Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Soccer Jerseys Online
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Time to read 4 min
Ordering custom soccer jerseys sounds simple until it’s not. Maybe the name prints fade after one wash. Or the sizing’s way off. Or the delivery shows up late, and your team is already warming up in mismatched gear.
Here’s the thing: when you’re ordering custom kits, small mistakes can turn into big problems. Especially if you’re buying for a full team or league. Whether you’re outfitting a youth club, adult rec team, or school squad, avoiding the most common pitfalls can save you time, money, and a ton of stress.
This guide breaks down the top five mistakes people make when ordering custom soccer jerseys online and how to avoid them.
What Most Teams Get Wrong When Ordering Custom Jerseys
Custom jerseys are meant to bring your team together, but a few avoidable mistakes can ruin the experience before the first game kicks off. Let’s break down the most common errors teams make (and how to sidestep them like a pro).
Mistake #1: Skipping the Sizing Guide
Why This Happens:
Too many teams assume sizing will “just work itself out.” But sizing between brands and suppliers isn’t universal. A youth large in one store could be an adult small somewhere else.
What It Leads To:
Jerseys too tight or too baggy
Complaints from players and parents
Costly reorders or alterations
How to Avoid It:
Always use the supplier’s specific size chart. Don’t rely on past orders from other vendors.
Have players try on samples or measure existing gear they already wear.
Pay attention to fit styles. Some cuts are athletic (slim), others are relaxed. Choose based on your team’s age group and preferences.
Want to avoid reorders? Bookmark this one: ordering mistakes.
Mistake #2: Uploading Low-Resolution Logos or Artwork
Why This Happens:
Designing your own jerseys is exciting—but not everyone understands file formats or image resolution. Logos pulled from social media or screenshots aren’t print-ready.
What It Leads To:
Blurry or pixelated logos
Color mismatches
Extra charges for design fixes
How to Avoid It:
Use vector files like .AI, .EPS, or .SVG. These can scale cleanly to any size.
If all you have is a JPG or PNG, check that it’s at least 300dpi and high resolution.
Work with a supplier who offers in-house design support or uses tools like the 3D Kit Builder to preview your artwork in real time.
Need help choosing a supplier that makes this easy? Check out our tips on trusted suppliers.
Mistake #3: Over-Customizing the Jersey
Why This Happens:
Teams want their jerseys to stand out, so they add everything—name, number, sponsor, logo, gradients, shadows, and maybe even a quote on the sleeve.
What It Leads To:
Cluttered designs that are hard to read
Higher production costs
Delays in approval and printing
How to Avoid It:
Keep it clean. Focus on 2–3 key customization elements: team name, number, logo.
Think visibility: large, legible numbers and contrast between colors.
Match design choices to your audience. A U12 league doesn’t need pro-level graphics.
Looking for inspiration? See how custom jerseys help teams build identity without overdoing it in why custom is popular.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Turnaround Time
Why This Happens:
Coaches and league organizers underestimate how long custom production takes. Jerseys aren’t sitting in a warehouse, they’re made to order.
What It Leads To:
Jerseys not arriving before the first game
Players wearing old or unmatched kits
Rushed printing with lower quality
How to Avoid It:
Order at least 4–6 weeks before your deadline, especially for large teams or leagues.
Ask about rush production options if you’re tight on time.
Confirm all approvals (artwork, sizing, roster) quickly to avoid internal delays.
Bonus tip: Look for suppliers with real-time order tracking. It’s the best way to avoid stress the week before your season opener.
Need a trusted vendor? Here’s what to look for when buying online .
Mistake #5: Choosing the Wrong Material or Print Type
Why This Happens:
People focus on the design and forget to ask how it’s printed—or what the jersey is made from.
What It Leads To:
Fading logos or peeling numbers
Heavy, uncomfortable fabrics that don’t breathe
Jerseys that shrink or stretch after a few washes
How to Avoid It:
Ask if the supplier uses sublimation (best for durability and full-color designs)
Choose moisture-wicking, lightweight polyester blends—not cotton
For youth teams: prioritize comfort and durability over flashy add-ons
Every league has different needs. If you’re a rec team, check out why custom is still worth it for rec leagues here.
Quick Checklist: Before You Click “Order”
Here’s a 10-second recap of what to check:
Confirm sizing with the chart provided
Upload high-res, vector-format logos
Keep designs simple and readable
Know your production timeline
Choose sublimation + breathable fabric
How We Help You Avoid These Mistakes
At The Soccer Factory, we’ve outfitted thousands of clubs, teams, and schools with high-quality custom jerseys that actually fit, look great, and arrive on time. Our tools like the 3D Kit Builder and Rec League Uniform Packages make the process faster and easier whether you're ordering 5 kits or 500.
Still unsure what you need? Start by exploring our full Custom Soccer Jerseys collection.
FAQs
What is the best material for custom soccer jerseys?
Polyester blends with moisture-wicking properties are ideal. They're lightweight, breathable, and maintain their shape even after repeated washes.
How long does it take to receive a custom soccer jersey order?
Typical turnaround is 4–6 weeks. Rush options may be available depending on the vendor.
Can I order a single custom jersey for one player?
Some suppliers offer no-minimum orders, but pricing is higher. Most teams benefit from bulk pricing at 10+ units.
What’s the difference between heat-pressed and sublimated jerseys?
Heat-pressed designs can peel or crack over time. Sublimation embeds the ink into the fabric, offering better durability and full-color options.
How can I make sure my logo prints clearly on the jersey?
Use vector files (.AI, .EPS, .SVG) or high-res PNGs (300dpi+). Avoid screenshots or low-quality images.
Final Thoughts
Ordering custom soccer jerseys isn’t just about picking colors and dropping in a team name. It’s a process and skipping steps will cost you. But when done right, it builds team pride, looks sharp on the field, and gives your squad a unified identity they can be proud of.
Avoid the common traps. Plan ahead. And work with a supplier who knows the game inside out.