Yahoo News 8 best women's running tops that really go the distance
Finding a good running top is not as simple as you’d think. Sure, when you started out popping off for 15 minute jogs after work it might’ve been fine to throw on your dad’s faded Nirvana T-shirt. Or just chuck on a vest top.
But these items will not cut it for more serious running. As the weather starts to take a turn and colder winds rush in, it’s crucial to find the perfect running top that keeps you warm but doesn’t leave you sweating after a few minutes of hill sprints.
The fabric must be light, breathable and ideally, tight-fitting so as not to leave any space for cold air. Depending on the weather, you may also want to seek out something with a built-in hood.
Again, this must be lightweight so it doesn’t weigh you down. Sometimes, if the sun is shining and you’re venturing outdoors, a crop top might be more appropriate.
We tested the running tops in various conditions, from warm afternoon jogs to sweaty treadmill sprints. It was also crucial to see how these tops fared in poor weather, from rainy mornings to windy nights. Some are more suited to others, but of course personal preference also has a role to play.
From the long-sleeved saviours to the perfect tank tees, read on for our pick of the best running tops.
You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
Lululemon swiftly tech short sleeve crew: £58, Lululemon
This short-sleeved running top is ideal for a crisp autumnal run. The material is thin enough to keep you cool in moments of sunshine and the short cap sleeves allow your arms to breathe. But the length of the top – it can be pulled down quite far so that it almost covers your glutes – will warm you up during chillier periods. You could even consider tucking it into your leggings for extra heat. But the standout element of this top is its anti-odour technology that will actually prevent you from smelling after even the sweatiest of runs.
Perff Studio shake it out crop top: £60, Perff
This is a particularly stylish running top that might not suit all tastes but is unbelievably comfortable to run in given how soft and stretchy it is. The fit is so close to your body, it almost makes you feel like you’re wearing nothing at all. The mesh low back offers plenty of ventilation – though you might want to consider your choice of sports bra if you want to keep the back bare as it does dip rather low. The fabric is quick-drying too, it’s an all-round winner so long as you like the unique design.
Sweaty Betty kenza crop gym vest: £40, Sweaty Betty
This is a simple no-frills running top that will be suited to those who prefer to exercise in high-waisted leggings. It won’t double up as a sports bra, though, so be sure to wear one underneath to ensure maximum comfort. The sweat-wicking and quick drying fabric makes it an ideal choice in terms of practicality, while the style side of things is somewhat simple. There is no brash branding or pattern aside from a small logo on the front and “Sweaty Betty” embossed in black text on the back. If you choose this one, we suggest you honour the simplicity by keeping the rest of your outfit all-black. Even the trainers, if you can.
Nike women’s mesh running tank: £23.97, Nike
This running top is made from a unique crocheted mesh material. The look is more athletic than athleisure, with a racerback design created to match the back of your sports bra. It also uses the label’s “dri-fit” technology, which is specially to keep runners cool and is very quick-drying. Not that it impacts how well you can run, but another perk of this top is that it is part of Nike’s rebel capsule collection, which features garments that champion female autonomy and ambition.
Adidas by Stella Mccartney essential mesh-panel performance T-shirt: £70, Matches
This is a deeply flattering running top. So flattering, in fact, that you’ll almost certainly want to keep on wearing it even after you’ve finished your run. The sleeves are a little longer than the standard short-sleeved top, providing that little bit of extra coverage. Meanwhile, mesh panelling is carefully placed along the shoulders, hem and back, creating a flattering silhouette in addition to keeping you cool. It is white, though, so you’re better off avoiding running through any muddied fields when you’re wearing it in case you take a tumble and wind up staining your lovely top. If mud runs are your thing, this is not the top for you.
Varley buckley tank: £52, Varley
Sometimes you really just want to run in something that is loose and airy – this is the top for those moments. Varley is one of the first activewear brands that became popular in the UK on Instagram. It hails from Australia but quickly became famed on the ‘gram for its python print sport sets. This soft and slouchy top is a much more classic option from the brand that is ideal for casual park jogs on a warm day. There’s a keyhole-shaped cut-out at the back to provide a bit of extra breathing room, and the sleeves hang low, giving you room to show off the print of your sports bra. The pale grey shade is also incredibly versatile and easy to wear.
Under Armour long-sleeve hoodie: £55, Under Armour
Nobody really wants to go running outside when it’s raining, but if you’re training for a long race it will be an inevitable necessity. At least it will if you live in the UK. The solution? Because a hooded sweatshirt would be far too clunky and running with an umbrella would look ridiculous, you need to find a long-sleeved hooded top like this one. It’s very light and features a funnel neck that fits snugly around your face and effectively prevents you from getting soaked. The material also conveniently wicks sweat and doesn’t cling to your body as you run. For a really cold run, you could wear another, more tight-fitting top underneath. But you could just as easily pair this with a sports bra and be okay. Go with your gut.
PE Nation lead force embroidered cotton-jersey tank: £80, Net A Porter
The simple P.E Nation jersey tank top might not have the bells and whistles of some of the other options mentioned here, but it gets the job done just as efficiently. Given the soft cotton fabric and the round neck, think of this as an upgrade from the old Nirvana top. Yes, it’s just as comforting and loose, but it’s sleeveless and probably a little stretchier. The arms are also cut low to provide ventilation, which you might need a little more with this top given there’s no mesh panelling on quick dry fabric involved.
The verdict: Women's running tops
It has to be Lululemon for the win. While the length of the T-shirt can become annoying at times, the seamless design, breathable material and tight fit truly ticks the boxes in terms of a good running top. The American company is leading the way in the athleisure sector for a reason.
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