1. The Quick List ↴
2. Best Short-Sleeve: Rockay Tech Tee
3. Best Value Short-sleeve: New Balance Impact Run
4. Best For Hot Weather: Soar Hot Weather T
5. Best Long-Sleeve: On Performance T Long
6. Most Versatile: New Balance Q Speed Jacquard Long Sleeve
7. Best Bamboo Top: BAM Novea Crew Neck Base Layer
8. Best Vest: Sweaty Betty Breathe Easy Running Vest
9. Best Value Vest: Sundried Piz Fora
10. Best Cropped Tank: Lululemon Sculpt Cropped
A great running top should be forgettable. The worst ones bother you from the first step to the last, while the right one fades into the background and allows you to enjoy your run. What counts as the right one will be unique to you, but I’ve pulled together a wide range of options for you to peruse. Rest assured they will all keep you as cool and dry as possible, while being soft and comfortable. You just need to decide on style (long-sleeved, short-sleeved, vest), fit and colour.
These days many running tops are made from recycled materials. If that’s the sort of thing that appeals, I’d recommend also investing in a mesh washing bag (like Guppy Friend, £25 from Ethical Superstore) to catch the microplastics that are shed from synthetic materials—even recycled ones—in the washing machine so they don’t pollute rivers and oceans.
How I Test Running Tops
You can trust Coach We give honest reviews and recommendations based on in-depth knowledge and real-world experience. Find out more about how we review and recommend products.
I am continually testing new running T-shirts, long-sleeved tops and tanks in my search for the best running tops for women. You’ll find contributions from other Coach writers who are keen runners too. Most of our recommendations are based on our personal experiences testing the products, although we do include some options we haven’t tried. If you see the writer’s byline or initials after the text you’ll know it’s been tested.
The Quick List
Want the lowdown at a glance? These are the women’s running tops—short-sleeved, long-sleeved and vest tops—that I recommend most highly. Click on the links to go to the more detailed reviews and specs.
Best Short-sleeve
Lightweight, comfortable and flattering, this T-shirt always seems to be significantly reduced from its high list price on the Rockay site.
Best Value Short-sleeve
Well-cut and lightweight, this has mesh panels to keep you cool. A simple but great running tee that’s available in a variety of colors.
Best For Hot Weather
Made from a high-tech mesh fabric that’s not see-through, this T-shirt is breathable and provides UPF protection.
Best Long-Sleeve
This lightweight top drapes beautifully, maximizing airflow and keeping the fabric away from your sweaty back.
Most Versatile
A workhorse top that will keep you warm when you need a base layer. It also works well on its own.
Best Bamboo Top
This lightweight bamboo blend top is soft against the skin and is naturally odor-resistant.
Best Vest
A lightweight, well-cut running vest that will keep you cool and comfortable on sweaty runs.
Best Value Vest
A simple running vest made using recycled fabrics that’s loose-fitting and long in the body. It’s excellent value at list price and is often reduced to less than £10.
Best Cropped Tank
A lightweight, loose-fitting cropped tank that keeps the air flowing and looks great with high-waisted shorts.
The Best Short-Sleeved Running Tops For Women
Best Short-Sleeved Top
This Danish sock brand has branched out into sustainably made running gear and are off to a flyer with this winning tee, which is nicely cut, figure-skimming and light as a feather without being see-through. You can feel the excellent quality of the fabric, and the use of flatlock seams means it’s unlikely to chafe. This tee is made entirely of recycled fabrics, 50% standard recycled polyester and 50% Seaqual, a polyester yarn which actually includes some plastic waste from the ocean (most recycled yarns don’t, somewhat surprisingly given the ubiquitous ocean-saving marketing). This running top is also treated with anti-odour technology, so in theory you don’t have to wash it as often. There’s a choice between four colours, including forest green and the delightfully named dolphin blue.—Camilla Artault
Best Value Short-sleeve
I’ve tested previous versions of the Impact Run and much like before this T-shirt is lightweight, well-cut (with raglan sleeves) and pleasant to wear. It dries quickly and feels soft, breathable and cool against the skin. This version has strategically placed mesh sections on the shoulder blades to help with ventilation. I found the shape flattering, although it’s cut slightly closer to the body than the previous version, reducing any excess movement and friction. In my experience, these T-shirts last well and there’s a range of colors to choose from—though beware the lighter colors, which can be on the transparent side, if that bothers you.—CA
Best For Hot Weather
This incredibly lightweight running top is the one to reach for on hot, sunny days. It’s made with a barely-there mesh—which somehow isn’t too see-through—and panels of UPF fabric that protect the shoulders, upper chest and back from the sun (PSA: you can get sunburn when wearing clothes). Bonded seams and no labels reduce the risk of chafing to the absolute minimum.
It’s a top-quality technical garment, to the point that when I first tested it, I felt like I should be running an ultramarathon through the desert rather than an easy 10K around my local park. Like other Soar tops, it’s cut quite narrow in the body—if you’re between sizes, I’d recommend you size up.—CA
Click to expand this section for more great short-sleeved tops↴
Ideal for a warm-weather race, this lightweight tee feels barely there in the best possible way. The figure-skimming cut is flattering but not clingy, using floaty fabrics that are highly breathable and quick-drying, while the back panel is made of a non-opaque mesh fabric. I liked the pleats between the shoulder blades which allow the top to drape nicely, encouraging more airflow. —CA
This tee is fairly fitted and slightly stretchy without being clingy, and the neckline has flattened bonded seams that sit comfortably. The close cut makes it feel aerodynamic on the run—there’s no flapping around in the breeze. It’s made with a lightweight mesh that’s very breathable and quick-drying but does feel a little warm against the skin; I wouldn’t choose it for a run on a very hot day, but it’s great for in-between temperatures.—CA
For hot, humid runs, this top works well because the material is very light with plenty of breathability. Ventilation panels on the back mean you’re always getting enough of a breeze. The material is also quick-drying, which is ideal whether you’re too hot or got caught in a rain shower.
The top is slim-fitting with an unusually high neckline, so if you prefer something looser I’d recommend sizing up.—LM
The Best Long-Sleeved Running Tops For Women
Best Long-Sleeved Top
Whatever the season, it’s good to have a few workhorse long-sleeved tops in your running wardrobe. As well as being an essential warming layer in winter, a long-sleeved top can be worn on its own during transitional weather and shield you from the sun in summer.
This seriously lightweight long-sleeved T-shirt has all the technical features I’ve come to expect from On. It’s made with a high-quality lightweight mesh fabric that’s highly breathable and quick-drying—it kept me cool when running yet warm when standing around. Bonded seams ensure minimal irritation, and the pleat between the shoulder blades allows the top to drape away from your sweaty back, maximizing airflow. The fabric has been given the antibacterial treatment so you can get more wear out of it between washes. Not just a boring base layer to hide under a jacket, this is a top that comes into its own when worn by itself.—CA
Most Versatile
This long-sleeved top can be worn on its own or under another layer in cold, wet or windy conditions. It’s form-fitting but not clingy, and the open-weave jacquard fabric is breathable and comfortable against the skin, wicking sweat away efficiently. I used it as a base layer under a running jacket in chilly spring weather and it kept me cool and comfortable. I liked the high neckline and long cuffs with thumb holes—they kept my hands warm, although they made it difficult to check my running watch.—CA
Best Bamboo Top
Bamboo fibre is known for its softness and natural feel against the skin, but normally it’s not nearly as lightweight or as effective at wicking away sweat as polyester. This new fabric from BAM combines bamboo viscose with a fibre made from wood pulp, which BAM says is responsibly sourced and made with a low-impact process – a great alternative to synthetic fibres. I loved the silky softness of the Novea base layer, which is lightweight and breathable, quick-drying, and less prone to whiffiness than untreated polyester. This long-sleeved base layer has generous sleeves with thumb holes.—CA
Best Lightweight Long Sleeve
This Soar top is thoughtfully designed and highly technical. The fabric is an extremely lightweight mesh that’s somehow not at all transparent and has bonded seams where it matters, to avoid chafing. I find Soar’s women’s tops are cut narrow in the body to suit skinny runners, so sizing up makes for a more comfortable fit. I love the silky-smooth feel of the material and found this top a joy to run in, whether worn as a top by itself or under a jacket. It’s also had an antibacterial treatment so it won’t get stinky too quickly.—CA
Click to expand for more great long-sleeved tops↴
A soft-and-stretchy long-sleeved top that’s body skimming but not clingy, the Seamless Stride is comfortable to wear and does an excellent job of wicking sweat and keeping you dry. Areas of the top have extra ventilation to let heat out where you need it most. It’s also had the anti-odor treatment, so won’t get stinky after a run. Two strips of reflective material—one on the back, one on the sleeve—help make you visible to vehicles at night.
I found this top an ideal cozy base-layer under a jacket in colder weather, but it’s also wearable on its own when it’s not-quite-jacket weather. The sleeves are long and the round neck is high enough to keep you warm without being restrictive. Basic-but-useful, it’s the kind of top I’m always looking for in my running wardrobe during the colder months.—CA
Extra soft and form-fitting without being skin-tight, this long-sleeved number is expensive but I reckon it’s worth it for the excellent quality and feel. The longer length should ensure it won’t ride up above your waistband, and your hands and wrists will stay warmer thanks to longer cuffs with thumb holes. Subtle perforated sections allow for extra breathability in high-sweat areas: the back, armpits and even the oft-overlooked underboob zone.—CA
This long-sleeved top is made from a blend of Merino wool and Lyocell, and feels soft and comfortable against the skin with none of the scratchiness of some wool-based fabrics. Lightweight yet warm, it’s an ideal base layer that kept me at a good temperature when running, worn under a light jacket, and when worn all day. Thanks to Merino’s natural superpowers the fabric wicks sweat away and keeps smells at bay—I was able to wear it several times without needing to wash it. The sizing is generous: I’m usually a small and the small was a comfortably roomy fit. The top is nice and long for extra coverage, and the sleeves were the perfect length. I’d have liked to see it in more colors.—CA
The perfect balance of warmth and breathability, this soft, comfy long-sleeved T-shirt is ideal for runs on cool days under a light jacket. It’s made with 100% recycled polyester, and is treated with Polygiene, meaning it can be worn several times without getting smelly—which means less frequent trips to the washing machine, making it a more eco-friendly option.
Not too warm or too thin, the Dart Long Sleeve proved a useful addition to my running wardrobe for the cooler months. It’s a generous length in the body and the sleeves, and it’s not too tight or restrictive, although it is a little clingy in the body.—CA
A warm top for the coldest conditions, this close-fitting, stretchy base layer has a soft and cozy brushed texture on the inside. It’s quick-drying and breathable despite being thick, and lighter weight panels under the arms help with ventilation. I found the mock neck comfortable once on (though it was not that easy to get my head though the hole).
I tested this base layer with a light jacket on an extremely cold day. It kept the wind out and I stayed warm and comfortable throughout my run. It’s designed to be skin-tight, to keep you warm and avoid chafing, so if you don’t like clingy tops, it won’t be for you.—CA
If you’re looking for a soft, comfortable running top, you’ve found it. The Feather Tech top is breathable, stretchy and incredibly comfortable. It’s also very quick-drying—I tested it out on some particularly rainy days. If you like your tops stretchy but not too clingy, then this is ideal. The material boasts “4-way stretch” but doesn’t cling to your body in an unflattering manner. I found the V-neckline was not as revealing as I’d expected, but it doesn’t offer as much coverage as a standard neckline.
Fabletics works on a “VIP” subscription model that charges members $59.95/£54.99 a month, which can be used against any outfit worth up to £80. There is the option to skip the payment each month, and your option to buy for this price will also be skipped. Members benefit from lower prices on items, too.—LM
When I first wore the Dash tee I was immediately struck by the softness of the fabric. Made with a combination of nylon, polyester and elastane, it’s one of the most comfortable long-sleeved tops I’ve tested, yet it’s really breathable – there’s none of that sweaty, sticky feeling. My only gripe is that there are no thumb holes to keep your wrists and hands warm.—Alice Ball
Unlike the short-sleeved version, the Nagino run long-sleeved top is loose-fitting and baggy. Lightweight and breathable, it’s suitable for both hot and cold runs, with ventilation slits on the upper back. The material is quick-drying, an attribute that’s useful whether you’re sweating hard or are caught in a rain shower. It also has a longer length that’s ideal if you prefer more coverage.—LM
This is neither a long-sleeved T-shirt nor a jacket—but it’s the top I never knew I needed. I found it useful for harder efforts when it’s too cold for a base layer alone but a base plus jacket feels too bulky or makes you overheat. The waffle-textured fabric is stretchy and close-fitting but not clingy. It keeps you warm but remains breathable when you start to heat up. The cut is flattering and slightly structured, with a neat collar and zip. Another beautifully designed piece from Soar, though given the price you’ll want to be sure you’ll get lots of wear out of it.—CA
The Best Running Vests For Women
Best Vest
This lightweight running vest features a mesh racerback and generous armholes to keep you cool and allow for maximum freedom of movement. The curved hem offers a little more coverage front and back without getting in the way of your stride, and the soft fabric is made from recycled polyester. Take your pick from a delicious array of colours.
Best Value Vest
I'm a big fan of this British brand, which makes eco-friendly sportswear—this lightweight number is made from recycled plastic bottles—and sells it at affordable prices. Quick-drying, soft, stretchy and breathable, it’s well suited to taller runners because it’s long in the body. The relaxed fit and racerback design will also help to keep you cool in summer.
Best Cropped Tank
A floaty and comfortable running top, Lululemon’s Sculpt Cropped Tank has a loose and breathable fit that’s perfect for intense cardio workouts. The baggy fit keeps you cool on hot days, with a mesh panel on the upper back and pleats that make the fabric hang away from your lower back.
Having tested this top in heavy rain, I can attest to the fabric’s quick-drying capabilities. I tested this in white and the fabric did not become transparent, even when soaked through. The top is cropped and the hem sits around the hips, making it ideal to pair with high-waisted leggings or shorts, but if you prefer more coverage this top won’t be for you.—Lois Mackenzie
Best Lightweight Vest
The best thing about this vest top is the featherlight fabric. On a hot day, some polyester tops can feel suffocating—not this one. The airy fabric feels smooth and pleasant against the skin and does an excellent job of wicking away sweat and keeping you as dry as possible.
The Norvan Tank is a joy to wear for warm weather training and racing. With bonded hems and a flatteringly draped cut, this vest hangs beautifully. The back section is made with an even lighter mesh which allows for more airflow, keeping the fabric hanging away from your sweaty back. Arc’Teryx says the tank has a laminated finish in specific areas to avoid chafing. I didn’t experience any.
The choice of colors is limited at the moment, and the one I tested was an odd combination of khaki and highlighter yellow. I’ll be keeping an eye out for more wearable colorways.—CA
Click to expand this section for more great running vests↴
If you’re looking for a race top to help shave seconds off your race time, consider this vest from Soar Running, which has returned to making women’s running gear after a brief spell focusing on men’s kit. It can be hard to find race gear that’s designed to fit the female form and that doesn’t flap around or distract. The four-panel construction of this vest allows room for female anatomy without relying on stretch. It’s designed to be close-fitting so as to be aerodynamic, so the cut won’t appeal to everyone.
The vest’s stand-out feature is the featherlight fabric: it’s silky soft, breathable and excellent at wicking sweat away. It looks like it’s made of mesh but isn’t see-through when worn. Seams are bonded to avoid chafing and the hem is slightly elasticated to keep it from riding up. The armholes allow for plenty of room for movement around the shoulders, although the sizing is on the snug side—if in doubt, size up.—CA
This body-skimming tank is perfect for summer weather: the racerback shape with large armholes allows heat to escape, while the high neckline keeps the sun off your chest. The thin fabric manages to keep you cool without being see-through or clingy.—CA
This vest is airy and hangs nicely, with taped seams and a slightly longer hem at the back. Made from a Japanese technical fabric, it’s soft, super-light, and extremely fast-drying.
I don’t normally go for cropped tops, but I’ve made an exception for this one. It’s not too short, so there’s no midriff on display when worn with high-waisted leggings or shorts. It’s extremely lightweight and hangs nicely without being clingy or flapping around. The thin jacquard fabric feels barely there, it’s breathable and kept me cool while running during a period of hot weather. The large arm holes also helped with ventilation.
I like the black with a touch of neon edging, and—much like my crop-top rule—I don’t normally wear matching tops and bottoms, though I’ll admit I rather enjoyed running in the top and shorts combo. I didn’t experience any chafing, but I wasn’t a fan of the large, thick label on the front left side.—CA
More Women’s Running Gear Recommendations
- It’s the most important bit of kit to get right after shoes. Use our buyer’s guide to work out which running bra is best for you.
- Whether you prefer form-fitting or loose, you’re sure to find a great pair in our run-down of the best women’s running shorts.
- Make sure the workhorses of your running wardrobe are thoroughbreds with our picks of the best running leggings.
- Go for a run whatever the weather. You just need one of these running jackets.
