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The Best Moisture-Wicking Shirts for Men and Women in 2022
Stay dry and chafe-free during any activity.
Spring has sprung, and the days are slowly but surely getting warmer. As you drop some layers and try to figure out how to dress for non-freezing weather, a moisture-wicking shirt can help keep you comfortable and dry while you sweat it out. Though moisture-wicking shirts are known for being great in the warmer months, they can also help keep you warm when it starts to get cooler since they move moisture away from your body instead of leaving you feeling damp and chilly. We've gathered up some of the best moisture-wicking shirts out there that can help keep you comfortable in every season.
While all of these shirts are suitable for running, many of these options work great for other activities, too. Check out our tested guide to moisture-wicking shirts for more options that are tailored specifically for performance while running. There you will find some more options as well as premium models which use top quality materials.
Why Get a Moisture-Wicking Shirt?
While a basic cotton T-shirt may keep you relatively comfortable during your workout, there are some serious advantages to wearing a moisture-wicking shirt. At the most basic level, they help keep you comfortable and dry by using microscopic fibers that absorb sweat, and bring it away from the body. But not only does this help keep you cool in the summer, it can also help to keep you warm in the winter, as it prevents your sweat from staying on your body. There are generally two fabrics that are best at moisture-wicking: synthetic fabric, which is engineered to be moisture-wicking, and wool, which is naturally moisture-wicking. Synthetic fabric is a better choice for all-year wear as it's typically cooler than wool, plus it is a more affordable option.
How We Selected
To find the best moisture-wicking shirts among the many models up there, we researched the most popular styles available. We looked at expert-tested reviews from trusted sources like Good Housekeeping Magazine and Forbes. We then took into account style, price, temperature, size, and expandability. Finally, we consulted more than 16,000 reviews, written by people who’ve bought these models on sites like Amazon and Walmart, to settle on these six.
adidas Men’s Training Ultimate Tank
adidas Men’s Training Ultimate Tank
Key Specs
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: 5
This tank is light, soft, and great for steamy days. Whether you are doing a light jog or heavy lift, it will keep you comfortable and cool. It comes in six different colors, and is made with a cotton-poly blend that makes it breathable and durable.
Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
Key Specs
- Sizes: XS-5XL
- Colors: 79
This shirt is ultra-soft and ultra-comfy, but it's also designed to hold up during a workout. The 100 percent polyester material makes it both affordable and super quick-drying without using a pricier fabric. It has a flattering fit and shaped hem that looks better than a typical workout shirt, and it comes in 79 different colors.
Nike Legend 2.0 Men’s Long Sleeve Shirt
Nike Legend 2.0 Men’s Long Sleeve Shirt
Key Specs
- Sizes: S-3XL
- Colors: 18
While we have had a few balmy afternoons, there is still a stubborn chill in the air—and this shirt is perfect for either warm or cold days. This tech-fabric long sleeve uses Dri-FIT technology to keep you warm and comfortable without overheating. It's great for a run, hike, or lift, and has a shaped fit that flatters the body. Plus, it is super durable and can be tossed in the wash without a second thought.
Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt
Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt
Key Specs
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: 7
This shirt has a relaxed fit that is a great option for summer hikes, runs and workouts where you want some sun protection on your shoulders, but are also desperate to keep cool. It features flat-locked stitching that prevents chafing, and is super breathable. The fabric also inhibits the growth of bacteria, helping to keep you smelling fresh.
Under Armour Women's HeatGear Armour Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Under Armour Women's HeatGear Armour Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Key Specs
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: 20
If you are prefer more coverage, you may have difficulty finding a breathable long-sleeve shirt that doesn't leave you on the brink of overheating. This one, however, is made from a pinhole mesh that creates an overall opaque appearance while still providing superior breathability. Whether you wear it as a base layer in the winter or on its own in the summer, it is truly an all-season long-sleeve.
Under Armour Women's Knockout Tank Top
Under Armour Women's Knockout Tank Top
Key Specs
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: 20
Cute and functional, this tank comes in 20 color options, and could very well become a staple of your warm weather workout wardrobe. It has a super breezy, loose fit, and four-way stretch, which makes it almost impossible for you to feel restricted. The T-strap back opens up the shoulders, and the side slits prevent it from sticking around your hips. While not a functional addition, the taping also adds a little extra style to an otherwise basic tank.
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.
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