In the world of custom sportswear, how your team’s uniform looks and feels is just as important as how it performs. When choosing between sublimation sportswear and screen-printed sportswear, understanding the differences in technique, durability, and overall quality can help teams, clubs, and apparel brands make better decisions.
Both methods have their place in modern sportswear design, but each creates a very different final product. This article will break down how they work, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the right one for your needs — whether you’re designing basketball team wear, football jerseys, baseball uniforms, or volleyball team wear.
1. Understanding the Two Printing Methods
What Is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation printing is a heat-based process where the design is first printed on a special transfer paper using sublimation ink. Then, through high temperature and pressure, the ink turns into gas and penetrates directly into the polyester fibers of the fabric.
The result? The design becomes part of the fabric itself — not just printed on top. This means the colors will never peel, fade, or crack, even after years of washing and wearing.
Sublimation works best on polyester fabrics, which is why it’s so popular in performance teamwear such as basketball, football, and volleyball uniforms.
In short: Sublimation fuses the design into the fabric for a seamless, all-over look.
What Is Screen Printing?
Screen printing, on the other hand, is a traditional method where ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto the surface of the fabric. Each color requires a separate screen, and designs are layered one by one.
This process results in a slightly raised texture on the garment, and it’s typically used for logos, text, or simple graphics rather than full-color designs. Screen printing can be done on a wider variety of materials — including cotton, polyester, and blends — but it does not bond with the fibers the way sublimation does.
In short: Screen printing lays ink on the surface of the fabric for a textured, bold design.
2. Key Differences Between Sublimation and Screen Printing
| Feature | Sublimation Sportswear | Screen-Printed Sportswear |
|---|---|---|
| Printing Method | Dye turns into gas and infuses into fabric | Ink is pressed onto the surface through a mesh screen |
| Material Compatibility | Works best on 100% polyester | Works on cotton, polyester, blends |
| Color Range | Unlimited, full-color, photo-quality | Limited by number of screens; solid colors work best |
| Durability | Colors won’t fade, crack, or peel | Ink may crack or fade over time |
| Design Flexibility | Allows all-over prints and gradients | Best for logos or localized graphics |
| Texture | Smooth, part of the fabric | Slightly raised, can feel heavier |
| Cost Efficiency | Cost-effective for full-color bulk printing | Cost-effective for simple, single-color logos |
| Common Uses | Team uniforms, activewear, performance gear | T-shirts, hoodies, promotional wear |
3. Advantages of Sublimation Sportswear
(1) Long-Lasting and Fade-Resistant
Since the ink is infused into the fabric fibers, sublimated prints will never peel or fade. This makes it ideal for team uniforms that go through constant washing and outdoor exposure.
(2) Lightweight and Breathable
Sublimation does not add extra layers of ink on top of the fabric, keeping the garment soft, light, and breathable — essential for high-performance basketball team wear or football jerseys.
(3) Unlimited Design Possibilities
From full-color gradients to photographic graphics and all-over patterns, sublimation allows complete creative freedom. Teams can include logos, names, and intricate designs without worrying about print limitations.
(4) Professional Appearance
The finish of sublimation sportswear is sleek and premium — perfect for brands and teams that value consistent aesthetics and professional image.
4. Advantages of Screen-Printed Sportswear
(1) Bold and Vibrant Colors
Screen printing provides solid, opaque colors that stand out sharply against darker fabrics. This technique is especially effective for simple designs or logos.
(2) Works on a Variety of Fabrics
Unlike sublimation, which requires polyester, screen printing can be used on cotton, blends, and other materials. This makes it a versatile choice for merchandise and casual wear.
(3) Cost-Effective for Small Runs
For small batches or simple single-color prints, screen printing can be more affordable than sublimation — especially when you only need a few shirts or warm-up tops.
5. Disadvantages of Each Method
Limitations of Sublimation
- Can only be used on light-colored polyester fabrics; dark or cotton materials won’t hold sublimated ink.
- Setup requires specific equipment and heat presses.
- For small orders, production cost per piece can be higher.
Limitations of Screen Printing
- Limited color range: Each color needs a separate screen, making multi-color designs costly.
- Less durable: Ink can fade, peel, or crack over time, especially after repeated washing.
- Heavier feel: Multiple ink layers may reduce breathability, which is not ideal for performance sportswear.
6. Which One Is Better for Team Sports?
The best method depends on the sport and the purpose of the uniform:
🔹 Basketball Team Wear
Basketball involves constant motion, jumping, and contact. Sublimation sportswear is the top choice because it keeps the jersey lightweight, breathable, and visually vibrant. Numbers and logos stay sharp even under sweat and friction.
🔹 Football Team Wear
Football uniforms need to be durable yet flexible. Sublimated jerseys allow for bold, all-over designs and sponsor logos, while maintaining comfort during long matches. However, for training shirts or fan merchandise, screen printing may suffice.
🔹 Baseball Team Wear
Baseball players often slide or dive, so durability is key. Sublimated baseball team wear can integrate graphics directly into the fabric, preventing peeling or fading. For cotton-based team T-shirts or promotional items, screen printing works well.
🔹 Volleyball Team Wear
Volleyball uniforms require maximum flexibility and quick-dry performance. Sublimation is preferred for volleyball team wear, as it maintains stretch and comfort without affecting the fabric’s softness.
7. Design Considerations Beyond Printing
When choosing between sublimated and screen-printed sportswear, also consider the overall garment design and ergonomic fit:
- Underarm panels for better mobility.
- Elastic fabrics for dynamic movement.
- Flat seams to reduce friction.
- Team identity: Make sure the color schemes and numbers are clear and consistent with your branding.
Ultimately, a great sports uniform is a combination of the right printing technique and smart garment engineering.
8. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Sustainability has become a key factor in modern sportswear production. Here’s how the two methods compare:
- Sublimation printing uses less water and produces minimal waste because it doesn’t rely on excess inks or screens. However, it typically uses polyester fabrics, which are synthetic.
- Screen printing can use natural fibers like cotton but involves more chemical inks and water usage during cleanup.
For brands focusing on eco-friendly sportswear, sublimation is generally more sustainable when paired with recycled polyester materials.
9. Choosing the Right Option for Your Brand or Team
To summarize:
- Choose sublimation sportswear if you want full-color, durable, lightweight uniforms that enhance performance and team identity.
- Choose screen-printed sportswear if you need simple, bold logos or cost-effective prints on various materials.
If you’re creating professional custom sportswear for teams, tournaments, or leagues, sublimation is the modern standard — delivering unmatched comfort, color, and longevity.
10. Final Thoughts
Both sublimation and screen printing have contributed to the evolution of sportswear design. But as the demand for performance-oriented, durable, and expressive team uniforms grows, sublimation sportswear stands out as the technology of the future.
Whether for basketball team wear, football team wear, baseball team wear, or volleyball team wear, sublimation gives every team the power to wear their identity — not just display it.
So, the next time you’re choosing how to create your team’s look, remember: screen printing puts the design on the fabric, while sublimation makes it part of the fabric.
That single difference can redefine how your team performs, looks, and feels.
