Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sportswear of Tomorrow?
Sportswear of Tomorrow is a sportswear manufacturer for brands. Our production facility is based in Romania, Europe. Leadership is Belgian and Romanian. We do not produce for teams or end customers. We have a standard range of products from which brands can choose and customize with logo and sublimation print, or we develop products based on tech packs or samples.
Do you have a factory?
Yes. Sportswear of Tomorrow has its own production facility and also outsources work to factories in the region in case of work overload. Our specialty is more complex, technologically advanced products. We also produce simpler garments, which we sometimes outsource to partner factories that we have trained to produce to our quality expectations.
What is your MOQ (minimum order quantity)?
MOQ depends on the supplier and the article you choose. If you require custom color dyeing, MOQ is higher than when you pick a color from the standard color range that the supplier may have on stock.
Can you produce budget-friendly apparel?
We focus on premium apparel for leading brands in cycling and other sports, using EU sourced fabrics and trims. That is not low cost. If the priority is the lowest possible unit price, European production is usually not the right fit.
How long does development and production take?
Production usually moves fast once fabrics and trims are sourced and available. Typical production time is 2.5 to 4 weeks from the moment we receive your order and payment. Faster delivery can be possible depending on capacity and material readiness. Development takes longer and typically takes around 6 to 7 weeks depending on complexity and revision rounds.
Can you assist with heat transfers and packaging?
We can apply heat transfers, but you have to source them externally. We often work with RESIZE MEDIA in Cluj Napoca. Once you agree specifications with them, they manufacture the labels and ship them to us for application. We do not produce labels. The same approach applies to packaging materials.
Why does European production cost more than Asia?
European production reflects regulated labor standards, environmental compliance, energy costs, and social contributions. It also includes shorter supply chains, direct oversight, and consistent quality control. The result is lower risk, fewer production errors, and predictable delivery performance.
What value do we receive for the higher price?
You receive direct communication with the factory, controlled production runs, transparent costing, and consistent execution. The total cost of ownership is often lower due to reduced reprints, fewer sizing claims, and minimal overstock risk.
Why do small MOQs matter for cycling brands?
Cycling markets shift quickly. Small MOQs allow brands to test designs, manage cash flow, and react to demand without committing to thousands of pieces. This reduces dead stock and protects margin.
What are your standard MOQs?
We operate in low to mid volumes, typically starting from small production runs per design. This supports emerging brands and established labels launching capsules or seasonal drops.
How do smaller MOQs affect pricing?
Unit pricing is naturally higher at lower volumes because setup, calibration, and preparation costs are distributed over fewer pieces. However, smaller runs reduce inventory risk and improve working capital efficiency.
What are your standard lead times?
Sampling typically requires several weeks depending on development complexity. Bulk production generally ranges between four and six weeks after sample approval and fabric confirmation.
Can lead times be shortened?
Lead times depend on fabric availability, design readiness, and production capacity. With approved materials and print-ready files, production planning can be optimized to reduce delays.
How do you ensure fabric sustainability?
We work with certified European fabric mills offering recycled and responsible materials. Documentation and certifications are available upon request. Sustainability is integrated at sourcing level through material selection and supplier control.
Why focus on European fabrics?
European mills offer consistent dye lots, documented traceability, and technical reliability. This improves repeatability across seasons and reduces variability in performance and appearance.
How do you guarantee color consistency?
We operate with calibrated sublimation workflows, controlled heat processes, and fabric-specific color profiling. Repeat orders are matched against approved references and previous production data to maintain consistency.
What happens if colors vary between batches?
All production is measured against approved references. If deviations exceed agreed tolerances, corrective actions are implemented before shipment, including reprocessing or reprinting when required.
How reliable is sizing?
Sizing is based on defined measurement charts and graded patterns. We recommend approving a size set during sampling to lock fit and minimize interpretation issues before bulk production.
Do you offer size adjustments?
Yes. Pattern adjustments can be implemented during development. Clear technical specifications and feedback during sampling ensure accuracy before scaling to bulk production.
Why is sampling charged?
Sampling requires pattern setup, fabric allocation, print calibration, sewing line allocation, and quality control. Charging for development ensures a controlled process and accurate execution before bulk production.
Are sampling costs refundable?
In structured development agreements, part of development investment can be credited against future bulk orders once defined volume thresholds are met.
How do you manage quality control?
Each order passes defined checkpoints: print verification, panel alignment control, stitching inspection, and final quality control before packing. Issues are isolated at process stage level to prevent repeat errors.
How do you reduce production errors?
We work with print-ready files, controlled workflows, and documented processes. Pre-production confirmation reduces misinterpretation and prevents last-minute corrections that create errors.
How stable is a European manufacturing partnership?
Operating within European regulatory frameworks provides predictable compliance, contractual enforceability, and operational continuity. Stability is built through clear agreements, controlled production planning, and repeatable processes.
Why is long-term partnership important in cycling apparel?
Consistency in fabric sourcing, color calibration, fit standards, and production routines improves over time. Repeat collaboration increases efficiency and reduces friction across drops and seasons.
How do you support brand growth over time?
We scale production gradually with demand. From capsule runs to larger volumes, processes remain consistent so you can expand without switching production partners or resetting standards.
