10 Essential Questions to Ask a Men's Streetwear Manufacturer

It's important to understand a manufacturer's industry experience, especially when it comes to men's streetwear. Ask them how long they've been in the industry, the types of streetwear they specialize in (hoodies, jackets, jogging bottoms, etc.), and their experience in high-demand niches like athleisure or tech apparel.

Ask for specific examples of brands they've worked with, especially those that focus on innovative design and high-quality craftsmanship. Whether they're able to stay up to date on streetwear trends, such as oversized silhouettes, bold graphics, and fabric innovations, will be a key differentiator.

Requesting samples is essential to assessing their production capabilities. Check out physical and digital portfolios from past collaborations, paying close attention to sewing quality, fabric selection, printing accuracy, and garment fit. Also, ask if they can make one of your design's prototypes. This will give you a first-hand look at their craftsmanship and help you assess if their quality is up to par. Pay attention to turnaround times and any associated costs for producing these samples.

MOQs will impact your production schedule, especially in the early stages when demand may be uncertain. Some manufacturers have high MOQs, which may not be suitable for brands testing new designs or starting with limited releases. Make sure the MOQ fits your current production capacity while leaving room for expansion. Also, find out if they offer flexible MOQs for new or small businesses, which may be a good option if you're experimenting with small batches or seasonal collections.

Timely delivery is essential to maintaining momentum, especially in a fast-paced market like streetwear. Ask for clear details on their lead time from design approval to final delivery. Understand how long different stages take - such as material sourcing, sample making, mass production, and quality checks.

Knowing their average production speed will help you better plan marketing campaigns, pre-orders, and restocking. Also, ask how they handle rush orders or unexpected delays, as timely adaptation is key for brands during periods of high demand or special releases.

The quality and type of materials directly impact the look, feel, and durability of the final product. Ask about their material selection, which includes staple fiber fabrics like cotton, denim, and wool, as well as more specialized materials like moisture-wicking fabrics or eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester.

If you want to incorporate functional elements like waterproof or breathable fabrics, ask about the availability of these materials. Make sure the manufacturer can source materials that align with your brand's focus on sustainability or performance, depending on your vision for the collection.

Consistency in quality is non-negotiable for any brand's reputation. Ask the manufacturer about their quality assurance process - do they conduct inspections at different stages of production or only at the end? Do they have a team dedicated to quality control?

It's also helpful to understand how they handle defects, including how issues are resolved and how replacements are handled. Ensuring high standards are met at every stage of production is key to minimizing customer complaints and returns, which is essential for streetwear brands to build consumer trust.

Ask to what extent they can accommodate custom designs, fabric prints, cuts, and modifications. Are they willing to explore new construction methods, such as bonded seams or integrated pockets? In addition, can they provide insights or suggestions for improved functionality or aesthetics? Manufacturers with extensive experience in custom designs will allow you to experiment with styles and features that stand out in the streetwear space.

Having transparent payment terms is essential to managing your budget and cash flow. Ask if they require upfront payment or if they offer a plan where you can pay in installments. Discuss whether payment can be made in stages (e.g., after material sourcing, sample approval, and delivery).

Clarify what happens if production is delayed or there is a problem with the goods delivered - how does this affect the payment schedule? In addition, confirm acceptable payment methods (e.g., bank transfer, letter of credit, etc.) to ensure you are on the same page on transaction processes.

Gathering references is one of the best ways to verify a manufacturer's reliability. Ask for contact information of previous clients, preferably brands of similar size or philosophy. References from people who have worked with the manufacturer will provide you with valuable insights into aspects such as communication, meeting deadlines, and problem-solving. If possible, try to contact brands that have grown with the manufacturer, as this can demonstrate their ability to scale up production and maintain quality over the long term.

Effective communication is at the heart of a successful collaboration. Ask the manufacturer what communication channels they use (email, phone, instant messaging, etc.) and how responsive they are when dealing with queries or issues. Do they assign an account manager or contact person to keep you updated on production status? Understanding their communication and support methods will help you determine how easy it is to work with them in terms of design, problem-solving, and ensuring smooth project management.

Lodyway is a professional custom menswear fashion apparel manufacturer with a 20-year track record. With our extensive experience and deep expertise in the streetwear space, we consistently deliver custom apparel solutions that exceed expectations. Our unwavering commitment to quality sets us apart, ensuring that every garment we produce meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and durability.

At Lodyway, we pride ourselves on our extensive range of high-quality apparel products, which are designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of our discerning customers. Whether you are a cutting-edge streetwear designer looking to push the boundaries of fashion, or a designer of timeless classics, Lodyway offers a comprehensive selection of styles and occasions. We strive for excellence, pay attention to detail, and are dedicated to providing our customers with unparalleled satisfaction, ensuring they always look their best. If you are looking for a high-quality custom menswear manufacturer, contact us.

Choosing the right men's streetwear manufacturer is a critical decision that will impact the trajectory of your brand. By asking these essential questions, you can ensure that the manufacturer you choose is aligned with your vision, quality standards, and business goals. Building a strong partnership with the right manufacturer will not only streamline your production process but also elevate your brand in the evolving streetwear market.