Selecting the Right Type of Character

The first thing to decide when acquiring a mascot costume is what type of character it will be. There are three general categories to select from:

• Animal costumes.
• Fantasy creature costumes.
• People costumes.

Based on our experience, animal costumes are the best choice for most organizations. As a second choice, we recommend a fantasy mascot costume over a person for the following reasons:

• Animal costumes generally have a warmer, friendlier look than people ones. They will therefore have greater appeal with your mascot's primary audience, children.
• People have fewer prejudices about animals than humans. Accordingly, the selection of an animal mascot costume is unlikely to spawn the political correctness controversy that a human mascot could. These reduced stereotypes will also give performers in animal costumes freer rein in developing entertainment routines.

In addition to these considerations, you should choose a character that is relevant to your organization's name and/or business enterprise. This will help reinforce the connection between the mascot and your organization.

For example, a sports team named the Timberwolves would be wise to select a wolf as its mascot. If they wanted a fantasy creature, a werewolf character would be the logical choice. A construction company may choose a beaver as its mascot. Airlines and courier companies, meanwhile, may pick an animal noted for speed, like an eagle or a cheetah. If there is no obvious connection, you may choose an animal that is native to your geographic area. Regardless, animal costumes are likely a better fit in these scenarios.

Selecting a Custom Mascot Costumes Manufacturer

After deciding on the type of character desired, you will need to select a mascot costume manufacturer. There are several factors to consider here:

• The price of their custom mascot costumes.
• The company's reputation for original design and quality craftsmanship.
• The warranty provided on the custom mascot costumes.
• The associated services provided.

You can purchase custom mascot costumes from $1000 to $10,000, depending on the quality and gadgetry you want. For a basic costume that will stand up well to active use for 3-5 years, anticipate spending between $4000 and $6000.

When you start shopping around at various custom mascot costumes manufacturers, pay attention to design specifications they propose for your mascot. In particular, look for the following qualities of a "GOOD" mascot costume:

• Light weight (5-7 kilograms or 10-15 pounds total).
• Constructed with sturdy, durable materials proven to stand up to wear, abuse, and water. However, you should avoid costumes made with metal, paper mache, plastic, or upholstery foam.
• Well ventilated.
• Provides good range of vision.
• Permits for unencumbered body movements by the performer.
• An original design that is cute and cuddly.
• Comes with a minimum one-year service warranty.
• Easy to maintain.

For more information about Street Characters, call our toll-free number 1-888-MASCOTS or refer to our Street Characters Contacts page.