When it comes to choosing the right uniform, the look and branding often take centre stage. But one detail that has a major impact on comfort, durability, and performance is often overlooked: fabric weight. Understanding fabric weight helps businesses make smart, climate-appropriate choices that keep teams comfortable year-round. What Is Fabric Weight? Fabric weight is measured in grams per square metre (GSM) and indicates how heavy or dense a fabric is. A low GSM means the fabric is lightweight and breathable. A high GSM signals a thicker, more insulating fabric. Why It Matters Hot Climates & Indoor Roles: Lightweight fabrics (120-160 GSM) offer breathability and moisture-wicking properties. These are ideal for industries like healthcare, kitchens, and aged care where temperatures regulation is crucial for comfort and performance. Cooler Climates & Outdoor Roles: Mid- to heavyweight fabrics (180-300+ GSM) provide insulation, wind resistance, and structure. They're best for environments where exposure to the elements or fluctuating temperatures is a factor - like warehouses, retail doors, or delivery teams. Durability Needs: It's a myth that heavier fabrics are always more durable. The weave, fabric type, and fibre blend also matter. For instance, a tightly woven lightweight poly-cotton can outlast a loosely woven heavy cotton. The key is matching the fabric to the work conditions. Matching Fabric to Role Role Recommended GSM Reason Healthcare 140–160 Lightweight for breathability and comfort during long shifts; easy to wash frequently Hospitality Back-of-House 160–180 Breathable to cope with kitchen heat, while offering enough structure for durability Retail 180–200 Slightly heavier fabrics provide a polished appearance and handle long hours of wear Logistics/Warehouse 200–240 Offers warmth and resilience needed for physical work in varying conditions Arrow's Fabric Philosophy At Arrow, we don't default to "one-fabric-fits-all". We collaborate with clients to understand their working environments, layering needs, and climate challenges. Then we match fabric weight to those specific needs - ensuring the result is not just a uniform, but a smart solution. Need help choosing the right fabric weight for you or your team? Chat to our team about custom recommendations!

From long hospital shifts to fast-paced hospitality environments, the right footwear isn't a luxury – it's a necessity. That's why Arrow Uniforms proudly partners with Toffeln®, a brand that has revolutionsied workplace footwear with comfort, science, and safety at the core. Designed for Professionals Who Are Always on Their Feet Toffeln® doesn't just make shoes – they engineer comfort. Each pair is the result of extensive research with healthcare professionals and clinical biomechanics experts. Whether you're a nurse on a 12-hour shift or a chef moving between prep and plating, Toffeln® shoes are designed to protect your posture, reduce fatigue, and support your stride. What makes them different? Ergonomic support reduces pressure on joints and back Slip-resistant soles for safety in high-risk environments Breathable, antimicrobial materials for all-day freshness Lightweight construction that doesn't compromise durability Science-Backed Comfort: Tried, Tested, Trusted According to Toffeln®'s internal studies, wearers experience a median 50% reduction in pain after switching to Toffeln® footwear. That's not just comfort – it's better performance, reduced absenteeism, and long-term wellness for your team. Popular models like the SmartSole Trainers and the Ultralite Clogs are built using Toffeln®'s Flexible Air System, which includes cushioned insoles, shock absorption, and flex points that adapt to the foot's natural motion. Perfect Fit for Healthcare, Aged Cared, and Hospitality Toffeln® styles available through Arrow Uniforms cater to multiple sectors: Healthcare & Aged Care: Closed-in designs like FlexiKlog and ErgoKlog offer cleanability, safety, and anti-static properties – perfect for medical environments. Hospitality: Breathable mesh trainers like the SmartSole range offer a smart-casual look with performance-grad comfort. Lab & Food Service: Easy-to-sanitise slip-ons are ideal for sterile or hygiene-critical areas. As part of Arrow's uniform solutions, we ensure Toffeln® footwear is integrated into your team's uniform rollout seamlessly – with the correct sizes, styles, and colourways that align with your workplace identity. Exclusive in New Zealand Through Arrow Toffeln® footwear is exclusively available in New Zealand through Arrow Uniforms, making it easier than every for Kiwi businesses to access internationally trusted footwear innovation. Whether you're outfitting a new team or upgrading your current supply, our team can help you build Toffeln® into your broader uniform solution. Why Choose Toffeln® Through Arrow? → Product expertise to recommend the best styles by role→ Try-on kits to ensure accurate sizing across your team→ Seamless ordering and reordering through myArrow→ Exclusive access to full Toffeln® footwear range and ongoing support Ready to Put Your Best Foot Forward? Toffeln® footwear helps your team stay comfortable, safe and focused – shift after shift. Chat to our team today about adding Toffeln® to your uniform programme or request a sample to experience the comfort first-hand.

As the year winds down and the holiday break draws near, it's the perfect time for businesses to reflect, reset and prepare. Among the many things to tick off your year-end checklist, uniforms might not seem top of mind – but ensuring your team looks and feels ready from day one in 2026 can make all the difference. At Arrow Uniforms, we know that uniforms do more than cover the basics. They shape first impressions, support performance, and build team identity. So, how can you set your team up for success in the new year? 1. Do a Uniform Audit Before everyone signs off for the year, take a stock of what you have – and what needs replacing. Are any garments worn, stained or damaged? Are sizes still accurate for your current teams? Are new staff members joining in January who'll need uniforms on day one? A quick condition and inventory check now avoids last-minute scrambles in January! 2. Refresh & Replace Strategically Even high-quality garments have a lifecycle. Look for signs of fading, fraying, or loss of structure – especially in high-rotation roles like hospitality or healthcare. Pro tip: Refreshing just one or two uniform elements (e.g., a new branded shirt or updated jacket) can reinvigorate your team's look without overhauling the entire range. 3. Plan Ahead for Onboarding New year = new starters. Make sure incoming staff feel valued from day one with uniforms that fit properly and align with your brand. Book fittings in advance (or use myArrow™ to streamline) Ensure branding/embroidery is confirmed early Have starter packs ready to go 4. Avoid the January Rush The start of the year is often the busiest time for uniform rollouts. By getting your order in early, you avoid delays and ensure your team hits the ground running. Think now, wear later. Get ahead of 2026 with scheduled delivery or staggered rollouts. 5. Set Uniform Goals for the Year Ahead Use this moment to reassess your uniform programme overall: Is your range still functional and fit for purpose? Are you exploring more sustainable or locally made options? Is your branding still on-point? Getting input from team leads now can help guide updates or improvements that align with your 2026 business goals. Ready to Start Fresh? Uniforms aren't just part of the job – they're part of the experience. Set your team up for success by starting the new year looking sharp, feeling confident, and ready to take on what's next. Talk to us now about your 2026 uniform plan – before the holiday break begins!

At Arrow Uniforms, NZ Made isn't a tagline – it's our blueprint. For decades, we've been designing and producing uniforms that work, right here in New Zealand. On NZ Made Day, we celebrate not just where we make our garments, but how we make them – and most importantly, who makes them. Every trim, logo, and stitch is part of a story that started in 1990 with our founder. It's how we know what works for New Zealanders – because we've been dressing them for generations. Where It All Comes Together: Inside Our Local Workshop Step inside our factory and you'll hear it – the hum of embroidery machines, the snap of scissors, the press of steaming irons. These aren't just sounds of work. They're the soundtrack of the team that has spent over 12,700 days crafting uniforms that meet the unique demands of New Zealand's healthcare, hospitality, and corporate sectors. Meet the team behind the thread: 2 Designers 2 Garment Technicians 1 Pattern Maker 1 Cutter Machinists An Artwork Digitiser Embroidery & Print Teams Alterations & Badges Experts Every role matters. Every person behind the product is a thread in the fabric of Arrow. Why NZ Made Still Matters Despite the sewing industry in New Zealand being considered a sunset sector and in an industry where offshoring dominates, we've chosen a different path; we do both. This keeps skills and careers local, supports regional economies, champions quality over quantity, bespoke over bulk and speed over shipping. Yet we still have the contacts to produce offshore when we need to. Local manufacturing gives us: Unmatched flexibility – perfect for bespoke orders and short runs Speed to deliver – because time matters Customisation at its finest – from extra-small to 8XL and beyond This isn't one-size-fits-all. This is tailored for real people. What NZ Made Looks Like in Action When our clients wear Arrow uniforms, they're wearing: Pride in local craftsmanship Confidence in performance-tested garments Care stitched into every seam Keeping one of your neighbours employed From concept to delivery, every detail is designed for purpose – because your team deserves uniforms that work as hard as they do. A Toast to the Team, and to New Zealand Today, we honor our people, our process, and our place in New Zealand's vibrant manufacturing story. Whether you've worn our scrubs, blazers, or branded polos – you've worn a piece of Kiwi ingenuity. Here's to NZ Made.

As a long-standing partner to the healthcare and aged care sectors, Arrow Uniforms is committed to understanding the evolving needs of carers, nurses, and support teams across Aotearoa. That's why we recently attended the 2025 Aged Care Association Conference – not just to showcase what we do, but to listen, learn, and lead the conversation around what comes next in workwear for this vital industry. Why We Showed Up At Arrow, we believe uniforms do more than identify a team – they support performance, protect staff, and represent the values of an organisation. In the aged care space, where compassion and professionalism must go hand in hand, the right uniform can make a genuine difference. Attending this year's conference offered valuable insight into the challenges and innovations shaping aged care, from staff wellbeing and workforce shortages to infection control and sustainability. Top Three Takeaways from the Conference 1. Comfort & Fit Are Non-Negotiable Across the board, there were discussions around the growing need for uniforms that feel as good as they look. Long shifts and physically demanding work make comfort essential, not a luxury. That's why stretch fabrics and breathable materials are no longer just a "nice to have". They're expected. Aged care professionals want clothes that work for people who care – uniforms made from the same kind of flexible, comfort-driven fabrics we enjoy in our leisure time, but with the durability and professionalism required in the workplace. Today's uniforms are a world away from rigid, unforgiving garments of the past. They move with you, adapt to changing temperatures, and support carers in doing what they do best: caring for others. 2. Infection Control Remains Top of Mind Post-pandemic, infection prevention is no longer a back-office concern – it's core to frontline operations. Uniforms made with antimicrobial finishes and easy-care fabrics were hot topics, highlighting the growing demand for hygienic, safe workwear than can withstand frequent industrial laundering.Another growing concern? Care teams want reassurance that uniforms can be washed safely at home. Confidence in the ability to launder garments thoroughly – and even iron them if needed – is now a key part of infection control conversations. Garments must withstand frequent washing without losing shape of performance, making durability and domestic washability a must. 3. Sustainability Is an Expectation, Not a Bonus Sustainable practices aren't a future goal – they're a present day expectation. Many attendees spoke about the pressure to align with environmentally responsible suppliers and partners. At Arrow, we're proud to be ahead of the curve with: Recycled fibres, including garments made from repurposed PET bottles Eco-conscious dyeing processes that minimise water and chemical use AROUND, our end-of-use uniform recycling programme, designed to keep textiles out of landfill and in circulation More than ever, providers are looking for partners who share their values. Sustainability is no longer a competitive advantage – it's a baseline requirement. Where Arrow Fits In: Innovation Rooted in Empathy We walked away from the conference reaffirmed in our mission: to delivery uniforms solutions that support those who care for others. Our response includes: Fabrics that move with you – lightweight, stretch-infused scrubs and polos Antimicrobial options – designed for clinical safety and hygiene Sustainable choices – including garments made from recycled PET bottles Simplified rollout – via our myArrow™ platform and managed fit-outs Whether it's reducing wardrobe complexity or helping aged care teams feel proud in what they wear, we're here to make uniforms work harder and smarter. Looking Ahead The aged care industry is facing change, but also opportunity. Providers that embrace innovation in their operations, including their uniforms, will be better placed to support their teams and communities. Arrow is ready to partner with you on that journey. From modernised fits to sustainable fabric technology, our solutions are made with care – for carers. Ready to Refresh Your Uniform Programme? If you're reviewing your uniform strategy or looking for better options for your aged care team, get in touch with Arrow for a tailored consultation. Let's create clothes that work for people who care!

Arrow Uniforms’ new Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing service is changing the game for fast, high-quality customisation. Now available on our Ready to Brand collection, DTF delivers soft, durable, and ultra-detailed prints – perfect for intricate logos, gradients, and technical fabrics. Discover how this in-house service streamlines the branding process, compares to embroidery and Supacolour, and what you need to supply the perfect artwork. Ready to elevate your branded apparel? Start here!

When we manufacture uniforms and deliver them to our customers, one of the first questions we ask ourselves is: How will these be washed and cared for? It might not sound exciting, but it's critical. A great looking uniform won't stay that way if it's difficult to care for – and staff won't thank you for garments that need special treatment every washday. Easy Care Means Happy Wearers If a uniform's instructions read like a chemistry experiment – "Do not wash in hot water. Soak overnight in cold. Avoid detergent. Dry in shade. Do not tumble dry." – you may as well add "Do not wear"! Uniforms have to be easy to wash, easy to dry, and quick to wear again tomorrow. The simpler it is to care for, the more likely it is to be worn proudly and regularly. What's on the Label? New Zealand regulations require all garments sold here to include: Country of origin (where garment was made) Fabric composition (in percentages) Washing instructions in plain English Many garments also feature a CARE label with tiny symbols that can look like a secret code. These are mostly intended for commercial laundries and dry cleaners to help them choose the right methods and chemicals. Keep It Simple Almost all Arrow Uniforms garments are designed for easy care in standard domestic washing machines, using well-known branded detergents available at supermarkets. Avoid unbranded or discount detergents – they often contain harsh chemicals or bleaching agents that prematurely age fabrics and fade colours. Top Tip Cold washes are great for saving energy and protecting fabrics – but every so often, run your uniforms through a warm wash. Most detergents perform best at slightly higher temperatures, giving your uniforms an extra level of cleanliness and freshness (and your washing machine will thank you too). Uniforms that are easy to care for: get worn more often look better for longer help your team feel sharp and professional every day So next time you look at a care label – make sure it really does mean easy care.

In healthcare, aged care, and beauty, every day is fast-paced, physical, and full of purpose. That's why we developed NanoStretch, a next-generation scrub fabric engineered for comfort, movement, and performance – made for people who never stop moving. The Science Behind NanoStretch At first glance, NanoStretch scrubs look simple and sleek. But behind the design lies a carefully balanced blend of performance fibres: 42% Polyester | 19% Recycled Polyester | 19% Graphene | 16% Rayon | 4% Spandex This combination delivers flexibility, durability, and comfort in every shift – with fabric technology that adapts to high-tempo, high-touch roles. What sets NanoStretch apart: 4-Way Stretch: Allows full range of motion for bending, lifting, and reaching without restriction Balanced Weight (190gsm): Substantial enough to provide structure and coverage while still offering breathable comfort Faster Drying: Dries faster than traditional polycotton or polyviscose blends, helping busy professionals manage quick turnarounds Soft Touch: Rayon content provides a smooth, comfortable feel against the skin for all-day wear Reduced Creasing: Designed to hold its shape well and resist significant wrinkling, keeping teams looking sharp throughout the day Designed for Real Work, Not the Runway Innovation isn't about flashy features – it's about function that makes a difference. NanoStretch scrubs were refined through feedback from healthcare and care sector professionals who told us what they really need: Freedom to move without feeling restricted Durable comfort that lasts through long shifts Easy-care wearability between washes A professional, modern look that fits how they work Every pocket, seam, and panel is purpose-built – blending movement, function, and performance into a scrub that actually supports the people who wear it. Innovation with a Lighter Footprint While NanoStretch isn't made entirely from recycled materials, it does include recycled polyester fibres, giving a portion of the fabric a more sustainable edge. It's a practical step forward in Arrow's ongoing commitment to responsible design and lower-impact uniform solutions. We're continuously working to integrate smarter, more sustainable materials – without compromising the performance and quality teams rely on. Ready to Move Better? When your day demands flexibility, reliability, and comfort that lasts, NanoStretch scrubs are designed to deliver. Explore the NanoStretch Scrubs Collection.

If you've ever noticed polo shirt collars curling up at the edges – especially after a few washes – you're not alone. While it may seem like a minor detail, this issue is a clear sign of poor manufacturing. And for a uniform, where first impressions matter, a curly collar just doesn't cut it. So, what's going on here? The Anatomy of a Proper Polo Collar In high-quality polos, the collar is more than just an afterthought – it's precision engineered. A well-constructed collar is: Knitted on a specialist machine, Made to a specific length, Designed to match the neckline exactly When these steps are followed, the result is a collar that lays flat and holds its shape. Every time. No curls. No fuss. The Shortcut Some Manufacturers Take Unfortunately, not all polo shirts are made this way. To cut costs, some manufacturers use a "one-size-fits-most" approach to collars. Instead of making collars that match the shirt precisely, they stretch a slightly smaller collar to fit the neckline. At first glance, it might look okay. But once that shirt goes through a few wash cycles, the tension reveals itself. The overstretched collar begins to curl – leaving wearers looking unkempt and uniforms appearing subpar. Why This Matters for Uniforms Uniforms are more than clothing – they're a reflection of your brand. Inconsistent details like a curling collar can: Undermine professionalism, Impact team confidence, Diminish the overall impression your team makes If you're investing in uniforms, you deserve consistency, durability, and quality in every detail – including the collar. The Arrow Difference At Arrow Uniforms, we don't believe in shortcuts. Our polos are engineered with precision, using collars that are made to fit. We take pride in the small details because we know they're what elevate a uniform from acceptable to exceptional. Not sure if your current polos measure up? Check the collar. If it's curling, it might be time to rethink your uniform supplier. Or better yet – talk to us. We'll make sure your team always looks the part.

Uniforms shouldn't be complicated. They should be consistent, practical, and a powerful expression of your brand. At Arrow Uniforms, we make the process simple – whether you're a nationwide organisation rolling out thousands of garments or a small business refreshing your team's look. From design insight and garment engineering to online management tools and sustainability solutions, we're here to make uniforms not just easy – but effective. Expertise That Scales With You Whether you're managing a nationwide tender, rolling out a new look across multiple sites, or refreshing uniforms for a small business, Arrow is your trusted partner. For large organisations, we take on the technical heavy lifting: Developing fit-for-purpose specifications Reviewing fabric quality, fit, and construction Ensuring compliance and cost-effectiveness It's not just about appearance – it's about durability, performance, and consistency. Corporatewear That Tells Your Story Corporate uniforms need to do more than look professional. They should project confidence, align with your brand, and deliver comfort for the people who wear them every day. We bring design thinking and commercial insight together, helping you strike the perfect balance between identity, performance, and budget. And in client-facing industries, we know presentation can even help you win business. That's why we design with impact in mind. Supporting Business of Every Size Not every project involves thousands of garments – and we love that. We're just as passionate about helpings SMEs refresh their look or launch a uniform for the first time. By tapping into our stock-supported ranges, smaller teams can build collections that feel uniquely theirs – without long waits or high minimums. Right now, we're working with a standout Kiwi retailer doing exactly that: creating a fresh new look that reflects their brand without unnecessary complexity. Innovation That Simplifies and Sustains Uniform management shouldn't be a headache. With myArrow™, our easy-to-use system, multi-site organisations and fast-moving teams can: Simplify ordering and allocations Track usage across cost centres Maintain visibility and control at every step And with AROUND, our end-of-use garment solution, you can close the look responsibly. This initiative ensures uniforms are returned, recycled, or repurposed – supporting your sustainability goals while protecting your brand. Why Arrow? Behind every garment is a team with deep expertise in design, product development, garment engineering, and quality control. We don't just know what looks good – we know how to make it work, last, and perform in the real world. Most importantly, we're great partners to work with. Our clients value not only our technical know-how, but also our energy, pragmatism, and commitment to making the process simple. At Arrow, we're not just uniform suppliers. We're uniform innovation partners – helping your team look sharp, perform smart, and stay ahead.

Quality matters most when it's not something you have to think about. That's why we've designed our uniforms to perform reliably - day after day, wash after wash. Whether it's a clinical environment, a busy front desk, or a hands-on role in hospitality, every garment we make is built to support the people wearing it. Not through flashy features or bold claims - but through quiet, consistent attention to detail. What's behind the garment matters just as much as what's on show The strength and durability of a uniform starts long before it reaches the wearer. It begins with small, often unseen decisions - made at the pattern table, on the sewing line, and during final checks. Bar tacks are placed at high-stress points - like pocket corners, vents, and belt loops - to reinforce the areas that take the most wear. Safety-stitching prevents seams from unravelling, even after regular industrial laundering. Thread tension is carefully adjusted so seams stretch when they need to - "grinning" rather than bursting under pressure. Consistent seam allowances and durable hems help maintain shape and structure across dozens of wash cycles. Trims and threads are matched to fabric, so nothing becomes a weak point with time. It's not just about how a garment looks when it's new - but how it holds up after months of wear. Fit, form, and function - designed with the job in mind Comfort and practicality are just as important as durability. That's why we pay close attention to how a garment fits - not just on a model, but on real people doing real work. Room across the back and shoulders allows for natural movement - whether reaching, lifting, or stretching. Shirt and trouser lengths are tailored so they sit right and stay in place throughout the day. Pockets are sized and placed for easy, secure access - where they're actually useful, not just decorative. Each design choice is there for a reason - so wearers feel comfortable, capable, and professional from start to finish. Fewer issues, because we get it right from the beginning Any issue with a uniform - be it fit, durability, or design - eventually becomes a customer service issue. That's something we aim to avoid by getting things right at the very beginning. By investing time in design, pattern-making, and production standards, we reduce the chance of problems later. It's a preventative approach that saves time, reduces waste, and supports the people who wear our garments every day. A quiet commitment to doing things properly We know that our customers rely on their uniforms to work just as hard as they do. That's why we don't cut corners. From the inside seam to the outer finish, we aim for reliability - not just on day one, but for the long haul. When garments fit well, perform well, and last, they become one less thing for teams to worry about. That's the kind of quality we believe in.

In the world of textiles, fabric tells more than a fashion story – it defines purpose. The tailoring industry often reveres ultra-fine European wools and light wool blends for their luxurious feel, sophisticated drape, and prestige for use in high-end corporate tailoring and haute couture. But step into a hospital, a kitchen, or a busy retail floor, and these delicate fabrics simply wouldn't hold up - the fabric is just too thin. So, what makes a fabric work for workwear? The Finer the Fabric, the Higher the Risk High-end suiting fabrics are typically light in weight and woven from ultra-fine yarns, often wool or luxury blends. These are the showpieces of fashion runways and boutique collections – designed for visual impact, not repeated wear under pressure. Their allure comes at a cost: Higher price point due to rarity and craftsmanship Delicate handling requirements, including dry cleaning and specific storage Easily damaged Limited durability, especially when exposed to friction, pulling, or sharp edges In fact, the very characteristics that make these fabrics sought-after in designer circles make them unsuitable for workplace environments where uniforms need to last, move and protect. Why "Cheaper" Fabrics Last Longer Workwear demands something else entirely: practicality, strength, launderability and longevity. That's why Cotton, Polycotton, and Polyester blends are industry staples across healthcare, hospitality, and service sectors. While they may not turn heads in a fashion editorial, they delivery where it counts: Durability – Engineered to resist snags, tears, and fading Easy care – Machine washable, quick-drying, and often crease-resistant Affordability at scale – Cost-effective for outfitting large teams without compromising on performance It might sound counterintuitive, but "rougher" constructions almost always mean, longer life. Tightly woven polyester, for example, is harder to tear than ultra-fine wool and is also easier to care for. In this way, functionality beats finesse every time for demanding roles. Design Innovation Meets Durability at Arrow At Arrow Uniforms, we design fabrics not for catwalks – but for careers. In saying that, our uniforms have wowed high-society and featured on the runway in NZ Fashion Week. Functionality can be achieved with creativity to combine form with function. Our in-house design team collaborates closely with our suppliers to craft textiles that balance comfort, durability, and visual appeal. Innovations like: Antimicrobial fabric finishes Moisture-wicking blends and Temperature-regulating fibres ...allow us to push the boundaries of what "workwear" can be, without sacrificing performance or aesthetic. Key Takeaway: Fabric Tells a Story – Make Sure It's the Right One Choosing fabric for uniforms isn't just about appearance – it's about how it performs under pressure, how long it lasts, how it washes up day after day, and how it supports the people wearing it. So while finely tailored luxury suits may shine in showrooms, workwear shines on the floor – doing the hard jobs, wash after wash, day after day.