Ordering new custom running tops for your club is an exciting milestone. It’s a great chance to give members something they’ll be proud to wear and create a stronger identity every time you head out for a run. Before jumping into colours and logos though, it’s worth thinking about what you want your kit to achieve.
But, the best custom running clothes for clubs don’t just look good on race day. They’re comfortable enough for weekly training, durable enough to last season after season and designed in a way that members genuinely want to wear. With that in mind, here are five things to consider before ordering custom running tops for your running group.
1) When Will the Top Be Worn?
Before you settle on a design, think about how your club will actually use the tops. Some groups are ordering kit for a specific race, while others want something members can wear every week at training, parkruns and local events. If the tops are going to become part of your club’s regular kit, it’s worth choosing a design that will still look great long after race day.
Planning this from the start will also help you decide on the right style, colours and features, making sure your custom running clothes for clubs suit the way your members run, train and represent the club throughout the year.
2) Is it Comfortable to Run in?
A great-looking running top won’t stay in regular rotation if it’s uncomfortable to run in. With that in mind, it’s best to look for lightweight, breathable fabrics that help keep runners cool and wick moisture away during tougher sessions. Small details like flatlock seams and a comfortable fit can also make a real difference, especially over longer distances.
When your members enjoy wearing their tops, they’re far more likely to pull them on for training, races and everything in between, giving your club plenty of visibility throughout the year.
3) Does the Running Top Reflect Your Club?
Your running top is often the first thing people notice, so it’s worth creating something that reflects who you are as a club.
That doesn’t mean filling every inch with logos or graphics. Often, the strongest designs are the simplest. Club colours, a well-placed logo and subtle sponsor branding can create a professional look that members will still be happy wearing months or even years later.
Plus, a timeless design will make it much easier to add new members without ending up with several different versions of the same club kit.
4) Have You Ordered Every Size?
Collecting sizes might not be the most exciting part of the process, but getting it right will save plenty of headaches later. Make sure to give your club members enough time to submit their preferences and check that your supplier offers options to suit different body shapes and preferences.
A little organisation before you order can help everything run much smoother once production begins, and runners will feel more confident wearing your design when the running top fits like a glove.
5) Who Is Your Running Top Supplier?
Not all custom clothing is designed with runners in mind, but working with a specialist supplier means you’ll benefit from advice on fabrics, sizing, printing and garment choices that are suited to running rather than general sportswear. They can also help you create a design that’s practical and professional, using high-tech materials that are built to help rather than hinder performance.
Bring Your Club Together with a Custom Running Kit
At Runnek, we design high-performance custom running clothes for clubs, combining technical fabrics with completely bespoke designs that help running groups look and feel their best, wherever the next run takes them. Get in touch to start designing yours.