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Jan 06, 2024

Best men’s running vests and singlets 2023

Hit your PB in a singlet that’s streamlined and breathable From left to right:

Hit your PB in a singlet that's streamlined and breathable

From left to right: Under Armour, MP, Tracksmith, and Adidas

longside your shorts, jacket, and sunglasses, a vest, singlet or tank is a running essential that should live in every man's activewear collection.

If you look at the pros, their race day kit always consists of a vest and little short shorts. Offering maximum freedom of movement and ability to cool down when you start to overheat, it's there for days when you want to hit your PB and not be hindered by any excessive fabric. Better yet, if you train on an indoor treadmill, and, like me, start profusely sweating before you hit a kilometre, then a vest will keep your temperature down so the rotating belt doesn't start to resemble a slip and slide by the time the fifth km hits.

If you prefer to run outdoors, in the depths of winter, of course, it's important to layer up with tights, a jacket, and other winter essentials, but when things start to heat up, the vest comes into its own. Not only will it help you stop thinking about how unbearably hot you are, leaving you feeling easy breezy, but, if it's sunny, will also make sure you don't succumb to the classic runner's t-shirt tan. The only downside? Your SPF will take a bigger hit.

So we’ve searched far and wide for the best, leaving you to happily scroll this page and invest in the top that is sure to help you take the next step in your running journey.

If you’re in the market for a barely-there feel, UnderArmour's singlet will do the trick. Offering incredible comfort thanks to the fast-drying fabric, sweat-wicking abilities and mesh panels for extra ventilation, you’ll feel good from start to finish.

More of a sleeveless t-shirt than a singlet, MP's velocity top is super breathable, has an antimicrobial finish for optimum odour-resistance and features reflective accents to the front and back so you’re visible even if you’re running in the dark. We love the green, but if you prefer a sleeker design, it's also offered in black and sand.

If you’re into bright running gear, then Castore has you covered with this tomato vest. Like it's entire collection, it has a luxury finish thanks to the super-soft high-stretch poly-elastane blend fabric and the technical rib crossover v-neckline that reduces irritation. The best part? It's on sale for better than half price.

Crafted using 100 per cent recycled polyester, New Balance's vest is a quality option that's better for the planet too. In an athletic fit, it will skim your chest, waist and hip, so nothing holds you back as you fly along the track. Fast-drying and lightweight, you’ll be left to focus on your workout.

Based in Boston, Tracksmith is an expert at the vintage collegiate aesthetic. In its signature style, this tank wouldn't look out of place running around an Ivy League running track in the 80s - and looks even better today. A high performance option, it's finished with coldblack to deliver UV protection and minimise heat retention.

In a sleek monochrome colourway with Adidas’ triple stripe logo front and centre, this vest is a classic addition to any workout wardrobe. A comfortable wear, it boasts the all-important moisture-wicking, quick-drying and breathable credentials. As an added bonus, it's crafted using 100 per cent recycled fibres too.

Made using high-tech Japanese fabrics, On Running's tank is engineered with speed and comfort in mind. Ultra-lightweight and breathable, it will quickly draw away sweat and dry in an instant, helping you feel fresh for the duration of your workout.

As experts in the field, you can count on ASICS for quality running gear. This cool, cobalt blue vest is made out of 100 per cent recycled polyester and will see you through your entire training plan, whether that includes quick 5ks or half, full or ultra marathons.

French performancewear brand HOKA is known for its high quality designs, from trainers to apparel - and this vest is no exception. The recycled design features a bonded hem to reduce irritation, smart reflectivity from all angles for improved visibility and a barely there feel. What more could you want?

Crafted in a an ultra-lightweight sweat-wicking fabric, Under Armour's vest features mesh underarms and back panels for optimum ventilation as well as a super-tight compression fit which doesn't compromise on movement.

Whether you use it as a base layer on a chillier day or as your only top when the sun is shining, it's a versatile addition to your workout wardrobe.