I think that was 2003, because at NCA nationals they were handing out free shoes and thats when CA started to wear them. I think it looked kinda tacky, because it draws attention to that one girl. In addition "costco layer" or no layer, the make up, hair, uniform, shoes, and overall grooming does hold alot in presentation. You maybe competing for a score, but your also setting an image as far as "all-star" and looking amazing. You only compete a few times a year, so why not look fantastic =) I feel allstar cheer is a sport, but your also a performer. All the "sport" pushers tend to forget the cheerleading roots and what they are out there for. They have high athletic skill, but still are out there to entertain, even in all-star cheerleading. Let the top-ranking programs speak for themselves. =)