There are multiple things to consider when purchasing new workout apparel. You want to make sure you do your due diligence beforehand. When looking for the optimal workout shirt, functionality often takes precedence over style, for most men. After all, a minimalist cotton t-shirt is ideal, but it won’t look (or smell) so great after an hour-long workout, especially if your working out, outdoors. That’s why, in the past decade, some of our favorite activewear brands like Lululemon, Vuori, and Under Armour have developed breathable fabrics with moisture-wicking and odor-fighting technology that are now practically must-haves for any exercise gear, especially when it comes to making high-quality shirts.
That being said, not all workout tops are created equal. When it comes to finding the right workout fit, make sure it doesn’t feel too tight or baggy around your underarms, your shoulders, or across your chest, i.e., the areas you exercise most. We sifted through some of the most popular brands to select the best workout shirts that are as practical as they are fashionable. Here are our top picks for the best men’s workout shirts of 2023.
Todd Snyder x Champion Basic Jersey Tee
Not only is Todd Snyder a force in the high-fashion and suit-tailoring game, but he makes some of the best workout clothes around today. Partnering with the iconic brand Champion, which has been around since the start of the 20th century, the two brand labels combined to make the best workout attire. His t-shirts are the epitome of lived-in fit, with the perfect cut to accentuate all types of bodies. The definition of stylized performance.
Rogue Fitness Basic T-Shirt
Rogue Fitness makes the best workout equipment in the game. From kettlebells to weight plates to barbells, they do it all. And as for their apparel, it’s both affordable and optimized for a full range of motion. It’s no wonder why so many of the world’s best Crossfitters have collaborations with them.
Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Short Sleeve 2.0
Whether you’re stretching or lifting weights, you’ll need a shirt that won’t bunch up and get in the way. That’s why we love this short-sleeved tee from Lululemon, which hugs your shoulders and upper arms just right and also has an ultra-breathable fabric that leaves us relatively dry even after our most rigorous workouts.
Reigning Champ Lightweight Jersey T-Shirt
Reigning Champ has slowly been taking over as a cult-like brand amongst those who not only want to look fashionable but have premium quality apparel as well. Their lightweight jersey t-shirt has a kind of slim-fitting silhouette, making your hard work in the gym look even better.
Vuori Tradewind Performance Tee
We can’t stop giving love to Vuori’s sustainable shorts, and we found that the brand’s tees are just as noteworthy. Namely, this performance tee is made with a perforated knit for maximum breathability. It’s light and durable and works well for any workout.
Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Tee
Looking to invest in a top-notch running shirt? Might we suggest Tracksmith’s gorgeous tee, which comes in an ultra-luxe mesh that moves and feels fantastic. Plus, the sash detailing adds a nice collegiate touch.
Municipal Enduro Stretch T-Shirt
This may look like your basic white tee on the surface, but it’s built for working out. The breathable and flexible fabric makes exercising more bearable. You also get a shirt you can wear daily.
Under Armour Men's UA Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve
One of the thinnest shirts we tested, these were still durable enough to withstand virtually any workout. Plus, it dried more quickly than most of the other tops we tried.
Rhone Men’s Running Shirt Swift Short Sleeve
Much has been said about Rhone’s performance tops, which are made with actual gold, and we’re happy to report that they live up to the hype. Take this running shirt, which includes the aforementioned “Midas touch” to ward off unwanted odors, and we found (or smelled, rather) that Rhone’s shirt remained relatively odorless compared to its competitors.
Hanes Men's Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Looking for a long-sleeved workout shirt? While Hanes is mostly known for its undershirts, underwear, and socks, you can also find a superb line of exercise apparel at a great price. When it comes to workout shirts for men, these shirts will keep you warm for outdoor cold-weather workouts and protect you from the sun’s UV rays.
Gone are the days of the past when finding great-fitting workout tees that would not be able to hold up to high-performance output workouts. This list of the best men’s workout t-shirts has an option for every man.
