Apparel

Make it a cinch.
June 4, 2009

Though belts have not made quite as big an impact in the promotional products industry as they did at New York's Fall Fashion Week this past February, there are still plenty of ways to work the waist into a wearables program. To allow end-users to accommodate a belt if desired, go for a woven shirt that has darts on both the front and the back, so it nips in at the waist. Or, for a less-literal approach, define waists with apparel that has color blocking down its sides, or that comes with a drawcord at the waist.

Augusta Sportswear--Ladies' Poly/Spandex Jacket
May 21, 2009

You know how there are certain pieces that just inspire you to go out and get physically fit? When I look at this piece, I feel the need to start doing jumping jacks. Anything with racing stripes on it has that effect on me, frankly. This is a great promotion for team wear, and to boot, track jackets have been an emerging fashion trend over the past year or two. It'll work on the field and off.
(800) 237-6695
www.augustasportswear.com

Keep wash-and-wear top of mind.
May 21, 2009

Rather surprisingly (to this editor, at least), moisture-wicking treatments can eventually launder their way right out of apparel. Though "chemically treated" clothing sounds slightly dubious, it's actually the way companies ensure consistent performance qualities from garment to garment. Natural fibers, on the other hand, can deviate slightly.

Chad Trollinger, director of marketing for Augusta Sportswear in Augusta, Ga., suggested this nugget: Distributors should particularly look for companies that do extensive wash testing on their garments. This way, they can be sure fabric extras will last a lifetime.

Boxercraft--Bitty Boxers
May 21, 2009

The "bitty" in the name means only certain people can get away with this style, so if this isn't tailor-made for the college crowd, I don't know what is. Its flannel fabrication is a throwback to a far more casual time when all you had to do in the morning was roll out of bed, throw on shorts and a T-shirt, and you were ready to face the day. Somehow, I don't think that'll fly for those of us in the workforce, but for a juniors or youth promotion, it's all the rage. Ah, nostalgia.
(800) 914-7774
www.boxercraft.com

Mount Gear Corp.--Ozone
May 21, 2009

If you want to hear me expound on the three worst things in the world, at least to me, see my blog. For a quick hint, it's being cold, wet and far from home. This belief alone is the reason why I don't enjoy "outdoorsy" activities such as camping or boating. But wrap me up in this, and there's a high possibility I might consider the thought of maybe going outside. The dynamic trio of wind-resistance, water-resistance and a fleece lining particularly appeals, and are essential to staying warm and dry. Two out of three ain't bad, I guess.
(800) 824-6464
www.trimountain.com