Custom gym shorts are more than just apparel — they’re brand statements, whether for a fitness line, gym, sports team, or wellness influencer. But how do you get your logo on gym shorts in a way that looks clean, lasts long, and suits your brand aesthetic?
This guide walks you through the most popular customization methods — from heat transfer to embroidery — and explains how to choose the best technique based on your style, fabric, and budget.
Why Add Your Logo to Gym Shorts?
- Brand visibility: Whether worn in the gym or on the street
- Professionalism: Great for team uniforms and fitness staff
- Marketing value: Branded apparel builds loyalty and community
- Revenue: Adds value for product drops or gym merch
Popular Logo Placement Options on Gym Shorts
- Front left leg (most common)
- Back right leg (subtle branding)
- Waistband tag (woven or printed)
- Side panel or pocket (great for contrast color)
Customization Techniques Explained
1. Heat Transfer Printing
- Best for: Simple logos, low quantities, fast turnaround
- Look & feel: Smooth and flat, semi-glossy finish
- Works with: Polyester, blends, spandex shorts
- Durability: Good with proper washing (cold water, no high heat)
- Pros: Cost-effective, no stitching
- Cons: May peel over time if poorly applied
2. Screen Printing
- Best for: Bulk orders, bold graphics, basic fabrics
- Look & feel: Vibrant colors, matte finish
- Works with: Cotton, polycotton, French terry
- Durability: High, especially with plastisol ink
- Pros: Sharp results on flat surfaces
- Cons: Not ideal for small runs or stretch fabrics
3. Embroidery
- Best for: Premium look, textured branding
- Look & feel: Raised thread logo, stitched-in feel
- Works with: Cotton fleece, heavier knits, structured shorts
- Durability: Excellent (lasts as long as the shorts)
- Pros: High perceived value
- Cons: Not suitable for thin or stretchy fabrics
4. Woven or Heat Press Labels
- Best for: Waistbands, interior tags, minimal external branding
- Look & feel: Retail-grade finish
- Works with: All fabrics
- Durability: Very high
- Pros: Adds a professional touch
- Cons: Adds production time and cost
Choosing the Right Technique for Your Brand
| Technique | Best For | MOQ | Unit Cost | Branding Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Transfer | Startups & quick drops | Low | $ | Modern, sporty |
| Screen Printing | Bulk merch, bold logos | Medium | $$ | Graphic-heavy |
| Embroidery | Premium branding | Low-Med | $$$ | Classic, durable |
| Woven Labels | Inside waistbands or subtle | Low | $-$$ | Retail-inspired |
Tips for Best Results
- Use vector files (.AI, .EPS) for sharp logo output
- Request a digital mockup before production
- Always get a sample if you’re placing bulk orders
- Match your logo size to short size (avoid oversized prints)
- Work with a manufacturer that offers sampling, like Ninghow Apparel
How Ninghow Apparel Helps with Custom Gym Shorts
We specialize in:
- Low MOQ custom production (starting at 50–80 pcs)
- Heat transfer, embroidery, and woven label options
- Fast sampling to review your logo placement and materials
- Custom fits, fabric blends, and activewear-focused designs
Whether you’re a gym, coach, team, or brand — Ninghow Apparel helps turn your vision into a performance-ready product.
Final Thoughts
Logo customization is where your apparel becomes uniquely yours. With the right method and partner, your gym shorts can go from blank canvas to brand icon.
Choose smart. Sample first. Wear your brand with pride.
