Selecting the best running shirt is a tough decision, at least for us women. With every color on the planet to choose from, in an array of styles, lengths, and thicknesses, it is hard to make a decision. All kidding aside, the shirt you choose can be as important as the shorts you choose to wear.
Shirts are made of many different brand fabrics…you would be amazed. Actually, when you are finished with this article, you should check out my Technical Fabrics Guide. This guide will provide you more info on the various fabric types than you probably care to know. It is safe to say that selecting the proper fabric can make a difference.
When you first start out running, you probably did not even consciously consider running apparel…that’s fine. As a running coach, proper apparel is really not a subject until after the training participant has been running for awhile. The reason…you probably won’t see the benefits of a $40+ shirt. Now I should mention, running shoes is another subject, so never skimp on proper shoes.
I realize it may be difficult to give up your comfy-feeling cotton tee-shirts, but the difference in, and benefits of, will surprise you. A couple benefits are reduced chafing and wear-ability. Since technical material will not hold-in moisture, you won’t have that against your skin, nor will the shirt ne loaded down with your sweat afterwards.
Okay, on to some reviews. Below, you will find some examples of both male and female shirts, in varying styles, colors, and thicknesses. It is all about selecting what is best for the climate you are running in and your personal taste; i.e., do you like the shirts hugging your form, or laying a bit loose, etc.
ASICS Velostretch Sleeveless Running Shirt
You will find the ASICS Velostretch Sleeveless running shirt to be very unique. While most technical fabric shirts are made of one type of material, this model has two different types of mesh combined for ultimately durability and breathability. throughout, ASICS using their patented Hydrology fabric to wick moisture away and allow for maximum breathability. Also added is UV protection.
Pearl Izumi Sleeveless Fly Top Running Shirt
This is a great model for those looking to go sleeveless, but not yet comfortable with a tank. The technical specs for this shirt read like a scientists thesis…a blend of very high-tech fabrics were used to construct this well made running shirt. Beyond moisture wicking, it is very lightweight, odor-fighting, anti-static, UV protected, and quick-drying.
RRS Pro Distance Short Sleeve Running Shirt
This is specifically designed for RoadRunnerSports with their specifications. It features moisture-wicking technology…RRS’s own DRYROAD fabric, to keep you comfortable on any run. This is a classic-style short-sleeve shirt which is very lightweight and has a more relaxed fit.
Brooks HVAC T Running Shirt
This running shirt features anti-chafing, odor-fighting protection, reflective, and loose fitting. What is amazing are the silver fibers that help fight odor. It helps by distributing the heat, reducing odor concentrated areas. It is lightweight, has substantial mesh paneling, and quickly wicks moisture away from your body. This is an ideal shirt for summer running.
golite Short Sleeve Running Shirt
The basics of this shirt is odor-fighting, UV protection, and loose fitting. The technical fabric used in this shirt is Cocoona, which contains fibers of coconut to help fight odor, along with UV50 sun protection. This is a mid-weight shirt, and though it is odor-fighting, if worn on too long of a run, you will notice that the protection comes from the coconut absorbing the odors, and there’s only so many of the fibers.
Mountain Hardwear Colchuck Running Jersey
The highlights of this running shirt is anti-chafing, odor-fighting, zippered-front, and loose fitting. The Antimicrobial fibers blend with polyester fights odor and keeps sweat away from your skin. The zipper really helps on hot mornings, but don’t discount the incredible moisture-wicking ability of this shirt.
Addidas AdiStar Short Sleeve Running Shirt
Featuring odor-fighting, reflective materials, and a snug fit. The technical fabric used is the ClimaCool material, along with silver fibers for odor-fighting protection. This shirt is very lightweight and great for those really hot summer days.
Final Thoughts
This was just a small sample of the running shirts available on the market today. You can literally have your choice of color, and your style, as you are sure to find the material and fit that is right for you.
