What Logo Techniques Are Suitable for High-Stretch Sportswear Fabrics?

Question

Accepted Answer

Applying logos to high-stretch sportswear fabrics requires specialized techniques that maintain elasticity, durability, and wearer comfort.

Based on 15+ years of OEM & ODM activewear manufacturing experience at Ohsurewear, the wrong logo method can restrict stretch, crack after washing, or cause skin irritation—especially on leggings and sports bras.

Below is a factory-approved guide to logo techniques that perform well on high-stretch fabrics such as nylon/spandex or polyamide/Lycra.

1️⃣ Silicone Heat Transfer

Best for: Leggings, sports bras, high-compression activewear

Silicone heat transfer is the most recommended option for stretch fabrics.

Why manufacturers prefer it

• High elasticity that stretches with the fabric

• Strong adhesion without fabric damage

• Excellent durability after repeated washing

• Premium, clean branding appearance

At Ohsurewear, silicone heat transfer is widely used for logos placed on waistbands, hips, backs, and chest areas where stretch and movement are constant.

2️⃣ 3D Silicone / Rubber Logo

Best for: Premium branding on high-stretch zones (with size control)

This technique creates a raised, tactile logo using elastic silicone or rubber compounds.

Advantages

• Stretch-friendly when kept thin and compact

• Strong visual brand impact

• Resistant to cracking and peeling

Important consideration

Logos must be kept small and strategically positioned. Oversized 3D logos can reduce comfort and stretch performance.

3️⃣ Reflective Heat Transfer

Best for: Running leggings and performance bras

Reflective logos are suitable for high-stretch fabrics when combined with elastic transfer materials.

Key benefits

• Safety and visibility in low-light conditions

• Flexible bonding for dynamic movement

• Lightweight feel on performance garments

At Ohsurewear, reflective logos are commonly applied to calves, backs, or side panels, avoiding high-friction zones.

4️⃣ Screen Printing (Stretch Ink Only)

Best for: Cost-sensitive collections with moderate stretch

Traditional screen printing is not always ideal for high-stretch sportswear, but stretch-formulated inks can be used carefully.

Pros

• Lower cost for large orders

• Suitable for simple, flat designs

Cons

• Limited stretch recovery compared to silicone

• Higher risk of cracking over time

Screen printing is generally recommended only for low-to-medium stretch areas, not compression zones.

5️⃣ Embroidery (Use with Caution)

Best for: Non-stretch or low-stretch areas only

Embroidery is not recommended for high-stretch zones on sportswear.

Why manufacturers avoid it

• Restricts fabric elasticity

• Can cause puckering and discomfort

• Increases risk of seam stress and distortion

At Ohsurewear, embroidery is limited to non-stretch panels, jackets, or outer layers, not leggings or sports bras.

6️⃣ Placement Matters as Much as the Technique

From a manufacturing standpoint, logo success depends on both method and placement.

Recommended placements

• Waistbands

• Side panels

• Upper back or chest

• Lower leg or calf area

Avoid

• High-friction inner thighs

• Extreme stretch points without reinforcement

Manufacturer Insight from Ohsurewear

For high-stretch sportswear fabrics, silicone-based heat transfer techniques consistently deliver the best balance of flexibility, durability, and brand presentation.

At Ohsurewear, logo testing is always done during the sampling stage to ensure logos stretch, recover, and withstand washing before bulk production begins.