You Can Do Way Better Than That Workout Top You’ve Been Wearing Since 7th Grade

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TKTKTK INTRO

Whether you’re training for a marathon, lifting toward a new squat PR, or sweating buckets in a hot yoga class, proper attire is key. New workout clothes can be motivating, and there are some real perks to upgrading your workout tank top selection. I expect a lot from my workout tops, and you should, too.

“A tank top makes sense when you need layers for a morning or evening run and aren’t certain if the temps will dip,” says Kristen Saladino, Hearst executive fashion director. “They’re also great for when you want to keep cool but without showing too much skin on the street.” After all, not everyone is out sweating in just a sports bra.

Meet the experts: Allison Kalsched, CPT, is a certified personal trainer and founder of AK+. Kim Perry, CPT, is a certified personal trainer and fit pregnancy coach.

On top of looking cute, you want to choose a tank that is functional for your specific workout, says Allison Kalsched, CPT, a certified personal trainer and founder of AK+. “No one wants to be fussing around with their clothes on a run or during a sweaty interval session," she adds. "And, no one wants it to become a scarf when they are in an inverted position.” In other words, find a style that will allow you to perform and move your best.

Workout Tank Top Shopping Tips

• Don’t compromise comfort. “I don’t want anything to distract me from my workout, including my outfit," says Kim Perry, CPT, a certified personal trainer and fit pregnancy coach. "Pinching, scratching, and stiffness do not fly.” Her go-to solution are tanks with light-as-air fabrics that move as a second skin. “You want to make sure you are setting yourself up for success.”

• Material matters. The fabric of your tank can help or hinder your sweats. Invest in something that has sweat wicking technology but remains durable enough to withstand multiple washes, says Kalsched.

• Find your fit. Ultimately, the best workout tank top for you depends on your personal preference. Sure, you'll always find basic blacks, whites, and grays, but 2023 is the year to try a bold color. From zippy citrus shades to Barbie pink, vibrant hues are major rn.)

Whether you’re all about crops, supportive straps, or easy-to-layer designs, these 16 workout tank tops are beloved by WH editors and trainers. Happy sweating!

Women's UltraLite Racerback Rib-Knit Performance Tank

This ribbed racerback boasts tons of rave reviews and is the top budget buy of Hearst senior fashion market editor Hannah Deely. Shoppers love the ultra-light and breathable feel of the fabric, color offerings (so many shades!), and the fitted-but-not-compressive feel.

And at $15, might as well add a few to cart, yeah?

Rave review: “Love this tank for workouts. It’s so soft and breathable. It’s also thick enough that I can wear it out to run errands in! I need one in every color!” —Angela P.

Ebb To Street Tank

Does Lululemon ever fail us? Let me think about that for a sec—mmm, nope!

Though it's not cheap, this tank is tops when it comes to fit, function, and style. With a built-in bra with removable cups (one of Saladino’s musts), ribbed fabric, and sleek racerback shape, it's trendy and high-performing.

Also: It comes in a slew of sweet pastel colors, in addition to classic black.

A pro tip? Some reviewers say it runs small, so if you’re worried about a too-tight fit, just size up.

Rave review: “I tried this tank top on after returning my Align tank. I thought this tank top was comfier and my boobs were not popping out of it. It is insanely comfy and great for workouts or just wearing out on a nice day!”
—Maggie

Cover Tank

If you’re curious about the crop top trend but feel iffy about inches of exposed skin, this Alo tank is for you. It provides more coverage than most cropped styles, courtesy of the wide straps and draped design. Oh, and it’s incredibly soft, too!

“This tank is my fav—perfectly fitted, not too tight! Shows just the right amount of skin and pairs best with high-waisted leggings,” Deely says.

Rave review: "Very versatile with soft and comfortable fabric. I like how the length hits at the right spot, not too cropped. A bit pricey for what it is but I won't complain about a good cover-up piece that goes with most neutral colours." —Caryn C.

Renew Seamless Muscle Tank

If you’re looking for a bit more upper body coverage, Kalsched swears by the Athleta Renew Seamless Muscle Tank. “It provides the freedom of movement of a synthetic workout top with a little more coverage in the back, and I love Athleta clothes for everything from workouts to hanging with friends,” she says. Plus, the seamless construction is uber-comfortable and you can say goodbye to chafing.

Rave Review: “This tank is a ride or die. Wore a black one with high waisted jeans and looked put together even though I was just comfy and casual. The fabric wicks sweat SO well but also dries very quickly.” – AM

Race Day Tank In Black

Airflow is oh-so-necessary during your sweatiest workouts, making this loose-fitting tank clutch. Sustainably made from recycled water bottles, this top features a floaty feel all around. The keyhole racerback and loose hem both let the breeze flow through.

The four-way stretch is also key for maintaining shape wash after wash.

Rave Review: “Cute. Classic workout tank. I ordered a small. My usual size. Fits nicely. I have only worn for walks and the support has been enough. Probably needs a sports bra underneath for harder workouts (at least for my chest).” – Rebecca

Women's Everyday Boyfriend Tank Top

This relaxed fit crewneck tank is one of Perry’s go-to’s thanks to its jersey fabric and sweat-wicking material. The 13 different colorways also score high for style. The fabric also has odor-inhibiting technology to ward off smelly bacteria and keep you fresh all day long.

Rave Review: “The CALIA women's everyday boyfriend tank is so comfortable and lightweight. I wore it while working out and it was the perfect material. It kept me cool and dry and was also loose enough that I had room to move around.” – Bel

Elation V-Neck Support Top A-C

“This fitted tank has a built-in bra and it's designed with light support which makes it perfect for yoga, barre, and Pilates workouts,” says Perry. It's also made of nylon and lycra that is buttery soft to the touch while still allowing maximum airflow. That combination creates peak breathability and cooling comfort.

Rave review: “This top is so comfortable and soft. I sized up because I prefer a bit more room and I love not having to wear a bra.” – AA

Open Back Workout Tank Top

Half the fun of workout tank tops is showing off your cute sports bra, right?! Just me? Well, if you like to showcase fun strappy designs, this is the tank to do it in, thanks to its low, open back.

The tank itself is super simple (no, it doesn’t come with the pictured sports bra), so you can choose to wear it long or knot it for a slimmer fit. Some reviews say it runs big, so size down if you’d prefer yours on the snugger side.

Rave review: “This shirt is so comfortable and very soft. I love that it shows the back of my sports bras. I live in Florida so it is perfect for my workouts. The fit is nice. It is a little loose around my arms but it doesn’t bother me at all. I am going to order another.”
–Katie S.

Sunrise High Neck Tank Top

“My most favorite tank top at the moment is the Vuori Sunrise High Neck Tank,” says Kalsched. “I wear this for working and working out, the fabric is dreamy, it stands up to frequent washing, and the high neck/racer back combo is a flattering cut for me,” she explains.

The rib knit also stays close to your body so there’s no need to worry about a wardrobe malfunction mid workout.

Rave Review: This tank comes in a soft oatmeal color and the fabric is a little more substantial than a regular tank, so it provides nice coverage. I love the length too; it's not too long.” – Colleen

Moss Tempo Tank

This short-but-not-cropped tank stays put thanks to wide (but not too thick!) straps. The quick-drying, sweat-wicking fabric also makes it great for super sweaty workouts like running, boxing, spinning, or HIIT. Yes, it hits the sweet spot on so many features.

And, of course, in typical Girlfriend style, the color options are clutch. Whether you prefer classic neutrals or pretty jewel tones, there's a shade for you.

Rave review: “100% love this tank. The fit is perfect for my petite stature. I have worn it for two workouts and it felt super comfortable each time. The high neckline is perfectly cut for not showing too much off but is still flattering. I love the fabric so much, it’s both light and stretchy. Would buy again and recommend!” —Justine S.

Tighten Up Tank

OK, sooo, spaghetti strap tanks aren’t the most supportive, but they’re so dang cute. If you’re feeling the skinny-strap vibe, this slim-fitting racerback has a cute, modern vibe with an air of ’90s nostalgia.

Some reviewers note a snug fit, while others prefer it as a sports bra alternative. Basically, this tank gives you options! It’s a great choice for low-impact workouts like Pilates, yoga, or weight training.

Rave review: “Like the other reviews say, this definitely runs small. I bought a M/L and am a 32H. This, on top of a supportive sports bra, provides a little more compression that is perfect for my HIIT workouts. I also wear it braless under sweatshirts or when just lounging around. It offers a little bit of support and is thick enough to stay in place. Doesn’t stretch out like other tiny tanks! I recommend 100% for workouts or lounging.” —Riahec

Indio Muscle Tank

If you’re looking for a style that takes from the gym straight to brunch, go with the Alala Indio Muscle Tank. The relaxed fit and moisture wicking muscle top features adjustable shirred sides for a chic look, and the lightweight fabric is cute, cooling, and comfortable.

Rave review: “Really nice, a heavier weighted ribbed fabric that is nice enough to wear outside of the gym. I have it in black & white and recommend it.” – Allison

Women's Soft Rib High Neck Tank

For only $6, this soft rib tank is a classic choice for Kalsched. The moisture-wicking material keeps you dry, while the comfortable stretch withstands any type of workout. The high neck and rounded hem design is also timeless, so you can wear it over and over again.

Rave Review: “I’m really impressed by the fit of this tank top - not too tight and not too loose. It’s flattering and a much smoother feel than I expected! Have already gotten compliments on the color too.” – Carrie

Seamless Workout Tank Top

Think a lightweight, stretchy workout top that holds you in and boasts moisture-wicking material is impossible to find? It does exist in this CRZ Yoga tank that stands the test of time. The built-in shelf bra gives a comfortable feel with light support, and the smooth spaghetti straps are perfect for any range of motion.

Rave review: “I was looking for a comfortable built in bra tank. This tank is so comfortable. I had to purchase one in each color. It's perfect for yoga or Pilates.” – Sunny

Tempo Ultra-Light Racerback Workout Crop Top

If you’re searching for a cropped tank top, Macy Pruett, CPT, a pre- and postnatal certified personal trainer and the founder of Fittest Core recommends the TFL Tempo Ultra-Light Racerback.

“This is my pick for any high-intensity days because it's as close as it gets to just wearing a sports bra, without actually just wearing a sports bra,” she explains. The moisture-wicking, anti-microbial, 4-way stretch tank is also perfect for cardio and strength training.

Rave Review: "The look of this top is fantastic; it covers your sports braand does not move immediately. In addition, the length of this top is perfect. Furthermore, the size is true to size. Lastly, the material is very lightweight and very comfortable to wear for all seasons around!" – Melanya

Maternity Belly Support Tanktop

For those expecting, Pruett swears by the Blanqi Maternity Belly Support Tanktop. “The best maternity tank, no questions asked,” she says. “It grows with you throughout your trimesters and feels like a hug around your baby so it truly makes the bump feel so supported!”

Rave Review: "Absolutely loved this tank. I bought it in both colors so I would never have to go without it while one was being washed. I wore these day and night and they made such a difference in my level of comfort." – Motyo

How Our Team Chose Tank Tops

The Women's Health editors are continually wear-testing new styles of workout tanks in their own exercise routines. For the past month, the Women’s Health team also consulted fitness editors and certified personal trainers, and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best 16 workout tanks for women. We also consider key features like material, wicking technology, price, and size range.

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