We all know that the shirt you wear on a run makes a big difference. It affects how well you perform, how good you feel during and after the workout, and whether or not you’re going to look forward to the next run.
Ill-fitting or heavy shirts weigh you down. Dense fabrics keep in moisture and heat, making for an uncomfortable experience fifteen minutes into the workout. And while your workouts might not be fancy, there’s no need to exchange style for functionality.
All that being said, finding good-quality and high-performing shirts can be difficult.
That’s why we’ve put together the following list of the top ten workout shirts for women. We’ve taken several key criteria for a great running shirt—breathability, weight, flexibility, to name just a few—and we’re confident the shirts below would more than match your needs.
On Performance-T
Engineered to provide support to high-level runners, this ultralight Performance-T balances protection with freedom of movement. The stripped-down design, all taped and seamless, makes wearing this shirt feel like you’re not wearing anything—it’s that light and breathable. It’s made for running and racing in those hot summer days. The blend of polyester fabrics in a two-tone design gives functionality and style to this warm-weather running shirt. With sizes ranging from XS to XL, there’s a fit for every runner.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Color Options: Mulberry/Spice, Cerulean/Black, Black/Dark
- Fit: Athletic
- Price: $80
Key Feature: The Performance-T, engineered to feel like nothing, is made to streamline performance especially when the heat is on.
Reebok Workout Ready Activchill T-Shirt
Breathable ACTIVCHILL in this running T-shirt helps you stay cool up to that last rep—and beyond. The back vent ensures good airflow, and adds an extra touch of style when tied up. The crewneck design and curved hemline provide comfort and ease of movement for any kind of workout. The breathable, light, yet durable fabric of this unpretentious, functional shirt is crafted from 100 percent nylon jersey. Sizes ranging from 2XS to 2XL, ensuring a fit for any and all fitness enthusiasts.
- Material: ACTIVCHILL 100% nylon single jersey
- Color Options: Punch Berry, Frost Berry, Black
- Fit: Body skimming
- Price: $25
Key Feature: Thanks to its functional design, the Reebok Workout Ready Activchill T-Shirt will help you stay cool through any workout.
New Balance Impact Run Short Sleeve Shirt
Fast-drying, thanks to first-class NB ICEx technology. Breathable mesh fabric. Reflective details for both style and safety when running on the road. The New Balance Impact Run Short Sleeve has everything a dedicated runner could ask for in a running shirt. It’s designed to fit your body just right, allowing for free and active movement without being too loose or too tight. What’s even better? This short sleeve is made almost completely from recycled polyester, in accordance with New Balance’s green leaf standard. Comfort, style, and sustainability all in one.
- Material: 95% recycled polyester, 5% polyester
- Color Options: Black, Night Sky Heather, Vibrant Pink Heather
- Fit: Athletic
- Price: $44
Key Feature: Made from recycled fabrics and designed for quick cooling, the New Balance Impact Run Short Sleeve Shirt offers everything a runner could ask of a short sleeve running shirt.
Tracksmith Harrier Tee
Soft. Light-weight. Breathable. Does that sound like your dream running shirt? Well, the Tracksmith Harrier Tee offers all that—and more—in four earthy colors. These shirts are made with a moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and odor-resistant Merino Wool blend that makes this shirt an all-year-round staple. The natural, super-fine and surprisingly soft fabric also regulates your temperature so your mind and body can stay focused on what matters most. The sophisticated look, super-soft fabric, and basic crewneck design allows for both style and functionality. The relaxed fit makes this shirt versatile for wear both on and off the track.
- Material: 89% or more Merino Wool
- Color Options: Gravel Heather, Navy Heather, Gold Heather, Mulberry
- Fit: Athletic
- Price: $78
Key Feature: Made from natural Merino wool, the Tracksmith Harrier Tee keeps you feeling and smelling fresh and cool, even after a long run.
Nike Dri-FIT Legend Women’s Training T-Shirt
This light-weight and sweat-wicking running shirt offers more than just style and freshness, even after an arduous workout. The anti-odor finish and Dri-FIT technology ensures that both the shirt and you stay dry and comfortable—from the first stretch, to the last rep, and after. The standard fit of the Nike Dri-FIT Legend Women’s Training T-Shirt provides a relaxed, easy feel, maintaining its shape no matter the movements you take. Priced reasonably, this shirt is available in six sizes and ten different colors.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Color Options: 10+ colors to choose from, including Light Bordeaux/White, Marina, and Jade Smoke/White.
- Fit: Relaxed
- Price: $25
Key Feature: Made with Dri-FIT technology with an anti-odor finish, this shirt will keep you dry and comfy all through your workout.
Gymshark Vital Seamless 2.0 T-Shirt
A seamless and figure-contouring design allows you to workout in comfort and style with Gymshark’s Vital Seamless 2.0 Short Sleeve T-Shirt. It comes with a breathable mesh fabric for those intensive training sessions. The elastane provides just enough stretch for the nylon fabric to move and stretch with your body. One thing that makes this shirt stand out is its sustainability—it’s made using dope dyeing technology that conserves water and energy while utilizing less harmful chemicals. Stay cool and confident as you run or workout in this running shirt.
- Material: 96% nylon, 4% elastane
- Color Options: Tahoe Teal Marl, Black Marl, Smoky Gray Marl, Yellow Marl, Brown Marl
- Fit: Body hugging
- Price: $30
Key Feature: This lightweight, sweat-wicking short sleeve gives you both comfort and confidence on every run.
The North Face Women’s Flight Better Than Naked Short Sleeve Shirt
It’s designed with input from elite runners. Its anti-odor properties and FlashDry™ sweat-removing ability makes sure its wearer stays cool and fresh. What are we talking about? The North Face Women’s Flight “Better Than Naked” Short Sleeve Shirt, of course. The drop-tail hem allows for seat coverage—and detail that’s sure to be noticed and appreciated when you’re on the trail. The ultralight hybrid fabric provides both protection and breathability, while reflective details enhance visibility on or off the road.
- Material: Polyester and lyocell
- Color Options: Jadeite Green Heather, Shocking Orange Heather, Chlorophyll Green
- Fit: Body skimming
- Price: $60
Key Feature: Crafted from ultralight fabric that provides both comfort and protection, wearing this running shirt is truly “better than naked”.
Under Armour Women’s UA Tech Twist V-Neck Shirt
The Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist V-Neck Shirt is part of UA’s original go-to training gear—and for good reason. Loose and light, this shirt features UA Tech™ fabric that’s quick-drying and ultra-soft, while still maintaining a natural feel. Stretchy fabric allows for uninhibited movement, protecting your body from the elements as you race toward the finish line. The deep V-collar and fuller cut provides complete comfort and freedom. With five sizes and over 22 colors to choose from, there’s a shirt for every runner.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Color Options: 22+ colors to choose from, including Ash Plum/Mauve Pink, League Red/Dark Maroon, Electro Pink/Halo Gray, and Quirky Lime/White
- Fit: Relaxed
- Price: $25
Key Feature: Stretchy, light, and made with a fuller cut, this shirt offers all the freedom and comfort you’ll need for your biggest race yet.
Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve Shirt 2.0
Anti-stink, lightweight, and breathable, this short-sleeve workout shirt is designed for running and training. Minimal seams, mesh construction, and elastane all go into the Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve Shirt 2.0 to give it both stretch and shape retention. The slim fit sits below the waistband for moderate coverage, making this a versatile shirt for on-track and off-track wearing. With a nylon fabric blend enhanced by Silverescent™ technology that inhibits the growth of all odor-causing bacteria, this short sleeve would stay cool and fresh all workout long.
- Material: 54% nylon, 40% recycled polyester, 3%eElastane, 3% X-static® nylon
- Color Options: 13 colors to choose from, including Lavender Dew, Auric Gold, Vivid Plum, and Black
- Fit: Body skimming
- Price: $68 – $78
Key Feature: Designed with an eye to making the most flexible and comfortable short sleeve for athletes, the Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve Shirt 2.0 is a great outfit both in and out of the gym.
REI Co-op Active Pursuits T-Shirt
This stylish running shirt features durable, stretchy polyester fabric that wicks away moisture and dries before you’ve even noticed you’ve begun sweating. Designed for ultimate comfort and performance, the seams of this REI Co-op Active Pursuits T-Shirt are discreetly sewn flat, making sure that nothing chafes your skin when you’re moving at top speed. Cool, casual, and comfortable, it’s the perfect outfit for working out at the gym, or hitting miles on the trail. Plus, the reflective highlights at the back of the neck helps keep you visible in low-light situations.
- Material: 100% polyester
- Color Options: Zion Red, Wisp Gray, Pirate Black, Azurite Blue
- Fit: Relaxed
- Price: $25
Key Feature: Detailed and thoughtful design lends extra comfort and style to the REI Co-op Active Pursuits T-Shirt, ensuring your best performance.
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