In our “All About the Race Medal” series, we’ve focused so far on selecting the metal finish, crafting a unique design, and choosing the perfect “type” of race medal to capture your event’s spirit. Now, it’s time to consider a vital, often underestimated, element: the ribbon. More than just a way to wear or display the medal, the ribbon is an integral part of the overall aesthetic, significantly enhancing the desirability of your finisher award.
When ordering your custom race medals, you’ll discover a variety of ribbon options. Understanding these choices and their potential impact is key to creating a truly memorable medal.
Stock Grosgrain Ribbons:
- Texture: These ribbons feature a distinct “ribbed” texture, offering a classic and durable feel.
- Color Options: Available in a wide array of pre-selected “stock” colors, race directors can typically find a shade that closely complements their event’s brand colors.
- Finisher Placements: Stock grosgrain ribbons are the perfect choice when you want to standardize first, second, and third place finishes with classic blue, red, and white.
- Attachment: Most commonly secured to the medal using the standard “O” ring attachment.
- Budget-Friendly: Stock grosgrain ribbons are a practical and economical choice, making them a great option for events with limited budgets. They provide a clean, traditional look.
Custom Printed Grosgrain Ribbons:
- Enhanced Branding: While maintaining the solid color and ribbed texture of stock grosgrain, these ribbons allow for your race name, logo, or other event information to be custom printed in a contrasting color. This instantly elevates the ribbon, making it an extension of your brand.
- Dye-to-Match Options: For a truly cohesive look, custom grosgrain ribbons can also be dyed to match your race’s specific brand colors, expanding beyond the standard stock choices.
Custom Satin Full-Color Ribbons (The Premium Choice):
- Smooth Finish: Unlike the ribbed texture of grosgrain, satin ribbons boast a luxurious, smooth finish that immediately conveys a sense of quality.
- Unlimited Design Potential: Utilizing the sublimation process, these ribbons can be decorated with virtually unlimited designs, including gradients, photographic elements, intricate patterns, and vibrant full-color graphics.
- Tell the Story: We often see custom ribbon designs that include recognition of race sponsors, volunteers, varying distances, overall winners, and more!
- Maximum Impact: This option offers the highest level of customization and visual appeal. A beautifully designed full-color satin ribbon not only enhances your race brand but can also become a powerful incentive for runners, eager to add such a visually striking medal to their collection. We strongly encourage race planners to consider allocating budget for this option, as it significantly elevates the overall race medal aesthetic and desirability.
Beyond the Standard: Attachment Methods
How your ribbon attaches to the medal is another detail that can subtly, yet effectively, influence the overall presentation. Consider your medal’s design and race theme when selecting an attachment method:
- Standard “O” Ring Attachment: This is the most common and versatile attachment, suitable for nearly all medal designs.
- Sleek Feed-Through Design: For a more integrated and contemporary look, a feed-through design allows the ribbon to pass directly through a channel in the medal, eliminating the need for an external ring and creating a seamless appearance.
- Tied Knot: Particularly effective for medals with a rustic or organic feel, a tied knot offers a handcrafted touch.
- Specialty Lanyards:
- Leather Lanyard: If your wood medals have a natural, organic appeal, a leather lanyard can further enhance this aesthetic, offering a distinct and high-quality feel.
- Ball Chain “Necklace”: For military or service themed races featuring “dog tag” style medals, a classic ball chain “necklace” provides an authentic and fitting alternative to a traditional ribbon.
The ribbon is far more than just a way to hang your medal; it’s an integral part of the narrative your finisher award tells. By thoughtfully choosing your ribbon type and attachment method, you can transform a simple medal into a truly impactful and coveted memento.
At Running Awards and Apparel, we understand the importance of these details. Our team can guide you through the various options for ribbons and lanyards, ensuring your custom race medals perfectly reflect your signature brand and leave a lasting impression on every finisher.