Short answer: Choose T-shirts for a casual crew look and polos when a collar suits the business. Neither garment name proves better comfort, durability or protection. Compare the actual fabric, fit and care instructions, try the shirt with normal work layers, and keep the company colour and logo consistent across roles.
Part of Uniforms and workwear. Planning an order? Explore Work Uniforms in Calgary.
Compare the garment with the actual workday
| Decision | T-shirt | Polo |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | A casual option for crews, counter staff and event teams | A collared option for reception, supervisors or customer-facing roles |
| Movement and fit | Check sleeve, body length and the exact style chart | Check the collar, placket, sleeve and body fit during normal movements |
| Layers | Try it under the usual apron, hoodie or jacket | Check how the collar and chest logo sit with normal outer layers |
| Logo placement | Discuss chest, back or sleeve artwork on the selected shirt | Review the placket, seams and available space before fixing a chest print |
| Care | Read the garment label and supplied print-care instructions | Read the specific label; a polo is not automatically suitable for hotter washing |
| Budget | Published standard T-shirt starting prices can frame the request | Ask for a tailored quote for the actual polo, quantity and print locations |
Fabric and construction vary within both categories. A T-shirt and a polo can each be cotton, polyester or a blend, and the garment name alone does not establish performance. Compare the proposed products rather than assuming every polo is a heavier or more formal version of the same tee.
Decide what makes the uniforms look like one team
- Choose a colour direction, then confirm available colours for each garment.
- Use one approved logo version unless a light or dark garment needs an authorized alternative.
- Review artwork dimensions on each style; a pocket or placket can change the available space.
- Record the quantity and size breakdown separately for T-shirts and polos.
- Confirm any proposed substitution before treating it as the approved uniform.
ANCO uses DTF transfers applied with a heat press. The STAHLS application guide explains why seams and other raised construction affect application. A logo location that works on a flat tee still needs review on a particular polo. ANCO does not advertise embroidery as a current service.
Illustrative example: a mixed service team
One identity, two garment choices
Illustrative example · Not a documented customer order
A Calgary business has four field staff and two office staff. The coordinator proposes three tees for each field staff member and two polos for each office staff member: 12 tees and four polos, or 16 garments in total.
The request keeps the two garments in separate rows with their own sizes and print dimensions. The published 12-tee package can be a starting point for the tees if its conditions fit; the four polos need a separate quoted amount. It would be misleading to price all 16 pieces at the T-shirt starting rate.
The example is an allocation exercise, not an ANCO customer order or a recommended allowance. Use your shift and laundry arrangements to decide quantities. The work-uniform planning guide helps turn headcount into a deliberate clothing allocation.
Check fit, then request the actual combination
Give staff the chart for the proposed style. The BELLA+CANVAS 3001 sheet illustrates style-specific measurements for one T-shirt; it is not a polo chart or evidence of ANCO stock. Avoid transferring a person's size label between garments without checking.
Send the garment mix, size breakdown, logo, locations and requested date to ANCO's Calgary work-uniform service. For an all-tee crew, use the custom T-shirt service. Save the approved combination in your uniform reorder worksheet so the next coordinator has the same starting point.
Sources and scope
Manufacturer examples explain specific products and do not confirm ANCO stock, equipment or suppliers. ANCO reviews the proposed garment, artwork and order before confirming suitability.