Spring is a busy season for events. If you’re planning a spring fundraiser, race, field day or other event, choosing the right apparel matters more than you might think. The right shirt should be comfortable, practical for unpredictable weather and something people will want to wear again.
Here’s a breakdown of the best apparel options for spring events, fundraisers and 5Ks, based on what we see work well year after year.
Classic Tees: A Spring Event Staple
Cotton or Cotton Blend tees are the most popular choices for spring events, especially fundraisers and outside events. They’re comfortable, economical, and size accommodating.
These shirts work well because they:
- Are the most cost effective, keeping more of the funds you are raising!
- Feel comfortable during physical activity
- Hold up well for people to wear after the event is long over
- They’re a great option for 5Ks, charity walks, school field days and volunteer-heavy events where comfort is important.
Performance Tees: A Spring Event Upgrade
Performance tees are another popular choice for spring events, especially races and outdoor fundraisers. They’re lightweight, breathable and designed to move with people who are walking, running or spending hours outside.
These shirts work well because they:
- Dry quickly if the weather turns warm or humid
- Feel comfortable during physical activity
- Hold up well for long event days
They’re a great option for 5Ks and other race events.
Lightweight Hoodies: Practical and Easy to Layer
Spring weather can be unpredictable. Lightweight hoodies give people an easy layer they can throw on or take off as the day changes.
We often recommend lightweight hoodies because:
- They’re useful before and after events
- People keep and wear them long after the event ends
- They offer more space for logos and designs
For nonprofits, schools and community organizations, hoodies are a higher-perceived-value item that still works well for spring.
Tanks: Great for Warm Days and Active Events
Tank tops are a popular choice for late spring events, especially races or outdoor activities where people expect warmer weather. They’re breathable, comfortable and feel event-appropriate without being heavy.
Tanks are a good fit when:
- The event involves running or high activity
- The audience prefers athletic or casual wear
- You want a lighter, warmer-weather option
They’re especially popular for 5Ks, fitness fundraisers and community runs.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Event
When deciding which apparel to choose, it helps to think about a few key questions:
- Will people be moving or mostly standing?
- What time of day is the event?
- Do you want something practical for the event, or something people will wear afterward?
Classic cotton or cotton blend tees are often the safest choice for large, active events. Performance tees for running events. Lightweight hoodies work well when you want a keepsake people will use again. Tanks are ideal for warmer days and more athletic crowds.
When you’re planning a big event, you want to be able to give participants something useful. Shirts that fit the season, feel comfortable and hold up over time tend to get worn again, which extends the life of your event well beyond the day itself.
Planning Ahead Makes Everything Easier
Spring is one of the busiest times of year for custom apparel. Ordering the apparel for your spring event early gives you more flexibility with styles, colors and sizing (and helps avoid last-minute stress).
If you’re planning a spring fundraiser, race or community event and aren’t sure which option makes the most sense, we’re always happy to talk it through. We’ll help you choose apparel that fits your event, your budget and the people you’re bringing together.