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The Best Running Shirts for Women

We put women's running shirts from Arc'teryx, Rabbit, Brooks, Stio, REI, and more through a battery of tests to help you find your perfect match
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Best Running Shirt For Women Review (A good running shirt can make or break your running experience.)
A good running shirt can make or break your running experience.
Credit: Ally Arcuri
Ally Arcuri
By Ally Arcuri ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Updated July 27, 2026

A great running shirt can make your run easier, longer, and better. A breathable shirt that doesn't chafe or hold moisture can be the difference between joy and misery as you run and push your fitness limits.

Our favorite running shirt is the Rabbit EZ Tee. It's affordable, luxuriously soft, and offers moisture-wicking technology that rivals the most expensive shirts. The Stio Lucent T-Shirt is the perfect shirt for heavy sweating, offering a blend of breathability and technical features that perform well on runs of all kinds.

For tighter budgets, we love the REI Active Pursuits. This shirt is UPF 50, good for multiple activities, and cheap enough to get more than one. If you tend to run hot and sun protection is less important, the REI Swiftland T-Shirt is also a favorite, but the extra breathability costs a little bit more.

We've reviewed over 60 unique women's running shirts since 2011, including the 10 featured in this review. From daily road runs and adventurous trail runs to spin classes and gym time, we pushed these tees to the max. We assessed comfort, breathability, moisture control, and more.

Editor's Note: Our women's running shirt review was updated on July 27, 2026, with 10 all-new products from REI, Brooks, Rabbitt, and more.

Related: Best Running Shirts for Men

Quick Picks

Here's a quick list of our favorite Running Shirts for Women recommendations.
Thumbnail photo of Rabbit EZ Tee
Best Overall Running Shirt
Rabbit EZ Tee
Thumbnail photo of REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt
Best Budget Shirt for Multiple Activities
REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt
Thumbnail photo of REI Swiftland T-Shirt
Best for Sweaty Gals on a Budget
REI Swiftland T-Shirt
Thumbnail photo of Stio Lucent T-shirt
Best for Sweaty Efforts
Stio Lucent T-shirt
Thumbnail photo of Oiselle Flyout Short Sleeve
Favorite Shirt for Warm Weather Running
Oiselle Flyout Short Sleeve

The Best Women's Running Shirts


Full results from testing 10 top products are in our Product Comparison Table and Analysis & Test Results sections.

Best Overall Running Shirt


Rabbit EZ Tee - Women's


79
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 9.0
  • Breathability 7.0
  • Moisture Control 7.5
  • Sun Protection 8.0
PROS
Fantastically soft
Strong durability
Aesthetic appeal
UPF 50
Affordable
CONS
Moderate moisture management
No odor control

Best For: Daily running | Material: 94% recycled polyester/6% spandex

The Rabbit EZ Tee is the softest shirt in this lineup of exceptional running tops. From the moment you pull it on, the smooth fabric feels effortless against the skin, helping it disappear whether heading out for an easy jog, tackling a long run, or simply moving through the day. More importantly, that comfort doesn't fade with time. Through months of testing and years of experience with previous iterations of the EZ Tee, we've been consistently impressed by how well it holds up. Despite its soft construction and refined appearance, the fabric retains its shape, softness, and overall aesthetic after repeated washes and countless miles.

Some runners may want a more technical-feeling shirt, which could cause them to pause when considering the Rabbit EZ Tee. Moreover, runners who want a shirt loaded with tech may be disappointed that the EZ Tee lacks odor control, though it does offer a high 50 UPF rating. This shirt is well-equipped to get sweaty, though it was outperformed by other shirts. However, most shirts with more advanced moisture management also came with heftier price tags, like the well-featured and highly capable Stio Lucent T-shirt. Runners seeking softness will appreciate what the EZ Tee offers. It's the rare running shirt that feels indulgent enough to look forward to wearing yet durable enough to reach for again and again.

Read More: Rabbit EZ Tee review

The Rabbit EZ Tee is one of the softest and most comfortable shirts in our lineup, making it an often-reached-for option for most runs.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Best Budget Shirt for Multiple Activities


REI Active Pursuits T-Shirt - Women's


75
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 8.0
  • Breathability 6.5
  • Moisture Control 7.5
  • Sun Protection 8.0
PROS
UPF 50!
Cheaper
Adventure ready
CONS
Not as breathable as some
No odor protection

Best For: Daily versatility | Material: 92% polyester/8% spandex

The REI Active Pursuits is a mighty shirt for a smaller price. With 3 reflective areas, a UPF rating of 50, and a comfortable fit suitable for running and snacking, it is hard to beat this powerhouse of a shirt for price and performance. Whether we were running on the open road, hiking the trails, or hitting up Home Depot, the Active Pursuits managed it all in style and comfort.

This shirt lacks odor-control properties and isn't as breathable as some competitors. However, we will take the UPF over breathability if we have to choose. If you prefer more breathable, the REI Swiftland could be a better choice. If your budget can stretch, the Stio Lucent T-shirt - Women's is more breathable and has a UPF of 50, or the Brooks Dahs is also more breathable, but the UPF rating is only 20. In the end, we think the Active Pursuits blends just the right amount of everything at a price that means you can buy more than one or simply celebrate the savings.

Read More: REI Active Pursuits review


Best for Sweaty Gals on a Budget


REI Swiftland T-Shirt - Women's


70
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.5
  • Breathability 8.0
  • Moisture Control 8.5
  • Sun Protection 3.0
PROS
Impressive breathability
Affordable price
Moisture management wizard
CONS
No UPF rating
Not as versatile

Best For: Trail running, indoor efforts | Material: Polyester (bluesign approved)

The REI Swiftland T-Shirt is a highly breathable, moisture-wicking monster that won't break the bank. With polyester fabric and flatlock/overlock seams, the shirt felt good, and we didn't experience any chafing. The Swiftland is lightweight, and its weave allows it to dry more quickly than most competitors, making it ideal for humid climates or for those who run on the sweaty side (we are you!). The lower price and potential for crossover activities like weightlifting make it a good choice for those looking for a shirt that can do more than just run.

The Swiftland is not UPF rated, making it not ideal for sunny running, and we'd choose the REI Active Pursuits if that is more your wheelhouse. However, for shady trails and treadmill warriors, the Swiftland can be just the ticket to keep you dry while putting in harder efforts. If your budget can stretch and you run super sweaty, the Stio Lucent T-shirt is the standout for moisture management. However, we think most runners will love what the Swiftland offers, an uncomplicated running shirt that gets the job done without draining your wallet.

Read More: REI Swiftland T-Shirt review


Best for Sweaty Efforts


Stio Lucent T-shirt - Women's


81
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.5
  • Breathability 8.5
  • Moisture Control 8.5
  • Sun Protection 8.0
PROS
Solid features
UPF 50+
Paper-light feel
Excellent moisture management
CONS
Visibly shows bra
Not a luxurious feel

Best For: Outdoor running, hot & humid climates | Material: 68% recycled polyester/32% polyester

The Stio Lucent T-shirt is a well-featured shirt that is ready to get outside. Designed with functional odor control, a massive UPF 50+ rating, and reflective details, this lightweight shirt is an easy grab when you just need a shirt to get you out the door. Though it runs a bit on the pricier side, runners who need an outdoor running companion will appreciate this powerhouse shirt's thoughtful design features.

The Lucent is ultra-thin, which is part of why it wicks moisture away from the body and dries so efficiently. This thinness means that bra straps are more visible beneath it than they are with some of the more thickly woven shirts. We never had an issue with this, but we understand that some runners may prefer a more modest style. Moreover, the thin fabric is durable but lacks the softness of some other high-scoring running tees. Running shirts like the Rabbit EZ Tee and the Brooks Dash T-shirt are both softer to the touch and offer a weave that feels a bit more modest. If you want a super-lightweight shirt that will encourage you to run a bit faster and farther, the Stio Lucent is a great option.

Read More: Stio Lucent T-shirt review

One of the only shirts in our lineup this season to offer taped seams, the Stio Lucent T-shirt is full of features that make runners' lives easier when they know a serious adventure is waiting.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Favorite Shirt for Warm Weather Running


Oiselle Flyout Short Sleeve - Women's


PROS
Great moisture management
Breathable weave
Comfortable
CONS
No added features
Not as comfortable when layered

Best For: Warm weather | Material: 49% polyester/49% lyocell/2% spandex

The Oiselle Flyout Short Sleeve is an exceptional moisture-wicking running shirt that excels in hot, humid conditions. Its featherlight construction and soft fabric blend create a barely-there feel that helps runners stay cool and comfortable even during long, sweaty efforts. This is accomplished through the shirt's fit and weave, which repel sweat to help runners stay cool. The combination of polyester and lyocell delivers a smooth, slightly elevated feel while maintaining strong moisture management and quick-drying performance. It's the kind of shirt that feels easy to wear from the first mile to the last, making summer running noticeably more manageable.

While the Flyout shines in warm-weather comfort, it's less impressive when conditions turn cooler or more variable. The ultralight fabric can feel a bit delicate compared to more durable, training-focused tops, and it offers less structure for runners who prefer a more substantial feel. It also lacks advanced technical features such as strong odor-control treatments or UPF ratings, which may limit its appeal for all-day or multi-environment use. For more advanced features, we recommend the Stio Lucent T-shirt, which offers odor control and a high UPF rating, or the Brooks Dash T-shirt, which also features these technical features. If you spend a lot of time running in warm climates, the Flyout running shirt is worth looking into, if you don't mind the lack of UPF rating.

Read More: Oiselle Flyout Short Sleeve review

The honeycomb weave of the Flyout helps it stay cool and non-clingy in hot weather.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Product Comparison Table


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Awards Top Pick Award
Best for Sweaty Efforts
Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Running Shirt
Best Buy Award
Best Budget Shirt for Multiple Activities
   Best Buy Award
Best for Sweaty Gals on a Budget
   
Price $69 List
Check Price at Backcountry
$50 List
Check Price at REI
$35 List
Check Price at REI
$45 List
Check REI (on sale!)
$72 List
Check Price at Backcountry
$70 List
Check Price at REI
$45 List
Check REI (on sale!)
$45 List
Check REI (on sale!)
$25 List
Check Amazon (on sale!)
$42 List
Check Price at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
81
79
75
72
72
71
70
66
58
53
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Bottom Line This running shirt blends lightweight comfort, odor resistance, and sun protection into a versatile package built for everyday trainingThis comfortable and modestly priced running tee combines lightweight performance with everyday comfort in a shirt you'll want to wear long after your run endsRunners looking for a budget buy activity shirt that can do it all and provide an edge of style will like what this shirt has to offerThis more affordably priced running tee is a lightweight, breathable option that balances comfort, stretch, and technical features for everyday trainingThis running shirt excels in hot weather by staying light, airy, and resistant to cling even during the sweatiest effortsThis tee is a highly technical, biomechanics-informed running shirt built for durability, movement efficiency, and repeat performanceRunners seeking a breathable running shirt with excellent moisture management will find this mid-priced option well worth consideringThis running tee blends modern style and technical performance in a lightweight shirt built for everyday runningThis running shirt prioritizes simplicity over specialization, offering a soft feel and just enough performance to handle daily milesWhile it won't satisfy runners seeking the latest performance innovations, this running shirt delivers the breathability and moisture control needed for everyday training
Pros Well-featured, versatile, breathable, adventure-ready, quick dryUltra comfortable, thoughtful details, reliable moisture control, versatile, high-quality seamsVery affordable, soft to the touch, versatile, UPF 50 ratingWell-featured, more affordable, cool to the touch, semi-fitted cutGreat moisture management, comfortable, somewhat versatileHighly engineered, strong moisture management, durable yet lightweightHighly breathable, moisture-wicking, more affordable, incredibly lightweight, comfortable featuresRelaxed fit, solid moisture control, contemporary athletic styleAffordable, versatile, simpleWell-ventilated, flattering cut for some
Cons Pricier, too sheer for someNot quite as technical, limited odor resistanceSimple design, slightly longer drying time, doesn't feel technicalSub-par moisture management, shows sweat easilyPricier, less softNo official UPF, pricyLacks odor control, lacks aesthetic versatility, not the most well-featuredDoesn't excel in any category, lacks technical featuresToo basic, a bit boxy & longLacks tech features, fit not great for all
Rating Categories Stio Lucent T-shirt Rabbit EZ Tee REI Active Pursuits... Brooks Dash T-shirt Oiselle Flyout Short... Arc'teryx Sunna Crew... REI Swiftland T-Shirt Salomon ShakeOut Cor... UA Tech V-Neck Nike Tempo SS Top
Comfort (30%)
7.5
9.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.5
7.5
6.5
5.0
Breathability (30%)
8.5
7.0
6.5
8.0
8.5
8.0
8.0
7.0
6.5
6.0
Moisture Control (20%)
8.5
7.5
7.5
7.0
8.0
8.5
8.5
8.0
6.5
7.0
Sun Protection (20%)
8.0
8.0
8.0
5.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
Specifications Stio Lucent T-shirt Rabbit EZ Tee REI Active Pursuits... Brooks Dash T-shirt Oiselle Flyout Short... Arc'teryx Sunna Crew... REI Swiftland T-Shirt Salomon ShakeOut Cor... UA Tech V-Neck Nike Tempo SS Top
Best For Daily running Overall comfort Daily versatility Daily running Daily running Daily running Trail running Trail running Budget buyers Budget buyers
Material Tempicâ„¢ lightweight knit: 68% recycled polyester/32% polyester, Quick n' Fit 94% recycled polyester/6% spandex 92% polyester/8% spandex 86% recycled polyester/14% spandex 49% polyester/49% lyocell/2% spandex Polyester Polyester (bluesign approved) Polyester Polyester Recylced polyester
UPF Rated UPF 50+ UPF 50 UPF 50 UPF 20+ Not rated Not rated Not rated Not rated Not rated Not rated
Odor Control Yes No No Yes No Yes No No Yes No
Seam Type Flatlock + taped Flatlock Flatlock + overlock Flatlock + overlock Flatlock + overlock Flatlock + overlock Flatlock + overlock Overlock Flatlock + overlock Flatlock
Reflective Areas 2 0 0 1 0 0 3 1 0 1
Weight 2.65 oz 2.93 oz 3.88 oz 2.79 oz 2.72 oz 2.93 oz 2.57 oz 2.89 oz 3.49 oz 3.28 oz


running shirt womens - we take each running shirt we test through a rigorous round of...
We take each running shirt we test through a rigorous round of testing to ensure they can hold up to the demands of daily running and sweating.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

How We Test


When deciding which shirts to include in this review, we looked at the most popular running shirts currently on the market. We set out to dig deep, test product claims for ourselves, and delve into new clothing lines from the pillars in the running world. For testing, we ran across trails in Utah, through dense forest in Washington state, navigated the fog of San Luis Obispo, and suffered through the summer heat of the Sierra Nevada. The diversity of conditions and climates lent itself to creating the most comprehensive round-up of women's running shirts available.

Our testing of women's running shirts is divided into four different metrics:
  • Comfort (30% of overall score weighting)
  • Breathability (30% weighting)
  • Moisture Control (20% weighting)
  • Sun Protection (20% weighting)

Our rigorous, side-by-side comparison also included testing each shirt beneath our favorite women's running jackets, different types of hydration vests, and different styles of sports bras to determine which shirts held up to our imposing demands and which ones left a bit to be desired.

We also consider the versatility of each shirt and its aptitude for hiking, hitting the gym, or just having a casual lunch with friends on the patio. While we didn't score versatility, it's always nice when gear can pull double duty without breaking a sweat.

Why Trust GearLab


Ally Arcuri tackles the testing of women's running shirts throughout the seasons. Ally is a South Lake Tahoe local who splits her time between the mountains and the beaches of Central California. She is an ultramarathon runner, a spin instructor, a personal trainer, and a yoga teacher. From the mountains to the high desert and down to the coast, Ally knows what to look for in outstanding running apparel.

running shirt womens - we ran many, many miles in all of these shirts to provide context to...
We ran many, many miles in all of these shirts to provide context to how a fabric or feature performs in real life.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Analysis and Test Results


We tested each shirt for comfort, breathability, moisture control, and sun protection to help you determine which options meet your goals and budget.

Worse Value
Better Value

What's the Best Value?


The best value is a balance between your needs and budget. We recommend purchasing a shirt that checks the most required boxes while still fitting into your budget. Typically, shirts with more technical features, like UPF ratings, odor control, and taped seams, cost more. Shirts that forgo one or more tech features are often more affordably priced.


The REI Active Pursuits is a nice blend of affordability and UPF 50 with a simple design you can wear in most casual or exercise environments. This versatility, combined with good breathability, makes it a shoo-in for almost everyone, regardless of budget. The REI Swiftland T-Shirt is similar but much better at moisture management and airflow; it lacks a UPF rating, making it better for indoor running or outdoor runs when the sun is low.

running shirt womens - a running shirt isn&#039;t worth much if it isn&#039;t comfortable. the rabbit...
A running shirt isn't worth much if it isn't comfortable. The Rabbit EZ Tee remains incredibly comfortable on longer efforts.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Comfort


Before all else, comfort is the most important factor to consider when buying a running shirt. Running is a sport of repetitive movement, so when you have fabric and seams rubbing over the same spots on your body thousands of times, you want to be sure that they are as minimally irritating as possible. We are incredibly particular about how our running gear touches us, which gives us our keen eye for detail when assessing the comfort of each shirt. We notice how seams rub our skin and have tasked friends and family members with running in the gear and noting their comfort observations. While all of these shirts seemed comfortable enough at first, we started noticing features we really liked and others we didn't after hours and miles of wearing them. The shirts that score the highest in this category are the ones we practically forgot we had on by the end of our long runs.


One component of comfort is the fabric itself. Some running shirts are 100% polyester, others are polyester blends, and some use natural fabrics like Merino wool. They all have very different feels against the skin, with some feeling more like traditional athletic wear, and others being so soft they feel like shirts meant for lounging on the couch. Additionally, the shirts use different weave patterns to increase breathability; some can be pretty see-through, which is something to note if you want to prioritize coverage.

running shirt womens - we found that we prefer a shirt with a slightly longer hemline that...
We found that we prefer a shirt with a slightly longer hemline that is relaxed without feeling baggy for our runs. For runs with a hydration pack, we favor shirts like the REI Active Pursuits that offer slightly longer sleeves.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

After fully assessing the fabric of each running shirt, we pivot to focus on fit and its relationship to our range of motion. While some of this will come down to personal preference and how each shirt fits your body, we noted factors like stretchiness, gussets around the sleeves, and the length of the sleeves and the body. We have found that we feel the most comfortable in shirts that skim our hips without providing too much extra fabric to fiddle with as we run.

Every shirt fits every body differently. One person's ideal fit becomes another's nightmare on a long run. Dialing in your preferred style can help you find the shirt that best suits your body.

Since bodies differ, it is important to ask yourself what qualities you look for when assessing the comfort of your gear. Some tees have smaller sleeves than others, which can be negligible to some and earth-shattering for others.

Not only did we evaluate the seams, but we also counted the number of seams on each shirt and their locations. Found on numerous shirts, the low-profile flatlock seams are comfortable and the least likely to cause chafing. Taped seams are top-tier for comfort and come with an equally top-tier price tag. If you are looking to skip even the potential for chafing, a loose-fitting shirt with taped seams might be your perfect match.

running shirt womens - some running shirts read like serious fitness gear; others can be...
Some running shirts read like serious fitness gear; others can be worn on other occasions and still feel right at home.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

The Best and Worst for Comfort


The most comfortable shirts were the Rabbit EZ Tee. The EZ Tee is constructed of 94% recycled polyester and 6% spandex with a soft, smooth feel. The softness stays light and fresh, even when saturated with sweat, making this shirt comfortable even after extended wear. Rabbit also designed this shirt with 100% flatlock seams. Slightly more expensive to produce than typical overlock seams, flatlock seams create comfort by lying completely flat against the skin.

A closer look at the seam types commonly found in running shirts. From left to right: overlock, flatlock, and taped seams, listed in order of increasing production cost.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

The Arc'teryx Sunna Crew is another shirt that earned high scores in the comfort metric. With flatlock seams in areas where they matter most (think, high-chafe areas), the Sunna is a much more rugged-feeling shirt than the Rabbit EZ Tee. The Sunna offers a durable, brushed feeling with a weave that lets air move through. The more relaxed fit also helps this shirt sit away from your body rather than cling to it.

The Dash and Active Pursuits both offer fantastic comfort but in completely different ways.

The Brooks Dash T-Shirt is also comfortable, but it feels completely different from the EZ Tee and the Sunna. The textiles of the Dash are soft to the touch and ultra-lightweight. The materials retain a cool-to-the-touch sensation that remains comfortable when worn beneath a pack on long runs and on shorter endeavors. The REI Active Pursuits is another soft, all-day comfortable shirt. Also well-suited for wear beneath a pack, this T-shirt offers aesthetic versatility we appreciate. Designed to look like a simple, everyday tee, the Active Pursuits feels comfortable on errands before the run, during your workout, and on the couch after.

running shirt womens - while the underarm gusset is nice, the up-cut sides and thick feel...
While the underarm gusset is nice, the up-cut sides and thick feel of the Tempo SS aren't the best suited for long efforts.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

The UA Tech V-Neck - Women's and the Nike Tempo SS Running Top are two of the least comfortable, though they feel completely different. Both are polyester, but with the UA option, the result is a soft, unathletic-feeling shirt with a tapered V-neck and a large, tent-like flare through the hips. This tee is decent for gym workouts and short runs, but it isn't the most well-fitted option. The Nike Tempo SS Running Top feels a bit thick and heavy on the body. When paired with large U-shaped side cuts, it doesn't feel like a shirt meant for long-distance runs. The Tempo does at least offer underarm gussets, which help with airflow, but neither it nor the UA Tech V-Neck is a shirt we recommend to runners seeking comfort.

running shirt womens - some shirts, like the brooks dash, are designed to feel cool and...
Some shirts, like the Brooks Dash, are designed to feel cool and breathable in warm conditions.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Breathability


Whether it's hot or cold outside, running is pretty much synonymous with sweating, and how breathable your clothing is will play a huge role in how comfortable you will be throughout your miles.


Breathability describes how well a shirt allows air to pass through it, and while we don't have as controlled a test for breathability as we do for drying speed, we tested this metric by running in as many different weather conditions as we could and taking notes on how we felt each time. If we got through a hot, full-sun run in the desert without wanting to strip down to just a sports bra, that was a win. We also awarded bonus points to shirts that performed well beneath some of our favorite hydration vests. The shirts that allowed our backs to breathe beneath a pack became our superstars in this metric.

One of the first things we did was weigh each shirt. This doesn't perfectly correlate to how breathable a shirt is, but it does give a good starting point, as lighter-weight shirts tend to use textiles with more airflow. It also gave us a bit of insight into each shirt's potential drying speed.

running shirt womens - some shirts have subtle cross-hatch style weaves, while others are...
Some shirts have subtle cross-hatch style weaves, while others are more like honeycomb. Others still rely on smooth, thin fabric to create breathability.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

We also considered features in the fabric, such as the pinprick-sized holes that allow air to move more efficiently. Some shirts rely on a looser overall fit to enhance breathability. Alternatively, other options rely on ultralight fabrics to allow airflow.

running shirt womens - the stio lucent top is airy, breathable, and quite thin. if you...
The Stio Lucent top is airy, breathable, and quite thin. If you prefer a shirt that fully disguises the color and fit of your sports, a breathable shirt with a thicker weave, or simply a darker color, may appeal to you more.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

The Stio Lucent T-shirt uses very thin yet durable fabric to promote airflow. The result is a shirt that feels almost weightless during runs, making it a strong choice for warmer-weather runs. The thin fabric may be a dealbreaker to some, though, as it is easy to see through in the light colorways.

running shirt womens - the weave of the flyout helps it stay airy during warm weather.
The weave of the Flyout helps it stay airy during warm weather.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

The Oiselle Flyout Short Sleeve is a favorite for warm-weather running. Unlike the Stio Lucent, the Flyout feels a bit thicker, which adds a comfortable amount of coverage. The honeycomb-shaped weave allows full airflow, and the fit keeps the shirt away from your body as you move. The fit and weave come together to create a shirt that feels fresh and unintrusive during warm summer runs. Budget runners will be pleased with the breathability of the REI Swiftland T-Shirt, which comes in just behind the top-rated competition. The least breathable in the group is the Nike Tempo SS Top.

running shirt womens - a shirt&#039;s ability to wick moisture away from the body is important...
A shirt's ability to wick moisture away from the body is important. We assessed these abilities to determine which shirts offered the best moisture management.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Moisture Control


Drying speed is another important factor in your overall comfort while running. In hotter weather, quicker drying times mean more efficient, effective evaporative cooling, and in cooler weather, a faster drying time can be a safety feature, helping ensure you don't get too chilled. This is another metric where you can look at the shirt's weight to get a general sense of how quickly it will dry, though it's not an exact parallel.


We washed the running shirts through a standard wash-and-spin cycle and removed them immediately following the spin cycle. We assessed each shirt's moisture content before tossing it into the dryer. Before putting the shirts in the dryer, some felt only mildly damp. We put all the shirts in the dryer and set the timer for 5 minutes. We removed the shirts and again assessed the dampness of each garment.

running shirt womens - we conducted rigorous testing to ensure that the way each shirt felt...
We conducted rigorous testing to ensure that the way each shirt felt on the run was upheld by how well it managed moisture in a more controlled setting.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

We repeated a 5-minute dry cycle and were pleased to discover that the Salomon ShakeOut Core T-shirt, the Arc'teryx Sunna, the REI Swiftland T-Shirt, and the Stio Lucent were all dry. We continued this process until all the shirts were completely dry, a process that lasted only 20 minutes. Then we ran all of the shirts through a wash-and-spin cycle again before hanging them to dry. This test yielded similar results.

running shirt womens - we wore each shirt on hard runs when perspiration was plentiful...
We wore each shirt on hard runs when perspiration was plentiful, with hydration packs adding an extra challenge for moisture management and comfort.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

We also paid attention to drying speed during our real-world testing, especially noting how shirts saturated with sweat felt underneath a running vest since wet conditions are more likely to cause chafing. We were pleased to see that the results here correlated with our less precise testing, and we assigned ratings accordingly.

The shirts with the best moisture control pull sweat away from the body and allow it to evaporate before pooling and fully saturating the fabric.

The Stio Lucent, Arc'teryx Sunna, and REI Swiftland are among the top scorers in terms of moisture control. All three of these running shirts effectively draw moisture away from your body and allow it to evaporate into the atmosphere, leaving you with a drier-than-average shirt. While no shirt is perfect at whisking away perspiration, these three are adept at keeping things collected so you can focus on your run.


The Salomon ShakeOut Core T-shirt and Oiselle Flyout are two honorable mentions in the moisture control metric. Both feature durable weaves that allow air to pass through, which helps them shed moisture. Even beneath hydration vests, these fabrics didn't allow sweat to pool, which is exactly what we look for. The worst performer is the UA Tech V-Neck, though in fairness, it wasn't terrible.

Sun Protection


Sun protection is more important than ever with skin cancer on the rise. If you primarily run outdoors or when the sun is strongest, it is worth paying a little more attention to UPF ratings and favoring it over breathability to help protect yourself from the sun's damaging rays.


There is a trade-off with a UPF rating that seems to result in lower breathability. However, we think the tradeoff is worthwhile and will take a slightly less breathable shirt with a UPF rating of 50 over a highly breathable shirt with no UPF rating for outdoor runs any day. If you lean more toward treadmill or indoor track running, this might be less of a concern for you.

The top UPF protection in this group is UPF 50, and this rating is shared by the Rabbit EZ Tee, Stio Lucent T-shirt, and REI Active Pursuits. The Brooks Dash offers UPF of 20, while the rest offer no UPF ratings. Interesting to note the Men's version of the Brooks Dash is UPF 40 rated.

running shirt womens - we appreciate when a shirt can be worn for other activities without...
We appreciate when a shirt can be worn for other activities without looking like we just came straight from running a marathon.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Versatility


We often use running shirts for a lot more than just running. We love multi-sport days and changing up our activities. We think finding a multi-purpose shirt makes the most sense, as it can save you money while you run and run errands. Some things to consider include the fabric's level of sun protection, reflective elements, and odor-fighting properties. The overall fit and design are also important.

Fight the Funk
Odor control can be achieved in a few ways, including using natural fibers like Merino wool and applying specific treatments to polyester fabrics, such as Polygiene. Both fight the growth of bacteria that cause lingering smells, so if you're going to be in situations where washing is limited, such as backpacking, this feature will be very appreciated by you and the people around you!

running shirt womens - the ez offers comfort versatility along with a upf rating.
The EZ offers comfort versatility along with a UPF rating.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

One of the most versatile running shirts is the Rabbit EZ Tee. The versatility of this shirt extends beyond its comfortable, stylish design thanks to its powerful UPF 50+ rating. Shirts that paired practical features like sun protection and odor resistance scored highest because they transitioned effortlessly between runs, hikes, travel, and everyday outdoor adventures.

running shirt womens - the sunna offers a balance of added features that make it a...
The Sunna offers a balance of added features that make it a versatile contender.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

The Arc'teryx Sunna is another versatile running shirt, rugged enough to withstand the demands of daily runs while also comfortable for backpacking trips and workout classes. The Sunna does not offer an official UPF rating, but it does have some of the strongest odor protection in this lineup, as determined by our frequent, somewhat disgusting sniff tests. The Stio Lucent is one of the more versatile shirts. Though it looks very much like a running shirt, it offers a UPF rating of 50, strong odor control, and has a few reflective patches for added visibility.

We like to look at versatility through the lens of value. A more versatile shirt is going to give you more bang for your buck, no matter how much it costs.

The Brooks Dash and REI Active Pursuits both perform well in terms of versatility. While the Dash looks like a running shirt and doesn't offer the aesthetic versatility one might seek, its breezy skin feel, odor control, and UPF 20+ rating cement it as a multipurpose running short. The Active Pursuits tee does not offer odor protection, which can become noticeable, but it boasts a solid 50+ UPF rating and doesn't look like a straight-up running shirt.

running shirt womens - finding the right running shirt can feel a bit overwhelming. we...
Finding the right running shirt can feel a bit overwhelming. We sifted through some of the best options on the market so you don't have to.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

How to Choose the Best Women's Running Shirt


Once you dial in your needs, the details we found can help select what is sure to be your new favorite shirt.

The climate you run in can help you determine what style of shirt will be best for you.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Check Your Climate


Before you start shopping, it is important to determine which running shirt suits your climate and needs. If you do a lot of desert running, seeking out a running shirt with superior moisture-wicking and a high UPF rating might be a good start. If your area is humid, a shirt with good moisture-wicking could be the ticket.

While the market trends are leaning more towards relaxed-fit shirts, more tapered, skin-hugging options are available if that is the style that feels most authentic to you.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Consider Design


Choosing the best design for your needs and goals can result in more comfortable runs or a shirt you can wear beyond running. If you have sensitive skin that is prone to chafing, looking for more seamless options might be a good choice. Do you predominantly run trails? If so, maybe a heartier, harder-to-snag textile is better than some of the thinner options.

Other Notable Running Shirts for Women


We considered over 30 potential test subjects. Since we can't test them all, here are some popular options we didn't choose, but might be on your shortlist.

  • Patagonia Capilene Cool — This shirt has been a tester favorite in the past and is well-loved. It missed the cut this go-around, as online buzz shows it isn't as well-loved as those we chose.

  • Active Ultralite Short Sleeve — If wool is your jam, the Smartwool is worthy of consideration and just missed being added to our selection for this review. While we might test it in the future, for now, we think wool lovers might want to check it out.

running shirt womens - chock-full of features while offering a relaxed and comfortable fit...
Chock-full of features while offering a relaxed and comfortable fit, the Arc'teryx Taema quickly became one of our most recommended running shirts for women.   Credit: Ally Arcuri

Conclusion


Picking out your next running shirt may not be as complicated as finding your next pair of trail running shoes, but there is still a surprising amount to consider before investing, especially when you are considering pricier options. Our testing and explanations can help you narrow down your decision. The best running shirt is the one that fits your specific running needs.

Ally Arcuri