Yes, Academy Sports + Outdoors generally has fitting rooms in stores that sell apparel, so you can usually try on clothing before buying. Availability can vary by location, and a fitting room may be temporarily closed, so check with your store if you need to be sure.
Here’s what you can expect when trying on sportswear, how to check a specific store, and what to do if the fitting rooms aren’t available. A few simple checks can save you a trip or help you choose the right size with less guesswork.
Does academy sports have fitting rooms at every location?
Usually, but don’t assume every store has an open fitting room at the time you visit. Academy locations commonly sell clothing and provide fitting rooms for customers to check the fit. Store layouts, available facilities, and temporary closures can differ.
Fitting rooms are mainly useful for apparel, such as shirts, pants, jackets, and athletic clothing. They aren’t a substitute for trying on footwear: for shoes or cleats, ask an employee where you can check the fit. Some stores have seating or space near the shoe department, but arrangements vary.
If trying something on is essential, contact the specific location before making the trip. A quick call can confirm whether the fitting rooms are open and whether the department you need is in stock.
What can you try on in an Academy fitting room?
Fitting rooms are intended for trying on clothing sold in the store. That can include everyday activewear, team or outdoor apparel, and other garments, depending on that location’s selection. Availability of particular styles and sizes varies by store.
Use the room to check more than whether a garment zips or buttons. Move naturally in it: raise your arms, bend your knees, or take a few steps. This helps you see whether the clothing stays comfortable during the activity you plan to do.
For athletic gear, think about what you’ll wear underneath. A shirt may fit differently over a base layer, and shorts can feel different when you squat or sit. If you’re uncertain between two sizes, ask an associate whether you can bring both into the fitting room.
How to check fitting-room availability before you go
Store-specific details are the safest way to plan because fitting-room access can change. Use these steps:
- Find your nearby Academy store. Use the store locator on Academy’s website or app to identify the location you plan to visit.
- Call the store directly. Ask whether its fitting rooms are currently open and whether customers can try on the type of clothing you’re shopping for.
- Ask about the item, too. If you’re making the trip for a specific garment, check whether the store carries it and has your size available. Fitting-room access won’t help if the item is out of stock.
- Confirm any special needs. If you need an accessible fitting room or have another specific requirement, ask the store what it can accommodate before you leave.
Online store information may show location details, but a phone call can provide a more current answer about a temporary closure or a particular item. If the store can’t confirm, consider having a backup location or shopping plan.
In-store try-on or online order: which is better?
The right option depends on whether you want to check the fit in person or shop from home. Use this comparison to choose the more practical route:
| Option | What you can check | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Try on in the store | Fit, comfort, movement, and how the garment looks in person | Clothing where sizing or activity-specific movement matters |
| Order online | Items and sizes available through the online listing; fit after delivery | Shopping when you can’t visit a store or need a wider selection |
| Call before visiting | Whether a specific store’s fitting rooms are open and whether an item may be available | A planned trip for a particular product or size |
Trying clothing on in person gives you immediate feedback, but it doesn’t guarantee the item will perform well during a full workout or outdoor activity. Online shopping can be more convenient, but you’ll need to review the listing and check the current return or exchange terms before ordering.
Check the current return policy before removing tags or using an item. Return conditions can depend on the product and purchase details. Keep your receipt or order information, and review the policy that applies to your purchase rather than relying on assumptions.
Tips for getting a more accurate fit
Bring the layers you plan to wear
If you’ll wear a sports bra, base layer, or compression clothing under the garment, try it on with a similar layer. The extra fabric can change how a shirt or jacket fits. For cold-weather clothing, check room for the layers you expect to use.
Test the movements you’ll actually make
Stand, sit, reach, and bend in the clothing. For running shorts, check whether they stay comfortable when you take a long step. For a training top, raise your arms to see if the hem shifts or the shoulders feel restrictive.
Compare sizes rather than relying on the label
Sizes can vary between brands and styles. If the store has neighboring sizes, compare them in the fitting room. Check comfort at the waist, shoulders, and seams, not just the number printed on the tag.
Ask an associate if you need another size
If the garment feels close but not quite right, ask an employee whether another size or cut is available. A different style may suit your activity better than simply sizing up or down.
What if the fitting rooms are closed?
Ask a store associate whether the closure is temporary and whether there is another way to check the fit. Don’t assume you can try clothing on in another area of the store; follow the store’s instructions and respect other customers’ privacy.
If you can’t try the item on, check the size information on its label or product page and compare it with clothing you already own. If you’re shopping for a team uniform, specialized gear, or a close-fitting item, consider postponing the purchase until you can confirm the fit.
Before buying without trying an item on, ask how returns or exchanges work for that product. Keep tags attached and retain proof of purchase until you’ve checked that the garment fits and suits its intended use.
Common fitting-room questions
Can you try on clothes before buying them?
Generally, yes, if the store’s fitting rooms are open. Ask an employee if you can’t find them or want to confirm the current process.
Can you try on shoes in a fitting room?
Fitting rooms are for apparel, not footwear. Ask an associate where you can try on shoes or cleats in the store.
Are fitting rooms open during all store hours?
Not necessarily. Access can vary by location or change temporarily, so call the store if you’re planning your visit around trying something on.
Can you bring several items in at once?
Ask an associate about the store’s current fitting-room rules. Limits or procedures can vary, and staff can tell you what applies at that location.
Academy Sports + Outdoors generally offers fitting rooms for apparel, but access isn’t guaranteed at every location or at every moment. Call your specific store before you go, especially if you’re shopping for a particular item or need an accessible room.
Once there, test the clothing with the layers and movements you expect to use, and check the current return terms before purchasing if you can’t try it on. That gives you a better chance of leaving with gear that fits your needs.