Activewear Manufacturing FAQ

Choosing the right private label sportswear manufacturer is one of the most important early decisions for a startup brand. The wrong partner can lead to high MOQs, poor communication, unstable quality, and delayed launches.Based on 15+ years of OEM & ODM activewear manufacturing experience, this guide explains what truly defines the best manufacturers for startups—and how brands can evaluate suppliers realistically. 1️⃣ What Startups Should Look for in a Private Label Sportswear ManufacturerBefore focusing on company names, startups should understand the capabilities that matter most at an early stage.Low and Flexible MOQ• Startups need the ability to:• Test multiple styles without overstock risk• Launch small collections and scale graduallyManufacturers offering 50–100 pcs per style are generally more startup-friendly than factories requiring 300–1000 pcs.True Private Label Capability• A qualified private label supplier should support:• Custom labels, hang tags, and packaging• Multiple logo techniques (silicone, heat transfer, reflective)• Color matching and fabric selectionThis allows startups to build a real brand identity, not just resell generic products. 2️⃣ Why China-Based Manufacturers Are Popular with StartupsChina remains the most practical sourcing choice for startup sportswear brands due to:• Mature activewear supply chains• Wide selection of performance fabrics• Advanced pattern-making and sampling capability• Competitive pricing at low-to-mid volumesMany successful global sportswear startups began with Chinese OEM & ODM partners before scaling production elsewhere. 3️⃣ Manufacturer Type Comparison: Which Is Best for Startups? Manufacturer Type Pros Cons Trading CompaniesEasy communicationLimited QC control, higher costs Small Workshops Low MOQ Inconsistent quality Specialized Activewear FactoriesBalanced MOQ, strong QCRequires careful vetting For startups, specialized activewear manufacturers usually offer the best balance between cost, quality, and scalability. 4️⃣ What Makes Ohsurewear a Startup-Friendly Private Label PartnerAs a dedicated activewear manufacturer, Ohsurewear works closely with early-stage brands seeking long-term growth rather than one-off orders.Key Startup Advantages• Low MOQ starting from 50–100 pcs per style• Full OEM & ODM support, including pattern making and tech packs• Strong focus on gym wear, leggings, sports bras, and activewear sets• Fabric expertise in nylon/spandex and performance blends• Stable production timelines and multi-stage quality controlInstead of pushing large volumes, Ohsurewear helps startups validate products, refine fit, and prepare for scale. 5️⃣ Other Private Label Sportswear Manufacturers Startups Often ConsiderWhile each brand’s needs differ, startups typically evaluate manufacturers based on:• MOQ flexibility• Sampling speed• Communication clarity• Quality consistencyCommon sourcing regions include:• China (best overall balance for startups)• Vietnam (higher MOQs, strong sewing quality)• Turkey (faster EU delivery, higher costs)The “best” manufacturer is not the cheapest, but the one aligned with your stage of growth. 6️⃣ Questions Startups Should Ask Before Choosing a ManufacturerBefore committing, startups should ask:• What is the minimum order per style and color?• Can samples be made with final bulk fabrics?• What logo techniques are recommended for stretch fabrics?• How is quality checked before and during bulk production?• Can the manufacturer scale as the brand grows?Clear answers indicate a long-term manufacturing mindset, not just a sales-driven approach. 7️⃣ Manufacturer Insight: A Realistic Startup StrategyFrom a factory perspective, the most successful startup brands:• Start small but plan for scalability• Invest time in sampling and fit testing• Build transparent communication with manufacturersAt Ohsurewear, startups are treated as future long-term partners, with production processes designed to grow alongside the brand. Final TakeawayThe best private label sportswear manufacturers for startups are not defined by size or location alone, but by their flexibility, specialization, and willingness to support early-stage growth. Manufacturers like Ohsurewear, which focus on performance activewear and offer low MOQs with full private label services, are often better suited for startups building sustainable sportswear brands.

Ensuring gym wear quality before mass production is one of the most important steps in reducing risk, cost, and delays.Based on 15+ years of OEM & ODM activewear manufacturing experience at Ohsurewear, professional brands never rely on visual inspection alone—they follow a systematic pre-production quality validation process.Below is a factory-proven checklist used before approving bulk production. 1️⃣ Review and Approve the Pre-Production Sample (PP Sample)Purpose: Confirm that the sample truly represents bulk qualityThe PP sample must be made using:• Final approved fabric and GSM• Correct trims, elastics, and accessories• Final logo techniques and placementsAt Ohsurewear, bulk production only starts after the PP sample is signed off for fit, construction, and branding. 2️⃣ Test Fabric Performance, Not Just AppearancePurpose: Ensure long-term wear performanceKey fabric tests before mass production include:• Stretch & recovery (fabric returns to shape after pulling)• Squat-proof opacity for leggings• Pilling resistance after friction• Colorfastness to washing and sweat• Hand feel & weight consistency (GSM)These tests ensure gym wear performs under real workout conditions, not just in photos. 3️⃣ Verify Fit, Sizing & Pattern AccuracyPurpose: Avoid costly size complaints in bulk ordersQuality checks must include:• Measuring all sizes against the size spec• Wearing the garment during movement (squat, lunge, stretch)• Checking pressure points in sports bras and waistbandsAt Ohsurewear, fit testing is done on multiple body types, not mannequins alone. 4️⃣ Inspect Stitching, Seams & ConstructionPurpose: Identify weak points before scaling productionCritical areas to inspect:• Seam strength in high-stretch zones• Flatlock or overlock consistency• Reinforcement at stress points (crotch, armholes, straps)• Thread elasticity and break resistancePoor stitching often causes returns and brand damage after launch. 5️⃣ Evaluate Logo Application & DurabilityPurpose: Ensure logos survive stretch and washingBefore mass production, logos should be tested for:• Stretch compatibility (no cracking or lifting)• Adhesion strength after washing• Comfort against skinAt Ohsurewear, logo durability tests are part of the sampling approval process, especially for leggings and sports bras. 6️⃣ Conduct Wash & Wear TestsPurpose: Simulate real customer usageA minimum of 3–5 wash cycles is recommended before bulk approval to check:• Shape retention• Shrinkage• Color fading• Logo performanceThis step reveals problems that visual checks cannot detect. 7️⃣ Confirm Quality Control Standards Before BulkPurpose: Ensure consistency during mass productionBefore approving bulk, brands should confirm:• In-line inspection process• Final AQL inspection standards• Measurement tolerance limits• Defect classification criteriaOhsurewear applies multi-stage QC to ensure bulk products match approved samples. Manufacturer Insight from OhsurewearFrom a manufacturing perspective, most quality issues in gym wear originate before bulk production, not during it.By validating fabrics, fit, construction, and branding at the pre-production stage, brands significantly reduce rework, delays, and returns.At Ohsurewear, quality control is treated as a preventive process, not a corrective one.

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 TransferBest for: Leggings, sports bras, high-compression activewearSilicone 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 appearanceAt 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 LogoBest 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 peelingImportant considerationLogos must be kept small and strategically positioned. Oversized 3D logos can reduce comfort and stretch performance.3️⃣ Reflective Heat TransferBest for: Running leggings and performance brasReflective 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 garmentsAt 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 stretchTraditional 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 designsCons• Limited stretch recovery compared to silicone• Higher risk of cracking over timeScreen 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 onlyEmbroidery 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 distortionAt Ohsurewear, embroidery is limited to non-stretch panels, jackets, or outer layers, not leggings or sports bras.6️⃣ Placement Matters as Much as the TechniqueFrom a manufacturing standpoint, logo success depends on both method and placement.Recommended placements• Waistbands• Side panels• Upper back or chest• Lower leg or calf areaAvoid• High-friction inner thighs• Extreme stretch points without reinforcementManufacturer Insight from OhsurewearFor 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.

Fabric GSM (grams per square meter) directly affects opacity, support, breathability, durability, and overall wear performance in activewear.Based on 15+ years of activewear manufacturing experience at Ohsurewear, choosing the right GSM is not about “heavier is better,” but about matching fabric weight to function, movement, and brand positioning.Below is a practical, factory-level guide used in real OEM & ODM production.1️⃣ What Does GSM Mean in Activewear Manufacturing?GSM measures fabric weight per square meter. In activewear, GSM influences:• Thickness and coverage (squat-proof level)• Compression and support• Heat retention vs breathability• Fabric durability over repeated wear and washingFrom a manufacturer’s perspective, GSM must always be evaluated together with fiber composition and knit structure, not in isolation.2️⃣ Low GSM Fabrics (160–200 GSM)Best for: Light-support tops & breathable layersCommon applications• Lightweight sports bras (low impact)• Yoga tops and tanks• Summer training wearCharacteristics• High breathability• Lightweight and flexible feel• Faster dryingLimitations• Limited compression• Not suitable for squat-proof leggingsAt Ohsurewear, low GSM fabrics are typically used for upper-body activewear, not bottoms.3️⃣ Medium GSM Fabrics (210–250 GSM)Best for: Everyday leggings & mid-support sports brasThis is the most versatile GSM range in bulk activewear production.Common applications• Yoga and gym leggings• Medium-support sports bras• All-season activewear setsWhy this range works• Balanced stretch and support• Improved opacity for leggings• Comfortable for long wearMost core leggings at Ohsurewear are developed within this GSM range for commercial-ready performance.4️⃣ High GSM Fabrics (260–320 GSM)Best for: Compression leggings & high-impact sports brasHigh GSM fabrics are used when support and structure are the priority.Common applications• High-compression leggings• Running or HIIT sports bras• Sculpting or shaping collectionsKey benefits• Enhanced compression and muscle support• Superior squat-proof performance• Better shape retention over timeTrade-offs• Reduced breathability• Heavier hand feelThis GSM range is commonly paired with nylon/polyamide + Lycra blends in premium collections at Ohsurewear.5️⃣ GSM Alone Is Not Enough — Construction MattersFrom a professional manufacturing standpoint, GSM must be considered alongside:• Fiber composition (nylon vs polyester)• Knit type (single jersey, interlock, double-knit)• Yarn quality and elastane ratio• Finishing processes (brushed, sanded, compacted)A well-constructed 230 GSM double-knit fabric can outperform a poorly made 280 GSM fabric.6️⃣ Choosing GSM Based on Activity Type Activity Type Recommended GSM Yoga / Pilates 210–230 GSM Gym Training 220–250 GSM Running / HIIT 240–300 GSM Lifestyle / Athleisure200–230 GSMAt Ohsurewear, GSM selection always starts with end-use analysis, not price alone. Manufacturer Insight from OhsurewearOne of the most common mistakes brands make is over-specifying GSM in hopes of better quality. In reality, excessive GSM can compromise comfort, flexibility, and wearability.Professional activewear development focuses on:• Functional performance• Long-term durability• Consistent bulk production resultsThat’s why Ohsurewear evaluates GSM together with fabric structure, stretch recovery, and real wear testing before final approval.

Choosing the right fabric is one of the most critical decisions in gym leggings and sports bra development.Based on 15+ years of performance activewear manufacturing experience at Ohsurewear, premium gym wear fabrics must balance stretch, recovery, support, breathability, and long-term durability.Below is a practical, manufacturer-level fabric guide used in real OEM & ODM production.1️⃣ Nylon / Polyamide + Spandex (Lycra® / Elastane)Best for: High-performance gym leggings & supportive sports brasThis is the most widely used fabric combination for premium activewear.Typical compositions• 75% Polyamide (Nylon) + 25% Lycra• 80% Nylon + 20% SpandexWhy manufacturers recommend it• Excellent 4-way stretch and shape recovery• Smooth, skin-friendly hand feel• Strong compression and support• High abrasion resistance (less pilling)• Superior color depth for dyed fabricsAt Ohsurewear, this blend is preferred for compression leggings, high-impact sports bras, and sculpting gym sets where performance and longevity are essential.2️⃣ Polyester + SpandexBest for: Cost-efficient gym wear & large-scale bulk ordersPolyester-based fabrics are commonly used for brands prioritizing price control.Typical compositions• 85% Polyester + 15% Spandex• 90% Polyester + 10% SpandexKey advantages• Faster moisture wicking• Lower material cost• Good colorfastness for printed designs• Suitable for mass productionHowever, polyester generally offers less softness and stretch recovery compared to nylon blends, making it better suited for mid-range leggings or light-support bras.3️⃣ Recycled Nylon or Recycled Polyester BlendsBest for: Sustainable and eco-conscious activewear linesMany brands now request recycled options without sacrificing performance.Common options• Recycled nylon + Lycra• Recycled polyester + spandexPerformance characteristics• Comparable stretch and durability to virgin fibers• Reduced environmental impact• Compatible with OEKO-TEX or GRS standardsOhsurewear supports sustainable fabric sourcing for brands looking to build eco-friendly gym wear collections while maintaining performance expectations.4️⃣ Cotton-Blend Fabrics (Limited Use)Best for: Lifestyle or low-impact gym stylesCotton blends are not recommended for performance leggings or sports bras, but may work for casual lines.Why cotton is limited• Poor moisture management• Slower drying time• Reduced elasticity and shape retentionCotton blends are typically reserved for yoga-inspired, lifestyle, or lounge-style gym wear, not high-sweat training.5️⃣ Fabric Weight (GSM) & Construction Matter More Than Fiber AloneFrom a manufacturer’s perspective, fabric performance depends on more than composition:• Leggings: 220–280 GSM for squat-proof coverage• Sports bras: 240–320 GSM for support and stability• Double-knit or interlock structures improve opacity• Brushed or sanded finishes enhance softnessAt Ohsurewear, fabric selection always combines fiber type, GSM, knit structure, and intended activity level.Manufacturer Insight from OhsurewearThere is no single “best” fabric for all gym wear. The right choice depends on:• Target activity (yoga, HIIT, running, training)• Desired compression level• Price positioning• Sustainability goalsFrom a bulk production standpoint, nylon (polyamide) + Lycra remains the gold standard for premium gym leggings and sports bras due to its performance consistency and long-term durability.

Based on over 10+ years of hands-on activewear manufacturing experience at Ohsurewear, the typical bulk production timeline for custom gym wear is 25–40 days after sample approval.This timeframe reflects real factory workflows rather than optimistic estimates, ensuring consistency in quality, fit, and performance.Below is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of how bulk gym wear production works in practice.1️⃣ Design Confirmation & Tech Pack FinalizationTime required: 3–7 daysAt Ohsurewear, bulk production only begins once all technical details are fully confirmed. This includes:• Final garment design and size specifications• Fabric composition, GSM, and stretch requirements• Logo placement and branding techniques• Color confirmation and Pantone codes (if applicable)Brands that provide complete tech packs can move faster, while those needing pattern or design support may require additional time at this stage.2️⃣ Fabric Sourcing, Knitting & DyeingTime required: 5–10 daysFor bulk gym wear orders, fabric preparation is a critical step. This typically involves:• Reserving in-stock performance fabrics or custom knitting• Color dyeing and lab dip approval• Fabric performance checks such as stretch recovery and colorfastnessCustom colors and high-compression fabrics naturally extend lead times compared to standard stock materials.3️⃣ Bulk Production & AssemblyTime required: 15–25 daysOnce materials are ready, bulk production moves into full-scale manufacturing, including:• Pattern grading for all sizes• Precision cutting for fabric consistency• Sewing by specialized activewear production lines• Advanced construction techniques such as flatlock stitching, bonded seams, or reinforced panelsComplex products like compression leggings, molded sports bras, or multi-panel gym sets generally take longer than basic styles.4️⃣ Quality Control & Final InspectionTime required: 2–5 daysOhsurewear follows a structured quality control process to ensure bulk orders match approved samples:• In-line inspections during sewing• Measurement and fit verification• Final AQL inspection before packingThis stage is essential to avoid sizing inconsistencies, stitching defects, or logo issues in large-volume orders.5️⃣ Packaging & Shipment PreparationTime required: 3–5 daysBefore shipment, bulk gym wear is prepared according to brand requirements:• Folding and individual polybagging• Custom packaging, hang tags, and barcodes• Carton packing with export labeling⏱ Typical Bulk Production Timeline Summary Total production time (excluding shipping): 25–40 days Order TypeEstimated Lead Time Basic gym wear styles 25–30 days Technical or compression styles 30–40 days First-time custom development 35–45 days What Factors Can Affect Production Time?Production can be faster when:• Tech packs are complete and accurate• Fabrics and colors are already approved• Branding uses standard heat transfer methods• Orders avoid peak production seasonsProduction may take longer when:• New fabrics or custom dyeing are required• Multiple design variations are ordered• Orders are placed during peak seasons (March–June, September–November)• Additional sampling rounds are neededManufacturer Insight from OhsurewearAs a dedicated gym wear manufacturer, Ohsurewear prioritizes stable production timelines over unrealistic speed. In bulk manufacturing, controlled processes, proper fabric preparation, and strict quality checks are essential for long-term brand success.For smoother production, brands are advised to:• Finalize designs early• Allow buffer time in launch schedules• Approve samples before peak seasonsThis approach reduces risks and ensures consistent product quality at scale.

In sportswear manufacturing, OEM and ODM represent two different production models that determine who controls the design, development, and intellectual property of the product. Understanding this difference is critical for brand owners, startups, and buyers when choosing the right manufacturing partner.1. What OEM Means in Sportswear ProductionOEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) means the brand provides the design, and the factory produces it.In practice, this includes:• Brand supplies tech packs, patterns, measurements, and construction details• Factory follows exact specifications for sampling and bulk production• Brand owns the design and intellectual property• Factory focuses on execution, quality, and consistencyOEM is ideal for brands with in-house designers or clear product development capability.2. What ODM Means in Sportswear ProductionODM (Original Design Manufacturing) means the factory supports or fully handles the design process.• Typical ODM services include:• Ready-made designs or base patterns provided by the factory• Pattern development and fit optimization• Fabric recommendations based on performance requirements• Design adjustments to meet brand positioning or market needsODM works best for startups, private-label brands, or buyers without technical apparel expertise. 3. Key Differences Between OEM and ODM (Practical Comparison) Aspect OEM ODM Design ownership Brand Factory or shared Tech pack required Yes No Development responsibility Brand-led Factory-led Time to marketLongerFasterFlexibility for changesHighModerateBest forEstablished brandsStartups & private labelThis distinction directly affects cost, speed, and creative control. 4. Cost and MOQ ImplicationsOEM production• Higher development cost upfront• More flexibility on customization• MOQ depends on fabric and complexityODM production• Lower development cost• Faster sampling• Often allows lower MOQs using existing materialsODM helps reduce risk during early-stage product launches.5. Quality Control and Technical RiskWith OEM, quality depends on the accuracy of the brand’s tech pack.With ODM, quality depends on the factory’s technical expertise.Reliable manufacturers usually offer both OEM and ODM, allowing brands to shift models as they grow.6. Expert RecommendationMany successful sportswear brands start with ODM to test the market, then move to OEM once they have:• Proven best-selling styles• Clear fit and performance requirements• In-house or external design supportThis hybrid approach balances speed, cost control, and long-term brand ownership.Summary• OEM: You design it, the factory makes it• ODM: The factory designs it, you brand itChoosing between OEM and ODM in sportswear production depends on your brand maturity, design capability, budget, and speed-to-market goals. A professional manufacturer will guide you toward the model that best fits your current stage and future growth.

Finding a reliable sportswear manufacturer in China requires more than comparing prices. Professional buyers and successful brands focus on capability, transparency, and long-term reliability. Below is a structured, experience-based guide used by industry professionals.1. Start with Proven Industry SpecializationNot all garment factories are sportswear specialists. A reliable manufacturer should demonstrate:• Dedicated experience in activewear or sportswear production• Familiarity with performance fabrics (nylon/spandex, polyamide/Lycra, compression knits)• A clear product focus (e.g. leggings, sports bras, gym tops, teamwear)Factories that specialize in sportswear understand stretch behavior, recovery, fit, and durability, which are critical for performance apparel.2. Verify OEM & ODM CapabilitiesA professional manufacturer should support both:• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing):Producing based on your tech packs, patterns, and specifications• ODM (Original Design Manufacturing):Assisting with pattern development, fit optimization, fabric selection, and design refinementStrong OEM/ODM capability indicates an in-house pattern room, sample team, and technical knowledge, not just basic sewing capacity.3. Evaluate Fabric Knowledge and SourcingFabric quality defines sportswear performance. A reliable factory should be able to:• Explain differences between fabric compositions, GSM, and stretch ratios• Offer fabric testing data (pilling, colorfastness, stretch recovery)• Provide both stock fabrics and custom-developed materialsIf a supplier cannot clearly explain fabric behavior, it often signals limited technical expertise.4. Check Sampling Process and Lead TimesSampling reflects real production ability. Industry-standard expectations include:• Sample development within 7–14 days• Clear revision process for fit, sizing, and construction• Consistency between approved samples and bulk productionFactories that rush samples without proper fitting or testing often struggle with bulk quality consistency.5. Assess Quality Control SystemsReliable manufacturers implement structured quality control, such as:• Fabric inspection before cutting• In-line production checks• Final inspection before packingAsk how they manage defect rates, measurement tolerance, and stretch garment testing. Quality control should be a process, not a promise.6. Review Communication and TransparencyProfessional factories offer:• Dedicated merchandisers or project managers• Clear timelines and production updates• Transparent discussion of risks, limitations, and costsGood communication reduces mistakes, delays, and hidden costs—especially for overseas buyers.7. Confirm Certifications and ComplianceWhile not mandatory for all brands, reliable manufacturers often hold:• BSCI, ISO, or similar social compliance certifications• OEKO-TEX or fabric safety documentation• Export experience with EU and US marketsThese indicate stable operations and familiarity with international standards.8. Start with a Controlled Test OrderExperienced buyers rarely start large. A smart approach includes:• Small MOQ test orders• Standard fabrics and colors for the first run• Evaluation of quality, delivery, and communication before scalingA trustworthy factory supports long-term growth, not just one-time orders.Expert InsightA reliable sportswear manufacturer in China is not defined by the lowest price, but by technical expertise, consistent quality, and professional collaboration. The right partner helps reduce risk, improve product performance, and scale your brand efficiently.

Typical MOQ for Custom Sportswear ManufacturingThe Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for custom sportswear varies depending on product type, customization level, and manufacturing method. Below is a clear, experience-based breakdown used by professional sportswear factories.1. Standard MOQ Range (Industry Practice)For most cut-and-sew sportswear (leggings, sports bras, T-shirts, shorts, hoodies):• 50–100 pcs per style per color→ Common for startup brands and new collections• 150–300 pcs per style→ Typical for established brands with stable salesThis range balances production efficiency with cost control and is widely accepted across China and other major manufacturing regions.2. MOQ by Product TypeDifferent sportswear categories require different MOQs due to machinery, fabric usage, and production complexity:• Cut-and-sew activewear (leggings, bras, tops):50–100 pcs per style/colorSeamless sportswear:• 150–300 pcs per style (higher due to machine setup)Outerwear & hoodies:• 100–200 pcs per styleCompression or high-tech performance wear:• Often 100+ pcs due to fabric minimums and testing requirements3. How Customization Affects MOQThe more customized the product, the higher the MOQ may become:• Fabric customization (custom GSM, custom composition, special dyeing):Fabric mills usually require 300–500 meters per color• Pantone color matching:May increase MOQ compared to stock colors• Complex logo techniques (3D silicone, reflective print, bonded logos):Often require higher quantities to optimize tooling costUsing stock fabrics and standard colors is the most effective way to keep MOQ low.4. Startup-Friendly MOQ SolutionsExperienced manufacturers often offer flexible options for new brands:• Mixed sizes within the same color/style• Multiple styles sharing the same fabric• Small test orders for market validation• Sampling first, bulk after approvalThis approach reduces inventory risk while maintaining professional production standards.5. Why MOQ Exists (Professional Insight)MOQs are not arbitrary. They are based on:• Fabric mill minimums• Cutting efficiency and waste control• Printing and logo setup costs• Quality consistency during productionA factory offering unrealistically low MOQ may compromise on fabric sourcing, QC, or production stability.6. Expert RecommendationFor most custom sportswear brands:• Start with 50–100 pcs per style using stock fabrics• Validate fit, quality, and market response• Scale to higher volumes once sales are provenA reliable manufacturer will help you optimize MOQ, not force unnecessary quantities.Summary:Typical MOQ for custom sportswear manufacturing ranges from 50 to 300 pcs per style, depending on product type, customization level, and production method. Choosing the right factory partner is key to balancing flexibility, quality, and long-term scalability.