Race Bibs: The Essential Element of Every Running Event
When it comes to organising a running event, some elements are optional.
Race bibs are not one of them.
From local 5Ks to international marathons, race bibs are a fundamental part of every running race. They are critical for identification, timing, safety, organisation, and event branding. Without them, race day simply doesn’t function smoothly.
At Sportstiks, we understand that a race bib is far more than just a number – it’s a key operational tool and a visible representation of your event.
Why Race Bibs Are So Important
Race bibs play a central role in event management. They allow organisers to:
- Clearly identify participants on course
- Link runners to official timing systems
- Manage race categories and wave starts
- Support safety teams and marshals
- Control access to secure areas
- Provide clear visual branding
They also enhance the runner experience. Bibs become part of race-day photos, social media posts, and often serve as keepsakes long after the finish line.
Simply put, race bibs keep your event organised, professional, and secure.
Pin-On Race Bibs – The Trusted Classic
Pin-on race bibs remain the most widely used format across the world.
They are:
- Durable and lightweight
- Compatible with timing chips
- Cost-effective for large-scale events
- Easy to distribute within race packs
This traditional option offers reliability and flexibility, making it ideal for everything from community fun runs to major endurance events.
At Sportstiks, our pin-on bibs are printed on high-quality, weather-resistant materials designed to withstand sweat, rain and movement throughout race day.
Adhesive Race Bibs – A Streamlined Solution
For organisers looking to simplify logistics, adhesive bibs offer a modern alternative.
They:
- Eliminate the need for safety pins
- Reduce pre-race preparation time
- Sit flat against performance fabrics
- Provide a clean, professional appearance
Adhesive bibs are particularly popular for mud runs, obstacle races, charity events and situations where ease of use is key.
Safety, Medical Information and Timing Flexibility
Safety is a priority at every running event. That’s why our race bibs can include medical information printed on the reverse, along with a dedicated space for runners to complete emergency contact details.
This allows medical teams to quickly access critical information if required, providing extra reassurance for both organisers and participants. It’s a simple addition that enhances on-course safety without affecting the front-facing design of the bib.
When it comes to timing, flexibility is key. Not all race bibs include an integrated timing chip, and that’s often intentional. Adhesive bibs in particular will not include a timing chip unless one is positioned on the front. However, timing chips do not need to be built into the bib itself.
Chips can be:
– Attached to trainers
– Worn on ankle straps
– Integrated into wristbands
– Positioned separately within the race pack
This means you never have to compromise your bib design, event branding, or safety features to accommodate your timing system. We work with organisers to ensure your timing solution fits seamlessly into your overall event setup.
Added Security with Integrated Bag Tags
Every detail matters on race day.
That’s why our race bibs can include a perforated, detachable bag tag at the bottom.
This matching tag:
- Mirrors the runner’s bib number
- Improves baggage management
- Enhances event security
- Reduces lost property issues
It’s a simple feature that significantly improves race-day organisation.
A Global Supplier You Can Rely On
Sportstiks supplies race bibs to events across the world.
No matter where your event is based, we have the capability to produce and ship globally, ensuring organisers receive high-quality bibs on time and ready for race day. Our experience working with international events means we understand different requirements, timelines and logistical needs.
Wherever your runners are lining up, we can support your event.
More Than Just a Number
Race bibs are an operational necessity – but they’re also a branding opportunity and a symbol of achievement.
Choosing the right supplier ensures your event runs smoothly, looks professional, and delivers a positive experience for every participant.
If you’re planning a running event and need reliable, high-quality race bibs with global delivery, get in touch with our team.
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Products
At Sportstiks we have everything under one roof, giving us total control over the entire process of producing your products and providing a truly impressive race solution.
Our team are constantly researching and developing new innovative materials and techniques to provide race directors, event organisers and athletes with athlete ID solutions that suit their requirements. Give us a call and talk to our guys about your event, what you need and how Sportstiks can make a difference. We offer the full package. From simple race bibs for a local 5km fun run to fully bespoke, collated race packs for international elite athlete events, no event is too large or too small.