Best Long-Sleeve Workout Shirt: Literary Sport Weldon Long Sleeve

Even beyond the dead of winter, some folks prefer to work out in a long-sleeve, whether it’s to help absorb excess sweat or to create a hotter environment that helps you sweat it out even more. Literary Sport, a new name in the workout apparel world, makes a great long-sleeve top, dubbed the Weldon, that’s crafted from universally beloved merino wool. Its construction means that it’s naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating, even though it is a long-sleeve top. Arm holes keep your palms warm while allowing for the flexibility to use your digits (say, if you need to change songs on your playlist), and its fit is neither too slim nor too baggy.

Best Vented Workout Shirt: Lululemon Vent Tech 2.0

For a brand that’s synonymous with athleisure, Lululemon makes gym clothes that are actually good for working out and not just lounging. A shade looser than the Rhone, this updated version of one of our favorite Lululemon workout tops deserves its spot in these hallowed rankings because it lets in a whole lot of air. That’s thanks in large part to a series of visible, larger-than-usual holes that somehow don’t show any skin. Also, the heathered colorways and contrast-stitched seams provide a nice reprieve from the bright solid colors available at your local sporting goods store. For those of you who aren’t inclined to shill for an athletic apparel giant without an endorsement deal in place, the logo—already small and unobtrusive—is tucked away on the back, just below the neck.

Best Compression Workout Shirt: Under Armour HeatGear Compression

Under Armour’s HeatGear compression shirt will help you focus on your workout without any interruption from the brisk winter weather. Its super-light fabric delivers superior coverage without weighing you down. It includes a mesh underarm and back panels for better ventilation to help wick sweat and keep you dry. For an affordable $32, this HeatGear long-sleeve top is a must-have. The cold won’t be an excuse next winter.

Best Workout Shirt for Runners: Tracksmith Van Cortlandt

Tracksmith has carved out its own niche in the running community for its preppy New England athletic apparel—think Prefontaine-era silhouettes with a dash of retro Ivy League style. Its Van Cortlandt tee is one of the brand’s most popular styles because of its iconic sash motif, but it’s also just a great top for working out in. It feels good on the skin, even during long-distance runs, and it’ll keep you cool while helping to quickly wick away your sweat.

The Best Workout Tank: Abercrombie and Fitch YPB Cropped Muscle Tank

Chest day got you feeling like you want to show a little more off? Fellas, behold the muscle tank, a sleeveless way to show off your gains during intense workouts, HIIT training, or cardio days. In our testing, Abercrombie’s YPB cropped tank offers just enough shoulder-baring action without alerting the gym staff to a flasher situation. These are also great for arm days, when you need to show off the firepower you’ve been accumulating doing all those curls, dips, and tricep extensions. Plus, wearing a muscle tee at the gym just sort of… rocks. (We’re leaning into the meatheaderry in 2025.)

Best Breathable Shirt for Working Out: Bandit Micromesh

No matter how low-impact my work out might be, I’m guaranteed to work up a sweat. Bandit’s Micromesh performance tee is best for people like me—because of its construction, it won’t cling to your sticky skin, while the anti-odor properties won’t have your gym bros keeping their distance from you when you’re in need of a spotter. Its holey construction makes it super breathable, though we don’t recommend wearing this if it’s windy out because you will get chilly. We’ve noticed zero chafing during runs (which makes sense, since Bandit prides itself as a running apparel brand), and this makes a great base layer under a crewneck or hoodie. Also, unlike so many other long-sleeve tees that prioritize a slim fit for accentuating the look of your upper body, this option has a relaxed fit that’s easy to slip off and toss in the laundry hamper at home.