With the 2024 NFL Season closing in, the spirit is about to go high. And that’s about to benefit a lot of businesses and give momentum to a few off-the-beaten-path sporting events, too. That’s the other aesthetics of sports that’s interesting to look into. But we are not exactly going to be exploring just a couple of lesser-known sports alone. There’s a growing market for one of the reasons for their aesthetic appeal, the most important one being apparel.
Let’s take a look at a few awesome niche sports and the apparel that’s bound to each.
Esports: Not Just About Gaming Chairs
The spirit of the NFL season will consequently put more eyes on many other sports. One of those sports that’s exploded in popularity is Esports. The global esports market had an estimated value of $1.38 billion a year ago. Sure we’ve seen pretty cool chairs esports pros get to sit on during tournaments. However, the often underrated aspect of sports aesthetics is in clothing. Esports apparel is quite distinct and takes a lot of factors into account.
Esports professionals need clothes that will keep them comfortable as they spend long hours sitting and playing competitive video games. Even the most trivial discomfort with their clothing could lead them to lose focus mid-game. Though a professional look isn’t always mandatory, the general preference goes to lightweight apparel made of fabrics that offer adequate breathability. During big tournaments, team uniforms made of moisture-wicking custom polo shirts with ergonomic compression sleeves are the most common.
For fans, team merchandise are hot commodities. Many esports organizations invest in hoodies and blank jerseys wholesale to customize, and sometimes personalize, specifically for fans during tournament seasons. Fabrics that resist wrinkles and stains are preferred more for long tournament days.
Parkour: Mobility In Every Aspect
To think that parkour was just an activity once. The flexibility of parkour athletes is incredible. The sport demands it. And so does their clothing. They need gear that moves with them and lasts long. That’s why stretchable fabrics like spandex blends are preferred over most other fabrics. Parkour athletes today also prioritize safety and prefer bottom wear with reinforced knees, just in case. Baggy pants are also getting popular, though their functionality in the sport is often disputed.
Quidditch: Not a Fantasy Anymore
Yes, real-life quidditch is an actual sport created at the Middlebury College in Vermont back in 2005! The name of the game is certainly inspired by “those” books we all love. Unlike in the Harry Potter books, this quidditch demands players to use tough, breathable uniforms to withstand rough play. There’s going to be a lot of sweat as matches can be intense. So moisture-wicking is important too.
Underwater Hockey: Apparel Preferences Go Deep
How many of us knew this limited-contact sport is globally played. Underwater hockey is a unique sport which requires unique gear primarily streamlined swimwear that won’t drag the players along.
Protective gear is just as important. But it’s colored suits that will help teams distinguish themselves underwater.
Cheese-Rolling: Roll with the Punches
Alright, this is not exactly a sport, but it is worth mentioning. Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake is an annual event in England, UK. Many consider it a quirky sport these days, and it’s gained a lot of attention in the United States, too. Participants chase a wheel of cheese down a steep hill. So they will have to take a beating and a couple of bruises. Heavy denim, sturdy boots, and jackets are common.
Fabric Choices: What Works Perfect?
When selecting apparel for merchandising during sporting events, pick the right kind of fabric fans would expect for the sport.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Polyester: Durable and moisture-wicking. Higher perceived value as merchandise.
Nylon: Lightweight and quick-drying. Ideal for water sports but not for fans.
Spandex: Stretchy and form-fitting. Perfect for activities requiring flexibility.
Bamboo: Eco-friendly and antimicrobial. Growing in popularity as a unique fabric for merch.
Cotton-Poly Blends: Fans appreciate the comfort of cotton, while the polyester in the fabric supports customization better.
Jerseys are among the most popular apparel types for sports merchandising. Tees and hoodies aren’t far behind either. Order “bulk jerseys” so you save more on your investments, and consider a mix of the aforementioned fabrics. Inclusive sizing is also something to think about.
Designing The Merch
When customizing apparel for niche sports, consider these factors:
Functionality: Offering something functional to the fans who will be spending their money is often neglected.
Durability: Fans, of course, won’t appreciate cheap merch that just fades after a couple of washes.
Comfort: If they are enjoying the game, they obviously want to do it comfortably.
Branding: Never overdo the branding on the merch. Too much text or graphics on sports merch is an abomination.
Personalization: Why not give the fans a chance to personalize their merch?
Don’t overlook the importance of sustainability in sports apparel, as well as accessories like caps and wristbands. Eco-friendly options like recycled polyester jerseys or organic cotton tees are well received now. As a matter of fact, many consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable options.
Some of you planning to sell sports merch can score big in the niche sports apparel market, especially during the NFL season.
Hope this blog gave you a clearer picture. Seize the win!
