Sydney’s City2Surf is one of the world’s most popular road running events, attracting over 80,000 participants annually. This 14-kilometre race combines competitive running with a relaxed “fun run” vibe, catering to elite athletes and casual participants alike. The event’s record turnout in recent years, as reported by ABC News, highlights its growing appeal, with runners and walkers starting in staggered groups based on previous times and early entry.
As fun runs continue to soar in popularity, many companies join these events or even organise their own, and see these events as a prime opportunity to promote their brand through clever marketing. By offering trendy and functional promotional items, businesses can enhance the event experience while engaging both staff and the wider community. Here are some of the top promotional items for company fun runs in 2024.
1. Custom Sports Bottles
Hydration is essential during any physical activity, making custom sports bottles a practical and popular choice. These items can be branded with your company logo and distributed to participants before or after the race. Reusable and eco-friendly, they also offer long-term promotional value, as recipients are likely to use them regularly. Look for BPA-free bottles with innovative designs, such as built-in infusers or collapsible bottles that are easy to carry. Customising them in your company colours will add a professional touch to your event branding.
2. Branded T-shirts and Tank Tops
One of the most common yet effective promotional items for fun runs is the branded T-shirt or tank top. Not only do these serve as a functional piece of apparel for the race day itself, but participants will also continue to wear them post-event, turning them into mobile advertisements for your organisation. The key to making your shirts memorable is ensuring they are comfortable and stylish. Consider using high-quality materials like moisture-wicking fabric, which is ideal for exercise, and design eye-catching graphics that reflect the spirit of the event.
3. Customised Headbands and Caps
For an added flair, consider offering participants branded headbands or caps. These items are practical, especially for outdoor events where the weather might be a factor. Whether it’s keeping sweat out of the eyes or shielding the face from the sun, headbands and caps can be customised with your company logo, and they offer a subtle yet effective way to promote your brand. In 2024, colourful, athletic headbands with patterns are trending, making them an excellent choice for fun and functional merchandise.
4. Reusable Tote Bags
Sustainability remains a core focus for many companies and consumers alike in 2024. Reusable tote bags have grown in popularity as they align with eco-friendly values while providing excellent branding opportunities. These versatile bags can be used long after the event, increasing your brand’s visibility each time someone carries them. Consider offering tote bags as part of the fun run registration pack, filled with essentials like snacks, water bottles, and promotional materials. Choose durable fabrics like cotton or recycled materials for a sustainable appeal.
5. Promotional Wristbands: Small But Mighty
While larger items like T-shirts and bottles may grab attention, smaller items like promotional wristbands also play a significant role in adding to the overall experience. These wristbands are easy to customise, affordable, and can be tailored to suit the theme of your fun run. Often used as tokens of participation or as identification during the event, they have the added advantage of being versatile enough to suit other occasions as well.
For example, companies that are planning to expand their merchandise to other events like conferences might also consider promotional wristbands for conference giveaways. Their lightweight nature makes them easy to distribute, while their versatility makes them a memorable keepsake for attendees.
6. Smart Fitness Trackers
As wearable technology becomes more accessible, providing smart fitness trackers as promotional items for your fun run is a great way to stand out. These devices allow participants to monitor their steps, heart rate, and other vital statistics during the race, adding a layer of personal engagement to the event. Fitness trackers are likely to be used long after the event, giving your brand ongoing visibility. Branded with your logo, they also reinforce the health and wellness focus of your company fun run.
7. Custom Medals and Trophies
Recognition and rewards are a significant aspect of any fun run. Custom medals and trophies for top performers or all participants not only motivate but also provide a tangible reminder of the day. Offering these as promotional items is an excellent way to enhance the event’s prestige while spreading brand awareness. Make sure to create designs that reflect the event’s theme, ensuring they are well-crafted and durable, so they hold lasting sentimental value.
Elevating Your Event with Trendy Promotional Items
Incorporating trendy promotional items into your 2024 company fun run can elevate the overall experience for participants while effectively promoting your brand. From functional items like sports bottles and T-shirts to smaller keepsakes like wristbands, there are plenty of opportunities to leave a lasting impression. The key is to select items that are both practical and memorable, ensuring they reflect your company’s values and vision while providing long-term marketing benefits.
Conclusion
By aligning your promotional items with the latest trends and ensuring they are of high quality, you can make your company fun run an event to remember. Whether you go with traditional merchandise or experiment with innovative items like fitness trackers, the right promotional products can make all the difference in creating a fun and engaging experience that benefits both your participants and your brand.