Whether you’re a runner training for your next 5K or a yogi who flows through vinyasa classes with ease, having quality activewear is essential. And when it comes to workout tops, few features are as important as moisture wicking. The best moisture-wicking shirts can make or break your workout, keeping you dry, odor-free, and comfortable even through high-intensity exercise.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about moisture-wicking activewear. First, we’ll explain exactly how these high-tech fabrics work to pull sweat away from your skin. Then we’ll go over what to look for when shopping for the best wicking tee or tank. Finally, we’ll recommend our top 5 favorite moisture-wicking shirts perfect for running, hiking, yoga, CrossFit, and any activity that works up a sweat.
How Moisture-Wicking Fabrics Keep You Dry
Moisture-wicking shirts are made from special fabric blends designed to transfer sweat away from the skin and onto the surface of the garment. This allows the liquid to evaporate quickly, keeping your skin dry.
The key is using fabrics that have hydrophobic (water repelling) properties. These materials will not absorb or retain moisture. Instead, they will pull perspiration to the surface of the shirt.
Many moisture-wicking activewear tops use polyester or nylon fabric because these synthetic materials are inherently hydrophobic. However, shirt manufacturers have gotten creative with proprietary fabric technologies that enhance breathability and dry time.
For example, some moisture-wicking shirts incorporate raised ridges or channels into the fabric. This gives the sweat somewhere to go, allowing it to dissipate rapidly. Mesh paneling in key sweat zones can also improve airflow and evaporation.
No matter the fabric blend or technology used, the mechanics come down to capillary action. This is the ability of a substance to flow in narrow spaces without the assistance of external forces like gravity.
As your sweat glands produce perspiration, it moves into the microscopic pockets between the hydrophobic fibers in moisture-wicking fabrics. The nature of the materials causes the moisture to be rapidly drawn up to the surface of the shirt. The sweat then evaporates or gets wiped away during activity.
Benefits of Moisture-Wicking Activewear
Wearing moisture-wicking shirts for your workouts and outdoor activities provides many advantages:
- Prevents chafing and blisters – Wet skin is more likely to chafe and rub painfully. Wicking fabrics keep you drier.
- Reduces odor – Sweat itself is odorless. Bacteria on your skin causes the smell, and moisture allows that bacteria to thrive. Wicking shirts reduce sweat buildup and bacteria growth.
- Enhances temperature regulation – As sweat evaporates from moisture-wicking fabrics, it pulls heat away from your body helping you maintain an optimal temperature.
- Allows skin to breathe – Non-wicking fabrics can adhere to the skin trapping sweat. This clogs pores. Moisture-wicking materials give your skin room to breathe.
- Lightweight and smooth – Hydrophobic fabrics often have a smooth, lightweight feel that is ideal for activewear and layering.
The bottom line is that moisture-wicking shirts will keep you comfortable even during strenuous workouts and outdoor activities. Now let’s go over how to shop for the best wicking activewear top.
Choosing the Best Moisture-Wicking Shirt
All moisture-wicking fabrics are not made equal. When shopping for activewear shirts, consider these factors:
Identify Intended Uses
How and where you’ll wear the moisture-wicking shirt impacts what features you need. For example:
- Running – Look for a lightweight shirt with mesh panels to enhance breathability. Reflective details are a bonus for visibility.
- Hiking – Seek a durable, snag-resistant shirt in earth tones with UPF sun protection. Pockets can be handy on the trail.
- Yoga – Choose a super soft, stretchy shirt with a loose but flattering fit. Thumb holes help keep sleeves in place.
- CrossFit – Abrasion-resistant fabrics stand up to ropes, pull-up bars, and more. Seams strategically placed to avoid chafing.
Think about your primary activities and needs to narrow down your moisture-wicking shirt options.
Pay Attention to Fabrics and Construction
The specific materials and how the shirt is constructed impacts performance. Look for these moisture-wicking shirt features:
- Polyester or nylon – Lightweight but durable and hydrophobic. Often used for athletic shirts.
- Wool – Natural wicking properties. Anti-odor. Ideal for hikers and trail runners.
- Bamboo rayon – Silky soft. Antibacterial. Used in yoga and casual wear.
- Mesh panels – Improves ventilation and cooling in key sweat zones. Great for runners.
- Flatlock seams – Reduces skin irritation from chafing along seams.
- Stretch fabrics – Enhances range of motion. Look for elastane or spandex blends.
- Thumb holes – Keep sleeves in place for yoga and other activities.
Consider the Fit
Moisture-wicking shirts should fit close enough to the skin to effectively pull sweat away, but loose enough to allow unrestricted movement.
- For cardio activities, aim for a slim or athletic fit. Avoid anything too baggy.
- For yoga and pilates, go for a drapey shirt with room to stretch and pose.
- Try on options to get the ideal length, sleeve coverage, and overall fit for your body type.
- Women may prefer a contoured silhouette, while men often like boxy cuts.
Getting the right fit for your chosen activities helps maximize moisture wicking and comfort.
Additional Useful Features
Premium moisture-wicking activewear shirts sometimes offer bonus features like:
- UPF sun protection – Woven in for outdoor activities to prevent burns.
- Anti-odor technology – Reduces bacterial growth that causes stench. Great if you sweat heavily.
- Quick-dry fabric – Accelerates evaporation after getting soaked with sweat or water.
- Reflective accents – Improves visibility for early morning or evening workouts near traffic.
- Pockets – Convenient for stashing gels and other running or hiking essentials.
Consider moisture-wicking shirts with features that directly benefit how you will use the garment.
Care Requirements
Many moisture-wicking fabrics require extra care:
- Lower temperature wash/dry cycles – High heat can damage synthetic fibers or cause shrinkage.
- Gentle detergent – Harsh chemicals can break down moisture-wicking treatments.
- Line or flat drying – Prevents damage from heat of dryer. Maintains fit.
- Avoid fabric softener – Can coat fibers and reduce wicking efficiency.
Follow garment tag instructions to extend the life of your moisture-wicking activewear. With proper care, some shirts can last for many years of regular use.
The Best Moisture-Wicking Activewear Shirts
Now that you know what features to look for in the ideal moisture-wicking tee or tank, here are my top picks for best-in-class shirts to keep you dry during any activity.
1. New Balance Impact Run Tank
Overview: Ultralight women’s running tank with moisture-wicking NB ICE fabric and mesh panels for superior ventilation.
Features: Polyester/spandex blend, racerback, flatlock seams, droptail hem for coverage.
Ideal For: Road running, track workouts, treadmill sessions.
Pros: Extremely lightweight and breathable. Conforms to body without clinging. Stretchy and flexible.
Cons: Slim fit may not work for some body types. Colors fade over time.
Price: $$$
The New Balance Impact Run Tank is perfect for road warriors who log long miles in heat and humidity. Reviewers love the featherlight dri-release fabric that keeps them cool and comfortable over many miles.
2. Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt
Overview: Casual button-down hiking shirt with moisture-wicking performance. Organic cotton blend.
Features: Polyester/cotton/elastane blend, button front, mesh panels, straight hem.
Ideal For: Day hikes, outdoor adventures, travel and urban wear.
Pros: Soft, stretchy fabric. Subtle technical features like gusseted underarms. Quick-drying and temperature regulating.
Cons: Loose boxy fit may look baggy if not sized properly. Runs warm in very hot climates.
Price: $$$
The Capilene Cool Daily strikes a perfect balance between an outdoorsy button-down and technical activewear. It manages moisture extremely effectively for all-day comfort on and off the trail.
3. Under Armour HeatGear Short Sleeve
Overview: Ultra-wicking short sleeve training shirt great for CrossFit, HIIT, and gym workouts.
Features: Polyester/elastane, crew neck, relaxed fit, shaped hem.
Ideal For: High-intensity training, bootcamp classes, boxing, cycling.
Pros: Super lightweight fabric dries almost instantly. Anti-odor tech prevents stink. Great unrestricted mobility.
Cons: Slimmer fit may not appeal to some body types. Occasional pilling with extended wear.
Price: $$
With its incredible sweat-wicking abilities, the HeatGear tee is beloved by CrossFitters, HIIT addicts, and gym rats who need unrestricted range of motion and cooling power for intense workouts.
4. Athleta Conscious Crop Tee
Overview: Sustainably made yoga crop top with ultrasoft fabric and performance features.
Features: Recycled polyester/spandex, cropped boxy cut, dropped hem, thumbholes.
Ideal For: Yoga, pilates, barre, and low-impact training.
Pros: Buttery soft fabric with two-way stretch. Flattering cropped silhouette. Eco-friendly manufacturing.
Cons: Cropped cut may not work for all body types. Fabric pills over time.
Price: $$
For the yogi looking for an earth-friendly top, the Conscious Crop delivers incredible softness and moisture management. The cropped cut and thumbholes make it perfect for posing and bending.
5. Tracksmith Harrier Long Sleeve
Overview: Premium long sleeve running shirt designed for marathons and distance training.
Features: Polyester/spandex blend, crew neck, slim fit, reflectivity.
Ideal For: Marathons, half-marathons, trail running, and distance training.
Pros: Incredibly lightweight with superior sweat-wicking. Strategic mesh panels. Durable through many washings.
Cons: Expensive. Slimmer fit may require sizing up. Limited color options.
Price: $$$$
For serious road runners willing to invest in premium gear, the Harrier Long Sleeve has incredible breathable performance. The streamlined cut doesn’t flap or ride up during mile repeats or tempo runs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moisture-Wicking Shirts
What is the difference between moisture-wicking and waterproof?
Moisture-wicking fabrics are designed to draw sweat away from your body and promote quick evaporation. Waterproof fabrics are coated to prevent rain or moisture from penetrating at all. Moisture-wicking shirts will get damp from sweat, while waterproof tops will not.
How tight should a moisture-wicking shirt fit?
The shirt should fit close enough to the skin to pull sweat immediately away through the fabric, but not constrict your range of motion. Slim and athletic fits work best for highly active pursuits like running and CrossFit. Go for a looser drapey fit if doing yoga or pilates.
Can moisture-wicking shirts be worn casually?
Many moisture-wicking shirts work great as casual wear. Look for designs made of soft, breathable blended fabrics without technical-looking features. Go for neutral colors rather than bright workout gear hues. Moisture-wicking tees are perfect for travelers who want durable, quick-drying options.
How do you wash moisture-wicking fabrics?
Always check clothing labels, but most moisture-wicking gear should be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. Hang dry or tumble dry on low heat. Use a gentle detergent and avoid fabric softeners or bleach that can coat the hydrophobic fibers. Turn shirts inside out to wash to preserve prints.
Do moisture-wicking shirts reduce body odor?
By wicking away sweat rather than allowing it to linger on your skin, moisture-wicking fabrics absolutely help reduce odor. Bacteria thrive in the presence of wetness and sweat, while dry skin limits their growth. Anti-odor treatments found in many workout shirts provide added odor neutralization too.
Are moisture-wicking shirts good for all weather conditions?
Moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for hot, humid conditions when sweat evaporation is most needed. However, they can work in cooler weather too by wicking away any sweat generated and helping regulate body temperature. Merino wool moisture-wicking tops even provide warmth while actively moving moisture during winter.
How long do moisture-wicking shirts last with regular use?
With proper care as described above, high-quality moisture-wicking shirts can maintain their performance for many years of regular wear. Pilling and breakdown of synthetic fibers will eventually occur. Signs of aging include reduced wicking ability, odors lingering in fabric, and visible fabric degradation.
Are moisture-wicking fabrics environmentally friendly?
Some brands now use recycled plastics and other materials to create sustainable moisture-wicking activewear. Look for bluesign® approved fabrics made from recycled polyester or nylon. However, most wicking synthetics are inherently not biodegradable like natural fibers. Proper washing and care extends their lifespan though.
Can you bleach moisture-wicking activewear?
Never use bleach on moisture-wicking athletic shirts as it can break down the fibers that provide the wicking performance. It can also cause damage to logos and print designs on the fabric. Use an oxygenated bleach alternative if you need help removing odors or stains from workout clothing.
Do you need special detergent for moisture-wicking clothes?
Avoid standard detergents with harsh chemicals, brighteners, and dyes that can interfere with moisture-wicking fabric technologies. Look for activewear-specific detergents or those marketed as “gentle” that use enzymes rather than harsh surfactants to lift dirt and odors without damaging athletic fabrics.
Get Ready to Sweat in Moisture-Wicking Gear
A high-quality moisture-wicking tee or tank should be in every active person’s wardrobe. The ability to pull sweat away from the skin provides unparalleled comfort when exercising or taking on outdoor adventures.
The key is choosing a shirt with features that match how and where you will use it most. Consider the ideal materials, construction, seaming, fit and added bonuses like reflectivity or thumb holes based on the intended activity.
With some savvy shopping, you can find reasonably priced moisture-wicking shirts that stand the test of time from trusted athletic brands. It’s worth investing a few extra dollars for premium performance features if you train extensively.
No matter your sport of choice, the shirts profiled above offer industry-leading moisture wicking capabilities. Give one a try the next time you hit the road, trails, slopes, mat, or gym. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to live in it long after your workout ends!