Crossing the finish line is an amazing feeling. But that medal? That’s the physical proof of all the hard work, sweat, and early morning runs. And let’s be honest, the weight of a bronze cross country medal in your hand feels pretty darn good. Choosing the right medal can add that extra bit of prestige, so I’ve rounded up some of the best out there to help you find the perfect one.
Here’s a quick look at my top picks:
- Crown Awards Bronze Cross Country Medals: Best overall for quality and design.
- Decade Awards Cross Country Medal: Great budget option without sacrificing style.
- Sporty Awards Cross Country Medals: Ideal for personalization with engraving options.
- Far Out Awards Cross Country Medals: Unique and eye-catching designs for a memorable award.
- Sterling James Co. Cross Country Medals: Perfect for fun runs or participation awards.
Top 5 Best Bronze Cross Country Medals
1. Crown Awards Bronze Cross Country Medals
Crown Awards medals are known for their quality and detailed designs. These bronze cross country medals are no exception, featuring a classic cross country scene. They feel substantial and look impressive.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent detail and craftsmanship
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting
- ✅ Includes a free neck ribbon
Cons:
- ❌ Slightly more expensive than other options
- ❌ Limited customization options
- ❌ The ribbon color selection could be better
Verdict: If you want a high-quality, classic-looking medal, the Crown Awards bronze cross country medal is a great choice. Worth the extra cost for the superior quality.
2. Decade Awards Cross Country Medal
Looking for a good deal? The Decade Awards Cross Country Medal is a fantastic option if you’re on a budget. It offers a nice design at a more affordable price point. You still get a respectable-looking medal without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable
- ✅ Decent design for the price
- ✅ Comes with a standard ribbon
Cons:
- ❌ Quality not as high as more expensive medals
- ❌ Design is fairly generic
- ❌ Ribbon is basic
Verdict: For budget-conscious buyers, the Decade Awards medal is a solid choice. It gets the job done without sacrificing too much in terms of appearance.
3. Sporty Awards Cross Country Medals
Sporty Awards focuses on personalization, and their cross country medals offer engraving options. These are great for adding a personal touch, like the runner’s name or team. Makes the award even more special.
Pros:
- ✅ Customizable with engraving
- ✅ Good quality metal
- ✅ Variety of ribbon colors available
Cons:
- ❌ Engraving costs extra
- ❌ Design may not appeal to everyone
- ❌ Turnaround time can be longer due to personalization
Verdict: If personalization is important, Sporty Awards is the way to go. The ability to engrave makes these medals a memorable keepsake.
4. Far Out Awards Cross Country Medals
If you’re looking for something a little different, Far Out Awards offers unique and eye-catching designs. These medals stand out from the crowd. They’re perfect for events where you want the award to be memorable.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique and creative designs
- ✅ Good quality materials
- ✅ Great for special events
Cons:
- ❌ Designs might not suit all tastes
- ❌ Can be pricier than standard medals
- ❌ Limited availability of certain designs
Verdict: For those seeking a distinctive award, Far Out Awards delivers. Be prepared to pay a bit more for the unique designs.
5. Sterling James Co. Cross Country Medals
These medals are great for fun runs, participation awards, or even just as a novelty item. The Sterling James Co. Cross Country Medals are more about fun than serious competition. They’re lightweight and perfect for younger runners or casual events.
Pros:
- ✅ Inexpensive
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to wear
- ✅ Fun designs
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as other medals
- ❌ Quality is lower
- ❌ More suited for fun events than serious competitions
Verdict: Ideal for fun runs or participation awards. Not the best choice for serious competitions, but perfect for creating a lighthearted atmosphere.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cross country medal involves a few key considerations. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Material and Durability: Bronze is a classic choice, but the quality of the metal can vary. Look for medals that feel substantial and are likely to withstand wear and tear.
- Design: Consider the aesthetics. Do you want a traditional cross country scene, or something more modern and unique?
- Size and Weight: Smaller, lighter medals are better for younger runners. Larger, heavier medals feel more prestigious.
- Customization Options: Do you want to personalize the medals with engraving? Check what options are available and the associated costs.
- Ribbon Quality: The ribbon is an important part of the presentation. Look for ribbons that are durable and come in a color that complements the medal.
- Budget: Medals range in price from very affordable to quite expensive. Set a budget beforehand to narrow down your options.
- Event Type: Is this for a serious competition, a fun run, or a participation award? The type of event will influence the style and quality of medal you choose.
FAQs
Q: What is the standard size for a cross country medal?
A: The standard size is usually around 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter, but this can vary depending on the event.
Q: Can I get custom ribbons for the medals?
A: Yes, many suppliers offer custom ribbon options, allowing you to choose specific colors or add logos.
Q: How much does engraving typically cost?
A: Engraving costs vary, but you can usually expect to pay around $2 to $5 per medal for basic engraving.
Q: What’s the best way to store cross country medals?
A: Store them in a cool, dry place, ideally in individual pouches or cases to prevent scratching. Some people like to display them on a medal hanger.
Q: Are bronze medals really made of bronze?
A: Yes, most bronze medals are made of a bronze alloy, typically a mixture of copper and other metals.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect bronze cross country medal is all about finding the right balance between quality, design, and price. Whether you’re looking for a high-end award or a budget-friendly option, there’s a medal out there to suit your needs. Consider the factors outlined in the buying guide, and you’ll be sure to find a medal that your runners will be proud to wear.
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