by Shaina Rogers | January 26, 2026
Last week, a handful of us from Kotis headed to PPAI, where we got an inside look at what’s next in promotional products. Between discovering smart new designs and seeing familiar favorites reimagined, we came back genuinely inspired. Now, we’re excited to share a few of the standout products that caught our attention—and why they’re worth a closer look.
While simple enough of a design, this patented water bottle gained a lot of buzz on the showroom floor. The built-in magnetic MagSafe-compatible ring lets you mount your phone right on the bottle, so you can follow workouts, film content, or watch videos hands-free. We were surprised to see how functional and sleek the whole design played out.
The Corkcicle Crossbody Belt Bag stood out for being genuinely easy to wear and use. We loved the tonal decorations and matching hardware, which give it a more elevated, retail feel, while the flexible crossbody or waist styling makes it a practical, hands-free option that still looks polished.
We were excited to see some more Rains apparel, especially in such a beautiful color. What bummed us out most is that we won’t have access to it until the end of Q2. However, the quilting, the color, the bomber silhouette all made for a gorgeous and trendy jacket.
Troubadour knocked it out of the park with this design and color palette. Every aspect of this bag felt like someone spent a great deal of time asking the question “how can I make it even better?” Our favorite part? The phone pocket in the strap that unfolds to support a standard size iPhone, then tucks back in when not in use. Best for people on-the-go who need laptop protection and a comfortable fit.
Sunski’s new sun care products caught our eye for how wearable they feel- the sunstick is incredibly buttery soft and easy to apply on the go, and the face sunscreen has a smooth, non-greasy finish that actually feels pleasant on skin, making both great everyday options rather than just another promo giveaway. Bundle it with a pair of Sunski sunglasses and you have an amazing summer treat!
The Marine Layer Cloud 9 Tee impressed us with its substantial, heavier weight that still feels incredibly soft to the touch. The women’s cut sits right at the hip rather than below it, giving it a more modern, flattering fit, and the fabric drapes beautifully when worn—one of those tees you can feel the quality of the moment you put it on. It’s available in 4 colors, up to 2XL.We cannot recommend this tee enough.
With golf continuing to grow, the Nomadix Golf Towel stood out as a smart, sport-specific design. It’s thoughtfully made for the course, with a carabiner to keep it clipped to your bag and a built-in magnet that holds the two towels together. There are a few co-branding locations available, but we’d recommend a clean embroidery on the bottom of the larger towel for the best, understated look. Available in Spring.
We weren’t sure about open-ear earbuds at first, but the Shokz Open Fit stayed put even after jumping around like maniacs. The sound is surprisingly full and clear, and the lightweight design makes them perfect for all-day wear.
With Matcha on the rise, we loved to see Fellow’s Matcha set front and center at their display. Sleek lines and beautiful colors are always the theme for Fellow.
Speaking of Fellow, check out their new colorways for their Carter Mug! Fun, bold, and perfectly springtime-these will be a blast to cobrand with your logo!
Messenger-style bags are trending, and Nomatic nails the hybrid look. We loved how this backpack seamlessly converts to a messenger, making it feel polished enough for work but still practical for everyday carry. Add your logo to the top pocket to keep this bag looking sleek and refined.
Stanley/Stella really caught our eye at PPAI with bold colors, on-trend fits, and apparel that just felt good. Their decoration was especially inspiring and showed how far thoughtful design can take a simple blank.
We loved the unique panels on this crewneck, and the soft texture and retail-inspired colorways is icing on the cake.
A mini fridge on wheels, this unique cooler requires no ice and will keep your food cold while plugged in. Perfect for van camping or any spot with power.
The North Face Travel Backpack taps into the messenger-meets-backpack trend with a smart, convertible design. It’s roomy enough for a weekend trip, easy to pair with rolling luggage for longer travel, and streamlined enough to use as an everyday commuter bag.
A polo that checks every box: retail-inspired colors, a flattering fit, and performance features like moisture-fighting, odor-wicking fabric. It’s why we loved the Mercer + Mettle Women’s Everyday Performance Polo.
It may look unassuming, but don’t be fooled. This thing is cavernous (I’m convinced it could fit my Labrador), and the added structured grab handle is a smart detail—you’ll need it once it’s loaded up with everything it can carry.
These Crocs totes come in three sizes and three colors, each featuring a removable Jibbitz charm you can place on the front or back of the bag. With the option to add even more Jibbitz, it’s an easy, playful way to customize the tote and turn a practical carryall into a bold brand moment.
Everything we love about the Owala FreeSip—now with upgrades we actually want: a larger, more comfortable carry handle, a secure locking lid, and a cup-holder-friendly base. It just might be our new favorite water bottle.
North End is adding a quarter‑zip in their signature textured fabric, and we’re excited. While the release date is still TBD, the style, color, and texture are all on‑trend and totally worth the wait. Watch our CEO testing out the trending quarter zips.
We’re becoming big fans of the Swannies polos—lightweight, stylish, and effortlessly versatile. Loved by golfers and anyone who values comfort, they’re the perfect solution for going seamlessly from work to play.
Aultra-slim, credit-card–sized phone charger with 2,300 mAh—slips easily into a wallet or pocket. Available with sleek laser engraving or a vibrant printed design.
TSA-compliant personal care kit that puts your brand front and center. Features full-color, edge-to-edge printing and high-quality tools inside for a polished, memorable impression.
With water bottle use on the rise among humans, it only makes sense that man’s best friend gets one too. This all-in-one bottle offers both storage and hydration on the go—perfect for pet brands, dog-friendly workplaces, and beyond.
Trends and highlights from the show
At PPAI this year, color was a major focus, with retail-inspired palettes taking center stage. Dark teals, rich greens, and smokey purples gave products a modern, sophisticated feel, while texture in garments added depth and visual interest. Ladies’ tops are trending toward a more cropped, flattering fit, and quarter zips were clearly on the rise, with many brands now offering quarter-zip versions of their classic crewnecks and hoodies.
Bags are evolving toward versatility and polish, with convertible backpack-messenger styles and sleek silhouettes showing up across categories. These designs feel intentional and elevated, pairing functionality with a refined aesthetic. Branding followed the same mindset—more subtle and timeless, with fewer loud logos and more emphasis on clean design that feels retail-ready.
Experiences and personalization were a major theme throughout the
show. Brands are thinking beyond the product itself, focusing on
how items are customized, packaged, and used to create a more memorable moment
for the end user. Several vendors offered live, on-the-spot personalization,
and we couldn’t resist—walking away with a debossed leather journal,
a mug featuring a personalized photo, and a tee finished with a patch of our
choice. Other standout ideas included bandanas stitched with your name using a vintage
Singer sewing machine and DIY journal stations with customizable covers,
inserts, and bindings. It left us inspired as we dream up equally engaging live
decoration experiences of our own—stay tuned!
Has there ever been a more coveted apparel item that can balance both comfort and style? The hoodie is the Swiss Army knife of clothing– find your favorite one and you have something perfect for a Netflix marathon or a night out with friends.
T-shirts are the staple of branded merch—versatile, wearable, and endlessly customizable. With countless options available, we’ve tested hundreds to bring you our top recommendations.
We tested over 50 bottles, gathered data, and researched trends to help you narrow your search. From sleek designs to all-day performance, these bottles stood out for all the right reasons.
