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The 10 Best Men’s Long-Sleeve Workout Shirts for Cold-Weather Runs

Stay warm as the temperatures drop.

By Gabrielle Hondorp and Zach Mack
llbean gray shirt against blue background with swirl pattern
Runner's World; Courtesy L.L.Bean

The winter is approaching faster than you might expect—and with it comes a natural shift in your day-to-day activities. While it might be easy to swap poolside parties with indoor gatherings and beach excursions with trips to the slopes, other necessities can’t be changed quite as easily—including your exercise routine. Fortunately, just because the weather is getting cold again doesn’t mean you have to forgo staying in shape; with the right long-sleeve workout shirt, you can look and feel your best as you're sweating it out on chilly days.

What to Consider

There are about as many styles and options for winter workout shirts as there are types of exercise. While this may seem overwhelming at first, it also makes it easier to get exactly what you need to keep up with your fitness routine, no matter how cold it gets.

The right material can pull sweat away from your body and reduce chill—an important consideration if you'll be running outdoors. Style and type of fit can also be essential for anyone requiring maximum mobility, whether it’s in a game of pickup basketball or lifting weights. And depending on everything from your skin’s sensitivity to the types of movement you’re going to be performing, softness and breathability will matter most when it comes to keeping comfortable.

How We Selected

To find the best options among the many men's long-sleeve workout shirts out there, we researched the most popular models available. We then took into account price, materials, fit, and size ranges. Finally, we consulted thousands of reviews on their respective sites written by customers who know them inside and out. Check out our picks below, complete with information on each product.

For more great gear that will keep you warm when the temperature dips, check out our picks for the best winter running gear, running jackets, and fleece-lined leggings.

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1
Best Overall

Baleaf Men's Long-Sleeve Running Shirt

Men's Long-Sleeve Running Shirt
1
Best Overall

Baleaf Men's Long-Sleeve Running Shirt

$20 at Amazon
Pros
  • Lots of sizing options
Cons
  • Some buyers complain of a strange smell even after washing

Like most Baleaf clothing, this shirt is a great value for the price. It is made from super soft, moisture-wicking fabric with four-way-stretch that makes it great for all types of exercise. It features a longer hem in the back, which keeps it from riding up when you bend over. It comes in 11 different colors and even different lengths for average heights, as well as big and tall sizes.

Key Specs

SizesS-3X
Material90% polyester, 10% spandex
Special FeaturesSoft, quick dry fabric
2
Best Fashion Crossover Shirt

Lululemon The Fundamental Long-Sleeve Henley

The Fundamental Long-Sleeve Henley
2
Best Fashion Crossover Shirt

Lululemon The Fundamental Long-Sleeve Henley

Pros
  • Can be more versatile than a basic workout shirt
  • Fashionable fit
Cons
  • Some buyers complain of sweat stains after wearing

This top may look like something you would wear out on the town, but it's designed to tackle your toughest workouts with some added flair. The material is partly cotton, so it feels like your favorite T-shirt, but it has Lycra as well, which allows it to stretch and move with you. It is also treated with No Stink-Zinc technology that helps keep you smelling fresh.

Key Specs

SizesXS-XXL
Material40% pima cotton, 37% nylon, 13% lyocell, 10% Lycra® elastane
Special FeaturesTreated with odor-preventing technology
3
Best Sleek Fit

Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

Men's Tech 2.0 Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
3
Best Sleek Fit

Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

Pros
  • Longer length in the back good for movement
  • Eye-catching colors
  • Good for all temperatures
Cons
  • Some complaints of sizing issues

If you’re looking for a reliable shirt that’s basic, affordable, and great for doing it all, look no further. This piece has a relaxed, comfortable fit that allows for easy movement and won't feel constricting, as well as stylish color options. The fabric is super lightweight and quick-drying, so you won't feel damp even when working up a sweat.

Key Specs

SizesS-XXL
Material(s)100% polyester
Special FeaturesStreamlined fit and moisture-wicking properties
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4
Best Value

NELEUS Men's Dry Fit Long-Sleeve Athletic Running Shirts

Men's Dry Fit Long-Sleeve Athletic Running Shirts
4
Best Value

NELEUS Men's Dry Fit Long-Sleeve Athletic Running Shirts

Pros
  • Great quality for the price
  • Excellent breathability
Cons
  • Sizes can run small

Just because you’re looking for peak performance doesn’t mean you need to blow out your budget on winter workout gear. Customers adore this shirt for its fantastic form-fitting shape, comfortable fabric, and long lifespan that all seem to defy the approachable price tag. The raglan sleeves also help optimize movement and make it a versatile piece that works as well for workouts as it does for casual day-to-day wear.

Key Specs

SizesS-XXXL
Material93% polyester, 7% spandex
Special FeaturesReflective logo for increased nighttime visibility
5
Most Durable

On Running Merino Long-T

Merino Long-T
5
Most Durable

On Running Merino Long-T

Pros
  • Good for warmer or colder weather
Cons
  • High price tag

If you’re looking to invest in a piece of athleticwear that will hold up year after year, look no further. Weighing just 6.53 ounces, this long-sleeved shirt is made using a special spinning process that turns durable, breathable merino wool into a top-quality textile for your workout. Its fashionable fit and comfortably soft texture make it a good option for running your favorite route—or just running out to grab something from the store.

Key Specs

SizesS-XXL
Material83% merino wool, 17% polyamide
Special FeaturesMade from specially treated wool for durability
6
Best Compression

DSG Men's Compression Crew Long-Sleeve Shirt

Men's Compression Crew Long-Sleeve Shirt
6
Best Compression

DSG Men's Compression Crew Long-Sleeve Shirt

Pros
  • Mesh ventilation panels help regulate temperature
  • Smooth texture
Cons
  • Tighter fit for larger body sizes

If mobility is your key concern, compression gear is probably the right bet for you—especially this well-priced piece. Its specialized flatlock seams help keep the garment as close to your body as possible, making any movement feel fluid and reducing chafing. It also uses strategically placed mesh to allow for plenty of breathability, putting it a step above many other comparable pieces.

Key Specs

SizesS-XXXL
Material87% recycled polyester, 13% elastane
Special FeaturesCompression-fit jersey fabric
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7
Best for Colder Weather

L.L.Bean Midweight Base Layer Crew, Long-Sleeve

Midweight Base Layer Crew, Long-Sleeve
7
Best for Colder Weather

L.L.Bean Midweight Base Layer Crew, Long-Sleeve

Now 30% Off
Pros
  • Good for layering with other gear
  • Doesn’t shrink or change shape after wash
Cons
  • Runs short in the trunk

Anyone battling harsher climates will love this L.L.Bean shirt's ability to function just as well on its own as it does as a base layer under other clothing. It’s also made from quick-drying and moisture-wicking polyester and elastane, making it the perfect option for those days when the temperature fluctuates significantly from morning to night.

Key Specs

SizesS-XXL
Material54% polyester, 40% recycled polyester, 6% elastane
Special FeaturesThumb holes to keep sleeves in place
8
Best Slimmer Fit

Nike Dri-FIT Men's Long-Sleeve Training T-Shirt

Dri-FIT Men's Long-Sleeve Training T-Shirt
8
Best Slimmer Fit

Nike Dri-FIT Men's Long-Sleeve Training T-Shirt

Pros
  • Breathable and lightweight
  • Wide range of color options
Cons
  • Neck can run small
  • Fabric has less stretchiness than some prefer

Colder weather shouldn’t stand between you and your favorite workout. This versatile piece comes in a fit that’s well suited for all types of exercise routines, whether that's running or lifting weights. The relaxed feel will help keep you focused on what matters most during your sweat sessions as it wicks moisture away from your skin.

Key Specs

SizesXS-XXXXL
Material100% polyester
Special FeaturesDesigned with sustainable materials
9
Softest

Vuori Strato Long-Sleeve Tech Performance T-Shirt

Strato Long-Sleeve Tech Performance T-Shirt
9
Softest

Vuori Strato Long-Sleeve Tech Performance T-Shirt

Pros
  • Great temperature regulation
  • Comfortable and soft on the skin
Cons
  • More expensive than comparable shirts

There’s no reason you can’t be as comfortable on the court as you are on the couch. This shirt sports a flattering athletic cut and is made from a buttery-smooth polyester-elastane combo, putting it a step above entry-level exercise attire options. Sweat-wicking technology and a slight stretchiness make this slightly pricier option feel like it’s worth it.

Key Specs

SizesS-XXL
Material96% polyester, 4% elastane
Special FeaturesSoft, moisture-wicking fabric
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10
Best UV Protection

tasc Performance Carrollton Long-Sleeve Fitness T-Shirt

Performance Carrollton Long-Sleeve Fitness T-Shirt
10
Best UV Protection

tasc Performance Carrollton Long-Sleeve Fitness T-Shirt

Now 50% Off
Pros
  • Keeps form during workouts
  • Uses renewable material
Cons
  • On the pricier side

Even though it may feel like you go for days without seeing the sun in wintertime, it’s still essential to remember sun protection if you’re going to be outdoors. This shirt offers UPF+ 50 protection from harmful UV rays, keeping your skin safer in any weather. And despite being remarkably breathable, it still clocks in at a relatively light 8.8 ounces, making it a fantastic option for those bright days when you’re going for a run or taking your training outside.

Key Specs

SizesS-XXL
Material52% organically grown cotton, 43% bamboo viscose, 5% Lycra spandex
Special FeaturesUPF 50+ fabric protects against the sun
Headshot of Gabrielle Hondorp
Gabrielle Hondorp

Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track. 

Headshot of Zach Mack

Zach Mack has worked as a travel, food, beverage, and product writer for the past 12 years. He's a regular contributor for Thrillist and Liquor.com, and his writing has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Food & Wine, GQ, VinePair, Inside Hook, Forbes, Parents, and more. He's also the co-host of the podcast So You Want to Run a Restaurant? and is a regular guest on other shows. Follow him on Twitter @zmack.

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