Sublimated jerseys have the design dyed into polyester fabric, so there is no surface print to crack or peel, and the artwork can cover the whole garment. Stock uniforms start from an existing style, then names and numbers are usually added with screen print, heat application or tackle twill. Choose sublimation when you want a full custom look; choose a stock style when a standard design and applied numbers will do. Compare packages in the sport collection that matches your team, or start from our sport buying guides, then send a roster for a quote.
What are sublimated jerseys?
Dye sublimation uses heat and pressure to turn solid dye into a gas that bonds with polyester fibers. The color becomes part of the fabric rather than a layer sitting on top, so there is no added texture to crack, peel or flake, and the print can be washed with only minimal loss of color. That also means you can use many colors, gradients and all-over patterns without stacking extra decoration on the jersey.
Sublimation is for polyester (or a polyester-coated surface). It does not work the same way on cotton or other natural fibers, and it is typically printed on a white or light polyester base so the colors stay true. That is why sublimated team uniforms are usually performance polyester garments, not cotton tees.
What is a stock team uniform?
A stock uniform starts from an existing factory style and colorway. The team look then comes from decoration applied to that garment, most often:
- Screen-printed numbers and logos. Ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto the surface of the fabric. It is a good fit for simple, solid-color designs. Because the ink sits on top of the cloth, repeated stretching and washing can cause it to crack or fade over time, especially on stretchy performance knits.
- Heat-applied numbers and names. A transfer or vinyl is pressed onto the garment with heat. This is a common way to add roster names and numbers to a stock jersey. Like screen print, the decoration is a surface layer, so hard wear, high heat in the dryer or frequent flexing can make it peel or crack sooner than a dyed-in design.
- Tackle twill. Letters and numbers are cut from fabric and stitched onto the jersey. This is the classic raised look on many football and baseball uniforms. It is durable, but it adds weight, and the stitched edges can loosen or fray after a lot of contact and washing.
Durability and care
Follow the care label on the garment. A sublimated design has no print layer to crack in the wash, because the dye is in the fiber. Screen-printed and heat-applied decoration sits on the surface, so harsh washing and high heat can wear it sooner. Tackle twill depends on the stitching holding the edges. Colors on any uniform can soften over many seasons, even when the design itself stays intact.
When sublimation or stock makes sense
- Design. Choose sublimation when you want full design freedom: complex crests, gradients, side panels or a look that is printed into the fabric. Choose a stock style when a standard jersey plus a logo and numbers is enough.
- Budget. A stock uniform with simple applied numbers can be the more straightforward choice when the design is basic. A sublimated uniform gives you more control over the look. Ask for a quote on the style that fits your team; do not assume one method is always less expensive.
- Timeline. Stock styles can be simpler when you are decorating names and numbers onto an existing design. Sublimated uniforms need artwork approved, because the design is printed into the fabric. Ask for the timing that applies to your order when you request the quote.
- Roster add-ons. With a stock style, a late add is often a matter of decorating another garment in the same style and colors. A fully sublimated uniform is printed as a complete design, so a late add usually means producing another custom piece. If you expect roster changes, mention that when you request the quote and consider ordering a few extras.
Many teams also mix methods, for example a sublimated body with applied or twill numbers. Confirm what each package includes on the package page.
Shop uniforms by sport
Start in the collection that matches your roster, then read the buying guide for that sport if you want help choosing a package.
- Baseball. Shop custom baseball uniforms or youth baseball uniforms. For youth leagues, also see our Little League uniforms buying guide. For high school, travel and adult teams, read the baseball uniforms buying guide.
- Football. Shop custom football uniforms and read the football uniforms buying guide.
- Volleyball. Shop custom volleyball uniforms and read the volleyball uniforms buying guide.
- Lacrosse. Shop custom lacrosse uniforms, women's lacrosse uniforms or youth lacrosse uniforms, and read the lacrosse uniforms buying guide.
- Soccer. Shop custom soccer uniforms, women's soccer uniforms or youth soccer uniforms, and read the soccer uniforms buying guide.
- Track. Shop custom track uniforms or women's track and field uniforms, and read the track uniforms buying guide.
- Basketball. Shop custom basketball uniforms, women's basketball uniforms or youth basketball uniforms, and read the basketball uniforms buying guide.
- Softball. Shop custom softball uniforms and read the softball uniforms buying guide.
How to get a quote
Use the get-started page or the roster form, or email sales@proplayerteam.com or call 707-LEAGUE4 (707-532-4834). You can also use the contact form. Include the sport, whether you want a stock style or a sublimated design, colors, logo and a roster with sizes.
Sublimated vs stock uniforms FAQ
What are sublimated jerseys?
They are jerseys whose design is dyed into polyester with heat and pressure. The color becomes part of the fiber, so there is no surface print to crack or peel, and you can use full-color, all-over artwork.
What is the difference between sublimated and screen-printed uniforms?
Sublimation dyes the design into polyester. Screen printing lays ink on top of the fabric. Screen print works well for simple logos and numbers, especially on stock garments; sublimation is better when you want a full custom design with no print layer on the surface.
Are sublimated uniforms more durable than stock uniforms with applied numbers?
The sublimated design itself has no layer to crack or peel. On a stock uniform, what wears differently is the decoration: screen print and heat-applied numbers can crack or peel with use, and tackle twill can loosen at the stitched edges. Care and how the team uses the jersey matter for both.
Can I add a player later to a sublimated team set?
Usually you will need another custom piece printed to match, because the design is part of the fabric. On a stock style, a late add is often a matter of decorating another garment in the same style. Mention likely roster changes when you request a quote, and consider a few extras.
How do I get a price for my team?
Send your sport, roster with sizes, colors and logo through the roster form, email sales@proplayerteam.com, call 707-532-4834, or use the contact form. Say whether you want a stock style or a sublimated design.