
Custom Patches For The Great Outdoors
If you need custom patches rugged enough for outdoor wear, there are several factors you need to consider. Here's how to choose the best custom outdoor patches for your needs.
Custom patches for outdoor wear are much more than just decorations. They symbolize identity, achievement, and camaraderie for outdoor enthusiasts. More importantly, they can serve as lifesaving identification on trails, in the woods or on snow-covered slopes.
Outdoor custom patches also tell stories of adventure and resilience in extraordinary circumstances. Let’s take a look at who wears outdoor patches and why.
Who Wears Outdoor Patches?
Many different groups and organizations use outdoor custom patches to show their identity and brand to others. Here are some of the most common.
Scouts and Youth Organizations
Both Boy and Girl Scouts use patches to show rank, achievements, and participation in events. These patches become cherished mementos of memorable experiences and personal achievement.
Search and Rescue Teams
Search and rescue teams rely on outdoor custom patches to identify and keep track of their team members. They often use highly reflective patches to ensure visibility in blackout, whiteout or smoky conditions.
Police and Fire Departments
Like other first responders, police and fire departments depend on high visibility patches to identify personnel and show the chain of command at emergency scenes. They need patches that can withstand the elements at any time of year.
Military and Tactical Groups
Military units and tactical teams depend on custom patches for identification and team cohesion. For such units, outdoor patches must resist every possible condition, including rain, heat, cold, snow, mud and more.
Hiking and Mountaineering Clubs
Hikers and climbers often wear patches showing their club membership, or representing the trails they've conquered or peaks they've summited. Their patches are visible indicators of dedication and accomplishment.
Outdoor Event Planners
Outdoor events such as charity walks, marathons, triathlons, car shows and others often feature custom patches as keepsakes. They are a way to celebrate the event and promote a sense of belonging among the participants.
Best Types of Patches for Outdoor Wear
While there are multiple types of custom patches, some are better suited for outdoor use than others. We’ll focus on the styles that work best outdoors.
Outdoor custom patches must be durable enough to withstand harsh conditions, whether in the Colorado snow or Florida sun. They have to maintain their visibility and color in any kind of conditions over long periods of time. Here are the patch types best for that:
Embroidered Patches
Embroidered patches are the standard for patch design. Their textured, three-dimensional look stands out against a uniform. The least expensive option for outdoor patches, they can withstand rough wear for years. These patches work well for jackets, backpacks, and hats.
Pros:
- Classic Look: Embroidered patches offer a timeless, textured look that works well for outdoor gear.
- Durability: High-quality threads withstand moderate wear and resist fading in sunlight, making them excellent for most outdoor conditions.
- Customizability: Embroidery allows vibrant colors and creative designs, offering a bold and visible appearance. Metallic and neon-style threads add an even bolder look.
Cons:
- Limited Detail: Due to the thread’s thickness, embroidered patches are not suited for intricate designs or tiny text.
- Susceptible to Fraying: Over time, threads may fray, especially if the patch is frequently exposed to abrasive surfaces.
- Moisture Absorption: Unlike waterproof materials, embroidery threads can absorb moisture, making them less fit for extremely wet conditions.
Best Use Cases:
- Jackets and hats for hikers and scouts.
- Backpacks and gear used in moderate outdoor environments.
PVC Patches
PVC patches offer the greatest durability in harsh conditions. Made from a soft, rubberlike plastic, they’re water- and UV-resistant, and can be easily wiped clean. Because they can remain brightly visible, they’re a first choice if you need outdoor custom patches in extreme conditions such as search and rescue or mountaineering groups.
Pros:
- Extreme Durability: PVC patches resist water, UV rays, and abrasion, making them an excellent choice for harsh outdoor environments.
- Vivid Colors: PVC patches maintain their vibrant colors, even with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
- Weatherproof: The material remains intact in rain, snow, and mud, ensuring a long lifespan.
- 3D Effect: PVC patches allow for raised, three-dimensional designs that add a unique visual appeal.
Cons:
- Heavier Weight: PVC patches can feel bulky compared to embroidered options, which may not suit all gear or clothing.
- Rigid Feel: While flexible, PVC patches don't mold as naturally to soft fabrics, which can limit their comfort on clothing.
- Cost: PVC patches are more expensive due to the material and design process.
Best Use Cases:
- Outdoor gear for rugged use, such as tactical backpacks and jackets.
- Groups operating in extreme weather, such as rescue teams and mountaineers.
Leather Patches
Leather patches are a good choice for hiking groups and outdoor sports teams. They feature a classic, stylish look and easily withstand rain and wear.
Pros:
- Rugged Appearance: Leather patches offer a timeless and rugged aesthetic, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts who value style.
- Durability: Treated leather withstands moderate exposure to rain and wear, making it suitable for long-term use.
- Natural Material: Leather adds a premium feel and can be embossed or engraved for unique designs.
- Ages Well: Leather patches develop a patina over time, enhancing their character and appeal.
Cons:
- Susceptible to Damage: Leather can crack or degrade if exposed to excessive moisture or UV rays without proper treatment.
- Limited Color Options: Unlike embroidered or PVC patches, leather patches offer a more muted color palette.
- Higher Cost: Leather patches can be pricier due to the material and craftsmanship required.
Best Use Cases:
- Jackets, hats, and bags used in casual outdoor settings.
- Custom designs for outdoor events or brands seeking a rustic touch.
By weighing the pros and cons of these patch types, you can select the perfect option for your outdoor gear, ensuring it meets your specific organization’s needs.
For outdoor enthusiasts, durability and visual impact often take precedence, making PVC patches ideal for extreme conditions and embroidered patches perfect for versatile, everyday use. Leather patches remain a go-to choice for those who want a rugged yet stylish addition to their gear.
At Patches4Less.com, our team understands the pros and cons of all types of patches. We will work with you to determine which patch type best suits your outdoor custom patch needs. Our experienced sales team and graphic artists are happy to answer any questions you might have about outdoor custom patches.
When you choose Patches4Less.com, you can be sure you are getting the best patches on the market. If you’d like to find out how we can help you craft the perfect custom patches, call us toll free at (866) 847-2824, fill out our no-obligation free quote or email us at [email protected]. We’re here to serve all your custom patch needs.