Mormons Criticize BYU Women's Cross Country Uniforms for Immodesty

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have voiced strong disapproval of the uniforms worn by Brigham Young University's (BYU) women's cross country team, urging the university to uphold higher standards of modesty. The team, competing at the NCAA Division I level, dons uniforms that are standard for college athletics but have drawn criticism from within the faith.

Online commentary highlighted the perceived immodesty of the athletes' sports bras and shorts. One user on Instagram questioned, "Does running naked make you faster?" Another user reposted a team photo on X, expressing, "I know that it's not cool to bring up modesty, but is this really necessary for BYU students to wear this for running?" This post reportedly garnered over 2 million views.

A follow-up post from the same user stated, "I'm not even asking for pants and long sleeves, I just think BYU should have a higher standard than the world." Another individual suggested that uniforms should be designed to accommodate the "temple garment," a sacred undergarment worn by many adult members of the faith, allowing athletes to maintain their religious observance while competing.

BYU, located in Provo, Utah, was founded in 1875 by Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university remains sponsored and funded by the church, which enforces its rules. The university's dress code policy states that clothing must be "modest in fit and style," adding that "Dressing in a way that would cover the temple garment is a good guideline... Accommodations may be made for athletic participation."

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides guidance for young people on modesty, with a guide stating, "Avoid styles that emphasize or bring inappropriate attention to your physical body... Let moral cleanliness and love for God guide your choices." Former BYU President and prominent church authority Jeffrey R. Holland has also spoken on the importance of modesty for young women, stating in a sermon, "In the gospel of Jesus Christ, modesty in appearance is in fashion."