You decide to set new fitness objectives and return to the gym. Yet, you must understand how to start a fitness clothing brand before you ever lace up your sneakers. Specifically, your old, ratty men’s workout t-shirts just won’t cut it anymore. You need shirts built for performance that will keep you comfortable and wick away sweat during intense training sessions. We spent dozens of hours analyzing the latest and greatest workout shirts to determine the best.
From moisture-wicking fabrics to odor control and everything in between, these 11 best athletic shirts for men have you covered for any activity. Whether you’re pumping iron, going for a run, or participating in a high-intensity interval training class, these shirts will keep you at peak performance.
What to Look for in a Quality Workout Shirt
When looking for the best gym shirts for men, consider the following:
- Breathability. Wearing synthetic, moisture-wicking clothing will keep you dry and comfortable. Cotton sports t-shirts absorb sweat and get heavy.
- Range of motion. For activities like weight training or cardio, choose a shirt with a stretch that won’t restrict your movement. Athletic cuts and mesh panels provide mobility.
- Durability. If you’re tough on your workout gear, pick a sturdy, best sports shirt that can handle repeated washing and wearing. Reinforced stitching, flatlock seams, and abrasion-resistant fabric help shirts last longer.
- Fit. Baggy shirts flap around, while shirts that are too tight can chafe. Look for a fitted but flexible shirt that hugs your body without squeezing it.
- Optional features. Some shirts offer extras like thumbholes, reflective details for nighttime visibility, odor control technologies, or built-in UPF sun protection. Consider what features suit your needs.
With the right breathable, flexible, and durable shirt, you’ll stay comfortable and focused during your workout. Finding the best fitness shirts for your activity helps maximize both performance and comfort.
Which Type of Shirt is Best for a Gym Workout?
We hope that our list of the top 11 workout shirts for men and our guide on what to look for in a workout shirt will help you in your quest for the best men’s workout tops.
1. Top Workout Shirt Fabrics for Sweat-Wicking and Breathability
When it comes to workout shirts, the fabric is key.
- Polyester is lightweight and breathable. Polyester shirts keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your skin. Popular brands like Under Armor and Nike use polyester in many of their workout shirts.
- Blends of cotton: A blend of cotton and polyester offers the performance of polyester along with the softness of cotton. Starting with a 50/50 blend is a smart idea. These are the best workout shirts because they are reasonably priced and have lots of uses.
For high-intensity training, choose a gym clothing manufacturers shirt specifically designed for the activity. Shirts with mesh panels, strategically placed vents, or perforations increase airflow to keep you comfortable longer. Performance fabrics like Under Armor’s HeatGear® and Nike’s Dri-FIT are excellent for hot weather or indoor workouts.
The best workout shirt is the one you’ll want to wear for your favorite physical activities. Find an option with the features and fabric technology right for your needs. Your great workout shirt performance and comfort level will thank you.
2. The Best Short-Sleeve Workout Shirts for Men
When it comes to the best gym t-shirts, a good short-sleeve shirt is essential. The best men’s workout shirts are:
- breathable and moisture-wicking to keep you dry through the most intense workouts. Polyester or nylon blends are optimal for this.
- loose and roomy, not constricting. Look for a relaxed or loose fit for maximum range of motion.
- durable and shrink-resistant. High-quality, performance fabrics can handle repeated washing and wearing while maintaining their shape.
- comfortable with flatlock seams that won’t chafe or irritate your skin.
- stylish—you want to look good while working out! Popular brands offer athletic shirts in various colors and patterns to suit your tastes.
For hot summer workouts, mesh back or side panels provide extra breathability. Tank tops and muscle shirts are also great options if you prefer sleeveless. The most important thing is finding shirts tailored to your specific needs and workout routine.
3. Stylish and Functional Long-Sleeve Workout Shirts
A long-sleeve shirt works best for workouts in cooler weather. To stay comfortable, look for shirts made of materials like nylon or polyester that are breathable and moisture-wicking. Cotton shirts will get soaked with sweat and won’t insulate.
Some highly-rated options include:
- Under Armor Men’s ColdGear® Long Sleeve Compression Mock: This fitted mock neck provides lightweight insulation and stretchy compression. It wicks sweat and dries fast to regulate your temperature.
- Nike Men’s Therma-FIT Long Sleeve Top: This loose-fitting shirt provides breathable warmth. It has stretch panels for mobility and thumbholes to keep the sleeves in place. The Therma-FIT fabric locks in heat to keep you warm.
- Adidas Men’s ID Stadium Long-Sleeve Tee: This casual long-sleeve tee works for a range of activities. The Climalite® fabric wicks moisture and dries fast while providing light insulation. Raglan sleeves allow a free range of motion.
For the most versatility, choose a shirt that can be layered under a jacket for outdoor sports or worn alone for indoor training. Look for extras like thumbholes, mock necks, or zippered pockets, depending on how you plan to use the shirt. A long-sleeve workout shirt should keep you warm without overheating so you can train comfortably in cool weather.
4. The Best Lightweight Workout Shirt
The lightest, most breathable workout shirt is key for high-intensity or long workouts. When you’re pushing through a tough HIIT session or logging miles on the trail, the last thing you want is an overly warm, sweat-soaked shirt clinging to you. For these workouts, a lightweight, moisture-wicking tee is essential.
Runner’s High Mesh Tee
This featherlight tee from Runner’s High is perfect for any aerobic activity. Its ultra-lightweight polyester mesh material maximizes airflow to keep you dry and cool. A wide range of motion is possible because of the loose fit and raglan sleeves, and the mesh feels nice against your skin. If you’re looking for an airy shirt that disappears the moment you put it on, the Runner’s High Mesh Tee is hard to beat.
5. The Best Oversized Workout Shirt
When it comes to oversized workout t-shirts for men, you want something loose and lightweight that won’t cling to you during intense exercise. Oversized tees give you extra room to move freely and stay comfortable. They’re ideal for weight lifting, CrossFit, yoga, or just lounging around.
The Best-Oversized Workout Shirts are:
- Made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton or polyester blends. These keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your body.
- Loose-fitting and roomy, but not too baggy. Look for shirts labeled “oversized” or sized up one or two sizes from your usual.
- Stylish enough to wear outside, the best men’s gym shirts. Darker colors and simple designs tend to be the most versatile.
- High quality at an affordable price. You don’t need to spend a lot to get a great oversized workout tee that will last through many wash-and-wear cycles.
- Comfortable enough to sleep in. The ultimate oversized tees double as pajama tops for maximum lounge power.
When shopping for oversized workout shirts, focus on comfort, breathability, and a loose but flattering fit. The right tee will keep you cool during workouts and comfy all day long. You really can’t go wrong with a simple, well-made oversized shirt.
6. The Best Workout Shirt for Lifting
The best shirts for the gym provide a full range of motion and breathability. For weight training, you’ll want a shirt that:
- Is made of a moisture-wicking fabric like polyester or nylon to keep you dry. Cotton t-shirts absorb sweat and get heavy.
- Has a loose, comfortable fit so you have flexibility and room for your muscles.
- Is durable and able to withstand repeated wear and washing. Weight training can be tough on shirts.
- Optionally, it has reinforced stitching at stress points like the shoulders and neckline. This prevents rips and tears from the repetitive movements of lifts like shoulder presses or upright rows.
A good gym t-shirt is essential and worth investing in. It will keep you comfortable through your workout so you can focus on progressively overloading your muscles. The shirt recommendations on this list are high-quality, long-lasting, and budget-friendly for any lifter.
7. The Best Cold-Weather Workout Shirt
For chilly weather, you’ll want a shirt that keeps you warm without overheating. A cold-weather workout shirt, like the Under Armor Men’s ColdGear Compression Mock, is ideal. This form-fitting shirt is made of a double-knit fabric that wicks away moisture while trapping heat. The four-way stretch material allows for maximum mobility so you can comfortably power through high-intensity interval training or a long run.
The breathable mesh inserts under the arms provide ventilation to prevent you from getting too warm. The shirt’s snug compression fit hugs your muscles to keep them warm and supported. When the temperatures drop, layer a lightweight jacket over the top. On warmer days, the shirt is thin enough to wear on its own.
For the best results, follow the size chart and choose a snug-fitting size. The compression will keep you comfortable in a range of 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. At under $50, this versatile shirt provides premium performance at an affordable price. Cold-weather workouts will be enjoyable rather than something you dread with this workout shirt in your gym bag!
8. The Best Slim-Fit Workout Shirt
The Under Armour Men’s Tech 2.0 Short-Sleeve T-Shirt is a great option for guys seeking a fitted fit. Made of lightweight, breathable polyester, this form-fitting tee keeps you dry and cool. The material wicks sweat away from your body during intense workouts and stretches for superior mobility.
The streamlined cut conforms to your shape without feeling constricting. Flatlock seams prevent chafing for all-day comfort. Anti-odor technology prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes so your shirt stays fresh after multiple wears. With a classic crew neck and short sleeves, this versatile shirt works well for both gym sessions and casual everyday wear. At under $25, the Under Armor Men’s Tech 2.0 Short-Sleeve T-Shirt offers an affordable, high-performance option for stylish guys on the go.
9. The Best Seamless Workout Shirt
The seamless workout shirt is a game-changer. No more tugging, adjusting, and re-tucking; once it’s on, you’re set for your workout. Seamless shirts mold to your body for maximum comfort and range of motion.
The Champion Men’s Double Dry Seamless Long Sleeve Tee
This popular seamless tee wicks moisture to keep you dry and comfortable. Made of knit polyester and spandex, it stretches but still keeps its shape. The tagless design prevents irritation and the fitted cut is perfect for layering. With over 8,000 reviews, it’s a proven winner for cardio, CrossFit, and more.
The Champion Double Dry Seamless Tee offers a seamless experience so good that it will leave you wondering why you’ve ever been anxious about shirts with seams. Stay focused on your workout instead of your shirt for high-performance comfort that can’t be beaten. Once you go seamlessly, you’ll never go back.
10. Must-Have Workout Shirts for Runners
For runners, the right shirt can make or break your workout. Here are some of the best shirts to workout in for runners:
Mesh shirts are breathable and help keep you cool on hot summer runs. Brands like Under Armor, Nike, and Adidas all offer affordable mesh t-shirts with moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry.
Compression shirts provide muscle support and can aid recovery. Tight-fitting shirts by 2XU, CW-X, and Zensah are designed specifically for runners. They improve circulation and reduce vibration.
Reflective details on a shirt help keep you visible on early morning or evening runs. Shirts from Brooks, Saucony, and New Balance offer reflective logos, stripes, or piping for enhanced visibility in low light.
Raglan sleeves provide a full range of motion for your arms. Shirts from ASICS, Salomon, and The North Face have loose, comfortable raglan sleeves, so you have unrestricted arm movement on runs.
For chilly weather, thermal shirts provide insulation. Smartwool, Icebreaker, and Stoic offer base layers in Merino wool or polyester to keep your core warm on cold runs without overheating.
11. THE BEST WORK-TO-GYM SHIRT
Whether you’re sitting at a desk or leaning over a lifting bench, you want your tops to be unrestricted and flexible. Look for a top with a flexible tri-blend material that elevates gym wear from casual to smart. Is anything too outlandish considering the variety of intriguing styles that have hit the squat rack over the years, from singlets to jeans? The Gym Armour’s Rest-Day Polo Shirt features raglan sleeves, a relaxed button-down neckline, and a preppy design crafted from premium jersey fabric. This casual style may cause you to reconsider your gym attire if you’re looking for an elevated piece that you can wear to work or work out.
No matter what kind of run you have planned, one of these must-have shirts will keep you comfortable, supported, and visible. Find the styles that suit your needs and you’ll be set for any workout.
What are The Best Shirts for Gym Sweat?
When working up a sweat at the gym, having the right shirt is key. Here are some of the best options for gym sweat:
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
Fabrics like polyester or nylon blends pull sweat away from your skin and help keep you dry. Moisture-wicking shirts are perfect for intense workouts that leave you perspiring profusely. Well-known companies like Adidas, Nike, and Under Armour provide breathable, lightweight shirts made of moisture-wicking materials.
Mesh Panels
For extra breathability, look for shirts with mesh panels, especially along the sides and back. The mesh allows for maximum airflow and ventilation to keep you cool during tough workouts. Some shirts also have mesh around the neckline and sleeves.
Odor Control
Antimicrobial fabrics prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Shirts treated with silver ions or polymer technology can help prevent your shirt from getting smelly, even after the sweatiest of workouts. This is perfect if you like to workout multiple times a day or don’t have time to wash your shirt after every session.
Loose and Long
For certain workouts, like yoga or CrossFit, a loose, longer shirt is ideal. Look for shirts made of soft, stretchy fabrics that won’t ride up or restrict your movement. The extra length and loose fit also allow for more coverage and comfort in different positions.
What are Athletic-Fit Shirts?
Cool Athletic-Fit shirts are designed specifically for workout and sports use. These shirts have a relaxed fit that provides plenty of room for movement.
Unlike a standard cotton t-shirt, athletic shirts won’t get heavy and cling to your body as your workout intensifies. The looser cut also means there’s more airflow to your body, so you stay cooler during exercise. Many athletic shirts also have mesh panels built into areas like the underarms, back, and sides for added breathability.
The relaxed, spacious fit of these workout shirts also makes them ideal for layering over athletic tanks or tees. Look for athletic shirts made of sweat-wicking, lightweight fabrics that will keep their shape after repeated wash and wear cycles. Popular, highly-rated brands of athletic shirts include Under Armor, Nike, Adidas, Reebok, and Champion.
For the most comfort during exercise, choose an athletic shirt that’s tailored to your specific activity or workout. There are shirts designed for running, weight training, yoga, and more. A good workout shirt will also work great for most all-purpose athletes. The options for men have never been more plentiful, with various cuts, styles, and technical fabrics to suit any need.
Conclusion
You now have an updated list of the best workout shirts for men in 2024 to choose from. Whether you’re into intense cardio, strength training, high-intensity interval training, or just looking for a comfortable shirt to wear for your recreational sports league, you have options for any activity level or budget. The latest technical fabrics and modern designs can enhance your performance and motivation. So treat yourself to a new workout shirt; your body and mind will thank you, and you’ll be ready to crush your next workout in style and comfort.
