The best workout tops by Nike
Buying guide
The top picks for the most versatile choices by Nike, for men and women. Sweat-wicking, quick-drying, flexible, soft and stylish, they'll keep you fresh and comfortable all year long.
The best workout top is like 20-degree weather—so comfortable, you don't notice it. So, if you're still wearing tops that stay wet, restrict movement or tank your confidence, it's time to toss them aside in favour of shirts that offer moisture-wicking qualities. Whether you're seeking out tank tops, short-sleeve T-shirts or long-sleeve options, you'll look and feel great in some of these choices by Nike—no sweat.
Top qualities
Winning workout tops have these traits in common:
- They help keep you cool and refreshed, with design features such as mesh, open holes and wide shoulder straps, and fabrics that enhance breathability. Polyester and modal are sweat-wicking and quick-drying, while cotton offers enhanced breathability. Avoid 100 percent cotton tops though, since they hold on to sweat.
- They let you move freely, with features like a relaxed fit, flexible fabrics (especially elastane and polyester) and four-way-stretch stitching.
- They're comfortable, thanks to super-soft, smooth fabric.
- They're flattering, with on-trend style and your ideal fit.
The best workout tops for women
These three workout tops will have you covered all year long:
The most versatile: Nike Sportswear Chill Knit Women's Tight Cami Bodysuit
The ultimate in versatility, this wardrobe staple is ideal both inside and outside the gym. Pair the black bodysuit with joggers, leggings or jeans, and sport it solo or top it with a jacket or sweatshirt. The tight-fitting, stretchy bodysuit features thin straps and a flattering high-leg thong cut for a sleek fit. Thanks to its soft and smooth jersey fabric, you'll swear you're luxuriating in loungewear. But don't get too comfortable: the gym is calling!
When you want more coverage: Nike Pro Women's Long-Sleeve Top
Reach for this long-sleeve top when you're training outdoors on chilly days or inside gyms with the AC on full blast. Made from mesh and powered by Nike's Dri-FIT technology, this breathable polyester and elastane pick is moisture-wicking. Thanks to its four-way stretch, you'll be able to move freely. Plus, you'll look and feel good while you lift or lunge, thanks to this durable choice. The sleek and tailored top comes in black and white and is made from at least 75% recycled polyester fibres.
That timeless workout top: Nike One Classic Women's Dri-FIT Short-Sleeve Top
Round off your top selection with a short-sleeved number. Featuring a standard, easy-fitting style, this pick is comfortable and timeless, made from at least 75% recycled polyester. While you work up an intense sweat, you'll appreciate its fast-drying qualities (thanks to smooth, lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric). Plus, since it comes in six colours, you'll have lots of options for varying your looks. Try Smokey Mauve or light Armoury Blue for subtlety and sophistication, and Playful Pink or Hyper Royal for traffic-stopping vibrancy.
The best workout tops for men
You'll be all set with these three choices of gym and workout tops:
Best to stay fresh: Nike Ready Men's Dri-FIT Fitness Tank Top
This smooth, classic tank top will be the go-to in your collection of gym tops. Thanks to Nike's Dri-FIT technology and the breathable mesh fabric, sweat will move away from your skin more quickly to help keep you dry and comfortable. Plus, the relaxed fit and wide shoulder straps will help you stay cool while you work up some serious heat. Choose from classic hues such as black, grey or white, or make a statement with bright yellow.
The classic choice: Nike Dri-FIT Legend Men's Long-Sleeve Fitness Top
Long-sleeved shirts are ideal when you want to get your blood pumping quickly or to exercise outside on cooler days. Fortunately, this top pick's Dri-FIT technology and relaxed fit will help you stay fresh and cool while you move through your workout. Even if your muscles get sore, you'll feel at ease in the soft, smooth recycled polyester fabric. Consider picking up multiples, since this top comes in 12 colours. Along with the usual black, white and grey, shake things up with Maroon, Light Blue or Olive.
The high-tech option: Nike Rise 365 Men's Dri-FIT Short-Sleeve Running Top
Talk about high-tech: this short-sleeved Dri-FIT top, which comes in nine colours, is an athlete's dream. Inspired by data from hundreds of runners in high-heat zones, it boasts open-hole knit fabric in the front panel to help you stay cool. Lightweight, soft, ventilated and relaxed in fit, the 100% recycled polyester pick is brushed on both sides for softness. High in functionality, this winner is also tops in style. Its knit structure forms the iconic Nike chevron at the front.
Words by Dina Cheney