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When and How to Replace or Upgrade Sports Team Uniforms
Jan
When to Replace Your Team Uniforms
Replace uniforms when any of these happen:
1. Fabric is damaged Hold the jersey up to light. If you can see through it, the fabric is too thin. Check seams at armpits and sides – if they’re coming apart, it’s time.
2. Colors have faded If your team colors don’t match anymore, or jerseys look washed out compared to new ones, replace them. Faded uniforms make teams look unprofessional.
3. Numbers or logos are peeling When player numbers crack or sponsor logos peel off, you need new uniforms. Referees need to read numbers clearly.
4. Players have outgrown them For youth teams: if jerseys are too tight or shorts are too short, order new sizes. Don’t wait for the season to end.
5. Sponsor or branding changed New sponsor = new uniforms. You can’t use old sponsor logos.
How long should uniforms last?
- Good quality: 2-3 seasons
- Youth teams: 1-2 seasons (because kids grow)
- Cheap uniforms: Less than 1 season
If your uniforms are older than this and still look good, keep using them
How to Replace Uniforms (Step by Step)
Step 1: Measure Your Timeline
Order 2 months before you need them.
Production takes:
- 1 weeks: Design approval
- 2 weeks: Making the uniforms
- 2 weeks: Shipping
- 2 weeks: Buffer for delays
Total = 6 – 8 weeks minimum.
Don’t order last minute. You’ll pay rush fees or get poor quality.
Step 2: Get Player Measurements
Don’t guess sizes. Measure each player:
- Chest (around fullest part)
- Waist
- Height
Use the supplier’s size chart. Match measurements to sizes.
Common mistake: Players say “I wear Large” but actually need Medium. Always measure.
Step 3: Choose the Right Fabric
Different sports need different fabrics:
- Football and basketball: Lightweight, breathable mesh
- Rugby, hockey: Thicker fabric that won’t tear easily
- Running, track: Ultra-light, sweat-wicking material
Ask your supplier: “What fabric do you recommend for [your sport]?”
Step 4: Decide on Printing Method
Three options:
- Heat transfer – Cheapest. Lasts 20-30 washes. Can peel.
- Screen print – Mid-price. Good durability. Simple designs only.
- Sublimation – Most expensive. Never peels or fades. Best for detailed logos.
For uniforms you’ll use 2+ seasons, pay extra for sublimation. It lasts longer.
Step 5: Design and Approve
Keep it simple:
- Use your team colors
- Make sure logos are visible when players move (not just standing still)
- Check sponsor logo placement with the sponsor
Before approving, check:
- Team name spelling
- Player numbers are readable from a distance
- Colors match what you want
- Logo files are correct
Get 2-3 people to review. Once production starts, you can’t change anything.
Step 6: Order Extra Units
Always order 2-3 extra uniforms in common sizes (Medium, Large).
Why?
- New players join mid-season
- Uniforms get lost or damaged
- You need backups
Save your design file. If you need more uniforms later, you can reorder the exact same design.
Step 7: Plan the Transition
Don’t throw away old uniforms immediately.
Keep them until:
- New uniforms arrive
- You confirm all sizes fit properly
- You have enough for the whole team
Use old uniforms as practice gear or backups.
Upgrading vs. Replacing
Replace = Your current uniforms are damaged or don’t fit. You need new ones.
Upgrade = Your uniforms still work, but you want better quality or new design.
Only upgrade if:
- You have budget for it
- Current uniforms will last at least 6 more months
- Players actually want new designs
Don’t upgrade just because new styles exist. Waste of money.
Making Uniforms Last Longer
Washing:
- Turn inside out before washing
- Cold water only
- Air dry (dryer heat damages fabric)
- No fabric softener
Storage:
- Don’t leave wet uniforms in bags (causes mildew)
- Store in cool, dry place
- Fix small tears immediately
Use:
- Have separate practice and game uniforms if possible
- Rotate usage so some uniforms aren’t worn every single time
Good care can add 1 extra season to uniform life.
Common Mistakes
Mistake 1: Waiting too long Don’t use damaged uniforms “just one more season.” Players notice. Opponents notice. It affects team morale.
Mistake 2: Ordering wrong sizes Measure players. Don’t assume. Youth players grow fast – check sizes every season.
Mistake 3: Choosing cheapest option Cheap uniforms fall apart in 6 months. You’ll spend more replacing them twice than buying quality once.
Mistake 4: Not planning ahead If you order 3 weeks before season starts, you won’t get uniforms on time. Plan 3 months ahead.
Quick Decision Guide
Your uniforms are damaged or faded? → Replace now
Players outgrew them? → Order new sizes now
Uniforms look fine but you want new designs? → Wait until next budget cycle
Sponsor changed? → Replace before next game/season
Uniforms are 3+ seasons old? → Inspect them. If still good quality, keep using. If not, replace.
