It's an unavoidable fact of life: humans sweat. A tough workout, a stressful meeting or a short walk in the sun can all leave your top damp against your skin. Sweat is the body's way of cooling itself, but once sweat soaks through certain fibres like cotton, it's slow to evaporate, which may lead you to get too chilly. That's where a moisture-wicking top comes in handy—it dries quickly, allowing maximum comfort during a gym session or a long run, while also allowing you to comfortably grab a drink with the team after a sweaty impromptu basketball game.
Nike's Dri-FIT fabric is created to allow for maximum comfort, whatever your activity (or however much you sweat). The Dri-FIT fabric absorbs your sweat, wicking it away from your body. It helps keep you cool in summer and warm when it's cool out, making it a great choice all year round. Each moisture-wicking top is soft to the touch and designed using technical expertise that allows for ultimate breathability as you go about your day. Below, shop the best moisture-wicking tops from Nike.
1. For the gym: Nike Dri-FIT ADV Aura Top
If your gym kit needs a refresh, this short-sleeve moisture-wicking top is essential. The body-hugging fit allows you to move easily, whether you're running on the treadmill or moving through a yoga flow. The lightweight, stretchy fabric is made using at least 50% recycled polyester fibres, so it's not only quick-drying; it's also made with sustainability in mind. It's also woven with strategic mesh panels that allow for maximum breathability.
2. For a hike: Nike ACG Dri-FIT ADV 'Goat Rocks' Top
When heading out on a trek, it's important to choose a lightweight top that helps keep you warm and stays dry when you sweat on the uphills. This long-sleeve moisture-wicking top is the best of both worlds. The waffle-knit fabric is made from at least 75% recycled polyester fibres, and its soft, lightweight feel makes it a great piece for wearing solo against your skin or layering over a T-shirt or tank top to offer extra warmth.
3. Best for running: Nike AeroSwift Women's Dri-FIT ADV Running Vest
It's a good idea to dress in pieces that won't get saturated with sweat when you're out on a run. This fitted vest hugs the body snugly, so you don't have to worry about it riding up or sagging while you're in motion. The shape allows for the free movement of your arms while you're running and strategic air vent details help keep you cool and refreshed on a hot day. It's so light that you may forget you have it on.
4. Best for golf: Nike Dri-FIT ADV Tour Men's Camo Golf Polo
When you think about sweat, golf may not be the first sport that comes to mind. But spending an entire day in the hot sun calls for a breathable, lightweight fabric. This moisture-wicking golf top has a stylish silhouette with a signature collar and buttoned placket, but it's been designed with more than just aesthetics in mind. The breathable textured areas on the front and back and signature Dri-FIT ADV fabric keep sweat stains at bay, while keeping you cooler on the course than cotton or terry. The stretchiness of the material also means you can swing freely.
5. Best for everyday: Nike Strike Elite Men's Dri-FIT ADV Football 1/2-Zip Drill Top
Whether you're a casual football fan or you stay up late to watch championship matches, a long-sleeve football top is a cool addition to your athleisure looks. It's the exact style worn by the pros, so you know it can handle heavy-duty exercise. Wear it with a coordinated pair of moisture-wicking shorts or style it with jeans or cargo trousers for a look for when you're not planning to break into a serious sweat.
6. Best for post-workout hangouts: Nike Tour Women's Dri-FIT ADV Long-Sleeve Golf Polo
When you're sweaty and sticky after a workout, you may not want to commit to meeting a friend for coffee or a drink. This long-sleeve golf polo solves that problem by toeing the line between fashion-forward and practical. It's a style that features breathable side vents, plus the moisture-wicking long-sleeve top also dries quickly so you don't have to worry about getting cold or wearing damp clothes once your workout is done.
Words by Aemilia Madden