Custom Short Sleeve Rash Guards: Complete Guide for Teams

By BJJ Sportswear Editorial Team
Equipment Guide | Last Updated: January 16, 2026

Custom short sleeve rash guards combine personalized design (team logos, names, colors via full dye sublimation printing) with performance features including moisture-wicking polyester-spandex fabric (75-80% polyester, 20-25% elastane), compression fit, and flatlock stitching. These garments serve both functional purposes—protecting against mat burns, bacteria, and providing muscle support—and branding needs for BJJ teams, MMA gyms, and individual athletes seeking unique identity on the mats.​

Short sleeve rash guards offer superior mobility compared to long sleeve versions, with unrestricted arm movement critical for BJJ techniques and submissions, while remaining ideal for hot climates and layering under gi jackets without bulk. Modern sublimation technology allows unlimited color options and intricate designs with no minimum order quantities (MOQ as low as 1-10 pieces), making custom rash guards accessible for individual athletes, small teams, and large academies alike.​

This complete guide covers custom short sleeve rash guard benefits, sublimation printing process, design considerations, sizing guidelines, material specifications, bulk ordering for teams, care instructions, brand comparisons, and buying recommendations connecting to complete BJJ equipment knowledge and training essentials.

Why Choose Custom Short Sleeve Rash Guards?

Functional Benefits

Novak BJJ on performance advantages:

Increased Mobility:
“Short sleeve rash guards offer more freedom of movement, especially in the arms and shoulders. This is particularly beneficial for BJJ athletes who rely on their upper body strength and need full mobility during rolls and submissions”.​

Great for Warm Weather:
“In hot or humid training environments, a short sleeve rash guard is a great option as it allows for better airflow and prevents overheating. You’ll feel cooler and more comfortable during intense training sessions”.​

More Lightweight:
“With less fabric, short sleeve rash guards are lighter and can feel less restrictive. If you don’t like the feel of fabric around your elbows or forearms, this is a perfect choice”.​

Easy Layering Under a Gi:
“Short sleeve rash guards can easily be worn under your gi without adding bulk. They do not cause any discomfort around the elbows. This makes them ideal for Gi training when you want a rash guard that stays lightweight and breathable”.​

Core Performance Features

Hygiene protection:

• Novak BJJ: “Wearing a rash guard adds a layer of protection against bacterial infections. Such infections as ringworm or staph, can occur in contact sports like BJJ”​
• Barrier against mat contact
• Reduces skin-to-skin contact
• Reference: Ringworm prevention

Compression benefits:

• Novak BJJ: “Rash guards provide compression that can enhance blood flow and reduce muscle fatigue. Thus help in improving performance”​
• Muscle support during training
• Improved recovery
• Reduced vibration and strain

Moisture-wicking:

• Novak BJJ: “Rash guards are made of moisture-wicking materials like polyester and spandex. These material help keep sweat away from your body. Hence keeping you cool and dry during intense training sessions”​

Branding & Customization Benefits

Team identity:

• Combat Corner: “Showcase your unique team identity with our fully customizable rash guards”​
• Unified team appearance
• Professional presentation at competitions
• Academy branding (logos, colors, sponsors)

Individual expression:

• Unique personal designs
• Name and rank display
• Favorite colors and graphics
• Stand out on the mats

Marketing value:

• Team visibility at tournaments
• Sponsor logo placement
• Social media content (branded gear photos)
• Academy recruitment tool (professional image)

Short Sleeve vs Long Sleeve Comparison

Key Differences

Enyo Fight Wear analysis:

Short Sleeve Advantages:​

Freedom of Movement:
“Short sleeve rashguards do not restrict your movements, which is essential for complex movements and mobility required during BJJ grappling sessions. They allow for full arm flexibility, which is essential for maneuvering around your opponent”.​

Thermal Comfort:
“When it’s hot or in hot climates, short sleeve rash guards are preferred as they help keep cool by exposing the arms. Avoiding overheating during training is crucial to maintaining effective technique”.​

Escape Aid:
“While sweat can be a detriment, it can also be an asset. Slightly sweaty arms provide a slippery surface that can help you escape an opponent’s grip by making evasive moves easier”.​

Long Sleeve Advantages:​

Improved Traction:
“Long sleeves create friction, which is beneficial for gripping and holding submissions, unlike slick skin from sweat”.​

Reduced Skin-to-Skin Contact:
“By limiting direct contact with opponents’ skin and potentially contaminated surfaces, long-sleeve rashguards reduce the risk of skin infections”.​

Muscle and Joint Support:
“They provide compression to the elbows and forearms, promoting muscle health and reducing pain and fatigue during workouts”.​

Comparison Table

When to Choose Short Sleeve

Best for:

• ✅ Hot or humid training environments
• ✅ Gi training (layering under jacket)
• ✅ Athletes who overheat easily
• ✅ Maximum arm mobility needs
• ✅ Escape-focused game (slippery arms)
• ✅ Summer training camps
• ✅ Beginners learning movement patterns
• ✅ Budget-conscious athletes (lower cost)

Avoid if:

• ❌ Training in cold climates
• ❌ Prone to mat burns on arms
• ❌ Prefer maximum skin protection
• ❌ Grip-heavy game (need arm friction)

Custom Sublimation Printing Explained

What is Dye Sublimation?

Goal Sportswear technical explanation:

Process overview:
“The heat should be sufficient enough to change the solid ink into a vapor that will stick permanently on the fabric”.​

Step-by-step sublimation process:​

Step 1: Designing

• Create design using computer software
• No limitations on colors or complexity
• Include logos, text, graphics, team rosters

Step 2: Printing Transfer Paper

• Design printed onto special transfer paper
• Uses sublimation ink (KIAN ink from Italy = best quality)
• Mirror image of final design

Step 3: Heat Press Transfer

• Transfer paper positioned on fabric
• Heat press at high temperature (~400°F/204°C)
• Pressure applied for ~30 seconds
• Ink transforms from solid to gas
• Gas penetrates fabric fibers permanently

Step 4: Cooling

• Fabric cools, ink solidifies within fibers
• Design becomes part of fabric (not on top)
• Permanent, won’t crack, peel, or fade

Step 5: Cutting & Sewing

• Printed fabric cut into rash guard panels
• Flatlock stitching assembles pieces
• Quality control ensures logo placement

Sublimation Advantages

Goal Sportswear benefits:

Unlimited design freedom:

• Goal Sportswear: “Full dye sublimation technology which allows you to have a different colors on the sublimate rash guard”​
• Any color combination
• Intricate patterns and gradients
• Photo-quality graphics
• No color limitations

Durability:

• Design embedded in fabric (not surface coating)
• Won’t crack, peel, or fade
• Withstands frequent washing
• Lasts lifetime of garment

Comfort:

• No raised surfaces or plastic feel
• Breathable (ink doesn’t block fabric pores)
• Lightweight (no added weight from printing)

Cost-effective:

• Complex designs same price as simple
• No setup fees for multiple colors
• Economical for small batches

Material & Construction Specifications

Fabric Composition

Custom Inferno specifications:

Standard composition:

• 75% Polyester, 25% Elastane (most common)​
• Alternative: 80% Polyester, 20% Spandex

Why this blend:

• Polyester: Moisture-wicking, quick-drying, durable
• Elastane/Spandex: Stretch, recovery, compression fit
• Combination: Performance + flexibility

Construction Features

Custom Inferno technical details:​

Perfect Fit:
“Designed to adhere like a second skin, offering maximum freedom of movement and muscle support”.​

Ultra-Flat 4-Needle Stitching (Flatlock):
“The 4-needle flatlock stitching technology creates ultra-flat seams that minimize skin irritation, ensuring maximum comfort even during the most intense workouts”.​

Silicone Elastic Waistband:
“Equipped with a silicone elastic waistband for greater adherence and better fit, preventing annoying shifting during physical activity”.​

Additional features:

• Reinforced seams at stress points
• Mesh panels under armpits (breathability)
• Sublimated neck tags (no scratchy labels)
• Anti-microbial treatment (some brands)

Durability

Custom Inferno:
“Resistant to wear and frequent washing, accompanying your successes over time”.​

Expected lifespan:

• Quality custom rash guard: 2-4 years (3-5x/week training)
• Budget rash guard: 6-12 months
• Proper care extends life significantly

Designing Your Custom Rash Guard

Design Elements to Consider

Layout components:

• Front panel: Main logo, team name, large graphics
• Back panel: Individual name, rank, sponsor logos
• Sleeves: Side logos, accent colors, patterns
• Sides: Contrasting colors, additional branding

Text options:

• Team/academy name
• Individual name (back or chest)
• Belt rank display
• Motivational quotes
• Sponsor acknowledgments

Graphics:

• Team logo (primary placement)
• Mascot or symbols
• National flags
• Abstract patterns
• Background gradients

Design Best Practices

Readability:

• Bold fonts for visibility
• High contrast (dark text on light backgrounds)
• Minimum 1-inch letter height for names

Logo quality:

• Kit Designer Pro: “For the highest quality output, please upload your logos and graphics in either .EPS, .AI, or .PDF format”​
• Vector files preferred (scalable without pixelation)
• Minimum 300 DPI for raster images
• Transparent backgrounds for logos

Color selection:

• Team colors as foundation
• 3-5 colors maximum (visual clarity)
• Consider sponsor color requirements
• Test contrast (light vs dark areas)

Placement considerations:

• Avoid seam lines (logos split by stitching)
• Center important elements
• Account for body contours (chest expansion)
• Leave space for required IBJJF patches (competitions)

Free Design Tools

Kit Designer Pro 3D Customizer:

• “Create a custom BJJ rash guard with no minimum required. Use our free 3D product customizer tool below to design your BJJ rash guard”​
• Real-time 3D preview
• Change colors instantly
• Add text and graphics
• Upload team roster
• Submit for quotation

Alternative design services:

• Fiverr: Custom rash guard designers ($25-100)
• Combat Corner: Professional design assistance
• Custom Inferno: 3D configurator with templates

Sizing Guide for Custom Rash Guards

Standard Adult Sizing

Break Point sizing chart:​

(Rash guard should be a compression fit)

Kids Sizing

Break Point kids chart:​

Compression Fit Explained

What is compression fit:

• Tight against body (not loose)
• Minimal fabric movement
• Muscle support and stability
• Prevents grabbing in competition

How tight should it be:

• Snug but not restrictive
• Can move freely (arm raises, squats)
• No bunching or sagging
• Slight difficulty putting on (stretches to fit)

Venum sizing recommendations:
“For an optimal feeling of compression, follow the size recommendations relating to the measurements you have taken. For a lighter compression, choose the size above”.​

Measurement Tips

For best fit:

1. Chest measurement: Measure around fullest part of chest
2. Waist measurement: Natural waistline (above hips)
3. Height: Stand straight, measure head to toe
4. Weight: Current weight

Between sizes?

• Prefer tighter compression: Choose smaller size
• Prefer comfort: Choose larger size
• Body type matters: Athletic builds may need larger size for chest, smaller for waist

Brand variations:

• Sizing differs between manufacturers
• Always check brand-specific charts
• Read customer reviews for fit feedback
• Order sample before bulk team order

Bulk Ordering for Teams

Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ)

Goal Sportswear MOQ:
“For the sublimated custom rash guard shirts, a minimum quantity of ten pieces would do. However, most custom rash guard manufacturers in China have flexible MOQ”.​

Typical MOQ ranges:

• No minimum: Individual orders (Kit Designer Pro, Etsy sellers)​
• Low MOQ (1-10 pieces): Boutique manufacturers, higher per-unit cost
• Medium MOQ (10-25 pieces): Standard team orders, moderate pricing
• High MOQ (50+ pieces): Best bulk pricing, academy-wide orders

Team Ordering Process

Step 1: Design approval

• Create team design using online tool or designer
• Get coach/team leader approval
• Finalize colors, logos, layout

Step 2: Size collection

• Distribute sizing chart to all team members
• Collect individual sizes
• Order mix of sizes based on roster

Step 3: Sample order (recommended)

• Order 1-2 samples in different sizes
• Test fit and quality
• Verify colors match expectations
• Adjust design if needed

Step 4: Bulk order placement

• Submit final design with size breakdown
• Get pricing quote (bulk discounts apply)
• Place order with deposit (typically 50%)
• Confirm production timeline

Step 5: Production & delivery

• Goal Sportswear turnaround: “We always follow our 11-13 days of turnaround time”​
• Typical timeline: 2-4 weeks production + 1-2 weeks shipping
• Rush orders available (extra cost)

Step 6: Quality check & distribution

• Inspect all items upon arrival
• Verify sizes and design accuracy
• Distribute to team members
• Keep extras for new members

Bulk Pricing Structure

Example pricing tiers:

Additional cost considerations:

• Design services: $0-150 (one-time fee)
• Rush production: +20-30%
• Shipping: $20-200 (depends on quantity/location)
• Size splits: Usually no extra cost

Top Custom Rash Guard Manufacturers

Budget-Friendly Options

Kit Designer Pro:

• No minimum orders: “$32.99 (shipping included)”​
• Free 3D customizer tool
• Individual orders welcome
• Ships to doorstep
• Best for: Individual athletes, testing designs

Etsy Sellers:

• Custom designs starting $30-45
• Small batch friendly
• Direct communication with makers
• Best for: Personalized one-offs

Mid-Range Professional

Combat Corner:

• Team focus: “Showcase your unique team identity with our fully customizable rash guards”​
• Full dye-sublimation
• Private labeling
• Screen printing options
• Best for: Teams, academies

Custom Inferno:

• Italian craftsmanship: “Forged by our artisans in Italy”​
• Premium materials
• 3D configurator
• Excellence in sublimation
• Best for: Quality-focused teams

Bulk/Wholesale Manufacturers

Goal Sportswear (China):

• Large production capacity: “We can manufacture over 500 custom MMA rash guards in our factory”​
• 11-13 day turnaround
• Competitive pricing
• MOQ: 10 pieces
• Best for: Large academies, bulk orders

Reedot Sports:

• OEM & ODM specialist: “Our company specializes in producing high-quality, short-sleeve & long -sleeves BJJ rash guards for wholesale”​
• Custom sublimation
• Moisture-wicking fabrics
• XS to XXL sizing
• Best for: Wholesale, distributors

Premium Brands (Pre-Made Designs)

Venum:

• High-quality compression
• Professional designs
• Detailed sizing charts​
• Best for: Individuals wanting brand names

Hayabusa:

• Premium materials
• Innovative technology
• Sleek designs
• Best for: High-end preferences

Scramble:

• Unique artistic designs
• Quality construction
• BJJ-specific features
• Best for: Style-conscious athletes

Reference: Complete gi guide (matching team gear)

Care & Maintenance

Washing Instructions

Custom Inferno care guidelines:
“Machine wash at 30°C. Do not bleach, do not use fabric softeners, do not tumble dry”.​

Best practices:

1. Wash immediately after training (prevents bacteria growth, odor set-in)
2. Cold water only (30°C/86°F max – preserves elasticity and colors)
3. Gentle cycle (reduces fabric stress)
4. Mild detergent (no bleach, harsh chemicals)
5. No fabric softener (damages moisture-wicking properties)
6. Turn inside out (protects printed design)

Drying:

• Air dry only (hang or lay flat)
• Never use dryer (heat damages elastane, shrinks fabric)
• Avoid direct sunlight (fades colors)
• Well-ventilated area (prevents mildew)

Frequency:

• Wash after EVERY use (hygiene critical)
• Never re-wear unwashed
• Reference: Hygiene guide

Extending Rash Guard Lifespan

Storage:

• Store dry (never in gym bag)
• Fold loosely or hang (prevents creasing)
• Avoid compression (maintains shape)

Usage tips:

• Remove jewelry before putting on (prevents snags)
• Trim nails (reduces fabric damage)
• Avoid rough surfaces when possible
• Rotate multiple rash guards (extends each one’s life)

Repair:

• Small tears: Use fabric glue designed for athletic wear
• Seam splitting: Re-stitch with strong polyester thread
• Major damage: Replace (compression fabrics hard to repair effectively)

Expected lifespan with proper care:

• Premium custom: 3-5 years (regular training)
• Mid-range: 2-3 years
• Budget: 1-2 years

Custom Rash Guards for Different Uses

Competition Teams

Design considerations:

• Bold team colors (visibility in photos/video)
• Large logos (brand recognition)
• Individual names on back (identification)
• Sponsor logos (funding support)
• IBJJF-compliant if competing under federation

Quantity:

• Order for entire competing roster
• Include coaches/staff
• Extras for new team members

BJJ Academies

Academy branding:

• Consistent student identity
• Professional appearance
• Recruitment tool (looks organized)
• Retail opportunity (sell to students with markup)

Ordering strategy:

• Stock all sizes
• Reorder quarterly
• Offer as welcome gift to new members
• Sell through pro shop

MMA Gyms

Design differences:

• Aggressive graphics (MMA aesthetic)
• Bold colors (black, red, camo)
• Fighter names/nicknames
• Multiple martial arts logos (BJJ + Muay Thai + Boxing)

Usage:

• No-gi grappling sessions
• MMA sparring
• Strength & conditioning
• Photo/video content

Seminar/Event Merchandise

Limited edition designs:

• Event name and date
• Special guest instructor
• Commemorative graphics
• Collectible value

Sales strategy:

• Pre-order before event (guaranteed sizes)
• On-site sales (limited stock)
• Premium pricing ($50-70 vs $35-45 regular)
• Profit margin for event funding

Cost Analysis

Individual Purchase

Price ranges:

• Budget custom: $30-40 (Kit Designer Pro, basic design)
• Mid-range custom: $40-55 (Combat Corner, Custom Inferno)
• Premium custom: $55-75 (Italian-made, advanced features)
• Brand name (non-custom): $40-80 (Venum, Hayabusa, Scramble)

Total cost for training:

• Minimum 2 rash guards needed (rotation while washing)
• Investment: $60-150
• Lifespan: 2-4 years
• Cost per use: $0.50-1.50/session

Team Bulk Order (25 pieces)

Example calculation:

Design: $100 (one-time, team shares cost)
25 rash guards @ $35/each: $875
Shipping: $50
Total: $1,025

Per person: $41/rash guard

Savings vs individual purchase: 
$50 individual - $41 bulk = $9/person saved
× 25 people = $225 total team savings

Funding strategies:

• Split cost among members
• Academy subsidizes portion
• Sponsor covers cost (logo placement exchange)
• Fundraising events

The Bottom Line

Custom Short Sleeve Rash Guards = Performance + Identity

Custom short sleeve rash guards offer the perfect combination of functional performance (compression, moisture-wicking, hygiene protection) and team/individual branding through unlimited design possibilities enabled by dye sublimation printing technology. The short sleeve design provides superior arm mobility and temperature regulation compared to long sleeves, making it ideal for gi training, hot climates, and athletes prioritizing freedom of movement.​

Key selection factors:

• ✅ Individual athletes: Use no-minimum services (Kit Designer Pro, Etsy) for custom designs starting $33
• ✅ Small teams (10-25): Mid-range manufacturers (Combat Corner, Custom Inferno) at $38-45/piece
• ✅ Large academies (25+): Bulk manufacturers (Goal Sportswear) for best pricing $28-35/piece
• ✅ Quality focus: 75% polyester/25% elastane, flatlock stitching, silicone waistband
• ✅ Design: Vector logos (EPS/AI), 3-5 colors, bold fonts, team identity

Modern sublimation technology has democratized custom rash guards—no longer requiring massive minimum orders or settling for generic designs. Whether you’re an individual athlete wanting unique gear or an academy outfitting 100+ students, custom short sleeve rash guards deliver professional quality, personalized design, and performance features at accessible price points.​

Elevate your training gear—design your custom rash guard today! 🥋💪

Related Resources

• Types of BJJ Gis: Complete Guide (matching team gi gear)
• What is BJJ? (understanding the sport)
• 10 Benefits of Training BJJ (why you need proper gear)
• Is It Hard to Learn BJJ? (beginner equipment needs)
• How to Prevent Ringworm & Staph (why rash guards matter for hygiene)
• Is BJJ MMA? (no-gi training context)

OSS! 🙏