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Jul 10, 2023

The 15 Best Workout Shirts for Men of 2023

The Mack Weldon Stealth Crew Neck T-Shirt is our top pick. Jump to a Section We

The Mack Weldon Stealth Crew Neck T-Shirt is our top pick.

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Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

When it comes to getting ready for your workout, you want to prepare yourself for success — that includes getting a good night's sleep, eating right, and, of course, considering which clothes you put on, too. A shirt that's too big will get in the way. A shirt that's too tight won't be comfortable. And in today's modern era of ubiquitous athleisure, we all generally want something we can wear to and from the gym that will also look good as we run errands, meet friends for brunch, and live our lives without having to constantly change outfits.

These days, there are seemingly infinite options when it comes to workout shirts for men — but that doesn't mean all workout shirts are created equal. Different materials are better for different activities, and different silhouettes feel more comfortable in different scenarios as well. Then there's the matter of finding which ones suit you personally. "It's surprising how many shirts don't have wide enough shoulders or long enough sleeves to fit properly on an athletic frame," said Justin Wright, a film producer and CrossFit coach from Boston. "Generally, I look for something breathable, lightweight, and durable."

The type of workout shirt you should look for depends on the activity you’re doing. Wright, for instance, uses lots of weights in his workout routines, so, personally, he steers clear of tank tops. "I have a couple for summer, but I prefer training in short sleeves," said Wright. "Part of it is personal preference, but part of it is the type of training I do often has me resting weights on my shoulders — extra material there helps."

We’ve searched high and low throughout the enormous universe of men's workout apparel to bring together some of the best options available today. Top honors went to Mack Weldon's Stealth Crew Neck T-Shirt for its softness, seamless construction, and body mapping mesh panels. But that's just the beginning — whether you’re a heavy sweater, a yogi, or a runner, here are the best men's workout shirts for the next time you want to get your pulse racing.

Mack Weldon

It has a great fit and feel, and body-mapped breathability.

Some guys prefer a lighter workout shirt.

For a brand known for its insanely comfortable underwear, Mack Weldon also knows a thing or two about making a comfortable workout shirt, too. The Stealth Crew Neck uses a blend of partially recycled nylon and spandex for a t-shirt that is soft but still has structure, and comes with very modern-feeling body-mapped breathable mesh panels. The fit is slim without being tight, and the raglan-style short sleeves make any guy — even those at the beginning of their fitness journey — look positively ripped. We see this shirt performing well in a variety of activities, whether it's jogging, weight lifting, yoga, or even just running your Saturday errands. Sure, there are more specific types of workout shirts out there depending on which activities you have in mind, but this is a solid starting point that can handle (pretty much) anything.

Price at time of publish: $58

The Details: S-XXL | 37 percent Q-NOVA recycled nylon, 25 percent Q-NOVA nylon, 28 percent polyester, 10 percent spandex

Tracksmith

It's made from a lightweight, durable mesh.

Sizes run on the smaller side, so consider sizing up.

Real runners know. This Boston-based running brand has built a cult following around the world for its high-performance pieces that have a retro look and feel, and the Van Cortlandt Tee is a perfect introduction to the brand. Cut from Tracksmith's proprietary "2:09 mesh," it's made from Oeko-Tex-certified non-toxic materials and comes in a slightly relaxed fit that keeps the air circulating around the body even on your longest, sweatiest runs. Plus, with that signature sash design as a throwback to the most iconic track teams of yore, it's bound to make you feel like an elite runner — even if you’re just building up to your first mile.

Price at time of publish: $72

The Details: XS-XXL | 82 percent polyester, 18 percent spandex with antimicrobial finish

Coolibar

This shirt offers excellent UPF protection while still feeling breathable.

The fit offers a little more coverage than most workout shirts.

When the weather is good and you simply need to take your workout outdoors, consider some sun protection with a shirt that offers built-in UPF — that way you’re not slathering on sunblock and then sweating it all off. Coolibar was the first clothing company to receive the Skin Cancer Foundation's "Seal of Recommendation" for its fabrics, which use zinc oxide integrated into the material to block harmful sun rays. These shirts are reasonably priced and come in a range of colors to choose from.

Price at time of publish: $39

The Details: S-XL tall | Cotton, viscose

Target

We love that it comes at an accessible price point, and has lots of color options to choose from.

There's nothing particularly stand-out about this shirt's look.

For less than the price of what your lunch probably cost today, you could start stocking up on these workout tees. And while the overall look and feel might seem more simple than shirts that cost five or six times the price, this shirt is not without functionality: it's made from a moisture-wicking fabric that dries quickly, has flat seams to minimize chafing during your workouts, and is odor resistant so you can leave the gym with confidence. We also love that it comes in so many different colors — and at an entry-level price, anyone can afford to buy at least a few.

Price at time of publish: $12

The Details: S-XXL | Moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric

Mr. Porter

It has a million-dollar feel.

The price is on the steeper side.

We love the Reigning Champ Solotex Mesh T-Shirt from Mr. Porter, which offers the perfect blend of style and functionality. It features four-way stretch so your movement will never be restricted, and it's made from a lightweight, breathable Solotex® Mesh fabric ideal for working out. Plus, it comes in two flattering colors that can take you from the gym straight out to lunch. Note, however, that a luxury workout shirt undoubtedly comes at a luxury price point.

Price at time of publish: $95

The Details: S-XXL | 100 percent polyester

Nike

There's nothing this tank can't do.

The Swoosh logo comes in tone-on-tone stitching, which may not be to everyone's tastes.

Who does just one style of workout these days? It seems like most active people love to dip in and out of running, cycling, weight lifting, yoga, and more — and this versatile style stands up to all of them. It's a standard fit that's not too loose or too snug, and it's made from Nike's popular Dri-Fit material which stays dry and comfortable even during the toughest workouts. Plus, it comes in a huge run of sizes so any guy can find the perfect fit.

Price at time of publish: $55

The Details: XS-4XL tall | At least 50 percent sustainable materials

Gymshark

It has engineered heat-mapping panels.

Some people may shy away from the branding.

Sweat-prone guys, this one's for you. Moisture-wicking workout shirts are a dime a dozen these days, but this Gymshark tee takes things to the next level. Not only does it have a solid foundation of lightweight moisture-wicking material to quickly pull sweat away from your body, but it also has strategically engineered heat-mapping panels that provide extra ventilation — and even some visible ventilation micro holes — for added airflow.

Price at time of publish: $26

The Details: XS-3XL | 82 percent nylon, 18 percent polyester

Vuori

This might just be the softest workout tank on the planet.

It only comes in three colors.

"Vuori makes the best activewear and athleisure I’ve ever worn, in my opinion," said Wright. Indeed, this California-born brand has been one of the great success stories in the athleisure space in recent years. We love this tank top for its buttery smooth feel which lends itself to both gym sessions and afternoons at the beach, and the shoulders offer the ideal amount of coverage that is neither too wide nor too narrow. If you’re in search of something that keeps your arms free — or better yet, shows off those hard-earned muscles — give this piece a go.

Price at time of publish: $48

The Details: S-XXL | 96 percent polyester, 4 percent elastane

Lululemon

We can't get enough of the super soft, abrasion-resistant fabric.

The price is a little steep.

Finding a workout shirt with the right long sleeves can be a challenge — sometimes they’re too long, sometimes they’re too short, and sometimes the fabric is just not comfortable enough that you want to wear it on the entire length of your arm. None of the above are an issue with this Lululemon style. It's moisture-wicking and stink resistant, which makes it not only a wonderful workout tee, but also a great option for long haul journeys on chilly airplanes.

Price at time of publish: $68

The Details: XS-XXL | 40 percent Pima cotton, 37 percent nylon, 13 percent lyocell, 10 percent lycra

Tracksmith

This shirt harnesses the natural temperature-regulating powers of merino wool.

You’ll want to line-dry this one if you want it to last.

For those chilly morning runs and outdoor workout sessions, enlist the natural powers of merino wool. Tracksmith's Harrier Long Sleeve keeps you warm even when it's completely drenched with sweat, and then dries quickly and resists odor between washes for longer than you’d ever thought possible. Yes, it's a premium price point over and above other cold weather workout tees, but the Harrier is an investment that, if you find yourself working out in cold climates often, will pay dividends for years to come.

Price at time of publish: $84

The Details: XS-XXL | 89 percent merino wool, 11 percent nylon

NOBULL

It's made from super lightweight, extremely breathable mesh.

Tank tops aren't everyone's preferred style.

When you’re working out in the heat, it's important to find a workout shirt that doesn't skip a beat. This Nobull tank is made from a featherweight breathable mesh, and allows for plenty of air circulation and moisture-wicking to keep you dry even during the most intense workouts.

Price at time of publish: $42

The Details: S-XL | Materials: 90 percent polyester, 10 percent spandex jacquard

Alo Yoga

This is an incredibly soft, flexible tank.

It isn't sweat-wicking.

When it comes to downward dogs and building up to those complex backbends and gravity-defying inversions, you’ll want a super soft, jersey tank that keeps up with your every move. If your workout includes heated yoga, where sweating is more of a concern, you may find this jersey material gets a little heavy when it sops with sweat. But if comfort and flexibility are your priorities, you’ll find there's no pose you can't reach in this lightweight, muscle-style tank.

Price at time of publish: $48

The Details: S-XXL | Soft sueded tri-blend jersey

Prana

The fabric feels great, and it's good for the planet, too.

The design may be a little too basic for some.

Part of the brand's bestselling Prana Basis collection, this lightweight style is not only a comfortable workout shirt, it's a Fair Trade Certified piece made from organic cotton and recycled poly fibers. Prana gets the proportions of cotton and poly just right — meaning it has the soft feel of cotton so many people love, but it has enough of the poly blend to stand up to many, many cycles through your washing machine. Buying this piece is a guilt-free experience, and at an affordable price point, you can feel good about stocking up on multiple colors, too.

Price at time of publish: $35

The Details: XS-XXL | 60 percent organic cotton, 40 percent recycled polyester

Rhone

It utilizes GoldFusion anti-odor technology.

It's priced on the premium side.

Introducing the workout shirt of the future. The Reign tee from the high-performing brand Rhone is crafted from an incredibly soft nylon poly jersey fabric, and features raglan sleeves for free range of motion. It also comes with seriously functional aspects including UPF 50+ sun protection for those outdoor workouts, and GoldFusion technology that keeps any and all odors at bay — wear it to the gym, then wear it to brunch without missing a beat.

Price at time of publish: $68

The Details: XS-XXL | Nylon poly jersey blend

Under Armour

This shirt offers powerful compression, comes at the right price, and has an inclusive size run.

It has been known to lose compression over time.

Compression pieces such as this one are the reason Under Armour is such a global phenomenon. Find all the support you need from this highly compressive piece, which optimizes performance and recovery. It's made from a gravity-defying four-way stretch material that moves in every direction, and it wicks sweat away in the blink of an eye. If you’re looking for a highly dependable piece that follows your training journey every step of the way, look no further.

Price at time of publish: $35

The Details: XS-5XL | 90 percent polyester, 10 percent elastane

We’ve come a long way from scratchy, low-performing workout clothes made from 100 percent cotton — today, workout clothes offer a huge spectrum of functionalities. When you’re narrowing your selection, look for special features such as sweat-wicking fibers that pull sweat away from your body, odor control so you can feel confident your gym attire isn't offending anyone else, and UV protection to keep harmful sun rays at bay.

The matter of fit largely comes down to personal preference and body type, but it's also worth considering what you’re going to wear the shirt for. Do you want it to offer a compression fit to increase muscle performance, or at least a tighter fit so it doesn't chafe while you’re running? Or do you want a regular fit so you can wear the same t-shirt to the gym as you do for your weekend errands? Others, still, might want more of a baggy fit so the body can move unencumbered while lifting weights or practicing yoga.

There is no right or wrong answer here, and it largely depends on what kind of workout you plan on doing. That being said, cotton — while known as one of the softer shirt materials — tends to lock in moisture, which can make the shirt feel heavy, and stink once you start to sweat. Instead, look for blended materials that offer sweat-wicking properties and a bit of stretch for optimal workout performance.

It all comes down to how often you’re going to workout each week, and what kind of climate you’re working out in. If you are a regular user of indoor gyms, for instance, you can probably get by with three or four gym shirts in your rotation. If you are more of an adventurous type who likes staying active in a range of indoor and outdoor scenarios in various climates, you’ll need a few more options ready to go.

For this story, commerce writer Todd Plummer combed through market research, referenced product descriptions, and touched on his own personal experience to create a comprehensive roundup of the best workout shirts for men.

He also spoke with Justin Wright, a film producer and CrossFit coach from Boston.

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