These articles of clothing are commonly associated with the Games Done Quick (GDQ) charity speedrunning marathons. They often feature designs referencing specific games showcased during the events, inside jokes from the speedrunning community, or the GDQ logo itself. For example, a shirt might depict a popular character from a featured game with a speedrunning-related slogan.
Apparel produced for these events serves several purposes. It acts as a fundraiser, with a portion of the proceeds typically donated to the charity supported by GDQ, such as the Prevent Cancer Foundation or Doctors Without Borders. Furthermore, these items foster a sense of community among attendees and viewers, allowing them to visibly demonstrate their support for the event and its cause. The creation and sale of this type of merchandise has become a significant part of the GDQ experience since its inception.