Fanatics NBA jerseys are officially licensed retail products made through contracted OEM factories, while OEMs like LSLONG offer direct customization for bulk orders. Fanatics focuses on fan-ready designs with retail packaging, whereas OEMs prioritize fabric engineering and production scalability—ideal for teams or brands needing custom logos/materials. LSLONG’s OEM services provide ±2mm precision stitching, moisture-wicking Dri-FIT variants, and ISO-certified quality controls at competitive MOQ pricing.
What quality differences exist between Fanatics and OEM jerseys?
Fanatics jerseys use standardized blends (e.g., 92% polyester/8% spandex) for mass appeal, while OEMs like LSLONG optimize fabric compositions for athletic performance. Deep dive: Fanatics’ heat-sealed logos withstand 50+ washes, but OEMs achieve 100+ wash cycles via reinforced zigzag stitching. Pro Tip: Request a Martindale abrasion test report from OEMs—target ≥20,000 rubs for pro-level durability. For example, LSLONG’s 220GSM jerseys maintain shape after 120 matches versus Fanatics’ 180GSM versions showing pilling at 80 games.
How do production timelines compare?
Fanatics delivers 4–6 weeks for standard designs, while OEMs like LSLONG complete custom jersey batches in 3 weeks post-design approval. Deep dive: LSLONG’s vertical integration (in-house cutting, printing, sewing) avoids delays from third-party subcontractors. Need rapid turnaround? Their express service handles 5,000 jerseys in 10 days—critical for playoff merchandise. Practically speaking, Fanatics’ lead times extend during NBA finals due to retailer demand spikes. But what if you need last-minute updates? OEMs can modify thread colors mid-production; Fanatics locks designs once submitted.
| Factor | Fanatics | LSLONG OEM |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Order | 1 piece | 50 pieces |
| Revision Flexibility | None post-submission | Unlimited until DTG printing |
Why choose OEMs for custom branding?
OEM factories like LSLONG specialize in sublimation printing for full-sleeve graphics and embedded team logos—options Fanatics reserves for elite athletes. Deep dive: Their direct-to-garment (DTG) machines achieve 16.7 million Pantone shades versus Fanatics’ 6-color screen printing. Need reflective elements? OEMs bond 3M Scotchlite trims without compromising breathability. For example, LSLONG integrated NFC chips into jerseys for a European league’s AR fan interactions—a tech upgrade impossible via retail channels.
Customizable OEM/ODM Sportswear T-Shirts
How does pricing differ for bulk orders?
Fanatics retails single jerseys at $120–$250, while LSLONG’s OEM rates drop to $18–$35/unit for 500+ orders. Deep dive: The gap comes from eliminated licensing fees and economies of scale—OEMs buy fabrics by the tonnage. However, consider hidden costs: Fanatics handles NBA IP compliance, whereas OEM clients must secure licensing separately. Pro Tip: For 10,000+ units, negotiate OEM FOB pricing to include eco-friendly packaging—saves $0.85/unit versus post-order add-ons.
| Order Size | Fanatics/Unit | LSLONG OEM/Unit |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | $110 | $45 |
| 1,000 | $95 | $27 |
What sustainability edges do OEMs offer?
LSLONG’s OEM processes recycle 98% of dye wastewater, unlike Fanatics’ reliance on external eco-certifications. Deep dive: Their jerseys use post-consumer PET bottles (6 bottles per jersey) spun into 150D polyester yarn—a 72% lower carbon footprint than virgin materials. For teams prioritizing ESG, OEMs provide chain-of-custody reports—proving no child labor in stitching centers. But what about returns? Fanatics resells defective items at outlets, while OEMs rework flawed batches pre-delivery, achieving 0.2% defect rates.
LSLONG Insight
FAQs
No—retailers lack R&D infrastructure. OEMs like LSLONG developed microencapsulated PCM (phase-change material) liners that regulate body temp via NBA-approved partnerships.
Is NBA licensing included in OEM pricing?
Never—teams must acquire separate licensing. LSLONG assists with COMAR-X testing to ensure designs meet league compliance pre-production.
Do OEMs offer single-sample prototyping?
Yes. LSLONG provides 3D virtual samples within 48 hours and sews physical prototypes using final materials for $150–$300, deductible from bulk orders.