Summer + Stretch: How to Nail Performance Apparel

Jul 7

TL;DR

Ultra Stretch screen-printed heat transfers are designed for high-performance, stretchy garments like swimwear, rash guards, and compression gear. Ultra Stretch prints flex and rebound with the fabric without cracking or peeling, even through motion, moisture, and repeated wear. With over 70 stock colors and Pantone® matching, Ultra Stretch makes it easy to create durable, vibrant custom or branded activewear that stands up to summer adventures.

When temperatures rise and the waves call, customers dive into swimwear and activewear made to stretch, move, and repel water; a decorating challenge that Ultra Stretch heat transfers are designed to conquer. Tired of prints cracking the moment a swimsuit stretches? Ultra Stretch delivers bold, durable designs that look great and perform flawlessly through every stretch and splash.

Close-up of an Ultra Stretch screen printed heat transfer being stretched on a high-performance stretchy garment, demonstrating flexibility and durability.

🌊 Why Ultra Stretch?

Let’s talk about what makes this transfer a summer MVP. Ultra Stretch was built for garments that move - like really move. Think swimwear, compression wear, and all the tight-fitting, high-stretch gear that spends more time in motion than on a hanger. With screen-printed durability and stretch that bounces back every time, it’s your go-to for pieces that get active.

The best part? It doesn’t just stretch - it rebounds without cracking and repels water thanks to a clear ink formula that keeps designs looking fresh. It’s that magic combo of form and function that makes Ultra Stretch perfect for performance apparel.

White Ultra Stretch screen printed heat transfer applied on a stretchy lifeguard compression shirt, showcasing crisp and flexible custom decoration.

☀️ Where Ultra Stretch Shines

This transfer isn’t just good on paper, it’s made for real-world, move-your-body situations. Here’s where decorators are putting it to work this summer:

Lifeguard Compression Shirts
Tight-fitting and always on duty. Add bold safety graphics or location branding with a transfer that can keep up with the action.

Sport (or Surf) Shop Merch
From rash guards to board shorts and surf suits, Ultra Stretch handles flexible fabrics like a pro. Perfect for coastal retail shops or water sport brands looking for high-performance decoration.

Swimwear
Whether it’s men’s board shorts or women’s bikinis, Ultra Stretch holds strong without compromising on stretch or comfort. Create patterns, slogans, or logos that pop and last.

Rash Guards
These tops do it all, UV protection, stretch, movement, and now your decoration can too. Ultra Stretch delivers clean prints that stay put, even in motion.

🎯 Who’s Using It

If you’re printing for swim clubs, surf shops, lifeguard stations, sporting goods stores, or even independent activewear brands, Ultra Stretch deserves a spot on your press. It’s one of those transfers you’ll reach for again and again - especially when summer hits.

Ultra Stretch screen printed heat transfer on a stretchy rashguard designed for a paddleboard club, highlighting vibrant, durable branding on activewear.

💡 Ready to Stretch Your Summer Line?

With over 70 stock colors to choose from (plus Pantone® matching), multiple gang sheet sizes, and quick turnaround times, Ultra Stretch is ready to meet the moment. Whether you’re launching a seasonal line or fulfilling custom orders, it’s got the flexibility, literally and creatively, to bring your warm-weather designs to life.

👉 Explore Stock Colors
👉 View Pricing & Turnaround Times
👉 Request a Quote
👉 Request a Sample Pack

Screen Print TransfersUltra StretchSwimwearCompression GearSummer ApparelDurabilityStretch

Lindsey Wiseman