A good club kit makes a cycling club recognisable on every ride, helps with sponsorship and gives members something they are proud to wear. This guide explains the choices a club committee has to make, from fit and fabric to sizing and ordering, for clubs in the UK, Ireland, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the USA.
Step 1: Decide what is in the kit
| Item | Who needs it |
|---|---|
| Short sleeve jersey | Every member; the core of the kit |
| Bib shorts | Most members; match the jersey design |
| Gilet or wind jacket | Spring and autumn riding |
| Long sleeve jersey or thermal jacket | Winter riding |
| Caps, socks, arm warmers | Optional extras; good for supporters too |
Most clubs start with a jersey and bib shorts, then add winter pieces once the first order has sold.
Step 2: Club fit or race fit
A club fit (sometimes called relaxed or sportive fit) has more room in the body and suits most members. A race fit sits close to the body to cut wind drag and suits racers and fast group riders. Many clubs offer both cuts in the same design so every member is comfortable.
Step 3: Get the design right
- Visibility: bright colours and contrast panels help drivers see the group.
- Sponsors: chest, back and side panels are the most visible spots. Agree sizes with sponsors early.
- Club identity: put the crest where it is seen from behind, as that is how most riders see each other.
- Files: send logos as vector files (AI, EPS or PDF) for sharp printing.
Sublimation prints the whole design into the fabric, so there is no limit on colours and nothing cracks or peels. See our sublimated sportswear guide.
Step 4: Check the details
- Pockets: three rear pockets, deep enough for food, a phone and a pump.
- Zip: a full-length zip helps on hot climbs.
- Grippers: silicone at the sleeve and leg openings so nothing rides up.
- Chamois pad: the most important part of bib shorts. Match the pad to how far your members ride.
- Reflective details: useful for winter and early-morning rides.
Step 5: Sizing
Cycling kit fits closer than normal clothing, so sizing causes most returns. Order a set of size samples and let members try them on at a club ride. Collect sizes in a simple form with name, item, cut and size. With Pexton Apparel, sizes can be mixed within the minimum of 30 pieces per design; read how mixing sizes works.
Step 6: Order timing
A sample takes about 8–10 days and bulk production about 10–12 days after approval, plus shipping. Allow about eight weeks from first design to delivery, and more if you need kit for a fixed event date. See our club kit ordering timeline.
Step 7: Shipping and duties
Pexton Apparel ships DDP to the UK, the USA and most of Europe, so the club has nothing to pay on arrival. Ireland is also delivered duty paid. Australia and New Zealand get door-to-door delivery by courier or freight.
Common mistakes
- Choosing race fit for every member.
- Skipping size samples.
- Too much detail in small logos that disappears at a distance.
- Ordering a few weeks before a big event.
See our custom cycling jersey manufacturer page, browse cycling kit or send your club design for a free quote.