These 8 Sweat-Wicking Workout Shirts Keep You Cool and Dry

ProsNever feels clingyLightweight and breathableOffers great coverageConsDoesn't have any built-in supportThe Smartwool Active Mesh Short Sleeve was hands-down the best moisture-wicking shirt we tested over the past few months—and for good reason. It’s super lightweight, breathable, has a relaxed fit, and is made with merino wool, which helps keep you cool no matter how intense your workout gets.One of my favorite things about this shirt is how well it hides sweat. I wore it during a tough HIIT session, and there were zero visible sweat stains, no matter which color I had on (and yes, I tried all three). That’s thanks to the merino wool, which is blended with Tencel Lyocell—a soft, breathable fabric made from wood pulp that helps regulate temperature and manage moisture like a pro.We’ve put this shirt through the wringer—running, yoga, lifting, HIIT—and it always holds up. It never feels clingy, gives you room to move without any added bulk, and has reflective elements for better visibility during late-night runs.Another big plus: the waist-length cut offers great coverage, so you don’t have to worry about it riding up when you’re bending, stretching, or running. It doesn’t come with built-in support, so just pair it with your favorite sports bra and you’re good to go.Read More: Best Workout TopsMaterialMerino wool, Tencel lyocellSize RangeXS–XLColors3ProsRemovable cups Sweat- and moisture-wicking Seamless design makes it super comfortable Keeps us feeling protected and held-in during light workoutsConsNot a ton of support for higher impact workouts No adjustable straps, so not super customizableThe Lululemon Ebb to Street Tank is a reliable favorite among WH editors. It’s super soft, seamless, sweat-wicking, and ultra stretchy thanks to a comfortable blend of elastane and nylon. Plus, it offers just the right amount of support and coverage for low-impact workouts like Pilates, yoga, and walking—which is huge for tank tops that usually lack structure.This is one of my go-to tops for working out or running errands. It’s incredibly comfortable thanks to its seamless racerback design—no pesky straps, seams, or tightness to get in the way during your sweat session. However, you should note that because there are no adjustable straps, you can't customize the fit of this tank.The most convenient part: it has a built-in shelf bra, so you don’t have to wear a separate bra underneath (unless you want to for more support!). And, we found that it actually does keep us feeling covered and protected during low-impact exercise, which we didn’t find to be the case with other tanks that have built-in bras.Another pro? The longer length of this top (it hits at the hip) keeps us feeling locked in and covered during workouts where we don’t want a ton of stomach showing.While it does a great job at keeping us dry during sweaty workouts, we found that, in terms of support, it’s not the best choice for high-intensity training. It didn’t do a great job of holding the girls in place during high-impact moves, and we would have liked more padding and compression. But based on our testing, it's difficult to find a tank with that level of support. That's why we recommend pairing this with our favorite high-impact sports bra, the Under Armour Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bra.Read More: Best Moisture-Wicking LeggingsFeatures at a GlanceMaterialBody: 100% nylon; bra: 85% nylon, 15% elastaneSize Range2-14Colors7Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSuper soft fabricFlattering shapeComes in tons of colorsConsFeels more like an everyday shirt than a workout teeWhen I first felt this tee, I knew I had to have it. And that’s saying a lot coming from someone who’s basically tried every workout shirt and brand out there. It’s ridiculously soft—thin enough to feel like a second skin, but still offers enough coverage so nothing’s see-through (because no one wants that surprise at the gym).The fabric is a blend heavy on the polyester (hello, softness) with just the right touch of spandex for that stretchy, flexible feel. It’s super lightweight and moisture-wicking, so even after a sweaty lower-body session, I didn’t feel completely drenched.I also love the curved hem on this tee. It gives a flattering shape and, bonus, it’s a little longer, so you get full coverage without constantly tugging it down. Another perk? It comes in tons of color options.To be fair, this tee feels more like an everyday shirt you'd wear with jeans than a hardcore workout top like the Smartwool one. But if you're looking for something lightweight and comfy you can wear to the gym and then straight to brunch, this is a great option.Material94% polyester, 6% spandexSizesXXS-2XLColors12ProsOpen and airyComes in 8 colorsWorks with low- and high-rise pantsICYDK, cotton is one of the quickest-drying fabrics, which makes this shirt one of the best for wicking away moisture. It’s also super lightweight and breathable, so it doesn’t feel heavy like some tees can. I sometimes get wary about working out in high-neck tees like this one because I don’t want to feel constricted at the gym, but trust me when I tell you this is the perfect shirt to throw on with leggings if you want a bit more coverage during your workout.And if you want to get dressy, this tee pretty much always fits the bill, whether you’re pairing it with jeans or trousers. It hits right at the hip, so it works with low- and high-rise pants, too. Another plus? It has a small slit at the side to make it feel more open and airy. It does run a bit big, so I recommend opting for a size down.Material70% cotton, 30% PolyesterSizesXXS–2XLColors8Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSuper moisture-wickingUPF 40 protectionSuper lightweight but still moves with youConsMust size down for a snugger, more compressive fitI love a cropped workout tee that shows just the right amount of skin, and this one nails it with an open-back design and a high neckline. You get solid coverage in the front and a fun peek of skin in the back, so it's the best of both worlds. And the technical details are just as impressive. It's made from what the brand calls VitaFree fabric, which is mostly elastane. That gives it a super stretchy, barely-there feel that moves with you and holds its shape, almost like a second skin.The fabric blend is 75 percent nylon and 25 percent elastane, so it’s great for wicking away sweat during high-intensity workouts. If you’re training outdoors, the fabric also has UPF 40 built in, offering solid sun protection for the areas it covers (but definitely still wear SPF!).I personally like a more fitted feel in my workout tops to feel supported, so I sized down in this one (usually a medium, but I went with a small and loved the fit). It still fits comfortably over a sports bra, which is key since it doesn’t have a built-in shelf. If you prefer a looser fit, just stick with your usual size. I do wish it came in more colors than just black, though.Material89% nylon, 11% elastaneSizesXXS–2XLColors4ProsDesigned to keep you cool and dry Super lightweightVery functional ConsNot the most stylish option on this listThis shirt keeps you cool and dry thanks to its moisture-wicking Dryfit fabric made from polyester and spandex. It’s built for movement, with stretch, bound edges, and interlock seams that help prevent chafing.While it may look like a regular T-shirt, this technical T is all about performance and breathability. I always grab it before a tough weight session or when I’m layering over a high-impact bra for a long run.I don’t think it’s the most stylish shirt on this list, but it is definitely one of the more functional pieces I own, which is why I reach for it so often. It delivers great performance compared to more expensive options, especially at this price point.Material90% polyester, 10% spandexSizesXS-2XLColors5Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsGreat airflowLoose enough to fit over a sports braZero arm or shoulder restriction ConsNot the best option if you want a longer length shirtWhen it comes to running tops, we’re all about pieces that wick away sweat, don’t cling, and feel barely there. This tank from Nike checks every box. “This tank is so light and airy during runs,” says fitness and commerce editor Nicolette Accardi. “The side cutouts and cropped fit give great airflow, especially on those brutally hot days when sweat is inevitable.”We also love that there’s zero arm or shoulder restriction. It’s loose and breathable enough to fit over a high-impact sports bra, which is a huge plus. Personally, I prefer loose tops when I run because they let me move freely—and this one definitely delivers on that.That said, if you’re not into cropped styles, this might not be your thing. The side slits also catch the breeze and show a bit more skin, so it’s ideal for anyone who doesn’t mind a little extra ventilation.MaterialPolyesterSizesXXS-2XLColors6ProsLightweight seamless fabricGrippers on inner hem to prevent riding upThumbholes to keep sleeve in place ConsNot ideal for those looking for a baggy fitIf you’re after a long-sleeve workout top that feels like your favorite butter-soft tee but fits and performs like activewear, this one from Athleta is it. It’s made from a super soft nylon with the perfect amount of stretch.The fit is body skimming yet not remotely restrictive, so while it’s formfitting I wouldn’t characterize it as feeling tight. The fabric is sweat-wicking and breathable, so it’s perfect for anything from a power walk to a strength-training session.It hits right at the hips for full coverage with an ingenious gripper at the bottom hem that keeps it in place for a sleek silhouette. The top stays in place whether your in downward dog or doing box jumps.The sleeves aren’t too tight, so this top will also be a go-to if you’re layering during the colder months, with thumbholes adding a nice functional touch. If you’re a fan of low-maintenance activewear that still looks good post-gym, this one’s a no-brainer.Material100 % nylonSize RangeXXS-2XColors6Lily Wohlner is a style contributor at Women’s Health. A sneakerhead, shopping enthusiast, and beauty expert, she’s mastered the art of testing, reviewing, and recommending standout products across every style category. Lily started her career as a freelance makeup artist before diving into the editorial and copywriting world, creating content for brands like Oribe, NewBeauty, and Dermstore. When she’s not training for her next half marathon, whipping up high-protein recipes with her roommate or thrifting for the ultimate pair of low-rise jeans.Natascha is an editor and writer covering health, fitness, and the ways people move through the world. She’s been a NASM-certified personal trainer for more than a decade, with a background in functional strength training, corrective exercise, nutrition, and behavior change. She has additional CES, CNC, BCS, and SFC certifications. She is also a level-2 certified Spinning instructor. Her work has appeared in Bicycling, Runner’s World, and other outlets, and her experience spans both editorial and hands-on work across the fitness industry. Whether she’s writing about training, health, or performance, she’s most interested in making complicated topics useful, approachable, and helpful.