The best running t-shirts for men reviewed (2023)

Running t-shirts are lighter, more breathable, and more comfortable for exercising in than an everyday cotton t-shirt. There are plenty of options to choose from, but with the current issue with fast fashion, we've been on a mission to find the best running t-shirts for men that not only perform well, but are more sustainable and durable.

To get one thing out of the way, what is the difference between a base layer and t-shirt? You could think of a running t-shirt as a type of base layer since you tend to wear it directly against the skin.

Base layers are often thought of as tight-fitting, often long-sleeve garments for cold weather. But these days, the term base layer is also being applied to lightweight running t-shirts for summer too.

Our shortlist

Patagonia Ridge Flow Shirt - Best in Test

Alpkit Koulin Trail Tee - Best Value

Montane Dart Long Sleeve T-Shirt - Best long sleeve running t-shirt

Dynafit Ultra 3 S-Tech S/S Tee - Best running t-shirt for long distance and ultras

Smartwool Active Ultralite Short Sleeve - Best natural fibre running t-shirt

The North Face Summit High Trail Run Tank Top - Best running tank top

To make things simple, we've included all different types of running tops into one article. There are many different types of base layers and t-shirts for running, so here, you'll find a collection of the best. Whether you pair your running top with a running jacket or a mid-layer is up to you, and largely influenced by the season.

The best running t-shirts for men

What to look for in a running t-shirt

Material: Different materials have certain strong suits. Polyester is highly breathable, which is ideal for colder conditions, and a cheaper material. Technical nylon is stronger and can have more stretch but isn't quite as breathable. This can have a cooling effect and therefore be better for warmer conditions. Merino is clever because it aids temperature regulation; it can therefore be suitable year-round.

Fit: Perhaps something that differs between base layers and some running t-shirts is the fit. Whether you prefer skin-tight or something a little looser is entirely personal.

Price: This is one of the primary influential factors. It's absolutely fair to have price affect your buying decision, but don't let it dictate it. If the ideal product you need means saving up for another few weeks, so be it. It's always worthwhile.

Sustainability: Merino is always a favourite for many runners because of its properties and because it's a natural fibre. Synthetic materials are very popular too, but it's worth looking for garments made from or at least containing recycled materials.

Independent certification from the Fair Wear Foundation and B Corp, for example, also demonstrate the brand is operating responsibly and transparently. It's good to support brands doing the right thing.

Features: Mesh panels, sleeve length, anti-odour treatments, zipped, flat seams. There are lots of features crammed into performance running base layers and t-shirts. Some are for comfort, some for breathability, some for warmth, and so on. Think about which are applicable to you.

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