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It was not so long ago when I was using those regular cotton shirts for running. It was fine for short 10-15 mins run but once you go over, you quickly realize how uncomfortable and hot it is, especially when you’re running in hot weather.
Over the years, I have gathered and tested different brands of breathable running tops. I’ve tried expensive and cheap ones and saw the differences in special performance fabrics. In this article, I will share with you the best breathable running tops that I’ve tried to give you an idea of what you should buy if you’re looking for a summer running top.
What To Look For In A Running Top For A Hot Weather
Lots of Vents – Shirts with vents allow inflow and outflow of air improving the breathability of the running top.
Moisture-wicking – Find a running top that wicks rather than absorbs sweat. It helps to keep you feeling fresh and cool while running those last few miles. In addition, it helps prevent chafing.
Quick-drying – It is highly important to choose a quick-drying running top. Not only that it’ll keep your clothing light, but you can also easily dry them off after washing.
Thin and soft – Thin and soft fabric allows for more breathability and comfort. In addition, it dries quicker.
Under Armour Tech 2.0 – Best Overall
Product Highlights
- 100% polyester
- Very soft fabric
- Quick-drying & moisture wicking
- Very light and cool
- A streamlined fit and shaped hem
The Under Armour Tech 2.0 is one of the best-selling tops on Amazon, and for a good reason. It’s the perfect balance of looks, comfort, and performance.
After testing multiple running shirts and sweated through all of them, I’m confident that the Under Armour Tech 2.0 is one of the best tops you can ever use for running.
This shirt will keep you feeling dry and comfortable even on hard workouts, thanks to the UA tech fabric that’s giving it its moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties.
Its great fit, minimalist design, and incredible performance make it the perfect running top for those who want to perform well but still look fashionable.
New Balance Men’s Impact Run Short Sleeve – Best Alternative
Product Highlights
- Lightweight
- Moisture-wicking
- All-over pin dot mesh for maximum breathability
- NB ICEx technology makes it quick-drying and cool
- Looks very nice and can be used as a casual wear
- 100% polyester
- Regular fit
One of my recent favorites is the NB impact run short sleeves top. What I most like about this shirt is that it feels very light and comfortable. You hardly notice you’re wearing something. In addition, its all-over pin dot mesh works really well in providing ventilation and improving airflow.
Even when you’re drenched in sweat, the NB impact top remains breathable. And it only takes a few minutes to dry.
Neleus Dry Fit Mesh – Best Budget
Product Highlights
- 100% polyester
- Slim fit
- Has a reflective logo
- Soft and lightweight
- Affordable
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
It’s often believed that high-quality items come at a price. But not according to Neleus. Their company has been continually producing high-quality sports goods since 2008 and has delivered its promise of providing high-quality sports gear at a friendly price.
If you’re looking for a cheaper option but don’t want to compromise on quality, the Neleus dry-fit mesh is the perfect running top for you.
It’s moisture-wicking and quick-drying, similar to the premium brands on this list. It’s not as soft as the UA Tech 2.0 and the NB Impact but it performs really well.
For its price and the quality it brings, we consider this to be the best bang for your buck.
Under Armour Streaker 2.0 Singlet Top- Best For Super Hot Conditions
Product Highlights
- 100% Polyester
- Regular fit
- Quick-drying & moisture-wicking
- All-over mesh panels for increased breathability
- With anti-odor technology
Here’s another entry from Under Armour.
On super hot days, I tend to gravitate towards singlets for maximum airflow. And one of my favorites in this department is the Under Armour Streaker 2.0. It not only looks nice but it also feels nice.
Almost immediately after you wear it you feel the difference in breathability compared to regular sports tops. Its moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric seem to work very well in keeping you chafe-free and fresh throughout your run.
ASICS Rival Ii Singlet – Best Singlet Alternative
Product Highlights
- 100% polyester
- Large armholes and forward seams help prevent chafing in the arm area—a common issue for a lot of sleeveless tops.
- Breathable
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
- Regular fit
If you’re looking for a simple yet reliable singlet to use for your serious training, the ASICS Rival li is for you.
It’s comfortable, light, and breathable just like all the others And it’s priced just right for the quality.
The large armholes and forward seams help prevent your arms from rubbing against the fabric during arm swing which usually causes chafing on the inside of your arm when running long distances.
Some customers claim that it’s a little longer than the regular size, so you might want to size down.
Final Thoughts
These are the running tops that I’ve tried and have personal experience with. I have narrowed down the search to only 5 items to make your buying decision easier.
If you have experience with a top that you think should make it to this list, feel free to contact me so I could buy the product myself and test it.
Also, if you’re looking for a complete summer gear, I have made a guide that may help you find the best running gear.
