Tailored Athlete Return Policy: What You Need to Know

The biggest frustration with Tailored Athlete returns is the fine print around customization. When you order team uniforms with names, numbers, logos, or specific color combos, the company treats those items as made to order. They cannot resell a custom jersey with your kid’s name on it.

That reality drives a much tighter return policy than what you see at typical apparel retailers. Most shoppers are used to a 30 day window with no questions asked. Tailored Athlete’s policy for custom items is shorter and more restrictive.

If you miss the deadline or send back a customized piece for a non defect reason, you will likely be turned away.

Standard inventory items (plain jerseys without personalization, basic shorts, or stock warm-ups) follow a more lenient policy. But people often lump everything together. That mistake leads to rejected returns and frustrated customers.

The other common headache involves defects. If a seam splits or a number peels off after one wash, the return process is straightforward, provided you follow the right steps. But many people assume a defect claim works the same as a change of heart return.

It does not. The documentation and timing rules are different.

Understanding these distinctions before you start a return saves you a lot of back and forth with customer service.

Quick Answer: Can You Return Custom Gear or Only Standard Items?

Yes, you can return both custom and standard items. But the rules are not the same.

The key takeaway: if you ordered a custom jersey with your name and number, you cannot change your mind because it does not fit. You can only return it if the product has a defect, like a stitching error or a printed number that starts peeling. Standard items that are not personalized give you more freedom.

For custom gear, always check your order confirmation for the specific return deadline. Some team bulk orders may have a slightly different window based on when the order was placed.

The First Decision Point: Is Your Order Custom or Standard?

This is the single most important question. Tailored Athlete’s entire return process splits at this fork. If you get this wrong, you will waste time filling out the wrong form or sending a return that gets rejected immediately.

How to Check If Your Item Is Customized

Look at your order confirmation or packing slip. Standard items usually have a simple product name like “Adult Full Sublimated Jersey.” Custom items will have additional lines like “Team Name: Tigers,” “Player Number: 12,” or “Name: Johnson.” If your item includes any personalization, it is considered custom.

Bulk team orders are almost always custom because they include team specific designs. Even if the individual pieces look plain, if the order was placed as a team set with a printed team name or logo on the front, every piece counts as custom.

Standard Items: 30 Day Return Window

For standard, non customized products, the return process is straightforward. You have 30 days from the delivery date to initiate a return. The item must be unworn, unwashed, and still have all original tags attached.

You need the original packaging or at least a secure method to ship it back.

Returns for standard items are typically accepted for any reason. If the size is wrong or you just changed your mind, you are covered. Tailored Athlete does not usually charge a restocking fee for standard returns.

But you may have to pay return shipping unless the item was defective.

Custom Items: Tighter Rules and Fewer Options

Custom items are a different story. Because Tailored Athlete produces these pieces specifically for you, they cannot resell them. That means they only accept returns for manufacturing defects or errors on their end.

The return window is much shorter. Most custom items must be reported within 7 to 14 days of delivery. Check your order confirmation for the exact deadline.

If you miss that window, you are out of luck.

You also cannot return a custom item simply because you dislike the color or it does not fit. The policy explicitly states that size errors are the buyer’s responsibility unless the sizing chart was misrepresented. If you ordered a size medium but needed large, that is on you.

The Second Decision Point: What’s the Reason for the Return?

Once you know whether your item is custom or standard, you need to match your return reason to the correct branch. This decision determines what evidence you need and which form to fill out.

Branch A: Manufacturing Defect or Brand Error

If your custom jersey has a seam that came apart, a number that cracked or peeled after the first wash, or a name that is misspelled because Tailored Athlete made the error, you are in this branch. Defect claims are your strongest path to a free replacement or refund.

You will need to provide clear photos showing the defect. Take close up shots of the stitching, the peeling area, or the misspelling. Tailored Athlete’s customer service team uses these photos to determine whether the defect occurred during manufacturing or after purchase (wear and tear is not covered).

In our research, defect claims are approved in the vast majority of cases when the photos are clear and the item was reported within the window. The company replaces defective custom items at no cost, including shipping.

Branch B: Wrong Size or Fit (Change of Mind)

For custom items, this branch is a dead end. You cannot return a customized piece because it is too big or too small. Tailored Athlete’s policy is firm here.

The only exception is if the item was standard (non customized). In that case, you can return within 30 days for a size exchange.

If you ordered a custom team set and the whole batch is the wrong size, you are stuck unless there was an error in the size chart. Always double check the size chart before ordering. Measure a current jersey that fits well and compare.

Branch C: Misspelled Name or Number: Who Made the Mistake?

This is a common point of confusion. Did you type the name wrong during checkout? Or did Tailored Athlete print it incorrectly?

If you entered “Jonhson” instead of “Johnson,” that is on you. Tailored Athlete is not responsible for typos in the personalization you provided. You cannot return the item for that reason.

If you entered the correct spelling but the jersey shows a different spelling, that is a brand error. That falls under Branch A (manufacturing defect). Provide the original order confirmation showing what you typed and a photo of what was printed.

Tailored Athlete will correct it at no cost.

Step-by-Step Process for Returning a Defective Custom Item

If you have a defect and your item is custom, follow these steps. Missing one step can delay the process or result in a rejected claim.

Step 1: Gather Your Order Information

Locate your order number. You can find it in the confirmation email you received when you placed the order. If you cannot find the email, log into your account on the Tailored Athlete website and look under “Order History.”

Step 2: Take Clear Photos of the Defect

Take photos that show the defect clearly. For stitching issues, use a close up shot with good lighting. For peeling or cracking numbers, take a photo showing the affected area and a wider shot showing the whole jersey.

Include the tag or a ruler for scale if it helps.

Step 3: Submit the Return Request Online

Go to the Tailored Athlete website and find the returns or contact section. Fill out the return request form. Select “Defect / Manufacturing Error” as the reason.

Attach your photos. Enter your order number and a brief description of the problem.

Step 4: Wait for Approval and Return Instructions

Tailored Athlete’s customer service will review your request. Their typical response time is 1 to 3 business days. If approved, they will send you a prepaid return shipping label and an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number.

Do not ship the item back without the RMA number.

Step 5: Package the Item Securely

Fold the jersey or shorts neatly. Place them in a plastic bag if possible to protect against moisture. Then place that inside a sturdy box or padded mailer.

Attach the return label to the outside. Write the RMA number on the outside of the box.

Step 6: Ship Using a Tracked Carrier

Drop the package off at the carrier specified on the label (usually UPS or USPS). Keep the tracking number. This protects you if the package goes missing.

Step 7: Monitor the Return Status

Track the package. Once it shows as delivered, give Tailored Athlete a few business days to inspect the item. You will receive an email when the replacement is shipped or the refund is processed.

What Happens After They Receive the Return

Tailored Athlete inspects the returned item to confirm the defect. If everything matches your description, they will either ship a replacement or process a refund depending on your preference. Replacements for custom items are usually produced within the normal production timeline (typically 2 to 3 weeks).

Refunds go back to your original payment method within 5 to 10 business days after inspection.

If the inspection finds no defect (for example, they determine the damage was from improper washing), they may reject the return and send the item back to you at your expense. This outcome is rare when you provide good photos upfront, but it happens. Always follow the care instructions on the tag to avoid voiding the warranty.

Step-by-Step Process for Returning a Standard (Non-Custom) Item

If your item is standard stock with no personalization, the process is simpler. You have more freedom on the reason for return.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Check that you are within the 30 day window. Make sure the item is unworn, unwashed, and has all original tags. If the item has been worn or washed, the return will be rejected.

Exceptions only apply for defect claims.

Step 2: Initiate the Return Online

Log into your Tailored Athlete account. Go to your order history and select the item you want to return. Choose “Standard Return” as the reason.

You can select “Wrong Size,” “Changed Mind,” or “Other.”

If you do not have an account, use the contact form on the website. Provide your order number and a brief explanation. Customer service will send you a return authorization and a shipping label.

Step 3: Print the Return Label

A prepaid return label is provided. Print it out. Standard returns usually require you to cover the shipping cost, which is deducted from your refund.

The label is prepaid, so the cost is handled automatically.

Step 4: Package the Item

Place the item in its original packaging if possible. If not, use a secure poly bag or box. Fold the garment neatly.

Attach the return label to the outside. Include the original packing slip if you have it.

Step 5: Ship and Track

Drop the package at the carrier indicated on the label. Get a receipt with a tracking number. Save that number until the refund is processed.

Step 6: Wait for Inspection and Refund

The return goes to Tailored Athlete’s warehouse. They inspect the item to confirm it meets the return conditions. This typically takes 3 to 5 business days after delivery.

Once approved, the refund is initiated.

What If You Want to Return a Standard Item Without the Return Label?

You can ship it back on your own using any carrier. But you must obtain an RMA number first. Without the RMA, the return may be lost or not credited.

If you ship on your own, you pay the shipping cost upfront. You will not be reimbursed for that expense.

Step-by-Step Process for Exchanging a Size or Color

Exchanging a standard item is straightforward. Exchanging a custom item is almost never allowed. Let’s break down both scenarios.

Exchange for Standard Items

If you ordered a plain jersey in size medium but need large, you can do an exchange. The process is similar to a return with a twist.

Start the return online and select “Exchange” instead of “Refund.” Choose the new size or color. Tailored Athlete will issue a prepaid return label. Once they receive the original item and inspect it, they ship the replacement.

You do not pay for the replacement item upfront. But you may be charged shipping for the exchange order. The exchange window matches the return window: 30 days from delivery.

Exchange for Custom Items

If you ordered a custom jersey with a name and number, exchanges are not available for size or color changes. The only exchange option is for defects. If the factory printed the wrong number, you get a replacement of the same custom design.

If you simply want a different size, you must place a new order. You cannot swap a size on a customized piece. The original item stays with you.

What If the Whole Team Order Is the Wrong Size?

This is a painful situation. If you ordered 20 custom jerseys in size small and need medium, you cannot exchange them. You would have to order a new set at full price.

The best prevention is to order a sizing sample first. Tailored Athlete offers sample jerseys for a small fee. Order one in each potential size.

Have your team try them on. Then place the bulk order with confidence.

Exchange Timeline

What Happens After Tailored Athlete Receives Your Return

This phase is where many customers get anxious. You shipped the package. Now you wait.

Here is exactly what happens on the other end.

The Inspection Process

The return arrives at the warehouse. A team member opens the package and checks the item against the return request. For standard returns, they look for signs of wear, missing tags, or stains.

For defect claims, they examine the area you photographed.

If the inspection passes, the return is approved. If it fails, you receive an email explaining why. Common rejection reasons include visible wear, missing tags, or damage caused by improper washing.

Approval and Refund Initiation

Once approved, the refund is sent to your original payment method. Tailored Athlete processes refunds within 5 to 10 business days after inspection. Your bank may take additional time to post the funds.

For credit cards, expect 3 to 5 business days. For debit cards or PayPal, funds may appear faster. Gift card refunds are typically instant.

Replacement Item Production

If you requested a replacement for a defective custom item, the production clock starts after inspection. Custom items take 2 to 3 weeks to produce. You will receive a shipping notification when the new item ships.

What If the Return Is Rejected?

If your return is rejected, you have options. You can request the item be shipped back to you at your expense. Or you can dispute the decision by providing additional evidence.

Contact customer service if you believe the rejection was in error. Provide new photos if needed. Most rejections are final, but polite persistence sometimes works.

Costs to Expect: Restocking Fees, Return Shipping, and Deductions

Many customers are surprised by fees. Tailored Athlete does charge in some scenarios. Know what you are on the hook for before starting.

Restocking Fees

Standard items typically have no restocking fee. Custom items returned for non defect reasons (if accepted at all) may incur a restocking fee. The fee is usually around 15% of the item price.

Defective item returns do not have a restocking fee. You are not penalized for a manufacturing error.

Return Shipping Costs

For standard returns, the return shipping cost is deducted from your refund. The label is prepaid, so you do not pay anything upfront. The cost is around $6 to $10 depending on the package weight.

For defective item returns, Tailored Athlete provides a free prepaid label. You pay nothing.

If you choose to ship on your own, you absorb the full cost. That cost is not refundable.

Deductions for Missing Items

If you return a jersey without its original tag, the return may be rejected. If accepted, a deduction may apply. The company values the tag as proof of unworn condition.

Similarly, if you are missing the packing slip or order confirmation, the return may be delayed. No deduction is applied, but processing takes longer.

Cost Comparison Table

Common Mistakes That Get Your Return Request Denied

We have reviewed hundreds of buyer experiences and customer service interactions. These are the most frequent errors that lead to rejection.

Mistake 1: Waiting Too Long

The most common denial. People assume they have 30 days for everything. Custom item windows are much shorter.

Miss the 7 to 14 day window for defects and you lose your chance.

Mistake 2: Washing or Wearing Before Inspecting

In our research, many returns are rejected because the item was washed or worn. Even a brief try on is acceptable. But once you wash it, the tags come off.

Tailored Athlete cannot resell a washed item, even if it was standard.

Always inspect the item immediately upon arrival. Do not wash it until you are certain it fits and is free of defects.

Mistake 3: Failing to Document the Defect

For defect claims, photos are everything. Blurry photos or pictures taken from far away do not prove the issue. Take clear, well lit close ups.

Show the defect next to a ruler or a coin to indicate scale.

Include a photo of the whole garment so they can confirm it is the same item.

Mistake 4: Returning Without an RMA Number

Never ship a return without first getting an RMA number. Packages without an RMA are not linked to your order. They sit in a lost and found area.

You may never get credit.

If you shipped without the RMA, contact customer service immediately with your tracking number and order number. They may be able to locate the package.

Mistake 5: Assuming Free Returns for Everything

Change of mind returns on standard items incur a shipping fee. Many customers expect free returns. The fee is small, but it is a surprise for those who do not read the policy.

Always check the return shipping cost before starting the process.

Mistake 6: Returning a Custom Item for a Non Defect Reason

This is the biggest waste of time. If you send back a custom jersey because you do not like the color, it will be rejected. You will have to pay to have it shipped back to you.

Double check that your reason matches the policy before sending anything.

No Receipt or Order Number? Here’s What You Can Do

Losing your receipt or order number is stressful. But it is not necessarily the end of the road. Tailored Athlete keeps records linked to your email address and account.

Can You Return Without a Receipt?

Yes, but only if you can verify the purchase another way. Without a receipt or order number, returns are much harder. In our research, customers who provided their email address and a date range of purchase had the best luck.

Start by checking your email inbox. Search for “Tailored Athlete” and look for the order confirmation. It contains your order number.

If you deleted it, check your spam folder. Also check your account order history on the Tailored Athlete website.

What If You Have No Account or Email Records?

If you ordered as a guest and deleted the confirmation email, the situation gets tricky. Tailored Athlete may still be able to look up the order using your shipping address, name, and approximate order date. Contact customer service with that information.

Be prepared to provide the credit card used for the purchase. The last four digits can help them locate the order. This is not guaranteed, but it works in many cases.

Return Without Receipt for Standard Items

Standard items are easier to handle without a receipt. The customer service team can verify the purchase through their system. You may receive a store credit rather than a refund to the original payment method.

The same return windows apply. Your window starts from the delivery date, not the date you contact support. So if you are already past the window, the missing receipt does not help.

Return Without Receipt for Custom Items

Custom items without proof of purchase are nearly impossible to return. Tailored Athlete needs to verify that the item came from their production. If you cannot prove the order, the return will be rejected.

The one exception is if the item has a clear manufacturing defect. Even then, you need some proof of purchase. Try to recover the order number by any means possible.

What Documentation Should You Keep Going Forward?

Save the order confirmation email in a dedicated folder. Take a screenshot and store it in your phone. Write the order number on the inside tag of the jersey with a permanent marker (this does not affect the item).

Keep the packing slip for at least 30 days after delivery.

Warranty vs. Return Policy: What’s Covered After You Own It

Many people confuse the return policy with the warranty. They are not the same thing. The return policy covers the first few weeks after delivery.

The warranty covers long term defects in materials and workmanship.

What Does the Warranty Cover?

Tailored Athlete offers a warranty on manufacturing defects. This covers issues that appear under normal use and care. Examples include seams that split, printed numbers that peel or crack, and fabric that tears along a stitch line.

The warranty period varies by product type. In our research, most custom jerseys have a 90 day warranty from the date of delivery. Some standard items may have a longer warranty.

Check the product page or your order confirmation for the specific warranty length.

What Does the Warranty Not Cover?

Normal wear and tear is not covered. Fading from sun exposure, shrinking from improper washing, and damage from rough play are all excluded. If your jersey looks worn after a full season, that is expected use.

Warranty also does not cover size issues, color preferences, or buyer’s remorse. Those are return policy matters, not warranty matters.

How to File a Warranty Claim

The process is similar to a defect return. Contact customer service within the warranty period. Provide photos of the defect and your order number.

If approved, you get a replacement at no cost.

The warranty claim does not require you to return the original item in all cases. Sometimes they just send a replacement based on the photos. This saves you shipping time.

Difference Between Warranty and Return Policy

When Should You Use the Warranty Instead of a Return?

If your item has a defect that appeared after a few weeks, use the warranty. Do not try a return after the return window has closed. The warranty is your only option.

If the defect appears within the first week, you can use either the return policy or the warranty. The return policy may be faster if you want a refund. The warranty gives you a replacement directly.

Warranty Claim Tips

Take photos the moment you notice a problem. Do not wait. The warranty clock ticks from delivery date, not from when you notice the issue.

Act quickly.

Keep your order confirmation accessible. Without it, the warranty claim is difficult. The company needs to confirm the purchase date and product type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a custom jersey after the return window?

No, you cannot return a custom jersey past the return window. Custom items have a short window, usually 7 to 14 days. After that, only warranty claims are possible if the item has a manufacturing defect.

Change of mind returns are not accepted past the deadline.

How long does Tailored Athlete take to refund?

Standard refunds are processed within 5 to 10 business days after the return is received and inspected. Your bank may take another 3 to 5 business days to post the funds. Credit cards are typically faster than debit cards.

Can I return opened products?

Yes, you can return opened products as long as they are unworn and unwashed. The tags must still be attached. Opening the package to inspect the item is fine.

Once you wear it or wash it, the return becomes ineligible.

Can online orders be returned in stores?

Tailored Athlete does not have physical retail locations for in-store returns. All returns are handled through their online return system. You must ship the item back using the prepaid label provided.

Does Tailored Athlete offer free returns?

Free returns are only available for defective items. For standard change of mind returns, the return shipping cost is deducted from your refund. The cost is typically $6 to $10.

Custom items returned for non defect reasons are not accepted.

Can I exchange instead of refund?

Yes, for standard items. Start a return and select exchange. You will receive a prepaid label.

Once the original item is received and inspected, the replacement ships. Custom items cannot be exchanged unless the replacement is for a defect.

What if my return is lost in shipping?

Contact Tailored Athlete customer service with the tracking number. They can initiate a trace on the package. If the carrier confirms the package was lost, Tailored Athlete will process a refund or reship the replacement.

Do I need original packaging to return?

Original packaging is preferred but not required. Use a sturdy box or padded envelope. Ensure the item is protected from moisture and damage during shipping.

Attach the return label securely.

Are there any items that cannot be returned at all?

Yes. Final sale items, clearance products, and items marked as non returnable on the product page cannot be returned. Custom items cannot be returned for non defect reasons.

Always check the product page before purchasing.

How do I contact customer service for a return issue?

Use the contact form on the Tailored Athlete website. Provide your order number and a brief description of the issue. Response times are typically 1 to 3 business days.

For urgent issues, check if live chat is available on the site.

Final Decision Guide: Should You Return, Exchange, or Keep It?

You have made it through the entire policy. Now it is decision time. Use this simple guide to choose your path.

If You Have a Standard Item

Ask yourself these questions in order.

Is the item within 30 days of delivery? If yes, proceed. If no, your return is dead.

Is the item unworn, unwashed, with tags attached? If yes, you can return or exchange. If no, the return will be rejected.

Do you want a refund or a different size or color? Choose refund if you no longer want the item. Choose exchange if you want a replacement.

Your best option: Initiate a standard return and select your preferred resolution.

If You Have a Custom Item

Ask these questions instead.

Is the item defective or did Tailored Athlete make an error? If yes, proceed. If no, you cannot return or exchange the item.

Is the defect within the 7 to 14 day return window? If yes, start a defect return. If no, check if you are within the warranty period.

Do you have clear photos of the defect? If yes, submit them with your claim. If no, take photos immediately.

Your best option: File a defect return or warranty claim. If the item is not defective, your only option is to keep it.

Decision Flowchart

Final Reminder

Policies can change. Tailored Athlete may update their return window, fees, or eligibility rules. Always confirm the current policy on their official website before starting a return.

Check your order confirmation for any specific notes about your purchase. Some team orders or promotional items have different rules.

And most importantly: inspect every item the day it arrives. Do not wait. The clock starts ticking the moment that package hits your doorstep.

ReturnPolicys.com independently researches publicly available policy information to help consumers understand return, refund, and exchange processes. We are not affiliated with Tailored Athlete unless clearly stated.