Marathon T-Shirt: A Unique and Customizable Design

Creating Memorable T-Shirts for Marathon Runners

Marathons are not just about the race; they represent dedication, perseverance, and a sense of accomplishment. To celebrate the spirit of marathon running, Chika Kakazu designed the Marathon T-Shirt, a unique and customizable design that captures the essence of the event.

The inspiration for the Marathon T-Shirt came from the concept of marathons, runners, and Tokyo. Kakazu aimed to create a design that would resonate with marathon runners from around the world. By incorporating minimalistic icons that relate to these three concepts, the design captures the attention of both local and international participants.

What sets the Marathon T-Shirt apart is its customization feature. As a complimentary gift service at a café in Tokyo, all marathon attendees receive a T-shirt that they can personalize with their target or finish time and their favorite icons. This customization event not only creates a special reward for the runners but also increases awareness of the café.

The realization of the Marathon T-Shirt involved the use of Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop. The icons were created as shimmering metallic heat transfer labels, allowing them to be easily applied to the T-shirts during the event. Each icon measures approximately 30-40mm in width and height, ensuring a visually appealing and balanced design.

One of the design challenges faced by Kakazu was the need to create a design that stood out from the multitude of Japan-themed designs already available. By focusing on simplicity and intelligibility, the Marathon T-Shirt appeals to a global audience, making it an attractive choice for marathon runners from all over the world.

The Marathon T-Shirt project was executed in Tokyo, Japan, from February 28 to March 4, 2019. The design received positive feedback from participants, who appreciated the opportunity to customize their T-shirts and create a lasting memory of their marathon experience.

Recognizing its excellence, the Marathon T-Shirt was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2022. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate innovation, practicality, and adherence to professional and industrial standards.

The Marathon T-Shirt is not just a piece of clothing; it represents the dedication and achievement of marathon runners. With its unique customization feature and minimalist design, it serves as a tangible reminder of the marathon experience and a symbol of personal accomplishment.