If you run a cycling camp or retreat, order custom kit three to four months before the first participant arrives, and collect sizes from every rider before you place the order. A camp kit of a jersey and bib shorts, with warmers if the season needs them, gives participants something to wear on day one and something to keep. This guide covers what to include, how to handle sizing for people you have not met, and how to work back from your camp date.
What should a camp kit include?
A jersey and bib shorts are the core. Add arm and leg warmers or a base layer if the camp runs in a season with cold starts; see custom base layers and warmers. Socks and a cap are small extras that make the kit feel complete. Start with the smallest set that works, because every extra item is another size to collect.
Do participants have to wear it?
Not unless you decide so. Some organisers make the jersey part of the camp and leave the shorts optional, because riders are particular about bib shorts and chamois fit. A jersey everyone wears gives you the group photo and the identity; a bib short they chose themselves gives you a comfortable week.
How do you collect sizes from people you have not met?
Send every participant the size chart at booking, not at the last minute, and ask for sizes before the final payment date. Offer a size guide with real measurements rather than letter sizes alone, and allow a short window for changes. Our guides on sizing for clubs and mixed men's and women's sizing work for camp groups too.
How far ahead should you order?
Three to four months before camp, working back from the date participants need the kit. That covers design rounds, size collection and production, with a buffer for shipping. The order timeline guide walks through the stages. If your camp date is closer, tell us the date in your brief and we will say honestly whether it is achievable.
Kit that has to arrive before participants travel needs the earliest deadline. Decide whether it ships to you or to each rider.
What about late sign-ups and no-shows?
Order for confirmed participants, and plan a small top-up for late sign-ups if the minimum allows it. Minimums start from 5 to 10 pieces depending on the product, so a small retreat can still run a full custom design; see custom kit minimums. For a kit tied to one event date, the same thinking applies as for race events and charity rides.
How do you brief the design?
Give us the camp name, the location, your logo files and two or three colours, and say whether sponsors or venue partners need space on the kit. Nothing goes to production without your sign-off, so you see and approve the design first. If participants will be packing for the week, our training camp packing guide is worth sending with the booking.
FAQ
How many pieces do we need to order?
Minimums start from 5 to 10 pieces depending on the product. Sizes of one design count together.
When should we order for a spring camp?
In the autumn or early winter, three to four months before the camp date.
Can participants choose their own products?
Yes, if you collect orders by product and size before you place the order. Keep the choices simple so the order stays manageable.
Can we add the camp name and year?
Yes. Include it in your brief and it is part of the design you sign off.
Tell us your brief and we'll take it from there: request a quote.
DTR — performance cycling and triathlon apparel, designed and developed in Ukraine.
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