Custom Sportswear Printing Methods: Sublimation vs Embroidery

When it comes to designing custom uniforms for your sports team, organization, or event, you’ll want printing that ensures maximum visibility and impact. The right custom sportswear printing not only boosts your brand but also helps your team stand out from the crowd.

Now, the question is, there are many different types of printing, so which one do you want for your company’s custom sports uniforms? Among many options, the 2 most popular choices are sublimation or embroidery for sportswear. 

Each has its unique benefits, tailored to meet the specific needs and purposes. Now, which of the custom sportswear printing methods is suitable for you? 

There is only one way to find out, so let’s dive in.  

What is Sublimation Printing?

One method of image transfer is sublimation printing. A printed sublimation design is made, and the image is transferred from one surface to another using a heat press. 

The transfer method is what sets it apart: After changing from a solid to a gas, the dye fuses with the substance. Fabric, ceramic, and metal are just a few of the materials that can be printed with sublimation designs.

Key Advantages:

• Quick. The sublimation printing method utilises machine-printed transfer sheets to bring designs to life, making it significantly faster compared to traditional manual printing methods.
• Smart. Traditional printing typically covers the entire stencil with ink, resulting in significant waste. In contrast, sublimation printing focuses solely on the parts of the design that require ink, thereby saving resources.
• Vibrant Designs: Creates stunning, colorful designs. Due to the printing process, along with CMYK colour handling, this is one of the methods that can produce colourful designs. 

This doesn’t mean it is without any disadvantages. The problem with the sublimation is that it has limitations of printing and is only possible for polyester fabric, polyester blends, or poly-coated materials.

How Does Embroidery for Sportswear Work?

Embroidery is a well-established method that adds beauty to crafting and has been around for centuries. In custom sportswear printing, it can add texture, depth and polish the look significantly. 

With the latest machines, it can add as many details as possible to any kind of uniform, cap, or even polo shirt. Additionally, it also gives a 3D feel to any logo or other printed material. 

Key Benefits:

• Prestige and Professionalism: Stitched designs convey a high-end vibe, making them ideal for team branding or sponsorships.
• Durability: Embroidery threads are tough and don’t fray easily, which means the designs can last even longer than the clothing itself.
• Versatility: This method works well on thicker fabrics, such as cotton, fleece, or blends.

That said, embroidery isn’t ideal for designs with a lot of detail or gradients. Smaller details can become blurred, and large embroidered designs can become heavy or less breathable, which is something to keep in mind for performance wear. 

Plus, for the best fabric for sportswear, it requires more labor, which can make it pricier for big, multi-color designs.

Sublimation vs Embroidery in Sportswear

When working with uniform suppliers in the UAE, be clear about what you want. 

So, here is what you need to consider: 

    1.   Visual and Functional Comparison

When it comes to appearance, sublimation offers a sleek, smooth finish that complements modern athletic styles perfectly. The design is embedded into the fabric, allowing for good movement and moisture-wicking properties in sports clothes. 

On the other hand, embroidery has that nice, textured feel that brings in a sense of tradition and craftsmanship.

Functionality varies quite a bit, too:

• Sublimation keeps things lightweight and flexible, making it great for high-energy sports.
• Embroidery adds structure and durability, making it better suited for casual or official sportswear where both appearance and comfort are important.

In terms of upkeep, sublimated prints are extremely easy to maintain and resist fading even after numerous washes. With embroidered pieces of school sports uniform, it’s best to handle them with a bit more care; washing them inside out or on a gentler cycle helps keep the threads in good shape.

    2.   Cost and Production Efficiency

Cost is definitely a significant consideration when deciding between these two Custom Sportswear Printing methods, especially when it comes to wholesale sports uniforms.

• Sublimation printing tends to be more affordable for larger orders, especially if the designs have multiple colors or gradients. After the initial setup, making pieces in bulk is quick, uniform, and budget-friendly.
• Embroidery costs can vary based on stitch density, how complex the design is, and the colors of the threads. It can get a bit more expensive for larger or detailed designs, but it’s perfect for small, classy logos where detail and elegance are more important than size.

For small orders of team sports uniforms or simple logos, embroidery may actually be a more cost-effective option. However, for large team uniforms or promotional items that require vibrant, full-body prints, sublimation really gives you more bang for your buck. 

    3.   Care and Durability

Proper care ensures that your sportswear lasts longer while maintaining its appearance and performance. Taking the right steps can help you get the best value from your uniforms.

• Sublimation prints are highly durable and resist fading, even after multiple washes, making them a low-maintenance option.
• Embroidered uniforms require gentler handling, such as washing inside out or on a delicate cycle, to preserve the thread and design integrity.

With proper care, both sublimated and embroidered uniforms retain their look and functionality. Choosing the right method based on use and maintenance needs ensures your team’s sportswear stays in top condition.

Now, which one do you need to consult your uniform manufacturer in the UAE?

Conclusion 

Choosing the right custom sportswear printing methods in the UAE is essential for maximizing brand visibility, team identity, and uniform functionality. 

Sublimation offers vibrant, lightweight designs perfect for high-performance sports, while embroidery provides a premium, durable look suited for classic and formal uniforms. Businesses can buy customized uniforms in the UAE to suit their specific needs, balancing cost, appearance, and practicality. 

Silver Thread UAE specializes in delivering high-quality sportswear printing solutions, ensuring both sublimation and embroidery options meet professional standards. By selecting the appropriate printing method, companies can enhance their team’s presence while providing long-lasting, functional, and visually appealing uniforms.

FAQs

• What is the difference between sublimation and embroidery in custom sportswear printing?

Sublimation embeds vibrant designs into polyester fabrics, offering lightweight, flexible, and full-color prints. Embroidery uses stitched threads for texture and durability, ideal for thicker fabrics, small logos, or classic team branding with a professional finish.

• Which is better for sportswear — sublimation or embroidery?

Sublimation is best for high-performance sportswear due to its flexibility, lightweight feel, and ability to reproduce complex designs. Embroidery suits formal or casual uniforms where premium appearance and durability are prioritized, especially for logos or small detailing.

• How do sublimation and embroidery printing methods affect the durability of custom sportswear?

Sublimation prints resist fading and withstand repeated washing, maintaining vibrant colors over time. Embroidery threads are strong, long-lasting, and maintain shape, but require gentle care to avoid fraying, ensuring uniforms stay functional and visually appealing.