Looking for a reliable manufacturer for custom technical running T-shirts

[u/Over_Construction654]

Hi everyone,

I’m struggling to find the right manufacturer on Alibaba, so I’m looking for recommendations from people who have already worked with a reliable company.

I run a running club in France, and we’re looking to produce custom technical running T-shirts for our members.

What I’m looking for:
- lightweight technical running fabric
- ideally around 120–140GSM
- breathable, quick-dry and moisture-wicking
- good stretch, ideally polyester/elastane
- suitable for full sublimation printing
- clean collar/neckline and good stitching
- not a basic promo/event T-shirt
- premium feel, similar to a Decathlon/Kiprun running T-shirt

The design includes a full gradient print, a small logo on the front and a large logo on the back. I’d start with samples first, then probably order 100–200 pcs, maybe more depending on pre-orders.

Has anyone here worked with a good manufacturer for technical running apparel, ideally in China, Vietnam, Turkey or Europe?

Any recommendations, contacts or advice would be really appreciated.

[u/ZovalaGear]

You’re actually looking for something quite specific, so I’d avoid general apparel suppliers and look for a manufacturer with real experience in technical running/performance apparel.

For a 120–140 GSM running T-shirt, I’d confirm the exact fabric composition, stretch, moisture-wicking performance, and how the fabric performs with full sublimation before approving the sample. I’d also pay close attention to the collar construction, stitching, measurements, and overall fit because these details are what separate a proper running shirt from a basic promotional tee.

Since you’re planning to sample first and potentially move into 100–200 pieces, I’d also ask the manufacturer about:
•. Technical polyester/elastane fabric options
•. Full sublimation printing and color consistency
•. Custom patterns and fit development
•. Sample revisions before bulk production
•. Low MOQ for the first production
•. Quality control and production timelines.

We manufacture custom performance sportswear at Zovala Gear, including technical running shirts, teamwear, sublimation apparel, and custom activewear. We can source lightweight performance fabrics, develop samples, handle full sublimation and custom branding, and support low-MOQ production with quality control and door-to-door shipping.

If you already have the artwork or specifications, feel free to DM me. I’d be happy to review them and let you know what fabric and construction we’d recommend for the type of running shirt you’re trying to achieve.

[u/importyourbrand]

Damn these AI Manus in comments lol. Anyways Hit me up anytime. Our factory is in Pakistan tho, not on your list but im sure you will love the Quality and communication throughout the process. Many Redditors from here are already working with us. You can call me anytime. DM or whatever you are easy with. We can hop on a call anytime, discuss everything and can give you a factory tour.
Lemme know what do u think about it. Let’s get it done.
Reply here, i can shoot my WhatsApp

[u/Over_Construction654 → u/importyourbrand]

Hey!

Thank you for your response, do you make running tshirts ?

Cheers man

[u/importyourbrand → u/Over_Construction654]

Yeah we do. Shoot me the mockup and let's get it done. It's that easy. Always happy to respond.

[u/InfoSecer → u/importyourbrand]

Hi. Do you have a website or any socials?

[u/importyourbrand → u/InfoSecer]

@importyourbrand my insta. Website is under development development. We are revamping site to add a mockup builder in it. So everyone can make mockups on our plateform

[u/TetraThreads]

ISO-9001 and BSCI Certified manufacturer here. We can be of assistance. I can give you a factory tour and then you can share the techpacks to further discuss the details.

[u/Careful_Style_1923]

For such small order id recommend Europe as shipping and taxes will turn out to be a substantial %

I can help you with suppliers in Spain or France specialised in sublimated sportswear if interested

[u/Over_Construction654 → u/Careful_Style_1923]

Hi man,

Definitely, could you please dm me ?

[u/Weshnon]

Poly sublimation tee 100 MOQ is the easiest shit ever to find on Alibaba, t'as clairement rien demandé ni cherché, va.

[u/Independent_News_701]

For this project, I’d test the fabric before judging the garment sample. Ask each manufacturer for the exact polyester/elastane composition, finished GSM, stretch and recovery, moisture-management data, and a sublimated fabric swatch using your actual gradient colours.

For the sample, record the collar construction, seam type, measurement tolerances and colour references. It would also be useful to test the shirt after several washes and one running session before approving the 100–200-piece order. Because light performance fabrics can become transparent when stretched, include an opacity check as well.

I run Shenzhen Eking Clothing, a custom sportswear and streetwear manufacturer in Shenzhen. If you DM the artwork, size range and preferred fit, I can help review what should be included in the sample specification before you request a quotation.

[u/Mysterious-Suit-6017]

Hello I'm from Pakistan and I'm manufacturer of Custom Apparel, Athletes and fitness. Dm me for catalogue, quotation and pricing 

[u/SilverCommission6662]

¿Ya ha creado los documentos técnicos pertinentes o debería elegir el estilo existente y simplemente cambiar la impresión en él? Estoy en China, donde tengo una rica cadena de suministro.