Custom rash guards and fight shorts for your gym: fabric, fit and design

Your members want to wear your gym's name on the mats. But the last batch of rash guards had a print that started cracking after a month, the fight shorts split at the crotch during a scramble, and half the sizes ran small. Now you have a box of stock nobody wants and a few members asking for refunds.

No-gi gear takes a lot of punishment: constant stretching, grips, sweat and frequent washing. This guide covers what to look for in custom rash guards and fight shorts, so your next order is gear your members are happy to buy and wear.

Why do some custom rash guards crack, fade or lose their shape?

Most problems come down to two things: the print method and the fabric.

The print method

Screen prints and heat transfers sit on top of the fabric. A rash guard stretches every time you shrimp, frame or bridge, and a surface print can crack and start to peel when it does. Sublimation works differently: the design is printed into the polyester fibres, so there's no layer of ink to break. That's why sublimation is the standard choice for rash guards.

The fabric

A good rash guard is usually a polyester and spandex (elastane) blend. Polyester holds the sublimated colours and dries quickly. Spandex gives four-way stretch and helps the garment hold its shape after many washes. If a quote just says "polyester" with no detail, ask for the exact fibre mix and fabric weight in writing.

What should I look for in a rash guard for BJJ and MMA?

• Flatlock stitching: flat seams are less likely to rub or chafe during long rolls.
• A gripper or silicone band at the hem, so the rash guard stays tucked in and doesn't ride up.
• A neck that keeps its shape, without being so tight that it's uncomfortable.
• Sleeve length: long sleeves for more protection from mat burn, short sleeves for warmer gyms and striking classes.
• A close fit: a rash guard should feel snug, not loose like a T-shirt, so opponents can't grab it easily.

Before you order in bulk, ask for a sample and roll in it for a week. Wash it the way your members will, and check the seams, the hem and the colours afterwards.

What makes good fight shorts for grappling and MMA?

Fight shorts need to move with you. When you throw a high kick or play guard, cheap shorts pull tight across the thighs or split at the seams. Look for these features:

• A stretch gusset or side splits, so the legs can open fully for kicks, guard work and takedowns.
• A secure closure, usually a hook and loop (velcro) waistband combined with a drawstring, so the shorts stay up during scrambles.
• Reinforced stitching at the crotch and stress points, where shorts usually fail first.
• Fast-drying fabric that takes a full-colour sublimated print.
• No exposed zips, pockets or hard trims that could catch on fingers or toes.

Fight shorts or compression shorts?

Fight shorts are the looser, board-short style. Compression shorts, also called vale tudo shorts, are tight fitting and can be worn alone or under fight shorts. Many gyms offer both, so members can build a full no-gi set.

How do I size a rash guard and fight shorts order for my gym?

Sizing is where most gym orders go wrong. Rash guards are designed to fit closely, so members who are used to loose T-shirts often pick the wrong size.

1. 01Ask the manufacturer for their size chart with real chest, waist and length measurements, not just S to XXL labels.
2. 02Order a size run of samples and put them on the counter so members can try them on.
3. 03Pre-sell with a sign-up sheet before ordering, so you know exactly how many of each size you need.
4. 04Remember to include kids' sizes if you run a kids' programme.
5. 05Order a few extra of your most popular sizes for new members.

How should I prepare my design for sublimated no-gi gear?

Because sublimation prints the whole garment, you're not limited to a small chest logo. You can use your gym colours from collar to cuff, add sponsor logos, or create a full pattern. A few tips:

• Send your logo as a vector file (AI, EPS, SVG or PDF) if you have one, so it stays sharp at any size.
• Keep text away from seams, where it can be cut or distorted.
• Make rank-coloured versions of the same design for your no-gi classes. Only the base colour changes, so the set looks consistent.
• Match the rash guard and fight shorts designs so members can buy them as a set.
• If you don't have a designer, ask your manufacturer for design help.

If you also run gi classes, our guide to custom BJJ gis and rash guards for academies covers gi weave, weight and branding, and the same academy look can carry across your whole range.

What should I ask a manufacturer before I order?

• What is the exact fabric mix and weight for the rash guards and the fight shorts?
• Is the print sublimated, or is it a screen print or heat transfer?
• Can I get a free sample with my own logo and design before I commit?
• Is there a minimum order per design or per size?
• What is the written timeline for sample approval, production and dispatch?
• Can you add my own neck labels and packaging if I want to sell this as my own brand?

If you're buying from overseas for the first time, our guide to sourcing sportswear from Sialkot, Pakistan explains how to check a supplier and place a safe first order.

How UZAS Sports makes rash guards and fight shorts

UZAS Sports has made martial arts and combat sports gear in our own factory in Sialkot since 2005, with showrooms in Sialkot and Melbourne. Our rash guards and fight shorts are sublimated, so the design is printed into the fabric and doesn't crack or peel. There's no minimum order, your sample is free and customised with your logo, and our team offers free design help. Orders of 25 pieces or more ship free. Samples and urgent orders travel by air freight, and larger bulk orders can go by sea.

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