Outside Magazine review: the best summer running shirts for women and men
20.5.2025
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Running in summer: hot or not? The better your shirt regulates your temperature, the more comfortable your workout will be. Outside Magazine recently tested running shirts. Here’s a selection of the best ones.
Temperatures are rising, which makes it all the more important that your running shirt is quick-drying and has a cooling effect. But how to know whether a shirt really delivers what it promises? After all, the labels on functional clothing don’t hold back when it comes to making claims.
Tested in the lab and in practice
US American Outside Magazine took a closer look and tested functional shirts in the lab and on runners. The testers examined how quickly the shirts went back to their dry weight through evaporation after being immersed in water.
They also tested the air permeability using a special wind simulator, thereby measuring how much air passes through the fabric. In practice, this should translate into how much of a cool breeze you feel on your skin.
The best running shirts for sweaty workouts
Unfortunately, we don’t currently have all the shirts rated by Outside Magazine in our range. That’s why I’ve put together three top performers for men and women. These include brands you may not have associated with running gear.
Best women’s shirt for running in the heat
Craft Pro Hypervent 2 did really well in the test. Although it was neither the most breathable nor the fastest to dry, it still achieved a high score thanks to its fit and performance in the practical test.
This short-sleeved shirt is made from a very lightweight blend of recycled polyester and elastane with a mesh back panel that further improves ventilation. As it’s very lightweight, one runner reported that you hardly feel it when running in the heat. Thanks to the glued (instead of sewn) seams, the shirt doesn’t rub up against your skin either. This prevents chafing, especially on sweaty skin. One disadvantage, however, is that despite its quick-drying properties, sweat remains visible on the shirt for a while.
Best trail running shirt for women
The testers wore the Distance Tech Tee from Black Diamond on a multi-day stage run from hut to hut as well as on shorter trail routes. They said it was very air permeable and quick-drying. The anti-odour treatment also seemed to do the trick – at least none of the testers had any issues during their multi-day run. The loose fit and low weight also contributed to a comfortable running experience.
The only drawback was the material that didn’t feel quite as cotton-like as the testers as others. Personally, I think this is a matter of taste. When I’m out running in summer, I like to wear shirts that are as light as possible and barely noticeable. That’s why cotton would be too warm and heavy for me.
Best trail running shirt for women
The 2XU Aero Singlet achieved the top score for quick drying in the lab, and in terms of air permeability it scored three out of five points. The lightweight tank top also performs well in practice: «The fabric is slightly textured [...] which seemed to encourage even more airflow, and it dried quickly,» one tester said. The price is also good compared to the other tested products.
While some testers found the fit around the tummy and hips a little wide, others appreciated the airy, casual fit in hotter temperatures.
Best summer running tank top for men
Sleeveless, minimalist and lightweight – this is what makes Adizero Singlet from Adidas ideal for running in high temperatures. In the Outside Magazine test, it dried the fastest in the lab, making it comfortable to wear even during heavy workouts. Although the fabric has small, woven-in holes, it proved to be less permeable to air in the lab test. However, the top partially made up for this with its material-saving fit.
«The lightest and most comfortable singlet I’ve ever worn,» raved one tester from Outside Magazine.
Best men’s shirt for sweltering days
British outdoor performance brand Montane is still relatively unknown over here. It specialises in extreme outdoor adventures and ultra-runs and was an early adopter of very lightweight clothing for running, climbing and hiking.
Montane’s Dart Nano T-shirt impressed with its light weight and high air permeability. It achieved an average score for drying speed, scoring three out of five points.
The shirt weighs in at just 80 grammes. Its thin fabric is made from 100 per cent recycled polyester. One tester praised its barely-there sensation. Another pointed out that this shirt fits the bill when temperatures start rising.
The fastest drying shirt for men
The Soar Running brand is more expensive than others. However, according to Outside Magazine testers, its short drying time and high level of comfort justify the investment.
According to one tester, the ultra-light, stretchy 3D fabric of the Running Tech Printed T-shirt felt «a bit stiff and scratchy» at first touch. But added that «It disappeared once I started running». «I actually feel cooler and more comfortable in this than going shirtless». Although the shirt didn’t let much air pass through in the lab test, moisture was reliably transported away from the skin in practice.
These running shirts are just a small selection of those tested by Outside Magazine. You can check out the full test of women’s shirts and men’s shirts by clicking on the links. If you couldn’t find what you were looking for, you might come across something more suitable in our running shirts range.
Header image: Shutterstock
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
Sport
Follow topics and stay updated on your areas of interest
Running
Follow topics and stay updated on your areas of interest
Fitness
Follow topics and stay updated on your areas of interest
1 comment
later