When it comes to building team spirit, nothing makes a bigger impact than custom jerseys. A well-designed jersey not only unites players but also represents your club’s identity, heritage, and ambition. Whether you are a GAA club, soccer team, rugby side, school, or community organisation, the right kit can inspire pride both on and off the pitch. At Defy, we have worked with hundreds of clubs across Ireland to deliver high-quality custom sportswear that performs and lasts. Over the years, we have identified several common pitfalls that clubs encounter when ordering custom jerseys. The good news is that with the right preparation and guidance, these mistakes can be easily avoided. Here are the top 5 mistakes clubs make when ordering custom jerseys and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Leaving It Too Late One of the most common mistakes clubs make is waiting until the last minute to order their custom jerseys. Jerseys are not like off-the-shelf sportswear. Every piece is manufactured to order, from fabric selection to printing and stitching. This process takes time, especially during busy sporting seasons when many clubs place bulk orders. 

Why this is a problem:

● Rushed orders often mean compromised design decisions.

● Delays can impact the start of a season or key tournaments.

● Some suppliers may add extra charges for urgent turnaround.

How to avoid it:

Start planning your custom jerseys well in advance. Ideally, clubs should begin the process at least 8 to 10 weeks before the kit is needed. At Defy, we guide clubs through timelines and ensure production runs smoothly, but giving yourself breathing room makes the entire experience stress-free. For example, many items in our Gaelic Training Jerseys collection clearly state “custom order” and the expected manufacturing time.

2. Overcomplicating the Design Your club wants a jersey that stands out, but going overboard with colours, logos, and graphics can make a jersey look cluttered and unprofessional. Remember, the best jerseys are the ones that are instantly recognisable and easy to read on the field.

Why this is a problem:

● Excessive design elements can clash, making your jersey hard to identify.

● Sponsors’ logos may be overshadowed or distorted.

● Printing complex patterns can affect quality and durability.

How to avoid it: Focus on clean, bold designs that reflect your club’s colours and identity. Use no more than two or three strong colours, and position sponsor logos clearly. At Defy, our Kit Builder tool allows you to visualise colours, logo placement, and crest design early in the process. You can also browse our Gaelic Teamwear Collection to see examples of professionally designed kits for inspiration.

3. Ignoring Fabric and Fit Many clubs focus only on appearance and overlook the importance of fabric and fit. Jerseys are not just for show; they need to be durable, breathable, and comfortable for every player on the team.

Why this is a problem:

● Poor fabric choices can leave players overheated or uncomfortable.

● Incorrect sizing leads to wasted jerseys that do not get worn.

● Cheap materials may fade or lose shape after just a few washes.

How to avoid it: Prioritise quality materials designed for performance. At Defy, we use high-end moisture-wicking fabrics that keep players cool and dry. We also provide full-size ranges, including youth and women’s cuts, so every member of the squad gets the perfect fit. Check out our All Products section to see sizing and fabric specs.

4. Forgetting About Sponsors Sponsors are a vital part of most clubs’ finances, yet too often their needs are considered only after the jersey design is finalised. This can lead to awkward logo placements, poor visibility, or even having to redesign the entire jersey at the last minute. 

Why this is a problem:

● Poor logo placement can upset sponsors who expect visibility.

● Rushed changes can add unnecessary costs and delays.

● Missed opportunities to strengthen long-term sponsor relationships.

How to avoid it: Engage with sponsors early in the design process. Confirm their logo files, preferred colours, and positioning before finalising the jersey. Defy’s design team works closely with both clubs and sponsors to ensure everyone is happy with the final result. For example, our Professional Custom Soccer Kits show how crest and sponsor logos are integrated clearly and effectively. 

5. Choosing the Wrong Supplier Not all suppliers of custom jerseys are equal. Some promise fast turnaround but compromise on quality, while others may lack the experience needed to guide clubs through the process. Choosing the wrong supplier can lead to disappointment, wasted money, and jerseys that simply do not last. 

Why this is a problem:

● Poor stitching and printing mean jerseys wear out quickly.

● Inconsistent sizing across batches frustrates players.

● Lack of support leaves clubs stranded if issues arise.

How to avoid it: Work with a trusted supplier that understands clubs’ needs and has a proven track record. Defy.ie is Ireland’s leading provider of custom jerseys, known for exceptional quality, efficient delivery, and outstanding customer support. We manufacture our gear to the highest standards in our facility in Dundalk and offer no minimum order on many items, which is ideal for smaller teams. Learn more about our process in Behind the Scenes: Crafting Custom Teamwear.

Bonus Tip: Think Beyond the Jersey While the jersey is the most visible part of your kit, consider the bigger picture. Custom shorts, socks, training tops, and leisurewear all contribute to your club’s image and player comfort. A consistent look strengthens identity, builds pride, and ensures your club stands out wherever you play. Defy offers complete custom teamwear solutions. Check out the Leisure Teamwear page to explore options for your squad.

Why Clubs Across Ireland Choose Defy For Ordering Their Custom Jerseys At Defy, we know how much custom jerseys mean to clubs. They are more than just clothing; they are symbols of belonging, history, and ambition. That is why we combine premium fabrics, expert design, and personal service to deliver jerseys that exceed expectations.

● Trusted by hundreds of clubs and schools nationwide

● Full range of custom sportswear for GAA, soccer, rugby, basketball, motorsport, athletics, and more

● Fast, reliable delivery across Ireland. For example, see the delivery details on our DEFY Agri Jerseys

● Dedicated support team that understands the needs of clubs When you order with Defy, you are guaranteed a smooth process, professional results, and jerseys your players will wear with pride.

Final Thoughts Ordering custom jerseys is one of the most exciting parts of running a club, but it comes with its challenges. By avoiding the five common mistakes, leaving it too late, overcomplicating design, ignoring fabric and fit, forgetting about sponsors, and choosing the wrong supplier, you can ensure your club ends up with jerseys that look great, perform brilliantly, and last the test of time. If your club is ready to start the journey, Defy.ie is here to help. With our expertise, quality materials, and commitment to service, we make the process simple, enjoyable, and stress-free. Whether you are a local team, a school, or a large sporting organisation, we have the experience and passion to bring your vision to life. Explore our full range of custom jerseys and sportswear today at the Defy Jerseys Collection and give your club the kit it deserves.