Why Top Activewear Brands Are Replacing Their Suppliers in 2025
In 2025, more premium sportswear and athleisure brands in Europe and North America are switching their OEM/ODM partners. The reasons? Common frustrations include: 

• Unstable delivery timelines and slow feedback cycles
• Discrepancies between approved samples and mass production
  · Lack of innovation in fabric development and sustainable materials
  · Weak support for seasonal collections and capsule drops
  · Failure to meet quality control or pass sustainability audits

  As the global activewear market becomes more competitive, premium brands are seeking reliable, flexible, and forward-thinking manufacturing partners in China.

How to Identify a High-Quality Sportswear Manufacturer in China

If you're building a performance-focused or fashion-forward sportswear label, finding the right OEM factory in China is critical. Here’s how to start:
Recommended Sourcing Channels:
1、International Trade Shows
Visit events like ISPO Munich, Source Fashion UK, or CHIC Shenzhen to connect with verified manufacturers face-to-face.
2、Targeted Google Searches
Use long-tail keywords like “premium sportswear manufacturer in China” or “custom gym wear OEM China” for better results.
3、Trusted Referrals
Reach out to sourcing agents or brands with successful production experiences in China.
5 Key Criteria to Evaluate a Trusted Sportswear Supplier
Whether you're sourcing men’s gym wear, yoga sets, or streetwear-inspired performance gear, these are the top 5 indicators of a strategic OEM/ODM partner:

1. Sample-to-Bulk Consistency

Ensure the factory uses MES digital production systems and conducts AQL 2.5 quality control inspections to minimize product deviations.

2. Certifications & Sustainability Compliance

Look for BSCI, Sedex, and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certifications. These prove the supplier meets international ethical and environmental standards.

3. Fast Sampling & R&D Capabilities

A top-tier supplier can deliver accurate, high-fidelity samples within 7–12 days, with full support for seasonal launches and tech pack translation.

4. Fabric Innovation & Eco-Materials

Leading factories offer recycled polyester, organic cotton, naked-feel Lycra, and custom moisture-wicking blends. Ask if they have an in-house eco fabric library.

5. Production Scale & Flexibility

Verify that they manage in-house production (not outsourced), have skilled technical teams, and offer scalable capacity for both small drops and large orders.
Top Recommended Supplier: AIKA Sportswear – Premium OEM for Performance & Lifestyle Brands
AIKA Sportswear is one of China’s most trusted OEM/ODM activewear manufacturers, known for working with premium brands globally since 2010. With a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, AIKA offers:
· Over 500+ new styles developed per year
· Strict AQL 2.5 inspection and digital MES tracking
· Eco-friendly fabric sourcing including RPET, organic cotton, and seamless tech
· Full size grading for men’s and women’s lines (EU/US/UK sizing)
· Dedicated in-house sampling and design support
· Responsive, English-speaking merchandisers for smooth communication
Whether you’re building a functional gymwear line, a performance outdoor brand, or sustainable athleisure, AIKA can support end-to-end sportswear manufacturing from design to delivery.            
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Chinese sportswear manufacturer in 2025 means balancing price, performance, and partnership. If your brand needs fast lead times, sustainable materials, and sample-perfect production, then factories like AIKA Sportswear are worth strong consideration.
Pro Tip: Always request recent certifications, visit the factory if possible (or request a video tour), and start with a small MOQ test order before scaling.
Looking to Replace or Upgrade Your Supplier?

AIKA Sportswear is a stable, scalable, and expert manufacturing partner for global fitness brands.
Get Started Today: Contact AIKA Sportswear for a custom quote or request samples of your design.