When most people picture a flag, they visualize the traditional rectangular shape.
Did you know that there are a lot of other flag shapes and styles out there?
We’ve taken a closer look at the different shapes flags can come in and what they’re commonly used for.
The passionate team at BestFlag creates flags in all different shapes and styles, ensuring that you’re able to find a perfect match for your needs. For more information on our custom flags and various flag styles, be sure to get in touch with us today.
Rectangle Flags
The most recognizable flag shape in the world, rectangles are a popular choice due to their ease of production and the aesthetically pleasing way they fly in the wind. Most countries (195 to be exact), regardless of their size, have a rectangular flag. They’re also popular for corporate, branding, club, association, school, and university use.
Pennant Flags
These flags are triangular (isosceles, to be specific) and can be displayed either horizontally or vertically, depending on the design. The flat edge of the triangle is usually where it’s secured to either a pole or string. They’re a popular choice amongst sports teams, schools, and universities, and even as party or event decor.
Burgee Flags
Also known as swallowtails, these flags can be rectangular with a triangular cutout at the end (to form two triangular tips between an inverted ‘v’), or they can be more of a pennant shape but still featuring the same triangular cutout. They’re common in the marine industry and are often found flying aboard boats and yachts.
Guidon Flags
These flags are similar to burgee ones, except that they’re designed to a specific size for military use (most notably the US Armed Forces). They’re generally used to represent a platoon, troop, battery, or company detachment and may also bear the title of the individual carrying it. They’re a source of pride and should be respected at all times.
Blade Flags
One of the most popular flags used for advertising purposes, these flags are quite tall with a slightly rounded top and straight bottom (similar to a knife, hence their name). They use movement to catch the attention of customers and passersby while being stationary enough to be legible.
Teardrop Flags
Getting their name from their distinctive inverted teardrop shape (rounded at the top and coming to a point), these flags require a special flexible flagpole and are another popular choice for advertising purposes. Like blade flags, they use movement to capture attention.
Mini Teardrop Flags
These flags are also available in miniature form – most commonly suction cup, magnet, car, and table top varieties. They can be used to promote a business or event in a slightly different way to traditional large flags.
Tower Flags
Similar to both blade and teardrop flags, this style is rectangular in shape and has completely square corners. They’re used for advertising purposes, with a big draw being the fact that they don’t require wind to stay open and display your marketing message.
Shark Fin Flags
Another flag style that is typically used for advertising purposes, shark fin flags get their name from their distinctive shape – they have a rounded top that comes to a point, then the banner arcs inwards before it reaches the bottom. Some people view them as a more modern alternative.
Stick Flags
These are a type of miniature, handheld flag that is usually rectangular in shape but can also be a pennant, square, or even burgee. They’re a popular choice for individuals to show their support for a particular country, team, or organization and make great giveaways.
Golf Flags
These flags are essential for any golf course as they indicate the location of the hole and assist players in judging direction and distance. They are generally rectangular and come in various colours (notably blue, red, yellow, and white) according to the information they represent.
Garden Flags
Available in almost any shape or size imaginable, these flags are displayed on an individual’s property (usually the front yard) to share their support of a cause, celebrate a milestone achievement, or even display their holiday spirit. They’re generally staked into the ground for security.
Car Flags
As their name suggests, these flags are mounted onto a car window and flown as the car drives around. While they can be used to promote a business, event, sporting team, or cause, they’re most commonly used to designate official or even dignitary vehicles.
Choosing From the Different Types of Flag Shapes
With so many flag styles and shapes to choose from, settling on one can be a real challenge. The dedicated BestFlag team would be happy to help you choose an appropriate type of flag based on your intended purpose or application– get in touch with us today to learn more.
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