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What Are Wearables?

In the promo world, wearables refers to any item of clothing or apparel that is branded with a company’s logo, slogan, or design. This category goes far beyond basic T-shirts, encompassing everything from high-performance corporate outerwear and team uniforms to headwear and safety vests. Wearables are widely considered the most effective form of promotional advertising because they turn the wearer into a walking billboard.

What are the most popular types of promotional wearables?

While T-shirts remain a staple, the category includes:

  • Corporate Apparel: Polos, button-downs, and blazers for office environments.

  • Outerwear: Jackets, vests, and fleece pullovers.

  • Headwear: Baseball caps, beanies, and visors.

  • Athleisure: Performance leggings, hoodies, and moisture-wicking shirts.

  • Safety Gear: High-visibility vests and workwear for construction or field services.

What is the “Cost Per Impression” (CPI) for wearables?

Wearables offer one of the lowest CPIs in advertising. Because a high-quality jacket or shirt can be worn for years, a single branded garment can generate thousands of impressions over its lifetime, making it a highly cost-effective investment compared to digital or print ads.

What are the common decoration methods for wearables?

The “look” of a wearable depends on how the logo is applied. Common methods include:

  • Screen Printing: Best for large quantities and vibrant T-shirt designs.

  • Embroidery: Ideal for a professional, “high-end” look on polos and jackets.

  • Heat Transfer: Great for complex, multi-color logos and small runs.

  • Sublimation: Used for all-over prints, typically on performance fabrics.

Why is “Retail-Apparel” a trend in promo wearables?

End-buyers increasingly want promotional clothing that looks and feels like the brands they buy at retail stores (e.g., Nike, North Face, or Patagonia). Offering retail-quality fabrics and modern fits ensures that the recipient will actually wear the item frequently, increasing the brand’s exposure.

What does “Sustainable Wearables” mean?

Sustainability is a major focus in the industry today. This refers to apparel made from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester (often made from plastic bottles), or bamboo. Many ASI suppliers now offer entire lines dedicated to ethical and sustainable manufacturing.

Wear Your Brand with Confidence

Your logo deserves more than just a basic tee. We specialize in sourcing high-quality wearables that your team and clients will actually want to wear. From premium embroidery to the latest retail trends, we help you choose the right fabrics and styles to make your brand stand out

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