The 16 Best Workout Tank Tops for Any Fitness Routine
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Combining fashion and function to keep you sweating in style
Verywell Fit / Kristin Kempa
With so many brands and styles on the market, it can be difficult to narrow down the right activewear workout top for you. Maybe you’ve tried one that left you sweaty, chafing, and overheated or one that was cheap and sheer. Quality workout tank tops can make a big difference in how comfortable you are during exercise. They offer advantages like tailored support, effective moisture control, and odor-resistant properties over traditional t-shirts or tanks, says Kristin Draayer, MS, RDN, CPT.
The best workout tank tops are designed to keep you cool and comfortable with lightweight, breathable, performance fabrics that move freely with you. Whether logging miles for marathon training or inverting in a yoga pose, a reliable activewear top is essential.
When choosing a workout tank top, you’ll want to first consider your activity, as those ideal for running may not work well for yoga. However, some tank tops transition well between a variety of activities. Look for sweat-wicking material; if it’s a particularly sweaty activity, you may want something that features moisture-wicking and odor-control fabrics. Other features to consider are strap style, the presence of a built-in bra, length, and fit.
To narrow down the endless options on the market, we spoke with several experts and researched dozens of options to find the best workout tops for every activity. We also tested a few tops to see how well they held up in our regular fitness routines and daily wear.
Best Women's Overall: Athleta Momentum Seamless Tank
Pros
Seamless
Breathable and quick drying
Odor resistant
Cons
Runs long
Athleta’s Momentum Seamless Tank is a great fit for most workouts and daily wear. The material is breathable, sweat-wicking, quick drying, and odor resistant, so it’ll hold up to super sweaty sessions. Plus, the seamless design significantly reduces chafing and delivers a comfortable second-skin feel.
We love that the fitted tank stays in place as you move, making it great for the most advanced yoga practices and high-intensity runs. The fit, as well as the classic racerback design, offer a sleek and stylish look. And while the longer length is ideal for those that like more coverage, it may be too long if you have a shorter torso or prefer a cropped look.
Unlike some workout tanks, we appreciate that Athleta’s Momentum Seamless Tank can be washed and dried on a regular cycle. You can choose from 15 colors and women’s sizes XXS to 3X.
Price at time of publication: $59
Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS-3X | Materials: Recycled nylon | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Seamless, odor control
Best Men's Overall: Vuori Strato Tech Tank
Pros
UPF 30+ rating
Odor resistant
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Cons
Limited sizing
Vuori’s Strato Tech Tank is made from a soft, comfortable blend of polyester and elastane that wicks sweat and manages odor. It is also rated UPF 30+, offering sun protection during outdoor workouts (just don’t forget sunblock on the rest of your body!).
The loosely fitted design is comfortable on a run, but also stays in place in a downward-facing dog if yoga is your activity of choice. Vuori is known for its clothing that transitions from workout to every day, and this tank is no exception—it’s perfect for any active lifestyle. It’s available in four neutral colors and men’s sizes S to XXL.
Price at time of publication: $48
Key Specs:
Sizes: S-XXL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Odor control, UPF 30+ rating
Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Women’s Tech Stretch Racerback Tank Top
Pros
Inclusive sizing
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Comes in a 2-pack
Cons
Some may not like the large armholes
Amazon Essentials Women’s Tech Stretch Racerback Tank Top is comfortable, functional, and budget-friendly. The relaxed fit and breathable, lightweight material make it a great choice for warmer workouts or heated classes. But we recommend something more fitted for activities where you’ll be upside down or inverted, like yoga or Pilates, like Athleta’s Momentum Seamless Tank.
The polyester and spandex blend is quick drying and sweat-wicking and can be washed with other clothes of similar color. Choose from over a dozen fun colors, patterns, and women’s sizes XS to 6X. Since the armholes are on the larger side, you may want to size down if you want a more fitted look with armholes that don’t show your sports bra.
Price at time of publication: $29 (2-pack)
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-6X | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Quick-drying
Related:The 16 Best Workout Shirts for Men of 2023
Best for Tennis: Athleta Advantage Polo Tank
Pros
UPF 50+ rating
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Eco-friendly
Cons
Limited colors
Athleta’s Advantage Polo tank is designed for racket sports like tennis and pickleball, as well as golf, walking, and everyday wear. It’s the perfect combination of functional and flattering, with thoughtful design elements and a sleek and stylish look. Made from a blend of recycled polyester and spandex, the eco-friendly tank top is breathable, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and offers great odor control.
When we tested Athleta’s Advantage Polo, we were impressed by the UPF 50+ rating that protects against the strong sun during outdoor activities. And we loved how versatile it is, wearing it to the office, at brunch with friends, and to the tennis court. The tank is available in only four colors but comes in a wide size range from women’s sizes XXS to 3XL.
Price at time of publication: $65
Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS -3XL | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Odor control, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, UPF 50+ rating
Best for HIIT Workouts: New Balance Accelerate Tank
Pros
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Lightweight
Reflective detailing
Cons
Runs long and wide
Limited colors
For high-intensity interval training (HIIT), you want a top that will keep you cool and comfortable as you sweat and move—like New Balance’s Accelerate Tank. This sweat-wicking, quick-drying top is made from 100 percent recycled polyester, making it a sustainable choice. Whether you’re outdoors in the early mornings or after sunset, the reflective details help keep you safe. Though the tank only comes in dark colors, so you may want to invest in additional reflective gear.
We love the long, relaxed fit that provides great coverage. But the looser design is not ideal for upside-down or inverted activities, as it will ride up. The tank is available in two colors and women’s sizes XS to XXL.
Price at time of publication: $28
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-2XL | Materials: Recycled polyester | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Reflective details, eco-friendly
Related:The 19 Best Two-Piece Workout Sets of 2023
Best for Running: Tracksmith Women’s Twilight Tank
Pros
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Lightweight
Fit and material reduces chafing
Cons
Delicate cycle and hang dry required
Made by runners, for runners, Tracksmith’s Women's Twilight Tank will keep you cool and dry whether you’re running on trails, roads, or treadmills. The blend of nylon, elastane, and carbon is made to feel lightweight against your skin, while the sweat-wicking and quick-drying capabilities help reduce chafing on the run.
We love that this tank delivers a simple and effective design that lets you focus on the workout, not what you’re wearing. To keep this tank—which is a bit of an investment—in the best condition, Tracksmith recommends washing it on a delicate cycle and hanging it to dry. You can choose from seven colors and women’s sizes XS to XL.
Price at time of publication: $62
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane, carbon | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Quick-drying
Best for Walking: Title Nine Notton Racerback Tank Top
Pros
Breathable and quick-drying
Odor resistant
Versatile
Cons
Limited sizing
If your workout of choice is walking or hiking, or you want an everyday tank for your active lifestyle, Title Nine’s Notton Racerback Tank Top is for you. It’s soft like cotton but made from a polyester and Tencel blend that is more breathable. And it’s great for warm weather walks thanks to strong odor control capabilities and a high neck that offers more coverage when you’re out in the sun.
We like that the relaxed, longer fit can provide extra coverage around your waist or be tucked in for a more tailored look. The tank comes in four solid and two colorblock options and women’s sizes XS to XL. If you’re in between sizes, we recommend sizing up.
Price at time of publication: $49
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Tencel | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Odor control
Related:The 16 Best Yoga Clothes of 2023
Best for Yoga and Pilates: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Step Up Racerback Tank
Pros
Built-in shelf bra
Four-way stretch
Super soft feel
Cons
Expensive
If you’re heading to a yoga or Pilates class, it’s important to have a top that will stay in place as you move. Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Step Up Racerback Tank is fitted, offers full torso coverage, and is made of four-way stretch material to move with you through each pose. The material is also incredibly soft, making it a comfy option for daily wear.
We love that the tank features a built-in shelf bra, which means you have one less layer to worry about. It offers low support, which works well for yoga but might not be enough for higher-impact activities. Choose from a mix of four neutral or six brighter seasonal colors and women’s sizes XS to 4X.
Price at time of publication: $70
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-4X | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Built-in shelf bra
Best for Resistance Training: Sweaty Betty Athlete Seamless Workout Tank
Pros
Seamless
Lightweight and sweatwicking
Four-way stretch
Cons
Limited sizing
Sweaty Betty’s Athlete Seamless Workout Tank is our top choice for resistance training because of its fit, material, and design. The classic racerback tank is made from four-way stretch materials that move with you as you lift and squat. The fitted style stays in place throughout your workout, so you won’t be distracted by flowing material or the need to pull it down.
The lightweight, breathable blend of nylon and elastane wicks away sweat, and the seamless construction reduces chafing in higher-intensity workouts. With over a dozen colors, and women’s sizes XXS-3XL, you may even want more than one.
Price at time of publication: $54
Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS-3XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Meshing at high sweat areas, quick-drying, sweat-wicking
Related:The 15 Best Black Leggings of 2023
Best With Built-In Bra: prAna Becksa Tank
Pros
UPF 50+ rating
Four-way stretch
Eco-friendly
Cons
Expensive
If a tank with a built-in bra is important to you, we recommend prAna’s Becksa Tank, which blends function, comfort, and style. The super soft, four-way stretch, ribbed fabric moves with you throughout your workout. And if you’re headed outdoors, it’s also rated UPF 50+ for ultimate sun protection. Plus, it’s made from recycled materials, making it a more sustainable choice.
We love that the built-in shelf bra has removable cups and provides low to moderate support for walking, hiking, yoga, and other low-impact activities. All of these features come at a higher price point, but prAna clothes are known for their durability, and this tank lasts a long time. The tank is available in five color options and women’s sizes XS-3X.
Price at time of publication: $75
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-3X | Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: UPF 50+ rating, built-in shelf bra
Best for Cycling: Pearl Izumi Women’s Sugar Tank
Pros
Built-in shelf bra
Rear pockets
Reflective detailing
Cons
Expensive
Limited colors and sizing
With a built-in shelf bra for support, rear pockets for storing small valuables, and reflective detailing for safety in low-lit conditions, Pearl Izumi’s Women’s Sugar Tank checks all of the boxes we look for in an outdoor cycling tank top. The breathable, sweat-wicking, recycled polyester fabric will keep you comfortable in various weather conditions.
The fitted design stays in place, reducing chafing and the potential of getting caught anywhere on your bike—a must for cycling safety. And although it’s designed specifically for cyclers, we love that the style and fit transition well to other activities, making the higher price point worth the investment. We do wish for more size inclusivity though, as the tank is only available in three colors and womens’ sizes XS-SL.
Price at time of publication: $75
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Recycled polyester | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Built-in bra, rear pockets, reflective detailing
Best Breathable: lululemon Sculpt Tank Top
Pros
Reflective detailing
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Four-way stretch
Cons
Runs long and wide
We love the lightweight, airy, barely-there feel of lululemon’s Sculpt Sweat Tank Top. Ideal for the sweatiest of workouts, like running outdoors or heated classes indoors, the tank wicks away sweat and dries incredibly quickly. We also appreciate the extra details, like the mesh panel, pleated back, and reflective elements, that give it a little more flare than others on our list.
Offering a looser, wider fit, the breathable tank falls about hip length, offering great coverage. But for more dynamic activities, like yoga or Pilates, you’ll want a more fitted tank, like Athleta’s Momentum Seamless Tank. We do love that this lululemon pick is available in six gorgeous colors and women’s sizes 0 to 14.
Price at time of publication: $64
Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-14 | Materials: Nylon, lycra, elastane | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Reflective details, mesh panel, quick-drying
Related:These Are the Best Plus-size Workout Clothes for Comfort and Style
Best Sweat-Wicking: Under Armour Women's UA Tech Tank
Pros
Lightweight and quick-drying
Four-way stretch
Budget-friendly
Cons
Runs long and wide
No matter what exercise you prefer, you’ll want a sweat-wicking tank top to keep you comfortable throughout your workout. Luckily, most activewear brands design tops with this in mind. But what sets Under Armour’s Women’s UA Tech Tank above others is that it’s also quick-drying, odor-controlling, and ultra-lightweight. It’s the perfect pick for warm-weather activities or heated classes.
We love the four-way stretch fabric that moves with you and the loose fit that allows for breezy airflow. The classic racerback design is comfortable and keeps straps in place even during the fastest-moving workouts. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can be washed on regular cycle with similar colors. You can check out this tank in six colors and women’s sizes XS to XXL.
Price at time of publication: $25
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Quick-drying, odor control
Best Lightweight: Athleta Ultimate Muscle Tank
Pros
Breathable
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
UPF 50+ rating
Cons
Cropped style may be short for some
Athleta's Ultimate Muscle Tank is the perfect solution when you want a little more coverage than a sports bra but need something ultra-lightweight. It’s cool, comfortable, and (most importantly) helps keep you dry. And we love the sleek look that’s perfect for studio-to-street wear.
The tank is so breathable that you barely notice it’s there while still getting the added benefit of a quick-drying, odor-resistant tank. Plus, it provides UPF 50+ coverage, essential for warm summer workouts in the sun. The cropped and flowy design is ideal for running, cycling, hiking, walking, or resistance training. It does ride up when bending over, which isn't great for yoga or Pilates. We love the five color options and wide size range of XXS to 3XL.
Price at time of publication: $49
Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS-3XL | Materials: Nylon, spandex | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: UPF 50+ rating, quick-drying, odor control
Related:The Best Running Shorts for Women of 2023
Best Size Range: Girlfriend Collective Black ReSet Racerback Tank
Pros
Sweat-wicking and quick-drying
Super soft feel
Eco-friendly
Cons
Gentle care required
Girlfriend Collective is one of our favorite woman-founded activewear brands for many reasons, and their inclusive sizing is a top one. All of their items, including this versatile ReSet Racerback Tank, come in sizes XXS to 6XL. Made from super soft, sweat-wicking material, the fitted tank hugs the body—making it a great choice for any activity.
What’s even cooler about this tank is that it’s made almost entirely from recycled plastic bottles and can be recycled through Girlfriend Collective’s ReGirlfriend Program, which upcycles old activewear pieces into new ones—how’s that for eco-friendly? The one drawback is that it does require gentle care: machine wash cold in a mesh bag and lay flat to dry. But we love the seven versatile colors for a stylish flare, whatever your mood.
Price at time of publication: $38
Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS-6XL | Materials: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Sweat-wicking, quick-drying
Best for Odor Control: Brooks Women’s Sprint Free Tank Top
Pros
Lightweight and breathable
Eco-friendly
Four-way stretch
Cons
Seams may chafe for some
While odor control is becoming more popular in workout clothes, it still isn't mainstream. Brooks’ Women’s Sprint Free Tank Top is our top choice for odor control because it’s made with a material designed to keep it fresh between washes.
It’s a lightweight, breathable, and comfortable pick that’s great for various workouts, but the loose and boxy design is not ideal for yoga or Pilates. We wish the tank were available in more than four colors. It’s available in sizes XS to XXL and runs true to size, but if you’re large-chested, you may need to size up to limit chafing at the chest seam.
Price at time of publication: $42
Key Specs:
Sizes: XS - XXL | Materials: Not specified | Sweat-Wicking: Yes | Features: Odor control
How We Selected and Tested the Best Workout Tank Tops
We spent hours researching top activewear brands to find the best workout tank tops on the market—evaluating each for material, fit, style, and additional features like odor control, reflective details, UPF rating, and built-in bras. We also tested several tank tops to see how they held up in our regular fitness routines. As new styles launch, we’ll continue testing and updating our final list of recommendations.
We also consulted experts for buying advice and recommendations. Kristin Draayer, MS, RDN, CPT, a registered dietitian and personal trainer, and Wan Na Chun, RD, CPT, a registered dietitian and certified personal trainer, are exercise enthusiasts who wear a wide variety of tank tops in their personal fitness routines. They provided guidance on what to look for and how to choose the best options.
What to Look For in Workout Tank Tops
Fit
The best fit depends on your activity of choice and personal preference. You’ll want something more fitted for yoga that doesn’t ride up, like Athleta’s Momentum Seamless Tank. But you may prefer something more flowy and breathable for running, such as Tracksmith Women’s Twilight Tank. For most activities, you’ll want a snug top that's not restrictive and allows for full range of motion, Draayer says.
Comfort
A comfortable top is essential for an enjoyable workout. If you opt for a tank that’s not seamless, you want to make sure that the seams do not fall at a compromised place for rubbing or chafing. You’ll also want to consider strap style, whether or not it has a built-in bra, and how fitted or flowy it is.
Materials
Most tank tops are made from a blend of synthetic materials, like nylon, polyester, and elastane. “Synthetic blends excel at wicking away moisture, drying quickly, and maintaining shape—ensuring comfort and durability during workouts,” Draayer says. Some tanks are now made to be odor-controlling, which may be important for higher-intensity workouts but not as important for something like a flow yoga class.
Another consideration is the UPF rating. Some pieces, like Vuori’s Strato Tech Tank and Athleta’s Ultimate Muscle Tank provide added sun protection for when you take your workout outside.
Durability and Care
Some tank tops require gentle care—like washing on a cold, delicate cycle and hanging to dry—whereas others can be tossed in the washer and dryer with your other clothes. The best way to extend the life of your workout clothes, including tank tops, is to pay close attention to wash instructions and limit dryer time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if a workout tank top fits?
A well-fitting tank top should be comfortable and unrestrictive, without too much extra material that might get in your way or catch on something as you exercise. “You should be able to move freely and comfortably while wearing a training tank top,” says Wan Na Chun, RD, ACSM CPT, a registered dietitian and certified personal trainer.
What is the best material for working out in?
Chun says the best material for a training tank top should be soft on your skin, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Most workout tank tops are made from a blend of synthetic fabrics, like polyester, nylon, spandex, and elastane—all great options.
Are tank tops better than t-shirts for working out?
Tank tops designed for exercise offer a much better workout experience than a cotton t-shirt. They provide more tailored support and offer moisture and odor control, says Draayer. These features contribute to greater workout functionality and enhance the overall exercise experience.
How much do quality workout tank tops cost?
Workout tank tops can range from as low as $15 to as high as $100, with most options falling somewhere in between. The good news is there are quality options for all budget ranges in our list of recommendations for the best workout tank tops.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RDN, LDN, is a registered dietitian and certified spinning instructor with over a decade of experience in the fitness industry. She also runs, practices yoga and Pilates, and lives a very active lifestyle, so she knows the importance of a comfortable workout tank top that suits your activity of choice. Her favorites are Athleta’s Ultimate Muscle Tank and lululemon’s Sculpt Sweat Tank Top.
