Choosing the right race bibs matters. Whether you’re organizing a 5K, a triathlon, or a mud run, the bibs your participants wear must withstand pressure—and look good doing it. We offer a range of options built for durability, clarity, and comfort.
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Race Bib Materials
At Grafix Media, we manufacture race bibs in the following materials,
Tyvek Race Bibs
Tyvek is the most popular material for printing race bibs. It’s waterproof, tear-resistant, and withstands harsh weather and high-motion activities. Ideal for road races, trail runs, OCR, and multi-sport events, Tyvek bibs offer durability without sacrificing print quality.
- Writable surface for emergency info or notes
- Printable on one or both sides
Never Tear Bibs
Never Tear is a synthetic polyester material designed to resist tearing, moisture, and abrasion. It offers a smoother surface than Tyvek, giving it a more premium feel. Never Tear works well for short to mid-distance events, promotional races, and branding-heavy bibs.
- Strong, flexible, and waterproof
- Higher-quality print finish
- Writable with regular pens
Comparison Table
| Feature | Tyvek Race Bibs | Never Tear Race Bibs |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Highly durable, tear-resistant | Very durable, tear-proof |
| Water Resistance | Waterproof and breathable | Fully waterproof |
| Surface Finish | Matte texture, writable | Smooth, writable | Print Quality | Good on both sides | Excellent image and color clarity |
| Recommended Use | All event types, including endurance races | Mid-distance or promotional races |
| Writable | Yes, with pen or marker | Yes |
Types of Race Bibs
Standard Numbered Bibs
These are plain, sequential bibs with no custom graphics. Most are made from Tyvek and are available in bulk, making them ideal for events where durability is a priority but customization isn’t required.
- Off-the-shelf availability
- Single- or double-sided options
Custom Race Bibs
Add logos, full-colour designs, wave colours, or even participant names. Our custom race bibs are printed edge-to-edge in full colour. Whether you’re running a local charity event or a national series, these bibs enhance branding and runner engagement.
- Full-color printing
- Personalization available (name, wave, message)
Race Bib Design Features
Our race bibs support smooth race operations, clear identification, and added functionality. Below are the common elements we can print on the back and front of each bib:
Race Number
Each bib displays a bold, easy-to-read race number. We use high-contrast inks and large fonts to ensure visibility from a distance. Number sequences can be customized by category, wave, or corral.
Sponsor Branding
Race sponsors can be featured on the bib with logos or simple text placement. We typically position sponsor branding along the top, bottom, or sides, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with the runner’s number.
Barcode or QR Code
We can print a barcode or QR code linked to each runner’s registration data. These codes can be scanned during check-in, medical response, or at finish-line checkpoints for fast, reliable participant identification.
Start Zone Code
For events with multiple corrals or wave starts, we can include a visible start zone code to help participants locate their designated area. This code—typically a number or letter—is printed clearly near the race number or in a coloured block for easy visual identification.
Emergency Contact Information
We reserve a dedicated space on the back of each bib for emergency contact details. This includes the contact’s name, phone number, and any known medical conditions. Medical teams and volunteers can access this information quickly if needed.
Meal Coupons or Tear-Off Tags
We can add perforated strips at the bottom of the bib. These tear-off tags can serve as meal vouchers, drink tickets, or gear claim stubs. Each tag includes the same race number for easy matching and sorting.
T-Shirt Size, Age Group, or Category
We can print T-shirt sizes, age groups, or race categories directly on the bib. This simplifies shirt distribution and helps volunteers organize participants by group or wave.
Participant Names or Messages
You may choose to include participant first names or short personal messages. This adds a custom touch and encourages interaction between runners and spectators on the course.
Terms & Conditions (Optional)
If your race requires it, we can print a short terms and conditions section on the back. This serves as a visible reminder of waivers, safety policies, or race rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I recycle the bibs myself?
A: Tyvek is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). It’s recyclable as HDPE #2, the same as detergent bottles. Ask your recycling service if they accept it, or contact us for help.
Q. Can I print bibs myself?
A: Yes, but it’s hard. You’ll need Tyvek-compatible printers, special ink, and manual numbering. It costs time and effort and often leads to errors. However, at Grafix Media, we print a wide range of race bibs to meet your specific requirements. Get a quote today!
Q. What’s the most durable option?
A: Tyvek. It handles water, sweat, and wind without tearing.
Q. Can I personalize bibs?
A: Yes. We can add names, wave colours, and sponsor info.
Q. Do you offer bulk pricing?
A: Yes. Contact us for a quote based on your quantity.