Morale patches
Custom morale patches are the small, swappable Velcro patches worn on caps, plate carriers, jackets and backpacks — unit insignia, team logos, inside jokes and callsigns. We make them in PVC and embroidered with the hook side fitted, from 50 pieces.
What a morale patch is
A morale patch is an unofficial patch worn on gear rather than on a regulation uniform: a unit or team mascot, a slogan, a flag, a joke that only the team understands. Almost all of them use a hook-and-loop backing so they can be changed between missions, trips or events. The Velcro system itself is explained in what a hook-and-loop patch is.
PVC or embroidered?
| PVC / rubber | Embroidered | |
|---|---|---|
| From (per patch) | $1.85 | $0.75 |
| Look | Moulded, 3D, crisp edges | Classic stitched texture |
| Weather | Waterproof, wipe-clean | Absorbs water; dries normally |
| Detail | Very fine lines and raised layers | Bold designs; text above about 5 mm |
| Best for | Outdoor, tactical and duty gear | Team, club and event patches at the lowest price |
The Velcro hook backing costs the same as sew-on. See all prices on the price list.
Standard morale patch sizes
| Size | Where it goes |
|---|---|
| 2 × 3 in | The standard: plate carriers, backpack panels, jacket sleeves |
| 3 in round | Unit and team logos |
| 1 × 4 in / 1 × 5 in | Callsign and name tapes |
| 2 × 3.5 in flag | Flag patches on sleeves |
Designing a morale patch that reads well
- Keep it simple. A patch is seen from a few feet away; one strong image beats a detailed scene.
- Use two to five solid colours. PVC handles more detail than embroidery, but fewer colours read better on both.
- Make any text bold: at least 5 mm tall on embroidered patches.
- Glow-in-the-dark and metallic threads are available; specialty thread adds 15%.
Specification
| Item | Standard |
|---|---|
| Minimum order | 50 pieces per design |
| Patch types | PVC, embroidered, woven |
| Backing | Hook (Velcro) side fitted; loop panels available |
| Proof | Free digital proof before production |
| Production | 10–12 business days standard, 5–7 rush at no extra charge |
| Shipping | Free, tracked, worldwide |
Common questions
How much do custom morale patches cost?
Embroidered morale patches start at $0.75 each at volume and PVC at $1.85. The hook backing is included at no extra charge.
What size is a standard morale patch?
2 × 3 inches. It fits the loop panels on most plate carriers, caps and backpacks.
Can morale patches be worn on uniforms?
Usually not on a regulation uniform — that is what makes them morale patches. They are worn on personal gear, bags and caps. For official placement rules see Army patch placement.
Are morale patches PVC or embroidered?
Both are common. PVC dominates on tactical and outdoor gear because it is waterproof; embroidered is the choice for team and event patches.
What is the minimum order?
50 pieces per design.
Related reading
- Custom Velcro patches — the full hook-backed range
- PVC and rubber patches — the usual morale patch face
- Velcro patches for backpacks — bag patches and loop panels
- Custom name patches — callsigns and name tapes