Cuffing season peaks the Sunday after New Year’s Day. That’s when dating apps have a surge in new sign ups. [3] X Research source Pop culture implies that people lower their standards for cuffing season because they want to find a partner in time for the colder months. [4] X Research source
You can open up to each other about your feelings. You’ve got a solid texting game. Neither of you ghost each other or leave each other on read. Your family and friends are at least aware that you’re together (if you haven’t made plans to have them meet your partner already). You’re not worried about scheduling time together on the weekends because you know you’ll be hanging out! You leave things at each other’s houses (cozy knit sweaters, maybe even spare toothbrushes).
Scouting: August 1-31 Drafting: September 1-30 Tryouts: October 1-31 Preseason: November 1-30 Cuffing Season: December 1-January 15 Playoffs: January 13-February 13 Championship Game: February 14 (Valentine’s Day)
Seasonally, breakups spike just after Valentine’s day and in the weeks before spring break (usually in late March). [8] X Research source
You can check in about expectations by saying something like, “Are you looking for a fall fling or something more?”
Do you and your cuffing partner share basic values? Do you care for others in the same way? Can you be both silly and serious together? Can you be yourself with this person? If you answer yes to those questions, it might be a good sign you can DTR before cuffing season.
“I really like spending time with you. What are your thoughts on being exclusive?” “Quick check in! How’re you feeling about labeling our relationship?”
According to one survey on a dating app, men are 15% more likely to look for a relationship in winter and women are 5% more likely. [16] X Research source
The first known social media reference to cuffing season comes from a tweet by Brooklyn College Radio Host Holley Murchison in 2008.
