nike men hyperdunk x tb zoom basketball shoeThe 27 best women’s running tops, tested by the RW team

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• What type of running top is best?
• How we test running tops for women
• The best running tops for women
• Best running T-shirts
• Best running vests
• Best long-sleeve running tops

Looking for the perfect running top? You can run wearing anything you fancy and still make it round the park. But the truth is, alongside great running leggings or shorts, investing in a technical top will transform your workout and make the entire experience considerably more comfortable, especially if you dress for the (albeit very changeable) spring weather.

We're the first to admit that picking out a running wardrobe for our unpredictable seasons is no mean feat. But ultimately, the best running top for you depends on your personal preference. Maybe you're all about sweat-wicking base layers, long-sleeve tees and hooded tops to keep you fighting fit during the chillier months. Perhaps you run hot and usually opt for a simple vest or a sports bra. Or are you a T-shirt girl who prefers a bit more coverage but can't find the perfect fit?

From chafe-free long-sleeve tees to cutting-edge technical vests, we've rounded up the best running tops on the market so you can forget about kit and focus on enjoying your run.

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  lululemon Swiftly Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt 2.0 Waist Length

  £58 at Lululemon

  £58 at Lululemon

  Read review
• 

  FP Movement Tempo Cropped Boyfriend Tee

  £38 at freepeople.com

  £38 at freepeople.com

  Read review
• 

  Nike Tempo Short-Sleeve Running Top

  £33 at Nike

  £33 at Nike

  Read review
• 

  lululemon Jersey Training Short-Sleeve Shirt

  £48 at Lululemon

  £48 at Lululemon

  Read review
• 

  Tracksmith Session Tee

  £75 at Tracksmith

  £75 at Tracksmith

  Read review
• 

  The North Face Summit High Trail Run T-Shirt

  £65 at The North Face

  £65 at The North Face

  Read review
• 

  Lululemon Fast and Free Short Sleeve Shirt

  £68 at Lululemon

  £68 at Lululemon

  Read review
• 

  UA Launch Elite Women's Short Sleeve

  £55 at Under Armour

  £55 at Under Armour

  Read review
• 

  Nike Tempo Women's Dri-FIT Running Tank Top

  £28 at Nike

  £28 at Nike

  Read review
• 

  UA Run 96

  £55 at Under Armour

  £55 at Under Armour

  Read review

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What type of running top is best?

Running tops typically fall into seasonal categories. Running vests are better suited to the summer months while T-shirts or long-sleeve tops will keep you cosy when the temperature drops. That said, there are no rules and the ideal running top for you depends largely on your own comfort. But there are a few points worth considering before you start shopping.

• Movement: Is it long enough, can your arms move and does it pinch at the waist or stretch at the chest? In an ideal world, you don't want to waste a single moment thinking about kit when you're out on a run, so opt for apparel that allows you to move freely and comfortably.
• Breathability: Look out for running-specific tops made from moisture-wicking fabric. This means they draw sweat away from your skin and dry fast, which helps with temperature regulation.
• Temperature: Is it shiver-levels freezing outside or has the weather started to change? A racer back vest can feel very different to a long-sleeved top when you're on the move, so opt for a running top that suits the current climate. If in doubt, layering is always a good compromise.
• Size: Brands can differ when it comes to sizing, and getting the fit right will make all the difference on race day and during your training runs, so it's worth checking the size charts on the individual products before you buy.

How we test running tops for women

All of the running tops below have been personally tested by the the Runner's World editors, who regularly clock up over 60km each per week and have completed all kinds of running challenges, from ultramarathons to parkruns. We have years of experience testing running apparel and expert knowledge when it comes to performance materials, design and features.

We put these tops (as well as plenty of others that didn't make the cut) to the test on the roads, track, trails and treadmills, assessing comfort, sweat-wicking, breathability, practicality (think pockets, watch holes, thumbholes etc.) and style — plus they've all seen several spins in the washing machine to ensure they stay at their best.

The best running tops for women

From long-sleeve base layers to Nike's racer backs and Sweaty Betty's classic vests, keep scrolling for our pick of the best tops, tanks and tees to give your running the edge. We've listed long-sleeve winter options at the top — scroll down if you fancy a vest or tee.

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Best running T-shirts

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If you're shopping for year-round running wardrobe staples, you can't go wrong with a simple white T-shirt (or black, if you're team all-black-running-gear). Thanks to a seamless, chafe-free construction and the brand's odour-busting 'X-STATIC' technology (which basically minimises the stink factor) this classic tee from lululemon ticks all our boxes.

The waist length was designed specifically for race day, as it won't ride up on even the longest runs — clever. Pop a pair of these great Hotty Hot High-Rise Running Shorts in your shopping cart to complete your fitness wardrobe.

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This is off-duty easy breezy in garment form. If you're after the coverage of a light T-shirt, rather than a vest, but still want maximum breathability, this cropped tee from FP Movement is for you. With a flattering cropped, boxy fit, it just overlaps with high-waisted bottoms and is so lightweight and has so much room that it feels like it just floats around you as you move. There's plenty of room in the arms and it's really stretchy too, so you never feel impeded by the fabric.

We tested the white tee which isn't fully opaque, so bear that in mind in terms of your sports bra choices (that said, a bright colour underneath actually looks great). It's also worth nothing that it does feel a bit more synthetic than some of the other options on this list, but not necessarily in an unpleasant way — just don’t expect cottony softness. As a result it wicks sweat well and dries super fast too. A versatile summer staple we'll be donning for shorter runs and cross-training.

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Sometimes you just need a simple, well-made tee in your running arsenal and this number from Nike fits that bill. With minimal seams to reduce chafing, it’s made from the brand's signature Dri-Fit technology: a sleek, sweat-wicking fabric with a classic ‘lyra-esk’ feel. It feels cool against the skin and wicks away sweat excellently — exactly what you'd expect from the sports giant.

In terms of fit, a high, crew neck provides plenty of coverage and it's a fairly classic, standard cut, though it is tailored around the waist with a curved hem. It still keeps you covered through your stride, but it's worth bearing in mind that it makes this one a tad more fitted than your classic box tee.

Also available in black, white, smoky blue and neon yellow.

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This is, quite simply, just a really good quality fitness tee. It's soft, nice and loose and drapes beautifully — as you'd want from a standard T-shirt — but is also breathable, very fast-drying and incredibly lightweight. Wear it long if you want bum coverage or tuck it into a waistband — it's so light that it stays put, even on long runs.

Thanks to the high-ish crew neck you get great coverage across the chest, while the sleeves leave plenty of room to move arms and shoulders unimpeded. It's crazy comfortable and pairs easily with everything in your workout wardrobe, plus it washes well too (ours has gotten a lot of love and still looks new).

The tag rips out (a feature we love) so there's no annoying label scratching you as you move and we've yet to experience any chafe when wearing this. We've also yet to overheat in it too, despite the generous fit. On that note: don't be tempted to size up — it's a very loose and relaxed cut. We're between sizes and went one down, which was perfect.

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The Tracksmith Session Tee is a masterclass in understated performance, proving its worth in both everyday training sessions and extreme conditions. One tester wore it during a five-day ultramarathon in Africa — and it delivered. The lightweight, sweat-wicking stretch knit fabric felt cool and breathable even in soaring heat, while its antimicrobial finish helped it to stay fresh, even when worn on multiple days (unwashed!).

It’s the kind of tee that quietly works hard behind the scenes, with a next-to-skin softness that makes it a go-to for big sessions. The fit also walks the ideal line between tailored and relaxed — with just enough structure to flatter and room to move freely. A classic crew neckline provides comfortable coverage, and the minimalist aesthetic means it pairs effortlessly with anything in your wardrobe.

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Trail experts The North Face know a thing or two about technical running apparel. Their Summit High Trail Run T-Shirt promises ‘reliable comfort for long days on the trail’ and, having tested it over a 48km ultramarathon in Gran Canaria, we can say it delivers on that. The FlashDry material wicks away sweat and moisture so well that, even on a hot day, our tester never found themselves feeling wet or sticky. Bonded side and underarm seams add an extra degree of comfort, while the split hem at the side seams allows for increased mobility – handy when you’re bounding over technical terrain.

It might not be the most flashy or fashion-forward design, but the fit is perfect for long days out on the trails: it’s fitted without being too body-hugging, with loose sleeves to allow for air flow under the arms. It’s also incredibly lightweight, packing down into a very small package – perfect if you’re fast-packing and are limited on space.

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Our tester wore the ‘Sheer Oak’ colourway of this running tee, which is beige in appearance but anything but beige in style and functionality. Available in four muted but sophisticated hues, this technical tee offers comfort, breathability and versatility in spades. It is a lusciously soft, looser-fitting item that covers the shoulders, upper arms and body well – making it ideal for warm weather running – without looking or feeling the slightest bit frumpy or baggy. Rather, this is a very fashionable piece and, thanks to its lightweight, sweat-wicking mesh fabric, it is as great to run in as it is to do pretty much anything else in – it is that easy and appealing to wear.

Even better, the front slits at the bottom of either side of the tee mean that you can tuck it in or out as you please, either to control airflow and mobility or, quite simply, to suit your look.

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If you’re going to stock up on any top for those especially hot, sun-drenched summer runs, make it this one. Made from a soft-to-the-touch, lightweight Iso-Chill fabric, this clever tee helps you to stay cool throughout a run – even the really sweaty kind – and wicks aways moisture swifty so that your perspiration sils less of a problem. What’s more, the material features reflective details, a four-way stretch to encourage a full range of motion and a UPF of 30 to help protect your skin from harmful sunlight, which is a particular bonus when you’re out on long runs. It has odour control technology infused into it, too, to help keep any bad whiffs at bay.

That said, our tester wasn’t wild about the fit of the tee, which they found to be a little shapeless at the sides, despite the curved hem at the bottom. But let’s face it – when you’re running in the heat, when have you ever put style above comfort?

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Best running vests

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We're big fans of this simple running vest from Nike. It's made from breathable fabric with large mesh panels in a racer back design, which is ideal for temperature regulation during the warmer months or for those who run hot. Plus the relaxed hem won't ride up during your long runs. But best of all, at just £27.99, it's a total bargain.

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Under Armour’s Run 96 tank is a standout piece from the brand’s nostalgia-laden Run 96 collection, which nods to its 1996 roots while delivering modern-day performance features runners will appreciate.

The design strikes the perfect balance between throwback style and on-the-run functionality, with the cropped length providing just enough coverage and pairing easily with high-rise shorts or leggings. The ribbed trim on the collar and armholes, meanwhile, adds a heritage aesthetic. A ¼ zip front lets you adjust airflow on the go, and the mesh back panel provides an extra hit of breathability. A versatile addition to your warm-weather kit — and one that scores high for both style and function.

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Looking for a versatile vest that will perform across all your favourite fitness activities? Your hunt is over. This classic vest from Sweaty Betty comes with all the technical details you'd expect from a great running top, including a seamless design, sweat-wicking fabric and cooling mesh sections. And best of all, it's available in a rainbow of bold colours to suit your mood.

Also available in a cropped style.

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Finding a running vest that flatters every runner is a bit like picking a bridesmaid dress that everyone agrees on. In other words: not easy. But the Asics Nagino Run Adjustable Tank gets impressively close. It features a clever drawstring detail at the back that lets you cinch and tailor the shape and length to suit your style — a small tweak that makes a big difference in how it fits and feels.

The feather-light fabric airy and breathable, staying cool and comfortable even in peak heat. And surprisingly, the lighter colourways did a solid job of disguising sweat. Bonus points are awarded for sustainability: over 50% of the fabric is made from recycled content. One tip: we’d recommend sizing down for the best fit. Easy, breezy and seriously versatile.

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Wonderfully soft and stylish, you almost wouldn’t think that this tank was designed for exercise — but it is, and it works a treat. The fit is naturally loose but not baggy, with oversized armholes, side splits and a breezy hemline, meaning you can get in a full range of motion and keep cool while exercising.

Although it might not be your best choice for those really long runs, it’s a great item to wear for shorter runs in warmer weather, and for sessions in the gym or at home. Plus it comes in every colour under the sun.

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Made from The North Face’s FlashDry-Pro material, this running tank is a no-brainer when it comes to sweaty speed workouts or long summer trail runs. The 100% recycled polyester knit mesh wicks sweat to the surface so it evaporates faster, leaving you to focus on your run.

The vest design, darted seams and split side hems allow total freedom of movement, while reflective detailing keeps you visible in low light. While this version has a slightly square neck, the tank is also available with a crew neck.

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We love the flattering high neckline and racerback design of this New Balance tank, which finishes relatively high under the arms to limit chafing in that area. The fabric feels lightweight, while the fit tows the line between being slim yet airy — in other words, this isn't one that clings to your body, but it's not super loose either.

It's a good top to have in your spring/summer training wardrobe, though our E-commerce Editor Ali Ball actually ran the New York City Marathon in it, so it can handle race day as well. And for eco-points, it also meets the brand's green leaf standard, so 100% of the materials are environmentally sourced.

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This Adidas Adizero Singlet is built for serious speed, with a barely-there feel that makes it ideal for race day or track sessions. This singlet is paper-thin — and that’s exactly the point. Every detail is engineered for distraction-free performance, from the ultra-lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric to the laser-cut perforations that keep air circulating when you're putting your foot down. The slim fit hugs the body without clinging, while forward-shifted seams and taped abrasion zones help to reduce the risk of chafing. It’s the kind of top you forget you’re wearing until you cross the finish line. Styling-wise, it's minimal but sharp, pairing easily with race shorts or tights. If you're in between sizes, we’d suggest sizing down for a more aerodynamic fit.

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Best long-sleeve running tops

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Not everyone loves a bodycon fit up top, which is why we love the cut of this long-sleeved running tee from lululemon. Made from a breathable mesh blend of nylon and polyester, the relaxed fit is super comfortable, the seamless design minimises chafing, and the wide hem at the bottom stops the top from flapping about or riding up.

It’s also treated with lululemon’s ‘X-STATIC’ technology, which curbs bacteria growth for a fresher feel (and fewer smells).

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This may look like a simple long-sleeved tee, but it's actually packed with thoughtful features to make movement easy breezy. There are thumbholes that fall just at the right length and a clever racerback panel on the back — akin to a sports bra — that's made from stretchy mesh to aid both shoulder mobility and ventilation. Clever stuff.

The lightweight material, while not as stretchy as some others on this list, has enough flex and excellent sweat-wicking. It's also cut perfectly — the curved hem ensures no rolling up while you're clocking up the miles and it falls in a flattering drape; if you're familiar with Sweaty Betty's 'athlete fit,' it's very similar (skimming the chest and hips with room in the body). As a result it's really comfortable and a joy to move in.

If we had to nitpick, the neck is cut a little wider than some other crew styles, so if you're after coverage in cold weather you might be better off with a zipped option (we have plenty below).

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Luxe by name, luxe by nature, this long sleeve tee from Brooks is made from the brand’s premium ‘Go Soft’ fabric; a buttery soft, odour-resistant material that feels wonderfully smooth against your skin, while offering excellent breathability.

It’s got a semi-fitted fit — so size up if you prefer something a little looser against the torso — but we found there to be plenty of stretch in the arms. The thumb holes are a welcome addition, too – especially during winter. Overall, an excellently designed piece of apparel, with minimal distractions.

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We think it's safe to say we're firmly in quarter-zip season, and this one from Nike is a winner. With reflective detailing, UV protection, and Nike's signature Dri-FIT tech to keep you comfortable, it makes a brilliant transitional and twilight run layer.

The fit is cleverly designed too, with raglan sleeves (sleeves that extend diagonally from the neckline to the underarm) to allow for easier movement and reduce chafing, plus a tapered waist to reduce bulk and a curved hem that won't ride up as you move — although if you have a longer torso and prefer bum coverage, this will likely fall a bit short.

It's super soft too, plus it has thumbholes, a zipped stash pocket for a card or key and even clever windows in the sleeve so you can keep an eye on your running watch without having to roll up the arms.

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There's pretty much only one brand we turn to for elevated fitness basics, and that's lululemon. Light, airy and super soft, this long-sleeved tee from the Canadian brand has sil a staple in our routine and performs without fault whether we're running, cycling, hiking or indulging in a spot of yin yoga.

It wicks sweat well and dries incredibly fast, and after multiple washes ours still looks and feels good as new. The fit is excellent — loose without looking baggy or impeding movement with excess fabric — and is ideal if you're not a fan of form-fitting wear. We took our normal size and it was spot on. The neck is also fairly high so you get good coverage in chilly weather, while the breathable construction ensures you don't sil uncomfortable. It's truly so, so comfortable, with a 'barely there' feeling while still creating a temperate layer of warmth.

On the bells and whistles front it is a little lacking — being more a versatile workout tee than a running-specific top, it doesn't have thumbholes or a watch hole, but there is a useful hanging loop at the back, and the stretchy fabric means you can move every which way, while the top retains its shape. It's also infused with lululemon's anti-odour technology. Overall a brilliant chuck-on layer as well as a workout top in its own right. A new RW favourite.

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This is one for the super-high-waisted leggings crew — unless you want your midriff on show, of course. This toasty half zip from lululemon is designed to pair with high-waisted bottoms and is ideal if you like to feel unencumbered by fabric but still want decent coverage in chillier weather.

Thanks to the cropped, slim fit there's no excess material getting in your way (or rolling up) as you clock up the miles. Thumbholes and a high mock neck keep things cosy, along with lululemon's 'Cufflins' — basically cuffs that roll down into mittens and an absolute lifesaver should you forget your running gloves.

Plus there's a small zipped pockes for your card or key (it also fits our earbud case), reflective detailing and a clever stretchy panel under the arms to boost mobility. The material is silky smooth and soft, with sculpting seams to create shape on even the most ironing board-adjacent figures (sadly, we speak from experience).

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The vest version of this running top is one our Membership Director Jenny Bozon reaches for time and time again, so we’re thrilled there’s also a long-sleeved version we can don in cooler temperatures. The recycled polyester and elastane jersey material is soft and comfortable and stays that way, even after multiple washes.

Mesh panels keep you cool plus there’s a handy hidden zipped pocket for essentials on the move.

Known for it bouncy running shoes, On also makes a great range of running apparel and this long-sleeved top is a firm favourite. It's super light, stretchy and soft, wicks sweat effectively and dries quickly too. Win, win, win. Good-looking enough to wear day-to-day (and you’ll probably be tempted) this tee is made from polyester and has a comfortable round neck that pairs well with just about anything.

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Everything about this long-sleeved running top from Asics has been designed with comfort in mind. It’s light, quick-drying, super soft and cut to allow a full, natural range of motion.

Thumbholes keep hands toasty while preventing sleeves from going walkabout up your forearms, and the brand’s ‘actibreeze’ tech equals great breathability and is quick-drying, too. Reflective details are a useful touch, and the knit fabric has an incredibly flattering drape – ideal if you’re feeling a little wobbly round the middle.

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nike dunk low disrupt coconut milk ck6654 105 release date nike men hyperdunk x tb zoom basketball shoe, this sleek running top keeps you cosy yet comfortable and is packed with thoughtful features. We're talking dedicated watch hole, thumb holes, two zipped pockets (which keep items close to the body and bounce-free), and a slim, flattering fit so nothing gets in your way.

The full-length zip means you have full control over the airflow, and it's light enough to pull off and wrap around your waist should things get too toasty.

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A high neck, thumbholes and incredible softness aren’t just what makes this long-sleeved number from BAM a great base layer. It’s also made from the brand’s lightweight (and super stretchy) Novea fabric, which dries 35% quicker than classic bamboo material, keeping you comfortable all year round. Plus, because it’s all natural, you don’t get any plasticky sweat smells that can occur with polyester base layers.

But it's the reflective detailing on this top is what really sets it apart. Put simply, it's huge, with a large motif down both shoulder blades and more on the cuffs to make sure you'll be noticed — no teeny flashing logos here.

You can adjust the airflow with the zip collar and there's a zip guard to ensure no cold metal touches your skin — although we found the neck a little tight when zipped all the way up. The sleeves were a little long for us, but this didn't really cause any problems, and the top is really long, so you can pull it right down over your bum if you prefer — and because of how tight and stretchy the material is, it actually stays down when running. Speaking of, this is a very tight fit which isn't for everyone, and when you first put it on you do have to adjust the underarms and sleeves as they twist (as is common on tight garments).

That said, there are contouring seams which help you feel supported as well as look chic, and, most importantly, it performs brilliantly when running. It's so soft and comfortable, with no chafing and great sweat-wicking that keeps you dry and warm without overheating.