Finding the best running shirt for you and your preferences sometimes requires a lot of trial and error.
Once you find a quality running shirt, the seasons may change, leading you to continue your best running shirt journey.
Running shirts come in a variety of styles and materials. Their special features also vary greatly, with options for sun protection, moisture-wicking, and chafe-free features.
Some runners look for running shirts that are sleeveless and breathable, while other runners prefer shirts with long sleeves and hoods to keep them protected from UV rays.
When looking for a running shirt, you should consider how important things like stretch, compression, and neck and arm fit are to you.
When you are running, it is important to ensure you are comfortable, your body temperature is right, and you stay chafe-free!
Having to deal with uncomfortable fitting clothing and itchy seams when running is the last thing you want to worry about, especially if you are planning to log a lot of miles or bust out a spicy speed session on the track.
7 Best Running Shirts of 2023
1. Best Running Shirts for Men for Sun Protection: BALEAF Men’s Hoodie Shirt UPF 50+
2. Best Sun Protection Running Shirt for Women: BALEAF Women’s Hoodie Shirt UPF 50+
3. Best Running T-Shirt for Men: Adidas 4 Sport Training Tee
4. Best Running T-Shirt For Women: Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist T-Shirt
5. Best Running Tank Top for Men: Under Armour Men’s Tech Tank 2.0
6. Best Running Tank Top for Women: Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Racer Tank
7. Best Running Crop Top: MAGCOMSEN Women’s Crop Tops UPF 50+
The Best Running Shirts
#1 Best Running Shirts for Men for Sun Protection: BALEAF Men’s Hoodie Shirt UPF 50+
Material: 100% Polyester Price: $22.99 Special Feature: Face cover
| Pros | Cons |
| No-chafe comfort | Wearing this much material may be bothersome to some |
| Highly breathable fabric lets moisture out | Some people may prefer a tighter fit |
| 4-way stretch |
The BALEAF Men’s Sun Protection Hoodie Shirt UPF 50+ is the perfect option for men seeking sun protection during their running sessions.
This is one of the best running shirts in 2023 because it offers many features that prioritize comfort, safety, and performance.
This shirt is made from 100% polyester and is super functional.
The Baleaf Tech 2.0 Fabric is not only soft and elastic, but it also has a great amount of breathability. This feature ensures the shirt doesn’t cling to your skin and dries rapidly, even during intense workouts.
What truly sets this shirt apart from other options is the UPF 50+ Factor & UV PROTECTION that will effectively shield you from harmful UV rays. It has the ability to block 99% more UV rays.
Thanks to this feature, your sensitive skin will be well-guarded during scorching summer days to help you remain worry-free regarding skin damage.
The added hood and thumb holes elevate the sun protection, making it a convenient choice for those who would rather avoid applying sunscreen.
When it comes to comfort, the BALEAF hoodie running shirt is engineered for an irritation-free experience. The ultra-soft fabric and flatlock seams enhance comfort and prevent chafing, providing extra protection for your shoulders, back, and arms during your runs.
#2 Best Sun Protection Running Shirt for Women: BALEAF Women’s Hoodie Shirt UPF 50+
Material: 100% Polyester Price: $29.99 Special Feature: Face cover
| Pros | Cons |
| 4-in-1 design for all-around skin protection | It may not fit curvier women well |
| Actively wicks moisture away from the skin | Not a good option for cold weather running |
| Large water storage capacity |
If you are a woman looking for a shirt to protect you from the sun, the BALEAF Women’s Hoodie Shirt UPF 50+ is undoubtedly a great choice when it comes to running apparel.
This running shirt is versatile and innovative. It has an advanced design and is extremely functional, making it the perfect gear for women who run outside.
The body of this shirt is composed of 100% polyester, while the face mask and side panels are made from a blend of 60% polyester and 40% polypropylene. This unique combination ensures durability, comfort, and protection.
The inclusion of a breathable face cover design adds a layer of windproof and UPF50+ protection, guarding your face, neck, and head against the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays.
One of the major highlights of this shirt is its quick-drying and breathable properties. You remain dry and comfortable during activities thanks to the shirt actively wicking moisture away from your skin.
This makes it the perfect choice for staying comfortable during your runs, no matter the intensity of your workout.
And let’s not forget the shirt’s 4-way stretch and non-see-through fabric that further enhances its appeal. You will experience unrestricted movement that caters to your active lifestyle.
#3 Best Running T-Shirt for Men: Adidas 4 Sport Training Tee
Material: 81% Recycled Polyester, 14% Lyocell, 5% Elastane Price: $26.25 Special Feature: Made in part with recycled materials
| Pros | Cons |
| Snug through the body and arms | It may feel tight across the shoulders of some men |
| Adidas AEROREADY manages your body’s moisture | The slim fit may be uncomfortable for some |
| A variety of colors are available |
The Adidas Men’s Designed 4 Sport Training Tee is the ideal blend of performance, sustainability, and comfort, making it a great choice for men looking for a running t-shirt.
Crafted with a thoughtful composition, the shirt is made from 81% Recycled Polyester, 14% Lyocell, and 5% Elastane.
This aligns with sustainable practices and contributes to its lightweight and flexible nature, which is important for unrestricted movement during your runs.
The slim fit design, which is snug through the body and arms, is tailored to provide a streamlined profile that reduces any interference with your running stride.
The moisture management system of this shirt works to wick away sweat from your body, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable as you push your limits.
This is especially important during runs when excess moisture can lead to discomfort.
The classic crewneck design makes this shirt even more comfortable. It retains its shape even during intense workouts, allowing you to focus solely on your running performance without any garment-related distractions.
Whether you’re hitting the pavement or trails for a run, crushing a hard training session, or simply going about your day, this shirt is designed to go with your every move.
#4 Best Running T-Shirt For Women: Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist T-Shirt
Material: 100% Polyester Price: $24.99 Special Feature: Provides a full range of motion
| Pros | Cons |
| Quick-drying, ultra-soft material | It may feel too long for some runners |
| 4-way stretch construction | Lack of collapsibility may not be ideal |
| Loose fit for complete comfort |
The Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist T-Shirt undoubtedly stands out as the ultimate choice for women seeking the finest running t-shirt.
It is an essential companion for women dedicated to their running routines as well as comfort.
Finding the perfect running t-shirt can be difficult for a woman. It can be hard to find a shirt that fits the way you want in the armpits and across the chest.
Luckily, the Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist T-Shirt is the perfect blend of features that ensure you will be comfortable and perform to the best of your ability.
This shirt’s rapid-drying fabric has an ultra-soft texture and natural feel against the skin. This elevates the shirt’s comfort and provides a great running experience.
The material efficiently pulls sweat away from your skin to stay cool and comfortable.
Whether you are going for a long run or heading out for hill repeats, it is important that you can move freely. The 4-way stretch construction of this t-shirt allows you to do just that. You can focus more on your hill repeats and less on feeling restricted.
The allover twist effect adds a touch of style to this t-shirt and makes it a great option for both workouts and everyday wear.
#5 Best Running Tank Top for Men: Under Armour Men’s Tech Tank 2.0
Material: 100% Polyester Price: $24.95 Special Feature: Dropped armholes
| Pros | Cons |
| Dropped armholes for extra mobility & range of motion | The material is very thin |
| Streamlined fit that’s not too tight or too loose. | It may shrink if you machine-dry |
| Fast-drying fabric for superior performance |
Having a great tank top to run in is absolutely necessary. The Under Armour Men’s Tech Tank 2.0 tank top is lightweight and made of fast-drying fabric.
The fabric of this tank top does a great job of wicking sweat so you do not have to feel weighed down during your runs.
The design of this tank top is great, the dropped armholes give you plenty of extra mobility and range of motion. This is crucial for fluid movement during runs.
The new streamlined fit and shaped hem enhance the appeal of this tank top. It is able to complement your body while providing optimal coverage.
The “Fitted” design offers a great blend between being too tight and too loose. You will experience maximum comfort and minimal interference with your movements.
This running shirt is well-designed by Under Armour and meant to be loose, light, and keep you cool.
#6 Best Running Tank Top for Women: Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Racer Tank
Material: 94% Polyester, 6% Elastane Price: $25.00 Special Feature: Pinhole mesh for superior breathability
| Pros | Cons |
| 4-way stretch construction moves better in every direction | It may be too long for some runners |
| Comfortable, chafe-free fit | Tight fit may be uncomfortable for some |
| Classic racer back |
If you are a woman in search of a brightly colored and comfortably fitting tank top then the Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Racer Tank is a great option.
The combination of materials this running shirt is made of makes it very durable and flexible so you can run with plenty of comfort and not worry about overheating.
It is also perfectly fitted so the material lays close to your body without making you feel suffocated.
The fabric is equipped with Under Armour’s signature HeatGear technology which is designed to be the first layer you put on and the last layer you take off.
It wicks away sweat and whatever sweat does try to hang out will rapidly dry. You can worry less about overheating and more about the run at hand.
One of the highlight features of this tank top is the super-soft pinhole mesh. It is breathable without compromising coverage.
The classic racerback design adds both style and functionality to the tank. It even has a 4-way stretch so you can swing your arms properly while ticking off miles.
Having a go-to running shirt that is both stylish and comfortable is key for every woman dedicated to running whether competitively or recreationally.
#7 Best Running Crop Top: MAGCOMSEN Women’s Crop Tops UPF 50+
Material: 89% Polyester, 11% Spandex Price: $16.98 Special Feature: UPF 50+ fabric
| Pros | Cons |
| Very affordable | Low arm holes are not ideal for some |
| Lightweight and stretchy fabric | The high neck may be too hot for some |
| Pairs perfectly with high-waisted leggings |
The MAGCOMSEN Women’s Crop Top UPF 50+ is made out of a blend of 89% Polyester and 11% Spandex, which offers a balance of flexibility and durability essential for a runner’s lifestyle.
The UPF 50+ fabric acts as a shield against UV rays and is perfect for safeguarding against sunburn during outdoor running.
This crop top has a rounded neck, sleeveless design, and roomy dropped armholes that won’t cause arm restriction.
It is very flowy and has a front loose hem that enhances coverage and overall comfort.
The crop top’s lightweight and stretchy feel makes it super comfortable and provides a cooling sensation, even during intense run workouts. It also complements various body shapes, runner styles, and activities. It is perfectly paired with high-waisted leggings or shorts.
While this is a perfect running shirt, its relaxed fit also makes it great for other activities like yoga, tennis, and travel. Beyond its functional attributes, the crop top caters to style preferences.
Takeaways
Choosing the best running shirts of 2023 requires a careful balance between cutting-edge technology, comfort, and style.
The best choices consist of features like moisture-wicking fabrics, UV protection, and tailored fits that may enhance performance.
Finding options that can transition seamlessly from workout to casual wear so they are multi-purpose is important to some runners. On the other hand, having eco-conscious selections that are crafted from recycled materials is ideal for others.
The top running shirts of 2023 cater to individual needs and preferences, allowing runners to crush their goals with confidence and even a touch of personal flair.
