine whether you're fully engaged in the game or constantly distracted.

An international movement: breaking taboos

DSS isn't alone in this. International attention to this issue is also growing. Chelsea FC Women, in collaboration with "Here We Flo," recently launched a campaign in which bloodstains were printed on shorts to literally visualize the taboo surrounding menstruation in sports.

Where Chelsea opts for provocation, DSS opts for practical solutions. Both initiatives contribute to the same goal: normalizing menstruation and giving athletes the freedom to play without fear or shame.

Small adjustments, big difference

The switch to black football shorts demonstrates how seemingly small adjustments can make a huge difference in the lives of female athletes. It's not just about clothing, but about recognition: a signal that sports clubs take their players seriously and consider their experiences.

For Moodies, this aligns perfectly with our mission. Whether it's menstrual underwear, incontinence underwear, or initiatives like those at DSS: every detail that contributes to freedom and self-confidence is a step forward. As one of the players aptly summarized: "I just feel really comfortable in black briefs. I feel freer and more taken seriously."

sport should be inclusive

Menstruation may be commonplace, but in the world of sports, it's not always. By choosing black briefs, DSS Haarlem not only makes menstruation a topic of conversation but also makes it less stressful in practice.

Together with Moodies, DSS shows that sport is about freedom, fun, and equality, regardless of your cycle. Because when women and girls feel confident on the field, we all win.