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Choosing the right printing method for your custom gym wear is crucial. The wrong choice can mean faded logos, cracked prints, or disappointed customers. The right one makes your designs pop and last through workouts and washes.
Screen printing is best for bold, simple designs and large bulk orders, offering durability and cost efficiency. Sublimation excels for vibrant, full-color patterns on polyester sportswear, delivering breathability and all-over prints. Choose based on design complexity, fabric, and order size.
Let’s explore both methods so you can make the right choice for your brand.
What is screen printing in sportswear?
Screen printing uses mesh stencils to apply ink directly onto fabric.
- Pros: Durable, bold colors, cost-effective for bulk orders.
- Cons: Limited detail/gradients, setup fees for each design.
Best for logos, text, and simple graphics on cotton or polyester blends.
What is sublimation printing in gym wear?
Sublimation uses heat to transfer dye into polyester fibers.
- Pros: Vivid colors, no cracking or peeling, lightweight feel.
- Cons: Works only on polyester (100%), less ideal for cotton.
Perfect for all-over prints, team uniforms, and vibrant gym wear.
Which lasts longer: sublimation or screen printing?
- Sublimation: Ink becomes part of the fabric, so it won’t fade, crack, or peel.
- Screen printing: Long-lasting if cared for properly, but may crack after repeated washes.
👉 For gym wear used daily, sublimation generally offers superior durability.
Can sublimation be used on cotton fabrics?
No—sublimation only works on polyester or polyester-coated fabrics.
If your product line uses cotton or cotton blends, screen printing or heat transfer methods are better options.
For polyester-based custom gym wear manufacturers, sublimation is the go-to.
What’s cheaper: screen printing or sublimation?
- Screen printing: Cheaper for large runs of 1–3 color designs.
- Sublimation: More cost-efficient for full-color, complex, or small-batch orders (no setup fee).
Consider your MOQ and design type before deciding.
How to choose the right method for your brand
Ask yourself:
- Fabric type – polyester = sublimation; cotton = screen printing
- Design complexity – simple logo = screen printing; full-color = sublimation
- Order size – bulk = screen printing; low MOQ = sublimation
- Target market – performance wear (polyester) vs lifestyle wear (cotton blends)
Work with an experienced custom gym wear manufacturer who offers both methods. They can guide you based on your designs and budget.
Summary
Sublimation and screen printing each serve a purpose. Choose screen printing for bold simplicity and cost efficiency, or sublimation for vibrant, durable performance wear. Need help deciding? Contact us—we’ll recommend the best option for your brand.
