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The Best Running Shirts of 2025

Updated: April 29, 2025

Man running on the road wearing rabbit Go Time singlet and Speedster tights

The right running shirt can make all the difference. With so many options, finding the perfect mix of comfort, breathability, and performance isn’t always easy.

At Running Warehouse, we live and breathe running gear. Our team of passionate runners gets hands-on with tons of apparel from top brands every year. Out of the dozens of running shirts we’ve tried and gotten our hands on, these are our top picks.


Best Men's Running Tanks & Singlets

Nike Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift Singlet

Nike Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift Singlet front
Nike Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift Singlet  back

When the temps rise or you’re gearing up for race day, a lightweight tank or singlet can make all the difference. Designed for speed and made to perform, the Nike Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift Singlet delivers on every front. It’s lightweight, breathable, and features bonded seams and precision perforations to keep you cool and comfortable through every mile.

Features: Best For:

Perforations for maximum airflow

Hot weather and high-intensity workouts

Featherlight, silky, barely-there fabric

Those who want a sleek, distraction free fit

Dri-FIT fabric pulls sweat away fast

Runners who love elite-level gear with style

rnnr Men’s All Out Singlet front
rnnr Men’s All Out Singlet back

The rnnr Men's All Out Singlet is all about feel-good performance. Race day ready and built to move with you, this singlet keeps things light, soft and breathable. Made from recycled and organic fabrics, it's like your favorite cozy tee—if your favorite tee could wick sweat and help you crush miles. With bold colors and a relaxed fit, it’s a go-to for runners who want comfort and style on the run.

Features: Best For:

Soft and lightweight fabric

Hot weather and high-intensity workouts

Recycled and organic materials

Those who want a sleek, distraction-free fit

Bold colors with a racerback design

Runners who love elite-level gear with style

Moisture-wicking performance

adidas Own the Run Base Tank front
adidas Own the Run Base Tank back

Looking for a tank you can wear day or night? The adidas Own the Run Base Tank has you covered with reflective details for visibility after dark. Lightweight and breathable with a racerback cut, it’s built to keep you cool and moving comfortably, no matter when you hit the pavement.

Features: Best For:

Reflective details for low-light visibility

Staying visible on early or late runs

Racer-back design for full mobility

Easy movement during any run

Lightweight and breathable fabric

Warm weather workouts


Best Women's Running Tanks & Singlets

Nike Aeroswift Singlet

Nike Aeroswift Singlet front
Nike Aeroswift Singlet back

When it comes to the best women’s running tanks, it’s all about breathability, comfort, and staying distraction-free. The Nike Women’s Dri-FIT ADV Aeroswift Singlet checks every box. It features ultra-light fabric, bonded seams for a smooth feel, and standout perforations that keep air flowing on even your toughest runs. It’s race-ready, sleek, and built to move with you.

Features: Best For:
Strategic perforations for maximum airflow Staying cool and dry on race day
Sweat-wicking Dri-FIT fabric High-performance runs and workouts
Bonded seams for a smooth, chafe-free fit Those who want a premium, lightweight feel
Brooks Distance Tank 3.0 front
Brooks Distance Tank 3.0 back

The Brooks Women’s Distance Tank 3.0 is your go-to for comfort. With a relaxed racerback fit and ultra-soft, breathable fabric, it feels more like your favorite tee than a technical tank. Smooth seams and moisture-wicking fabric keep things cool and comfy, perfect for running, and versatile for anything you may have on your schedule.

Features: Best For:

Relaxed fit for easy movement

Layering or wearing solo

Lightweight and breathable for comfort

Easy runs and workouts

Soft GO₂™ fabric for a smooth feel

Staying dry and comfortable

rabbit Go Time Singlet/Crop front
rabbit Go Time Singlet/Crop back

If you’re looking for a cropped running tanks, the rabbit Women’s Go Time Singlet & Crop Top is for you! This sleek, race-ready top offers a perfect fit with a built-in bra for medium support. Designed with lightweight, fast-drying fabric and built-in antibacterial tech, this crop keeps you feeling fresh and cool, so you can focus on your run without any distractions.

Features: Best For:

Anti-bacterial silver tech prevents odors

Runners seeking odor control

rabbitMESH ICE fabric keeps you cool

Needing quick-drying breathable fabric

Fitted design with a built-in bra for medium support

Athletes seeking comfort and support


Best Men's Running Short Sleeve Shirts

Nike Dri-FIT UV Miler SS

Nike Dri-FIT UV Miler SS front
Nike Dri-FIT UV Miler SS back

When it comes to the best men’s running shirts, we look for lightweight comfort, breathability, and performance that holds up from warm-ups to long runs. The Nike Dri-FIT UV Miller Short Sleeve gets the job done—and then some. With ultra-light, sweat-wicking fabric and built in UVA protection, it’s made for runners who won’t let a little heat slow them down.

Features: Best For:

Built-in UVA & UVB

Running in sunny conditions

Dropped rear hem and side notches

Unrestricted movement

Dri-FIT fabric wicks sweat

Staying dry and cool

Ultra-lightweight for max airflow

Lightweight comfort on any run

SaySky Clean/Logo Pace T-Shirt front
SaySky Clean/Logo Pace T-Shirt back

For runners who want comfort without compromising style, the SAYSKY Clean Pace T-Shirt does both effortlessly. It’s soft on the inside, stretchy in all the right places, and cool enough to wear on or off the run. From tempo workouts to easy miles around the block, this tee has your back and makes you look good doing it.


Features: Best For:

Stretchy fit that moves with you

Runners who want both performance and comfort

Soft brushed interior for next-to-skin comfort

Every day training or laid-back miles

Minimalist design with SAYSKY style

Those who like gear that looks as good as it feels

Rabbit UPF Tee Short Sleeve front
Rabbit UPF Tee Short Sleeve back

Light as air and prtoective from the sun, the rabbit Men’s UPF Tee Short Sleeve is built for summer runs. With UPF 50 protection and breathable, quick drying fabric, it’s made to keep you cool and comfortable when the heat’s on and the miles are long.

Features: Best For:

UPF 50 protection

Long runs under the sun

Lightweight jersey fabric

Those who want breathable sun protection

Relaxed fit

Athletes who prefer a looser, comfy fit


Best Women's Running Short Sleeve Shirts

rabbit EZ Tee

rabbit EZ Tee front
rabbit EZ Tee back

When it comes to the best women’s running short sleeves, we look for that sweet spot in between comfort, performance, and versatility – something that feels good from the first mile to the last (and maybe even post-run brunch). The rabbit Women’s EZ Tee nails it with buttery soft fabric, sweat wicking tech, and a relaxed fit you’ll want to live in.

Features: Best For:

Super soft, stretchy fabric

Runners who want a soft, relaxed fit

Moisture-wicking and quick drying

Warm weather runs and workouts

Raglan sleeves for easy movement

Versatile wear, from long runs to lounging

The North Face Sunriser Short Sleeve front
The North Face Sunriser Short Sleeve back

If your runs take you off the beaten path (or just out in midday sun), the North Face Women’s Sunriser UPF Tee has your back, literally. With built in UPF 40+, sweat wicking, anti-odor tech, and a lightweight feel, this is your all terrain, sun shielding adventure tee. The split hem gives you extra room to move, from climbing hills or cruising on the pavement with ease.

Features: Best For:

UPF 40+ protection

Sunny trail runs

Split hem for easy movement

Runners who want a sleek fit

Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric

Staying cool and dry

Saucony Stopwatch Short Sleeve front
Saucony Stopwatch Short Sleeve back

The Saucony Women’s Stopwatch Short Sleeve is the no-fuss, ready-for-anything run tee. It’s soft, breathable, and built to move with you. With moisture-wicking fabric and four-way stretch, it’s the kind of top you’ll reach for on workout days, easy runs, and everything in between.

Features: Best For:

Stretchy four-way fabric

Daily runs and training

Moisture-wicking fabric

Warm weather workouts

Breathable and lightweight

Runners who want a light, comfy fit


How We Made Our Picks

At Running Warehouse, we work closely with dozens of top brands and get our hands on hundreds of running shirts each season. Our deep knowledge of performance fabrics, fit details, and construction helps us evaluate what truly stands out. From materials to mobility, we look at the key features runners care most about, so you can spend less time scrolling and more time running.


What to Consider

Finding the right running shirt isn’t just about what looks good – it's about how it feels, performs, and supports your stride. Here’s what to keep in mind.

Man and woman running on road in shorts and tank in running shoes

Fabric & Material

The best running shirts are made from technical fabrics that wick moisture, dry quickly, and breathe well. Look for materials like:

  • Polyester & nylon: Lightweight, durable, and fast drying
  • Spandex/elastane: Added stretch for a flexible feel
  • Merino wool: Natural Temperature regulation and odor control

Features

  • UPF/UV Sun Protection Fabrics: Provide ultraviolet protection by blocking a significant percentage of the sun’s harmful UV rays
  • Flatlock or Bonded Seams: Smooth, low-profile stitching techniques that lie flat against your skin, designed to reduce friction and help prevent chafing during movement
  • Reflectivity: Reflective details for visibility and protection during low light or nighttime runs
  • Raglan Sleeves: Extend in one piece to the collar, giving your arms more freedom to move
  • Split Hems: Small openings at the sides of the shirt that add flexibility and prevent bunching while you run
  • Odor-Resistant or Anti-Bacterial Fabric: Inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria, keeping clothing fresher for longer
  • Mesh Panels: Improve airflow in heat zones

Style & Design

Running shirts typically have a slimmer, athletic fit designed to reduce drag and minimize chafing. Prefer a looser feel? Consider sizing up. Tanks and singlets offer more freedom of movement (and less fabric), making them ideal for hot days or high intensity workouts. Short sleeves are great all-rounders, while long sleeves offer coverage and warmth for cooler runs. Here’s a breakdown of various styles:

  • Crew Neck: A classic style with full coverage, great for everyday training and layering in cooler temps.
  • V-neck: Offers a slightly more open neckline for increased airflow and a less restrictive feel.
  • Sleeveless/Tank Tops: Ideal for hot days or high-intensity workouts when you want to stay cool and unrestricted.
  • Short Sleeves: A versatile pick that works well in most conditions, gives coverage without overheating.
  • Long Sleeves: Best for chilly mornings or sun protection. Some have thumbholes for added coverage.
  • Cropped Fit: A modern, minimalist option that’s lightweight and ideal for speedwork or warm weather.
  • Relaxed Fit: Perfect for easy runs, casual training, or runners who like more room to move.

Man and woman running on sidewalk in shorts and tank in running shoes

The Final Stretch: Choosing the Best Running Shirt for You

At the end of the day, the right running shirt is the one that fits your preferences. Whether you’re heading out for a quick jog or a long run, having a top that fits well, keeps you cool, and moves with you can make every mile more enjoyable.

Written by Running Warehouse

Running Warehouse was founded by a small group of runners in 2005 and has grown to become a trusted resource for runners around the world. We pride ourselves on carrying a curated selection of the best running shoes, clothing, and gear, and we love sharing our knowledge of those products with you!

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