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How To Apply Sportstiks Products

This blog post shows you how to apply Sportstiks products. Whether you’re a seasoned race director or a nervous first-time runner (trying to remember if you packed your lucky socks), getting your race bib and temporary tattoo number sorted shouldn’t add to your stress. We’ve combined our two most popular guides into one ultimate “how to” post to make life easier. No more frantic Googling or folding your bib into an origami disaster – we’ve got you covered!

Previous Blog Posts

How to Apply a Race Bib (Without the Drama)

Race bibs are essential for identification and timing, so getting them on properly is key. Want a more detailed guide? Read our blog post. Here’s how to nail it:

Pick Your Placement

The front of your shirt is the gold standard – chest height for maximum visibility. You could also position the bib slightly below your chest muscles or on your leg. Avoid your back unless you want to confuse the photographers.

Pin It Like a Pro

Use four safety pins – one at each corner. Ensure that the pin goes through both the bib and your running top. Angle the pins downward so they don’t dig into you during the race (ouch!). Before attaching the bottom of race bib make sure to check for any tear-off tags or perforated sections that you may need for bag drop or a voucher.

No Pins? No Problem!

We also offer adhesive bibs for a stick-and-go solution – ideal for triathlons and events where quick changes are key. These are great if you want to avoid T-short holes and are also durable enough to withstand OCR courses and Mud Runs.

Pro Tip: Don’t fold your bib unless you’re deliberately hiding your number – event photographers and marshalls need to see those digits loud and clear!

Prefer to watch how to do it? Check out our YouTube video here.

Two ladies running at Chester Marathon
How to apply race number tattoos

How to Apply a Race Number Tattoo (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

Want to watch how to do it? Check out our YouTube video here.

Temporary tattoos are perfect for triathlons, open water swimming events and races where you need to display your number without risking a flappy bib.  Follow these steps for a flawless finish:

1. Pick Your Spot

Arms and calves are the top choices – anywhere that’s easy to spot for officials and photographers.

2. Prep Your Skin

Dry, clean skin is a must. Avoid lotions or oils, or you’ll be peeling off your number halfway down the course.

3. Place and Press

Peel the clear film off the tattoo and press the sticky side firmly against your skin.

4. Add Water

Use a damp cloth or sponge and hold it against the back of the tattoo for about 30 seconds. Don’t rush – patience wins this race.

5. Peel and Reveal

Slowly peel off the backing paper and let your masterpiece air dry. Voilà – you’re officially race-ready!

How to remove race number tattoos

Wetsuits: Use Sportstiks ‘Get Your Tats Off Wipes’, that should be included in your race pack.

Skin: Massage with something oily, such as baby oil or Vaseline. Then wipe with dry paper towel. Repeat as necessary.

Applying Sportstiks tattoo
Applying temporary tattoos
Temporary Tattoo application

Organising an Event? We’ve Got a Guide for That Too!

We don’t just help athletes – we’ve got race directors covered too. From bib orders to race-day logistics, our event planning guides will keep you calm and collected (well, as calm as you can be when organising hundreds of people in Lycra).

Check out these helpful posts:

We know event prep can be hectic, so this guide aims to make things smoother than a fresh pair of running socks. If you have questions, reach out – we’re always happy to help!