The decoration method you choose changes how your sportswear looks, feels, lasts and costs. Here is a clear comparison of the four methods we use most at Naxon Sports, and which one suits each product.
Quick comparison
| Method | Best on | Colours | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sublimation | White or light polyester | Unlimited, all-over | No feel, part of the fabric | Team kits, cycling, esports, rash guards |
| Screen printing | Cotton and blends | Best with few colours | Slight layer on top | Tees, hoodies, merch |
| Heat transfer | Most fabrics | Spot colours | Thin, flexible layer | Names, numbers, small logos |
| Embroidery | Heavier fabrics | Thread colours | Raised, textured | Polos, jackets, caps, crests |
Sublimation
Sublimation uses heat to turn ink into gas that bonds with polyester fibres. The design becomes part of the fabric, so it never cracks, peels or fades, and you can print photos, gradients and patterns edge to edge. It only works well on polyester and light base fabrics, which is why it is the standard for soccer kits, cycling jerseys and rash guards.
Screen printing
Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh screen, one screen per colour. It gives bold, opaque colour and is very durable on cotton, which makes it the go-to for t-shirts and hoodies. Special inks such as puff, metallic and discharge add a premium touch. Designs with many colours cost more because each colour needs its own screen.
Heat transfer
Heat transfer presses a printed film or vinyl onto the garment. It is ideal for personalised names and numbers on team wear, and for small logos on stretch fabrics, where silicone transfers flex with the garment.
Embroidery
Embroidery stitches your logo with thread. It looks premium, lasts as long as the garment and works best on heavier fabrics: polos, jackets, tracksuits and caps. 3D puff embroidery adds height on caps and streetwear. It is less suitable for large designs or very thin stretch fabrics.
Which method should you choose?
- Full team kit with patterns: sublimation, with heat-pressed names and numbers.
- Streetwear tee or hoodie: screen printing or puff print, embroidery for small chest logos.
- Gym leggings and sports bras: silicone or heat-transfer logos.
- Club tracksuits and polos: embroidered crests.
- Caps: flat or 3D puff embroidery, or patches.
Many products combine methods, for example a sublimated jersey with an embroidered crest. See all our branding and decoration options.
Frequently asked questions
Which printing method lasts longest?
Sublimation and embroidery usually outlast the garment itself. Screen printing is very durable on cotton when cured correctly.
Can I sublimate on cotton?
Not well. Sublimation needs polyester fibres; on cotton we recommend screen printing or DTG.
What is cheapest for small orders?
Sublimation and heat transfer have the lowest setup costs, so they are cost-effective from 30 pieces.
Not sure what fits your design? Ask our team and we will recommend the best method.