{"id":8778,"date":"2026-08-14T05:12:50","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T05:12:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/?p=8778"},"modified":"2026-08-14T05:16:52","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T05:16:52","slug":"5k-marathon-race-swag-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/5k-marathon-race-swag-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"5K &amp; Marathon Race Swag Checklist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide vp-blog-layout has-medium-font-size is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px;border-top-left-radius:58px;border-top-right-radius:58px;border-bottom-left-radius:58px;border-bottom-right-radius:58px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column vp-blog-toc-wrap is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:20%\">\n<style data-wp-block-html=\"css\">\n[data-vp-article-toc] a.vp-current {\n  color: #1f5eff !important;\n  font-weight: 700 !important;\n}\n\n[data-vp-article-toc] a.vp-current::before {\n  content: \"\";\n  display: inline-block;\n  width: 6px;\n  height: 6px;\n  margin-right: 7px;\n  border-radius: 50%;\n  background: #1f5eff;\n  vertical-align: middle;\n}\n\n#5k-and-marathon-finisher-medals,\n#custom-keychains-for-race-giveaways,\n#enamel-pins-for-marathon-events,\n#patches-for-running-clubs-and-trail-events,\n#race-coins-as-finisher-keepsakes,\n#cups-t-shirts-and-race-bags,\n#real-race-merchandise-examples,\n#what-good-race-swag-can-do-for-your-event,\n#choose-the-right-race-merchandise-partner {\n  scroll-margin-top: 130px;\n}\n<\/style>\n\n<script data-wp-block-html=\"js\">\n(function () {\n  function initVpTocSpy() {\n    var links = Array.prototype.slice.call(\n      document.querySelectorAll('[data-vp-article-toc] a[href^=\"#\"]')\n    );\n\n    if (!links.length) return;\n\n    var sections = [];\n    var added = {};\n\n    links.forEach(function (link) {\n      var id = link.getAttribute(\"href\").slice(1);\n      var target = document.getElementById(id);\n\n      if (target && !added[id]) {\n        sections.push({\n          id: id,\n          target: target\n        });\n        added[id] = true;\n      }\n    });\n\n    if (!sections.length) return;\n\n    var ticking = false;\n    var lastId = \"\";   \n\n    function getOffset() {\n      return Math.min(Math.max(window.innerHeight * 0.55, 220), 520);\n    }\n\n    function scrollTocItemIntoView(link) {\n      var tocBox = link.closest(\"[data-vp-article-toc]\");\n      if (!tocBox) return;\n\n      var scrollBox = tocBox;\n\n      if (tocBox.classList.contains(\"vp-toc-mobile\")) {\n        var nav = tocBox.querySelector(\"nav\");\n        if (nav) scrollBox = nav;\n      }\n\n      if (!scrollBox || scrollBox.scrollHeight <= scrollBox.clientHeight) return;\n\n      var linkTop = link.offsetTop;\n      var linkHeight = link.offsetHeight;\n      var boxHeight = scrollBox.clientHeight;\n\n      scrollBox.scrollTo({\n        top: linkTop - boxHeight \/ 2 + linkHeight \/ 2,\n        behavior: \"smooth\"\n      });\n    }\n\n    function updateActive() {\n      var scrollTop = window.pageYOffset || document.documentElement.scrollTop;\n      var currentId = sections[0].id;\n      var offset = getOffset();\n\n      sections.forEach(function (section) {\n        var top = section.target.getBoundingClientRect().top + scrollTop;\n\n        if (scrollTop + offset >= top) {\n          currentId = section.id;\n        }\n      });\n\n      links.forEach(function (link) {\n        link.classList.toggle(\n          \"vp-current\",\n          link.getAttribute(\"href\") === \"#\" + currentId\n        );\n      });\n\n      if (currentId !== lastId) {\n        links.forEach(function (link) {\n          if (link.getAttribute(\"href\") === \"#\" + currentId) {\n            scrollTocItemIntoView(link);\n          }\n        });\n\n        lastId = currentId;\n      }\n\n      ticking = false;\n    }\n\n    function onScroll() {\n      if (!ticking) {\n        window.requestAnimationFrame(updateActive);\n        ticking = true;\n      }\n    }\n\n    updateActive();\n    window.addEventListener(\"scroll\", onScroll, { passive: true });\n    window.addEventListener(\"resize\", updateActive);\n  }\n\n  if (document.readyState === \"loading\") {\n    document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", initVpTocSpy);\n  } else {\n    initVpTocSpy();\n  }\n})();\n<\/script>\n\n<!-- Desktop TOC -->\n<div class=\"vp-toc vp-toc-desktop\" data-vp-article-toc=\"\">\n  <div class=\"vp-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/div>\n  <nav aria-label=\"Table of Contents\">\n    <ul>\n      <li><a href=\"#5k-and-marathon-finisher-medals\">5K and Marathon Finisher Medals<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#custom-keychains-for-race-giveaways\">Custom Keychains for Race Giveaways<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#enamel-pins-for-marathon-events\">Enamel Pins for Marathon Events<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#patches-for-running-clubs-and-trail-events\">Patches for Running Clubs and Trail Events<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#race-coins-as-finisher-keepsakes\">Race Coins as Finisher Keepsakes<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#cups-t-shirts-and-race-bags\">Cups, T-Shirts, and Race Bags<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#real-race-merchandise-examples\">Real Race Merchandise Examples<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#what-good-race-swag-can-do-for-your-event\">What Good Race Swag Can Do for Your Event<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#choose-the-right-race-merchandise-partner\">Choose the Right Race Merchandise Partner<\/a><\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/nav>\n<\/div>\n\n<!-- Mobile \/ Tablet TOC -->\n<details class=\"vp-toc vp-toc-mobile\" data-vp-article-toc=\"\">\n  <summary>Table of Contents<\/summary>\n  <nav aria-label=\"Mobile Table of Contents\">\n    <ul>\n      <li><a href=\"#5k-and-marathon-finisher-medals\">5K and Marathon Finisher Medals<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#custom-keychains-for-race-giveaways\">Custom Keychains for Race Giveaways<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#enamel-pins-for-marathon-events\">Enamel Pins for Marathon Events<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#patches-for-running-clubs-and-trail-events\">Patches for Running Clubs and Trail Events<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#race-coins-as-finisher-keepsakes\">Race Coins as Finisher Keepsakes<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#cups-t-shirts-and-race-bags\">Cups, T-Shirts, and Race Bags<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#real-race-merchandise-examples\">Real Race Merchandise Examples<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#what-good-race-swag-can-do-for-your-event\">What Good Race Swag Can Do for Your Event<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#choose-the-right-race-merchandise-partner\">Choose the Right Race Merchandise Partner<\/a><\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/nav>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"5K &amp; Marathon Race Swag Checklist\" class=\"wp-image-8788\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image-600x338.webp 600w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image.webp 1672w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planning a 5K or marathon is exciting, but there are a lot of moving parts. Between registration, volunteers, timing, course setup, and race-day logistics, merchandise can easily become one more thing to worry about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finisher medals, shirts, bibs, pins, and race packets all need to be designed, ordered, and delivered on time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And for many runners, these are the pieces of the event they remember long after race day is over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"5k-and-marathon-finisher-medals\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">5K and Marathon Finisher Medals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-medal\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"553\">Finisher medals<\/a> are usually at the top of the list. If runners take one physical reminder home from the finish line, it is often the medal they earned after completing the course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to Running USA&#8217;s <em>Global Runner Survey<\/em>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runningusa.org\/content_hub\/what-event-swag-do-athletes-actually-want\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.runningusa.org\/content_hub\/what-event-swag-do-athletes-actually-want\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">16% of runners consider the medal or finisher award when deciding which race to enter<\/a>, ranking it ahead of whether an event uses chip timing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A good race medal should feel specific to that event. The logo, year, distance, local landmarks, or even part of the course can all become part of the design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At VeperPins, we recommend finalizing the size, shape, ribbon, and quantity early. Medals are one item you do not want arriving late.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"custom-keychains-for-race-giveaways\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Custom Keychains for Race Giveaways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-keychain\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"565\">Personalized keychains<\/a> are a simple way to give runners something they can actually use after the event. They are less formal than a medal, but that is part of the appeal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Runners can attach them to keys, gym bags, backpacks, or zipper pulls, giving them a small reminder of the race that does not have to sit on a medal rack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are also flexible from an organizer&#8217;s point of view. A keychain can go inside the race packet, be handed out at the finish line, or be used as a small gift for VIPs, sponsors, or staff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For events working with a tighter merchandise budget, they can also be an easy way to add another keepsake without competing with the main finisher medal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"enamel-pins-for-marathon-events\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Enamel Pins for Marathon Events<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-enamel-pins\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"675\">Enamel pins<\/a> work especially well as wearable race memorabilia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Runners can add them to backpacks, running vests, hats, or jackets and show where they have raced without pulling a medal out of a drawer. For events with a strong running community, a small pin can also become a subtle badge of belonging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They do not need to replace the finisher medal. Instead, they work well in race packets, volunteer gifts, staff kits, or VIP packages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some events also create different versions for runners, volunteers, or special groups, giving the pin both a commemorative and practical role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"patches-for-running-clubs-and-trail-events\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Patches for Running Clubs and Trail Events<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-patches\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"613\">Patches<\/a> are a natural fit for trail races, endurance events, themed runs, and running clubs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They have more of an outdoor and team feel than a typical giveaway and can be sewn or attached to running packs, jackets, hats, or vests. That makes them especially suited to events built around course difficulty, club culture, or a strong sense of tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They can also represent a specific achievement. Different distances, routes, elevation challenges, or difficult stages can each have their own design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In that case, the patch says more than &#8220;I was there.&#8221; It says, &#8220;I completed this challenge.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"race-coins-as-finisher-keepsakes\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Race Coins as Finisher Keepsakes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-sports-coins\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"1434\">Custom sports coins<\/a> are another solid option for race merchandise. They are smaller than traditional finisher medals but have a substantial metal feel, which makes them well suited for special awards, limited-edition keepsakes, or collectible race memorabilia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both sides of the coin can be customized. The front might feature the event logo, year, and distance, while the back can include the course, a local landmark, race motto, or finisher details. This gives organizers more room to tell the story of the event in one compact piece.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"cups-t-shirts-and-race-bags\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cups, T-Shirts, and Race Bags<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Running USA also found that <strong>57% of runners would like race organizers to offer keepsakes beyond a standard finisher shirt<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That does not mean every event needs a bag packed with merchandise. Cups, tote bags, drawstring bags, and other useful items can be selected based on the audience, budget, and how they fit into the event itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A bag, for example, can double as packaging for packet pickup. A T-shirt can carry the event identity and sponsor logos. Cups can be useful around aid stations, the finish area, or after the race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is to choose items that have a clear purpose instead of filling a packet with things runners will throw away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/medal-or-pins-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8791\" srcset=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/medal-or-pins-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/medal-or-pins-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/medal-or-pins-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/medal-or-pins-600x450.webp 600w, https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/medal-or-pins.webp 1448w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"real-race-merchandise-examples\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Real Race Merchandise Examples<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talking about it is one thing. Here are a few real examples shared by runners on Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<style data-wp-block-html=\"css\">\n.vp-race-instagram {\n  width: 100%;\n  margin: 30px 0;\n}\n\n.vp-race-instagram__grid {\n  display: grid;\n  grid-template-columns: repeat(2, minmax(0, 1fr));\n  gap: 28px;\n  align-items: start;\n}\n\n\/* Card *\/\n.vp-race-instagram__card {\n  min-width: 0;\n  background: #ffffff;\n  border: 1px solid #e4e7ec;\n  border-radius: 16px;\n  overflow: hidden;\n  box-shadow: 0 6px 22px rgba(18, 28, 45, 0.05);\n}\n\n\/* Last card centered *\/\n.vp-race-instagram__card--last {\n  grid-column: 1 \/ -1;\n  width: calc(50% - 14px);\n  justify-self: center;\n}\n\n\/* Text *\/\n.vp-race-instagram__copy {\n  padding: 22px 24px 18px;\n}\n\n.vp-race-instagram__copy h3 {\n  margin: 0 0 8px;\n  font-size: 21px;\n  line-height: 1.3;\n  font-weight: 700;\n  color: #182235;\n}\n\n.vp-race-instagram__copy p {\n  margin: 0;\n  font-size: 15.5px;\n  line-height: 1.65;\n  color: #667085;\n}\n\n\/* Instagram embed area *\/\n.vp-race-instagram__embed {\n  width: 100%;\n  padding: 0 12px 12px;\n  box-sizing: border-box;\n  overflow: hidden;\n}\n\n\/* Force Instagram embed to fit card *\/\n.vp-race-instagram__embed .instagram-media {\n  width: 100% !important;\n  min-width: 0 !important;\n  max-width: 100% !important;\n  margin: 0 !important;\n  box-sizing: border-box !important;\n  border-radius: 10px !important;\n}\n\n\/* Instagram-generated iframe *\/\n.vp-race-instagram__embed iframe {\n  width: 100% !important;\n  max-width: 100% !important;\n  margin: 0 !important;\n}\n\n\/* Tablet *\/\n@media (max-width: 900px) {\n  .vp-race-instagram__grid {\n    grid-template-columns: 1fr;\n    gap: 22px;\n  }\n\n  .vp-race-instagram__card--last {\n    grid-column: auto;\n    width: 100%;\n  }\n}\n\n\/* Mobile *\/\n@media (max-width: 600px) {\n  .vp-race-instagram {\n    margin: 22px 0;\n  }\n\n  .vp-race-instagram__grid {\n    gap: 18px;\n  }\n\n  .vp-race-instagram__card {\n    border-radius: 13px;\n  }\n\n  .vp-race-instagram__copy {\n    padding: 18px 16px 14px;\n  }\n\n  .vp-race-instagram__copy h3 {\n    font-size: 19px;\n    margin-bottom: 7px;\n  }\n\n  .vp-race-instagram__copy p {\n    font-size: 15px;\n    line-height: 1.6;\n  }\n\n  .vp-race-instagram__embed {\n    padding: 0 6px 6px;\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n<script data-wp-block-html=\"js\">\ndocument.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function () {\n  const section = document.querySelector(\".vp-race-instagram\");\n  const track = document.querySelector(\".vp-race-instagram__grid\");\n\n  if (!section || !track) return;\n\n  const cards = Array.from(\n    track.querySelectorAll(\".vp-race-instagram__card\")\n  );\n\n  if (!cards.length) return;\n\n  \/* =========================\n     Inject slider styles\n  ========================== *\/\n  const style = document.createElement(\"style\");\n\n  style.textContent = `\n    .vp-race-instagram {\n      position: relative;\n    }\n\n    .vp-race-instagram__grid {\n      display: flex !important;\n      grid-template-columns: none !important;\n      gap: 24px !important;\n      overflow-x: auto;\n      overflow-y: hidden;\n      scroll-behavior: smooth;\n      scroll-snap-type: x mandatory;\n      scrollbar-width: none;\n      -ms-overflow-style: none;\n      overscroll-behavior-x: contain;\n      -webkit-overflow-scrolling: touch;\n      padding: 4px 2px 12px;\n    }\n\n    .vp-race-instagram__grid::-webkit-scrollbar {\n      display: none;\n    }\n\n    .vp-race-instagram__card,\n    .vp-race-instagram__card--last {\n      flex: 0 0 calc((100% - 24px) \/ 2) !important;\n      width: auto !important;\n      max-width: none !important;\n      grid-column: auto !important;\n      justify-self: auto !important;\n      scroll-snap-align: start;\n      scroll-snap-stop: always;\n      box-sizing: border-box;\n    }\n\n    .vp-race-slider__nav {\n      display: flex;\n      justify-content: flex-end;\n      align-items: center;\n      gap: 10px;\n      margin-bottom: 16px;\n    }\n\n    .vp-race-slider__button {\n      width: 44px;\n      height: 44px;\n      padding: 0;\n      border: 1px solid #dfe3e8;\n      border-radius: 50%;\n      background: #ffffff;\n      color: #182235;\n      font-size: 24px;\n      line-height: 1;\n      cursor: pointer;\n      display: inline-flex;\n      align-items: center;\n      justify-content: center;\n      box-shadow: 0 3px 12px rgba(18, 28, 45, 0.07);\n      transition:\n        transform .2s ease,\n        border-color .2s ease,\n        box-shadow .2s ease,\n        opacity .2s ease;\n    }\n\n    .vp-race-slider__button:hover {\n      transform: translateY(-1px);\n      border-color: #b9c0ca;\n      box-shadow: 0 5px 16px rgba(18, 28, 45, 0.11);\n    }\n\n    .vp-race-slider__button:disabled {\n      opacity: .35;\n      cursor: default;\n      transform: none;\n      box-shadow: none;\n    }\n\n    @media (max-width: 700px) {\n      .vp-race-instagram__grid {\n        gap: 14px !important;\n        padding-right: 10%;\n      }\n\n      .vp-race-instagram__card,\n      .vp-race-instagram__card--last {\n        flex: 0 0 88% !important;\n      }\n\n      .vp-race-slider__nav {\n        margin-bottom: 12px;\n      }\n\n      .vp-race-slider__button {\n        width: 40px;\n        height: 40px;\n        font-size: 21px;\n      }\n    }\n  `;\n\n  document.head.appendChild(style);\n\n  \/* =========================\n     Create arrows\n  ========================== *\/\n  const nav = document.createElement(\"div\");\n  nav.className = \"vp-race-slider__nav\";\n\n  const prev = document.createElement(\"button\");\n  prev.className = \"vp-race-slider__button\";\n  prev.type = \"button\";\n  prev.setAttribute(\"aria-label\", \"Previous example\");\n  prev.innerHTML = \"&#8592;\";\n\n  const next = document.createElement(\"button\");\n  next.className = \"vp-race-slider__button\";\n  next.type = \"button\";\n  next.setAttribute(\"aria-label\", \"Next example\");\n  next.innerHTML = \"&#8594;\";\n\n  nav.appendChild(prev);\n  nav.appendChild(next);\n\n  section.insertBefore(nav, track);\n\n  \/* =========================\n     Calculate scroll distance\n  ========================== *\/\n  function getStep() {\n    if (!cards[0]) return track.clientWidth;\n\n    const cardWidth = cards[0].getBoundingClientRect().width;\n    const styles = window.getComputedStyle(track);\n    const gap = parseFloat(styles.columnGap || styles.gap) || 0;\n\n    return cardWidth + gap;\n  }\n\n  prev.addEventListener(\"click\", function () {\n    track.scrollBy({\n      left: -getStep(),\n      behavior: \"smooth\"\n    });\n  });\n\n  next.addEventListener(\"click\", function () {\n    track.scrollBy({\n      left: getStep(),\n      behavior: \"smooth\"\n    });\n  });\n\n  \/* =========================\n     Arrow state\n  ========================== *\/\n  function updateButtons() {\n    const maxScroll = track.scrollWidth - track.clientWidth;\n\n    prev.disabled = track.scrollLeft <= 3;\n    next.disabled = track.scrollLeft >= maxScroll - 3;\n  }\n\n  track.addEventListener(\"scroll\", updateButtons, {\n    passive: true\n  });\n\n  window.addEventListener(\"resize\", updateButtons);\n\n  updateButtons();\n\n  \/* =========================\n     Mouse wheel \u2192 horizontal\n     Desktop\n  ========================== *\/\n  track.addEventListener(\n    \"wheel\",\n    function (event) {\n      if (Math.abs(event.deltaY) > Math.abs(event.deltaX)) {\n        const maxScroll = track.scrollWidth - track.clientWidth;\n\n        if (\n          (event.deltaY > 0 && track.scrollLeft < maxScroll) ||\n          (event.deltaY < 0 &#038;&#038; track.scrollLeft > 0)\n        ) {\n          event.preventDefault();\n\n          track.scrollBy({\n            left: event.deltaY,\n            behavior: \"auto\"\n          });\n        }\n      }\n    },\n    { passive: false }\n  );\n\n  \/* =========================\n     Reprocess Instagram embeds\n  ========================== *\/\n  if (\n    window.instgrm &&\n    window.instgrm.Embeds &&\n    typeof window.instgrm.Embeds.process === \"function\"\n  ) {\n    window.instgrm.Embeds.process();\n  }\n});\n<\/script>\n\n<section class=\"vp-race-instagram\">\n  <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__grid\">\n\n    <!-- Finisher Medal -->\n    <article class=\"vp-race-instagram__card\">\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__copy\">\n        <h3>Finisher Medal<\/h3>\n        <p>\n          A runner shared her growing race medal collection and joked that it was finally time for a medal rack.\n        <\/p>\n      <\/div>\n\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__embed\">\n        <blockquote\n          class=\"instagram-media\"\n          data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/DbzbDT0Fu_I\/\"\n          data-instgrm-version=\"14\">\n        <\/blockquote>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/article>\n\n\n    <!-- Race Keychain -->\n    <article class=\"vp-race-instagram__card\">\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__copy\">\n        <h3>Race Keychain<\/h3>\n        <p>\n          One race calls its finisher keychain \u201calways a hit\u201d and even upgraded it to a metal version.\n        <\/p>\n      <\/div>\n\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__embed\">\n        <blockquote\n          class=\"instagram-media\"\n          data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/Db4Gp-Nhjus\/\"\n          data-instgrm-version=\"14\">\n        <\/blockquote>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/article>\n\n\n    <!-- Enamel Pin -->\n    <article class=\"vp-race-instagram__card\">\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__copy\">\n        <h3>Enamel Pin<\/h3>\n        <p>\n          This 7K event included a finisher enamel pin as part of the race experience.\n        <\/p>\n      <\/div>\n\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__embed\">\n        <blockquote\n          class=\"instagram-media\"\n          data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/DbUT19ck2dy\/\"\n          data-instgrm-version=\"14\">\n        <\/blockquote>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/article>\n\n\n    <!-- Race Patch -->\n    <article class=\"vp-race-instagram__card\">\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__copy\">\n        <h3>Race Patch<\/h3>\n        <p>\n          A runner added her second finisher patch directly to her vest, turning each race into something she can wear and display.\n        <\/p>\n      <\/div>\n\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__embed\">\n        <blockquote\n          class=\"instagram-media\"\n          data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/C7Rs__Rgx_c\/\"\n          data-instgrm-version=\"14\">\n        <\/blockquote>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/article>\n\n\n    <!-- Race Swag -->\n    <article class=\"vp-race-instagram__card vp-race-instagram__card--last\">\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__copy\">\n        <h3>Race Swag<\/h3>\n        <p>\n          A Bentonville Half Marathon runner shared the race swag she brought home before race day.\n        <\/p>\n      <\/div>\n\n      <div class=\"vp-race-instagram__embed\">\n        <blockquote\n          class=\"instagram-media\"\n          data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/DWrjtuKmthw\/\"\n          data-instgrm-version=\"14\">\n        <\/blockquote>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/article>\n\n  <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-good-race-swag-can-do-for-your-event\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Good Race Swag Can Do for Your Event<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Well-planned race merchandise does more than give participants another free item. It can shape how runners remember the event and how they talk about it afterward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2714 <strong>Make registration more appealing:<\/strong> A distinctive medal, shirt, or finisher item can be one more reason a runner chooses your event over another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2714 <strong>Extend sponsor visibility:<\/strong> Shirts, bags, and drinkware can keep event and sponsor branding visible long after race weekend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2714 <strong>Encourage runners to keep and share it:<\/strong> A well-designed medal or memorable piece of race swag is more likely to be photographed, posted, and saved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2714 <strong>Build an annual collecting tradition:<\/strong> Keeping a consistent style while changing the year, color, or event theme can give returning runners something new to collect each season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Plan to order race merchandise at least six weeks before the event whenever possible.<\/strong> That leaves more room for artwork approval, production, shipping, and any last-minute changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"choose-the-right-race-merchandise-partner\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choose the Right Race Merchandise Partner<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you know what you want to offer, the next step is finding a supplier that can turn the idea into something production-ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">VeperPins creates custom race medals, keychains, enamel pins, and patches for running events of all sizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Send us your event logo, race date, estimated quantity, and any design ideas you already have. We can help turn them into a finished product that fits your event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"veperpins.com\">Contact VeperPins today and save 20% on your custom order.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column vp-blog-sidebar-wrap is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:344px\">\n<aside class=\"vp-sidebar\" aria-label=\"Article Sidebar\">\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box vp-side-cta\">\n    <h3>Need a Custom Quote?<\/h3>\n    <p>\n      Get factory-direct pricing, free design support, and fast production for custom promotional products.\n    <\/p>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/get-quote\/\" class=\"vp-side-btn\">Get Free Quote<\/a>\n  <\/section>\n\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box\">\n    <h3>Why Work With Us<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"vp-side-list\">\n      <li>Low Minimum Order Quantity<\/li>\n      <li>Free Artwork Support<\/li>\n      <li>Fast Turnaround<\/li>\n      <li>Worldwide Shipping<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/section>\n\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box\">\n    <h3>View Pricing<\/h3>\n    <div class=\"vp-side-tags\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-pins-pricing\/\">Custom Pins Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-coins-pricing\/\">Challenge Coins Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-medals-pricing\/\">Medals Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-keychains-pricing\/\">Keychains Pricing<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/custom-patches-pricing\/\">Patches Pricing<\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/section>\n\n  <section class=\"vp-side-box\">\n    <h3>Share This Article<\/h3>\n    <div class=\"vp-side-share\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https:\/\/veperpins.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Facebook<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https:\/\/veperpins.com\/&#038;text=Check%20this%20out\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">X<\/a>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/sharing\/share-offsite\/?url=https:\/\/veperpins.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">LinkedIn<\/a>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/section>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Table of Contents 5K and Marathon Finisher Medals Custom Keychains for Race Giveaways Enamel Pins for Marathon Events Patches for Running Clubs and Trail Events Race Coins as Finisher Keepsakes Cups, T-Shirts, and Race Bags Real Race Merchandise Examples What Good Race Swag Can Do for Your Event Choose the Right Race Merchandise Partner Table&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8788,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[55,62,63,69,61],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8778","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pins-guide","category-coins-guide","category-customer-showcase","category-keychains-guide","category-medals-guide"],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":55,"label":"Pins Guide"},{"value":62,"label":"Coins Guide"},{"value":63,"label":"Customer Showcase"},{"value":69,"label":"Keychains Guide"},{"value":61,"label":"Medals Guide"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/image-1024x576.webp",1024,576,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Shirya","author_link":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/author\/boom\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":55,"name":"Pins Guide","slug":"pins-guide","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":55,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Learn everything about custom pins, including types, design tips, materials, and manufacturing processes. Create high-quality custom enamel pins for your brand or event.","parent":0,"count":41,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":55,"category_count":41,"category_description":"Learn everything about custom pins, including types, design tips, materials, and manufacturing processes. Create high-quality custom enamel pins for your brand or event.","cat_name":"Pins Guide","category_nicename":"pins-guide","category_parent":0},{"term_id":62,"name":"Coins Guide","slug":"coins-guide","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":62,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Discover how to design custom coins and challenge coins, including materials, plating options, and manufacturing processes for unique creations.","parent":0,"count":25,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":62,"category_count":25,"category_description":"Discover how to design custom coins and challenge coins, including materials, plating options, and manufacturing processes for unique creations.","cat_name":"Coins Guide","category_nicename":"coins-guide","category_parent":0},{"term_id":63,"name":"Customer Showcase","slug":"customer-showcase","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":63,"taxonomy":"category","description":"View real customer projects including custom lapel pins, challenge coins, medals, keychains, and patches made for global clients.","parent":0,"count":4,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":63,"category_count":4,"category_description":"View real customer projects including custom lapel pins, challenge coins, medals, keychains, and patches made for global clients.","cat_name":"Customer Showcase","category_nicename":"customer-showcase","category_parent":0},{"term_id":69,"name":"Keychains Guide","slug":"keychains-guide","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":69,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Learn about custom keychains, including materials, styles, and design ideas. Ideal for promotions, branding, and personalized gifts.","parent":0,"count":8,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":69,"category_count":8,"category_description":"Learn about custom keychains, including materials, styles, and design ideas. Ideal for promotions, branding, and personalized gifts.","cat_name":"Keychains Guide","category_nicename":"keychains-guide","category_parent":0},{"term_id":61,"name":"Medals Guide","slug":"medals-guide","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":61,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Explore custom medals including design ideas, materials, finishes, and production methods. Perfect for sports events, competitions, and awards.","parent":0,"count":9,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":61,"category_count":9,"category_description":"Explore custom medals including design ideas, materials, finishes, and production methods. Perfect for sports events, competitions, and awards.","cat_name":"Medals Guide","category_nicename":"medals-guide","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8778","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8778"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8778\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8788"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8778"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8778"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/veperpins.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8778"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}