The everyday jogger isn鈥檛 as robust as soft shell pants you鈥檇 climb a mountain in, nor are they lifesaving items like avalanche airbags or helmets that traditionally get tested more rigorously. But during my decade of working as 国产吃瓜黑料鈥檚 Gear Guy, the tests I鈥檝e enjoyed the most are when we’ve gone deep on everyday pieces of gear like the humble jogger.

To test the dickens out of 15 different pairs of joggers, I wore them during all kinds of activities for two months, then teamed up with the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab at CU Denver to add objective data on durabilty, stretch, and air permeability to help you find the absolute best pair for all your needs鈥攆rom the track to the couch.

At a Glance

• Best Overall:
• Best for Travel:
• Most Airy:
• Best Stretch:
• Most Durable:
• Coziest:
• Other Joggers We Tested
• How We Tested in the Lab and in the Field

Best Overall

Ten Thousand Interval Jogger

Air Permeability: 4/5
Stretch: 4/5
Durability: 5/5

Pros and Cons
鈯� Versatility
鈯� Comfort
鈯� Tailored aesthetic
鈯� None we could find

Ten Thousand calls this the 鈥渕ost versatile jogger ever,鈥� and I have to agree. In the lab, they received a score of 4 or better on a scale of 5 (1 being worst, 5 being best) for air permeability, stretch, and durability鈥攏o other pants graded as high in all three tests. Durability and high air permeability are attributes usually in direct competition with each other, but that鈥檚 not the case with the Interval jogger. It also impressed during our subjective everyday wear and athleticism tests. It is a true cyborg of a pant that stands out in a wide variety of situations.

The secret is the 4-way Proplyo (Ten Thousand鈥檚 proprietary term for their 63-percent Nylon 37-percent Spandex blend) stretch material that didn鈥檛 inhibit my deepest squats, and ran like they were built to race in. While weight landed in the middle of the pack at just under 12-ounces, I was surprised at how light they felt when worn in the gym. During my highest intensity workouts they resisted heat build-up and kept me comfortable thanks to their airiness. They also proved comfortable next to skin thanks to a supple fleece-like interior and thick, bunch-free waistline.

Though not a test metric, Ten Thousand absolutely nailed the aesthetic, looking simultaneously slick and casual. The ribbed jogger cuffs and gusset helped them move well without appearing strictly athletic, while the cut hugged the leg, making it more tailored than frumpy. I did not feel like I was taking my kid to school in my pajamas while wearing these鈥攅ven though I had slept comfortably in them the night before.

Best of the Rest

While the Ten Thousand Interval stood out, many of the joggers performed admirably considering the significant beating they took during our lab and field testing. These are the top performers for each category.

Testers’ Choice for Travel

Patagonia Terrebonne Jogger

Air Permeability: 3/5
Stretch: 1/5
Durability: 4/5

Pros and Cons
鈯� Ultralight
鈯� Highly packable
鈯� Stylish
鈯� One of the least stretchy fabrics on test

While the Terrebonne didn’t score as high as others in our lab test, they performed above the rest in real-world wear and proved ideal for travel. The Terrebonne Joggers effortlessly walked the line between casual pants that could dress up lightly with a flannel and straight gym pants, thanks to their muted tones, tailored skinny-jogger cut, and ability to dump heat with aplomb during a workout. These joggers are an ideal travel pant as they pack down to the size of a grapefruit, weigh less than a deck of cards (an incredibly light 6.4-ounces), are highly durable, and have a DWR coating which bumps up weather protection. These were the pants I chose to bring on a ski trip to Silverton, Colorado in March鈥攖hey easily disappeared into my ski pack, letting me change at the end of the day for a more comfortable apres. I wore them every moment of the trip that I wasn鈥檛 skiing: flying, meals out, and even sleeping.

Most Air Permeable

On All Day Jogger

Air Permeability: 5/5
Stretch: 2/5
Durability: 3/5

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely airy
鈯� Great for hot conditions
鈯� Price

On鈥檚 All Day Joggers are going to be my go-to pants for the entire summer thanks to their remarkable air permeability. They received a top score of 5 in our lab testing, which confirmed my impression when testing in my home gym and on hotter runs (with temps in the mid-70s). No matter how much I turned up the intensity, my legs never overheated; these breezy joggers were built to keep you cool. The 91-percent polyamide and 9-percent elastane material was exceptionally airy, breathed incredibly well in the heat, and stretched easily into high knees in the gym. On pushed the side seams slightly forward on the leg which made them feel like they moved a little more organically with my running gait than the other joggers in this test.

Best Stretch

Vuori Ponto Jogger

Air Permeability: 2/5
Stretch: 5/5
Durability: 2/5

Pros and Cons
鈯� Stretchiest
鈯� Buttery-soft feel
鈯� Durability against abrasion and piling

I could have put these on blindfolded and told you that they were Vuori pants鈥擨鈥檝e come to expect the Ponto鈥檚 remarkable stretch and comfort from the Southern Californian fitness clothing powerhouse. Credit Vuori鈥檚 proprietary Dreamknit fabric, made of 89 percent polyester with a hefty 11 percent serving of stretchy elastane mixed in. These were notably stretchier than the other joggers in our test, which made them a standout during transition movements in the gym like box jumps and step ups. Their buttery soft next-to-skin feel was an added bonus and made for a very comfortable pair of pajama bottoms in my sleep test.

Most Durable

Reigning Champ Stretch Warp Knit Coaches Slim Jogger

Air Permeability: 4/5
Stretch: 3/5
Durability: 5/5

Pros and Cons
鈯� Strongest
鈯� Best against piling/tearing
鈯� Slim fit may not be for everyone

The Stretch Warp Knit Pants from Reigning Champ stood up to our durability tests with the tenacity of a prize fighter, showing incredibly little pilling and no tearing despite taking the significant beating from the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab. The warp knit material, noted in these jogger鈥檚 name, and visible on closer inspection, is largely responsible for the impressive durability under stress while adding style points. On top of proving to be the toughest in the lab, they also received high marks in the stretch and air permeability tests, placing them just behind the overall winner in lab scoring. This mixture of performance qualities was obvious from my first use in the gym: they felt nearly as flexible and unrestricting as shorts during a HIIT circuit that included box jumps, squats, and sprints to failure.

Testers’ Choice for Comfort

DUER No Sweat Jogger

Air Permeability: 5/5
Stretch: 2/5
Durability: 3/5

Pros and Cons
鈯� Heavyweight
鈯� Durable
鈯� Urban style and comfort
鈯� Packability
鈯� Not the best gym option

The No Sweat Joggers stood out in a sea of high intensity, lightweight performance joggers because of their heft. Weighing in at 23 ounces, they were twice as heavy as the mid-range joggers on this list, and nearly four times as heavy as our favorite travel option from Patagonia. I wasn鈥檛 disturbed by that extra weight because it came from an incredibly supple, organic-feeling material that was uber comfortable to wear after a ski, run, or ride. DUER uses a blend that includes 62-percent cotton, which made them feel more like the sweatpants of my youth鈥攊n a good way鈥攁nd delivered a non-synthetic look that helped them dress up more than the others on test. Though the material didn鈥檛 do these joggers any favors in our lab stretch test, DUER put a nice gusset in the crotch that helped them move well enough for squats and box step ups.

Other Joggers We Tested

How We Tested

In The 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab at CU Denver

Durability

To test the fabric from each jogger for durability, we used a Martindale abrasion machine that rubs materials together to look at wear. First, we rubbed the joggers with a plain weave wool fabric鈥攆ollowing the ASTM D4966 industry test standard鈥攖o mimic typical wear and tear for 50,000 cycles (about 25 miles). Second, we used a more severe abrasive to replicate rough surfaces and snags and to speed up material destruction.

The joggers鈥� materials were graded on a visual scale of 1 to 5 for each test. Top performers with very little or no change to the material scored a 5. Samples that ripped or completely changed in appearance and feel (excessive color fade, noticeably thinner, allows more light through, different to the touch) received the worst score of 1.

Stretch

Using a universal testing machine, samples were pulled (stretched) for 30 millimeters, or just over one inch, while measuring the force needed to do so. Material swatches were cut from the knee area on the front of each jogger and stretched both vertically and horizontally. This amount of stretch is on the high side during normal wear, but we like to test the limits for a thorough comparison. To keep the test realistic to wear, minimal “pre-load” (adding tension before the test start) was used to replicate a person standing straight with the jogger on and then beginning to stride, squat, or generally move.

Results were graded on a 1 to 5 scale based on the maximum recorded force, with 5 being the stretchiest (least amount of force needed) and 1 the least stretchy (most force needed). Since samples were tested in two directions, the grade represents the combined overall performance. Note that this test is only of the material stretchiness; the cut and fit of each jogger can aid the feeling of “stretch” when wearing.

Air Permeability

Air permeability tests how much air (in volume) is able to move through a fabric鈥攖hink resistance to wind. This is different from “breathability”, which deals with moisture vapor (sweat) and how effectively it transfers through a material. The more permeable a material is, the breezier it will feel when worn. Each jogger was tested at five different locations with a James Heal AirPro, a machine that uses a vacuum pump to pull air through the fabric while measuring the flow rate.

The average result of the five test locations was calculated for each jogger resulting in a grade of 1 to 5, least to most airy.

Testing in the Field

Everyday Wear

I wore these joggers for two months as my only pants, save for a few special occasions (a rare in-person meeting, the opening of a play, and a few date nights). Since I work from home, live in a place where people rarely dress up, and am a generally casual person, I was able to really commit to the jogger life. Notes were taken during this two-month stretch on how each pair looked and felt.

Overall Comfort

I not only took notes on comfort during the day, but I also slept in each pair. I鈥檓 a light sleeper and incredibly picky about what I wear to bed. The sleep test, for me, is one of the best opportunities to figure out the nuanced details of comfort.

Athleticism

I ran a three-mile loop from my home in each of these joggers and took notes on how they performed. I also worked out in my home gym with each, doing sets of squats, box step-ups, and deadlifts to test how the material moved.

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The post The 6 Best Joggers for Men, Tested in the Real World and In Our Gear Lab appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

It鈥檚 been a turbulent period for the outdoor recreation industry: retail stores have closed, brands have shuttered, and the Trump Administration鈥檚 shifting tariff policies have made costs unpredictable. But Mary Beth Laughton, the president and CEO of retail giant REI, is confident that the industry鈥檚 culture of innovation, collaboration, and passion will help companies weather the storm and thrive. On Friday, May 30, Laughton addressed a crowd of outdoor industry leaders at the second annual 国产吃瓜黑料 Summit in downtown Denver, Colorado, in a conversation with Luis Benitez, vice president of global government affairs for Lululemon, and the former director of the Colorado Office of Outdoor Recreation.

Laughton addressed a wide range of topics, from the current threats to public lands, the environment, and diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, to the importance of adhering to corporate values. She addressed REI鈥檚 own challenges in 2024 and 2025, and shared her vision for the company鈥檚 future goals around advocacy and charitable giving. Laughton also shared her perspective on how the outdoor industry can be successful, despite the volatility.

Below are excerpts from key moments of the conversation.

The Current Challenges Facing Outdoor Recreation

It’s a crazy moment right now. I think we听all anticipated a certain level of change with the new administration, but the level of turmoil that we’ve all felt in the outdoor industry is something we couldn’t have predicted. Whether it’s attacks on public lands and on basic human rights, or the volatility around tariffs and consumer confidence and the stock market鈥攊t’s been a lot. I think about two things in moments of uncertainty like this. One is the need to be agile and flexible. Our team has been running a bunch of different scenarios to make sure we can meet the current climate with agility. We really don’t know how things are going to play out. The other is we need to use our values as a guidepost and a centering point. Some companies I’ve worked with have had clear values, others have not. In times of turmoil, those that don’t have clear values can lose their way and make short-term decisions that are not in the long-term interest of employees or shareholders or customers.

Meeting Current Challenges with Innovation and Urgency

I think not just about what REI can do, but what can we as an industry do to meet the current challenges? I love the words “urgency” and “innovation.” We need to have both in mind right now, because we all need to think about how we can grow the collective pie together. We can’t see the outdoor industry as a zero-sum game. We need to think of ourselves all as partners in an industry. I think of something REI can offer the industry: our 200 stores. We have community spaces in our stores where people can gather and be together. Yes, we have classes in these spaces. But they can also be places where people come together to advocate together and talk together.

Making a Public Apology

I was announced in my role the same week as the presidential inauguration. My first week I learned that REI had signed an outdoor industry letter in support of Douglas Burgum as the new secretary of the interior. I took this decision in and listened to the team’s rationale鈥攊t was to make sure we had a seat at the table with the new administration with regards to public lands. I understood the decision, but in the weeks afterward it became clear through actions were at odds with who REI really is. It also became clear what I had to do, and I thought it was important to come in and take responsibility for that decision. Our team focused on the actions we could take. It’s one thing to publicly say something, and another to take actions that reflect values. So we made a public apology. It wasn’t an easy moment for me or for the co-op, but I think we’re stronger for doing it, and I’m proud of us standing by what was right to do in the moment.

How Companies Move Forward after Making a Public Mistake

No company is perfect. REI is not perfect. What is important is that we admit mistakes in the moment. I find it hard to believe that we can maintain a certain level of trust with our employees and our customers if we can’t do that. At the same time as thinking about our mistakes, I think about all of the good that REI does. We make mistakes but we also do so much work that is good, and it’s my job to get the message out of what we’re doing well. We’ve enabled $100 million to go back to the community and partners, and we should feel great about that. So, as important as it is for brands to admit mistakes, it’s also important for them to address moments when they’re doing good things, and to celebrate those.

A New Definition of 鈥淥utdoor鈥�

During COVID, a lot of people realized the mental and physical benefits of being outside鈥攖hings that all of us in this room have known for a while. This became known by a much broader group, and many of them now have a passion for the outdoors. As an industry we need to embrace them and welcome them. At REI we need to be just as relevant for someone climbing a fourteener as for someone who is going to take a hike in their neighborhood park. We need them all to feel welcomed in our industry. That is how we’re going to find growth. We can’t look back on COVID and say 鈥渨e had this moment when all of these people came into our community but we lost them.鈥� We need to keep the momentum going, and to continue to make these people feel welcome.

Create Products with Inclusive Design

One of the coolest things we’ve done in a few years is our Active Pursuits line. We listened to our members, and asked them, What do you want to see in a product?听We heard from our trans and nonbinary members that they felt that REI was not offering enough sizing options. We took that feedback and the design team took it seriously and designed this new apparel line. It was the first non-gendered apparel line we’ve ever had. We even re-invented a sizing chart and came up with this totally new approach to sizing. There have been so many cool things about it. And the 18-34 age group is loving the product.

REI鈥檚 Tough Decisions

REI has had to make tough decisions and we have not been immune to what the outdoor industry has felt over the past few years. The highs of the COVID boom, and the strength it brought to the industry, then coming out of that forced the co-op to make tough decisions. We had to make sure inventory was where it needed to be. We had to make sure we could get back to break-even profitability. It was important for us to get bak to that, and now we have a healthy base. I’m really optimistic about where the co-op can go now: we have such strong and unique assets. We have 25 million members鈥攚e’re the largest consumer co-op in the nation. We have our Green Vest employees who I believe are our secret sauce. The experience and passion and thoughtfulness they bring to helping people out is a huge asset for us. And we have our 200 stores in the United States, and we can use those as community hubs. We also have our values. When I add all of these assets up, I’m really optimistic, even though we’ve just come through a tough period.

On REI鈥檚 Plans for the Next Five Years

I spend a lot of time thinking about where things are headed for REI, and also the outdoor industry. I see so much potential. Trust is important. Leveraging our assets is important. Asking ourselves,听How do we have the best curated assortment of products and bring that to life in a way with storytelling that shows it’s more than just a product?听We want to continue to elevate our touch points, whether its in-store or online. We want to continue to unleash our employees who are so great at customer service. We have our 25 million members, and we have so much room to continue to engage them and get then invested in our brand.

For our industry, I keep coming back to the theme of the day: collaboration and community. We’re better together than we are apart. That’s how we grow the pie. I hope that in five years, anybody鈥攏o matter their background or level of expertise鈥攆eels welcome in the outdoor industry because they share a passion for the outdoors. And I hope that we stick to our values, even when it’s hard.

The post The Outdoor Industry Faces Challenges. REI鈥檚 CEO Mary Beth Laughton Has Hope. appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Women鈥檚 running shorts range from skin-hugging styles to baggies, multi-pocketed distance partners to simple splitties. The wrong shorts will chafe, cling, bounce, sag, ride up, and generally make your run miserable. The right shorts disappear on the run, noticed only when you need a gel or your phone and realize, 鈥淗ey, I鈥檝e got that in this nifty shorts pocket!鈥� We searched for, tested, and found the best options that can handle the challenges of summer while making you look good, feel cool, and run free.

While you鈥檙e at it, be sure to check out our picks for the best running shirts for women and the best running shoes.

Update: May 2025: We selected new shorts in every category but one, carrying over only the classic Tracksmith Session Short.

At a Glance

• Best Multi-Pocketed Shorts:
• Best Trail Running Shorts:
• Most Versatile Shorts:
• Best Distance Training Shorts:
• Best 2N1:
• Best Short Shorts:
• Most Comfortable:
• Best for Hot Temps:
• What to Look For
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Best Multi-Pocketed Shorts

Janji W’s 5鈥� Pace Short

Sizes: XS-XXXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lightweight, comfortable fabric
鈯� Well-placed storage pockets
鈯� No zippered pocket

The Janji 5鈥� Pace Shorts are so comfortable that they converted more than one tester who prefers the modesty of looser-fitting styles from 鈥渘ever-ever would I wear skin-tight shorts like this鈥� to 鈥渙kay, now I occasionally wear shorts like this.鈥� The nylon/spandex fabric lightly compresses upper leg and glute muscles while remaining extremely lightweight, and the multiple pockets give runners storage options. We liked the side pockets for carrying a phone or gels, the back pass-through pocket for holding things like gloves or even a long-sleeve layer, and the internal waistband pocket for stashing a key. The silicone grip dots on the leg hems keep the shorts in place and don鈥檛 leave a mark, and the 5-inch length strikes a good balance between coverage and freedom. 鈥淚 like that they are tights without being bun-huggers,鈥� said a tester.

Best Trail Shorts

Patagonia Endless Run Shorts 6鈥�

Sizes: XXS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Material dries quickly
鈯� Three no-bounce pockets
鈯� Drawstring seems unnecessary

Many running brands are designing short tights right now, but the capabilities of the Patagonia Endless Run Shorts caught our attention. These shorts dried quickly from sweat, keeping us from getting hot when it was warm and from feeling cold and clammy even when the weather turned. The 6-inch length on a trail run provided coverage and protection from both the sun and overgrown trees on tight singletrack. The next-to-skin fit kept us covered while scrambling on rocks (no flashing trail partners), and the wide, flat waistband stayed put during fast efforts and long, rambling runs alike. The lack of a center seam kept these comfortable, even when doing high-knee warm-ups or during rock scrambles. One tester raved: 鈥淎 perfect length (not too short, but also not so long that they felt frumpy), perfect level of compression of the smooth, soft material that made me forget I had the shorts on.鈥�

Most Versatile

Tracksmith Session Shorts

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Casual styling
鈯� Performance functioning
鈯� Thin waistband isn鈥檛 flattering on all

The inseam length of these shorts may be a mere three inches, but the relaxed fit, subtle branding , and easy flow of the lightweight polyester/spandex shell fabric make these shorts versatile enough to run errands or grab a coffee (or beer) afterwards. The fabric raised suspicions at first, as it appears to be a soft knit that would hold sweat. But, as one tester put it, 鈥淭he fabric is a miracle鈥搃t dries quickly and just has a really nice drape to it.鈥�

The liner, made of Italian-sourced nylon/elastane, adds to the luxurious feel and functionality of the Session Shorts鈥攕oft against the skin, extremely lightweight, and quick drying. Three interior pockets in the liner add storage options to the one exterior zippered pocket, which holds items like AirPods rather awkwardly. Some testers found the thin waistband to be unflattering as it can create a 鈥渕uffin top鈥� around the midsection. Otherwise, we love how well these shorts perform on and off the trail.

Best Distance Training Shorts

Rabbit Fuel n鈥� Fly 4鈥�

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Plenty of pockets for storage
鈯� Comfortable, quick-drying brief
鈯� Can bunch up in the middle

The Fuel n鈥� Fly 4鈥� shorts have a whopping five storage options鈥攖wo back stash pockets, two internal stash pockets, and a zippered back pocket. What鈥檚 more, we noticed minimal movement even when stuffed with a small smartphone for a long run. One tester calls these her 鈥減ack mule鈥� shorts, adding, 鈥淣one of the pockets caused irritation or chafing when loaded,鈥� she said, adding that they didn鈥檛 budge or slide.

The back zipper pull tab is especially easy to grab while running. A lightweight polyester/spandex shell with perforations for added breathability feels 鈥渟oft and moves well,鈥� said a tester. The liner is notably quick-drying, which we loved鈥攊t鈥檚 not fun to run in a sweaty liner. The inner brief is also treated with an anti-odor peppermint oil that kept it smelling fresh.

Best 2 N 1

New Balance RC Short 2-in-1 3″

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Slightly compressive liner supports muscles
鈯� 2N1 design provides modesty
鈯� Liner material stays wet longer than some

We tested a host of shorts with an exterior shell covering an interior short tight, and these rose to the top. We liked the feel of the thicker-than-most seamless liner; its weight made it nicely compressive. One tester reached for these for light support of her high-hamstring strain. Testers praised the quality materials of both the liner and exterior shell, and the tailoring of the shorts overall. 鈥淚 really appreciate that they stay on my hips, where I put them,鈥� said a tester.

The exterior shell paired with the interior lining provided modesty for a range of activities without restricting movement. 鈥淵ou’re not flashing your neighbor when you鈥檙e doing burpees or planks, on treadmill runs, lifting workouts, or playing pickle ball,鈥� said a tester. Another enjoyed doing yard work after runs in these for the same non-neighbor-flashing reasons.

Two interior pockets and a back zippered pocket carried small items like AirPods or a key. Storing a phone in the back pocket, however, was too bouncy and awkward.

Best Short Shorts

Janji W’s 3″ AFO Middle Short

Sizes: XXS-XXXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Light and airy
鈯� Comfortable waistband
鈯� 2-inch inseam on the frontside can feel bare

These lightweight, airy shorts with a 3-inch inseam are actually shorter than that鈥攖he backside extends to 3 inches while the front of the ultralight recycled polyester/elastane blend shell material is a mere 2 inches. One tester described the shorts as 鈥渂arely there fabric in a barely there fit.鈥� For some, these might feel too barely there, but for others, they are blissfully light and mobile.

The polyester/spandex brief liner is soft against the skin (but stays wet a tad longer than the shell). Our Virginia-based tester noted how well these shorts performed in hot, humid, dripping sweat conditions. 鈥淏ecause the outer is so fast drying, I would wear these shorts for SUPing as well. I just wish the liner dried faster,鈥� she said. Bonded seams and a knit waistband add to the overall comfort.

Most Comfortable

Oiselle Roga Shorts

Sizes: 2-24/26

Pros and Cons
鈯� Universally-flattering length
鈯� Comfortable, stretchy fabric
鈯� Tighter fit around the booty/thighs than other shorts

We love Oiselle鈥檚 original Roga Shorts for their wide, flat waistband that makes them sit as comfortably as yoga pants. The 4-inch inseam length and tapered sides are flattering, and the stretch woven polyester/spandex fabric is both substantial and lightweight. A semi-fitted cut provides coverage while the stretchy material moves with your body. 鈥淭hey sort of fit in between a short tight and a more traditional running short,鈥� said a tester, who described the material as having more structure than other shorts. 鈥淚 liked it鈥攊t wasn鈥檛 wimpy, but also not heavy or thick,鈥� she said.

Minimal seams in the crotch add to comfort, even during high-friction moves like high knees, and the shorts proved comfortable in hot and humid running conditions. 鈥淚 wore these for a treadmill run when I was super sweaty after sitting in a sauna, and they were great鈥攏o chafing,鈥� said a tester. Bonus: A tiny loop on the interior backside allows for easy hanging (to dry from all that sweat, for instance).

Best Shorts for Hot Temps

Bandit Vento 4″ W’s Training Short

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Flattering hem and overall style
鈯� Back yoke allows stashing a shirt/tank mid-run
鈯� Waistband elastic can feel a tad snug

The gathered waistband, perforations at the scalloped hem, and slightly shiny shell fabric of these shorts are as chic as Bandit鈥檚 home city (Brooklyn, New York). Testers commented that these look 鈥渦rban鈥� and 鈥渟tylish,鈥� but they also liked how they felt on the run. 鈥淰ery lightweight and breathable,鈥� said one. 鈥淎iry!鈥� said another. The material, a nylon/spandex blend with a slick finish, is treated for Durable Water Repellency, which keeps these from getting bogged down from sweat or a summer rainstorm.

Pass-through loops on the backside of the waistband allow easy stashing of a shirt or tank mid-run. And while three interior pockets on the liner are intended for gels, we found them mighty small and preferred nothing in them. 鈥淭hese feel more like a performance race short than a casual-jog short,鈥� said a tester.

What to Look For

When it comes to summer running clothes, look for breathability, moisture-wicking, and a chafe-free fit.

Materials

Sweat-wicking and quick-drying materials are essential. These are usually made of polyester or wool blends and have a wide variety of proprietary names and textures. Polyester weaves tend to be the most breathable and highly durable, while wool resists odors and has a natural feel next-to-skin. Try on as many options as you can to find the ones that are both soft against your skin and feel cool and airy.

Fit

The fabric should not restrict your movement or be so tight as to interfere with your breathing at all. When trying on garments, do some dynamic stretching such as leg swings, lunges, and running in place to experience your body鈥檚 whole range of motion in the apparel.

Shorts Style

Besides material and fit, there are a few key features to consider in running shorts: pockets, inseam, and waist height.

If you like to carry items like your phone, keys, sunscreen, water flask, gels, or snacks, you鈥檒l need more pockets (if you don鈥檛 run with a vest). Make sure the pockets are large and robust enough to fit and secure what you鈥檙e carrying, and located in spots where they won鈥檛 bounce or irritate. When you鈥檙e trying on shorts with pockets, test how they feel when the pockets are full鈥攅specially if you intend to carry something heavy like a cell phone, which can drastically change the way a pair of shorts fits and rides.

Consider whether you prefer shorts with a longer inseam鈥攍ike four to six inches鈥攆or more coverage and to avoid chafing, or ones with a shorter inseam that show a little more leg and feel less restricted.

The rise is crucial to consider, too. While some runners prefer a higher waist to feel more secure, others prefer a waistband that hits right at their hip bones and doesn鈥檛 constrict.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 8
• Number of products tested: 35
• Most extreme temperature experienced during a run: Sitting in a sauna then running on a treadmill; 95-degree Florida beach runs
• Most elevation gained during a run: 2,300 feet

With five testers based in Colorado, one in California, and two in Virginia, the season鈥檚 summer apparel received a full gamut of testing conditions. All testers have been running for two to four decades, and consistently put their apparel through the paces鈥ith scrutiny.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Lisa Jhung writes, runs, and generally adventures from her homebase in Boulder, Colorado. Raised as a California beach kid, she also makes it back to the coast鈥攁ny coast, but primarily the Pacific鈥攁s often as possible. She鈥檚 been testing gear for 国产吃瓜黑料 for a couple of decades and co-manages the road and trail running shoe tests, and manages the women鈥檚 running apparel, sports bras, and running hydration vest tests.

More Gear Reviews

The Best Sports Bras for Summer 2025
The Best Running Shirts and Tank Tops for Women
The Best Running Shoes for Training and Racing

The post The Best Women鈥檚 Running Shorts appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Summer running is difficult enough with the challenges of heat and humidity. The last thing you need is to be held back by running shorts that bunch, cling, chafe, or restrict your movement. The perfect running shorts should be so comfortable that you hardly notice them, while looking so good that others do. We tested over 40 pairs in the most sweltering conditions to find the best running shorts for you, whatever your style.

While you鈥檙e at it, be sure to check out our picks for the best running shirts for men and the best running shoes.

Updated April 2025: We鈥檝e removed three shorts and added six new picks from Rabbit, Outdoor Research, Terignota, Black Diamond, Ciele, and Ten Thousand.

At a Glance

• Best Overall:
• Runner Up, Best Overall:
• Best Value:
• Best Run/Gym Hybrid Short:
• Best for Race Day:
• Best Splurge:
• Best for Trail Running:
• Best 2-in-1:
• Best Half Tight:
• What to Look For in Running Shorts
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Best Overall

Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 5″

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Comfortable and supportive brief liner
鈯� Excellent mobility and ventilation
鈯� Secure and comfortable waistband
鈯� Limited colors
鈯� Pocket is a tight fit for larger phones

Our testers across the board raved about the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 5鈥� shorts. 鈥淓very little detail feels thoughtful and perfect,鈥� said one. The outer shell, made from a recycled polyester and spandex blend, strikes a balance between lightweight comfort and long-lasting durability. Inside, the Polartec Power Dry liner was among the most comfortable, moisture-wicking, and supportive we tried. One tester who typically wears underwear with running shorts for added support said these provided plenty on their own.

The semi-relaxed fit with half-split leg design, usually seen in 3-inch racing shorts, enhances both mobility and ventilation. 鈥淚 dig the fit and the cut, which is roomy without being baggy,鈥� one tester commented. Thoughtful touches like bonded hems, anti-odor liner treatment, and laser-cut square perforations along the front sides elevate the short鈥檚 overall feel and performance.

The drawstring waistband is wide yet not constricting, offering a secure anchor when loading the shorts鈥� five pockets: a zippered back pocket, two front internal stash pockets, and two rear stash pockets. The rear pocket can hold an iPhone 14, but it requires a bit of effort to get it in. The only other downside is the lack of color choices: it comes only in a standard black and seasonal blue.

Runner Up, Best Overall

Outdoor Research Swift Lite Shorts

Sizing: S-XXXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Comfortable, flowy shell fabric
鈯� UPF 30 sun protection
鈯� Dries quickly, doesn鈥檛 cling when wet
鈯� Limited storage

As a recognizable outdoor gear brand, Outdoor Research might not be the first brand that comes to mind for running apparel, but the Swift Lite Shorts left a strong impression on our entire testing team. Crafted with a polyester and spandex blend, the shell fabric felt comfortable and flowy against the skin, causing one tester to call it his 鈥済o-to, pull-on-and-forget-it option, especially for trail running.鈥� The gusseted crotch and lightweight fabric with just the right amount of stretch allowed full freedom of movement without riding up, along with excellent moisture management. 鈥淭he fabric dries quickly and stands away from the skin, never getting clingy or soaked,鈥� noted one tester, qualities that he said made it a standout for sweaty, warm-weather efforts. As an added bonus, the shell carries a rare UPF 30 sun protection rating.

The internal polyester brief liner provides solid support, while the jacquard waistband with an external drawcord keeps the shorts securely in place without feeling tight or restrictive. Thoughtful details, such as notched sides, a laser-cut hem, and ventilation holes increased comfort and style points. The standard 5鈥� inseam and classic fit strikes an ideal middle ground between too baggy and too revealing. One tester remarked, 鈥淭hanks to a light stretch and strategic tailoring, it looks good enough to continue wearing casually post-run.鈥�

Our only gripe is the limited storage: the single rear zip pocket didn鈥檛 offer enough space for essentials and wasn鈥檛 large enough to fit a phone. That said, if you can get by without extra pocket space, you鈥檒l be treated to a comfortable, durable, great-looking pair of running shorts that never draw attention to themselves on the run.

Best Value

Terignota Sendero Short

Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lightweight, airy shell
鈯� Abundant storage options
鈯� Exceptional value
鈯� Limited colors
鈯� High-rise waistband may feel awkward at first

With all the features of shorts costing twice as much, the Terignota Sendero Short proves that high performance and sharp design don鈥檛 have to break the bank. Its polyamide and elastane grid-patterned outer shell is remarkably lightweight and airy. The no-fuss internal mesh brief liner offers a good amount of support without feeling restrictive. One tester gave the short the highest praise: 鈥淚t鈥檚 one of those shorts that disappears on the run.鈥�

The Sendero鈥檚 highlight is no doubt its carrying capacity. Built with trail runners in mind, the wide waistband includes four mesh pockets and a rear zippered pocket spacious enough to fit an iPhone 15. One tester noted that the high-rise fit of the waistband鈥攗nusual on a men鈥檚 short鈥攆elt a bit awkward at first, but he quickly became accustomed to it after a few runs. Even with the wide waistband, however, when the pockets were fully loaded, we had to cinch the drawstring tightly to keep everything secure and minimize bounce.

Best Run/Gym Hybrid Short

Ten Thousand Session Short

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Durable, robust shell
鈯� Comfortable and secure waistband
鈯� Options on inseam length and brief style available
鈯� Limited breathability
鈯� Bouncy pockets when loaded

Most running shorts scream 鈥渞unner鈥� with their short inseams, ultralight fabrics, and performance-first design at the expense of everyday style. The Ten Thousand Session Short 2.0 flips that script, delivering a gym short鈥檚 clean, modern look without compromising the technical functionality of a high-performance running short.

Available with either five- or seven-inch inseams, and with your choice of a 2-in-1 liner or linerless, the Session Short 2.0 is built from a substantial polyester and spandex blend that feels noticeably more robust than typical run-specific options. While they don鈥檛 breathe quite as well as lighter shorts, a California tester said, 鈥淚 never found them too heavy for runs, and that extra heft gives them a more versatile, gym-ready vibe.鈥�

The perforated waistband, with a thick internal drawstring, stayed put during runs and felt comfortable even when tightly tied. Two zippered side pockets鈥攐ne facing forward and the other smaller and facing backward鈥攍et heavier items bounce around when running, but held cards and cash securely and comfortably in the gym. Two internal drop-in stash pockets in the liner provide space for items like keys and a phone when working out in the gym, but proved less than ideal for running because of the lack of a secure top closure.

What truly sets the Session Short 2.0 apart is its versatility. With a sleek, structured look and a robust fabric, these shorts easily transition from a hard effort on the track to a coffee stop or casual meetup without screaming 鈥淚 just ran.鈥�

Best for Race Day

Hoka Glide 5鈥� Short w/ Brief

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely lightweight
鈯� Thin but supportive liner
鈯� Phone bounces in back mesh pocket

When you need lightweight freedom and zero distractions on race day, the Hoka Glide 5鈥� Short delivers seamless comfort and dependable support that lets you focus on one thing鈥攔unning your fastest. The shell is crafted from a featherlight, stretch-woven polyester/spandex fabric with a DWR finish, while the thin mesh liner offered a surprising amount of support and breathability. 鈥淭he fabric is super lightweight and ultra stretchy, plus the fit is roomy enough that these barely feel like wearing anything,鈥� said one tester. One tester pointed out that are a more modest alternative to one-inch split shorts for race day, while still allowing unrestricted freedom for your longest strides.

Thanks to the minimal design, these shorts stood out during hot and humid summer runs. One tester reported, 鈥淓ven on my sweatiest days, when I was drenched, the shorts stayed soft, comfortable, and unrestricted.鈥�

The shorts feature a small zippered pocket ideal for securing essentials like keys and money, and a spacious mesh rear pouch, open on both ends and large enough to hold a phone or soft flask. While large items in the mesh pocket bounced around a bit during runs, this isn鈥檛 an issue if you鈥檙e not carrying a phone on race day.

Best Splurge

Soar Run Shorts

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Good blend of comfort and performance
鈯� Suitable for most seasons
鈯� Pocket is too small for a phone

Based in the UK, Soar running makes some of the highest quality, best-looking running apparel we鈥檝e tested. Combining striking design with exceptionally fast-drying fabric and luxury features like laser-cut ventilation holes and bonded hems, these shorts became our go-to choice whenever we wanted both standout style and top-notch performance.

The 5鈥� inseam strikes a balance between modesty and uninhibited motion. Notched side hems and a stretch woven fabric bolsters mobility while a comfortable polyester and elastane brief liner provided excellent support. The slim drawstring waistband remains comfortable and never squeezes. These shorts truly disappear during the run.

The only thing we鈥檇 knock them for is lack of storage. With a single rear zippered pocket that鈥檚 too small for a phone, we found it hard to carry fuel on long runs. That said, we鈥檝e tested these shorts for two years now, and they have held up remarkably well.

Best for Trail Running

Black Diamond Distance Short

Sizing: XS-3XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Outstanding pockets
鈯� Water- and wind-resistant shell
鈯� Available in 5鈥� and 7鈥� inseam
鈯� Short drawstring can be difficult to tie
鈯� Could use a little more stretch

鈥淭he Black Diamond Distance shorts get everything right,鈥� one tester remarked. The pockets are the first thing that stood out. With four drop-in pockets and one large rear zippered pocket, these shorts impressed us with their copious, efficient carrying capacity while maintaining a comfortable fit suitable for the longest mountain days. We were able to easily carry an iPhone, enough fuel for a few hours, and an emergency shell without any discomfort.

Offered in five- and seven-inch inseams, the durable shell with a PFC-Free DWR sheds light moisture and resists snags and tears from bushwhacking and tumbles. Combined with a comfortable and supportive mesh brief liner, the tough exterior offered excellent protection against wet, chilly ridge winds when running in the high mountains.

One small quibble: a tester said he鈥檇 prefer a longer drawstring with a little bit of stretch to get a more secure fit around the waist when the pockets were loaded down.

Best 2-in-1

Ciele M DLYShort 5″ Long Brief

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Incredibly soft and supportive liner
鈯� Available in long or short liner
鈯� Phone bounces in pocket

Ciele is best known for its performance running hats, but the brand nailed it with the DLYShort 5″. 鈥淭hese shorts feel deluxe!鈥� raved one tester.

The internal nylon and elastane liner is one of the softest and most comfortable we tested, offering excellent support and staying perfectly in place throughout the run. Even when drenched in sweat, it remained irritation-free. The shell is a lightweight, stretchy, recycled, woven fabric with a PFC-free DWR treatment. However, it feels much softer than other DWR-treated fabrics we tested. One tester called the short鈥檚 overall feel 鈥渙ut-of-this-world nice,鈥� while another praised its classy looks: 鈥淚鈥檝e gotten more compliments on group runs for these shorts than anything else in my running wardrobe.鈥�

The shorts offer three pockets, a rear zipper, a small internal stash pocket, and one integrated into the liner. While we could fit a phone in the rear pocket, it unfortunately bounced around quite a bit, and we found it best to reserve the pockets for smaller, lightweight items.

If you’re a fan of 2-in-1 shorts, these are well worth the investment. And if you鈥檙e not a fan of the long liner that extends past the 5-inch inseam of the shell, Ciele offers an option with a shorter one.

Best Half Tights

Adidas Adizero Control Running Short Leggings

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Supportive fit
鈯� High-quality material
鈯� Thick fabric can run hot

There鈥檚 something uniquely satisfying about the feel of snug, supportive tights hugging your muscles. The Adidas Adizero Control Running Short Leggings, crafted from a relatively thick blend of 83 percent polyester and 17 percent elastane, delivers mild compression to your quads, glutes, and hamstrings, ensuring they stay engaged and protected during even the most intense runs.

Flexible, rubber-like (TPE) strips stretch across the major muscles to add additional support. The result is a tighter, more supportive fit than the other tights in this test. However, although you might expect them to feel restrictive, the material is surprisingly stretchy and flexible, allowing full range of motion. The downside is that they can feel too warm in hot conditions. But that听was one of our few complaints about these tights that otherwise made us feel fast and powerful.

What to Look For in Running Shorts

Running shorts vary in length, liners, pockets, fit, and fabric. You鈥檒l want a length that is short enough for full, unimpeded motion (the faster the run, the shorter and more split the shorts tend to be), but long enough to feel decent on the trail, road, or post-run coffee shop.

Liners range from soft, loose briefs to compression-shorts-like stretchy boxers鈥攐r none at all for those who prefer to wear their own underwear. Choosing between liners is a matter of personal taste, balancing breathability and range of motion with level of coverage and control.

Pockets need to be big and secure enough for whatever you want to carry: phone, keys, cards, gels. And pocket placement location is important to allow convenient access and avoid bouncing and chafing, as is the robustness of the waistband to prevent sagging when carrying anything heavy, like a phone.

When it comes to fit and fabric, as with all summer running gear, you want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, delay stink, and don鈥檛 get in the way.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best summer gear without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer running鈥檚 high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.
• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on shaded trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Running tan lines aren鈥檛 something to be proud of.
• Check for chafing. If you鈥檝e ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you won鈥檛 want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when you鈥檙e drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.
• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.
• Banish bacteria. Many summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.
• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, 鈥淲hatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so I鈥檒l just buy the cheapest gear out there.鈥� Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and don鈥檛 hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 10
• Number of shorts tested: 40+
• Number of miles run in testing: 4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 97 Fahrenheit

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.鈥攆rom coastal Maine and western Maryland to central Wisconsin, the high plains of Nebraska, the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and out to Santa Barbara on the California coast, plus, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid 70s. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare today鈥檚 running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer.

We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, value, and looks to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like 国产吃瓜黑料 and Runner鈥檚 World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A 13.25km trail race Cory Smith ran while testing running shorts. (Gaia GPS is owned by 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc.)

Scott Douglas

Scott Douglas says he鈥檚 run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and has always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of his life. and a writer/editor about fitness, he sweats like crazy despite living in Maine.

The post The Best Running Shorts for Men (2025) appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

The sun is shining, the birds are chirping. Summer鈥檚 longer days and warmer temperatures make for fun and free running. There鈥檚 just one problem: The heat can sap your running performance and enjoyment. Choosing the right apparel in summer鈥攊n the same way you bundle up in winter鈥攃an make the conditions not only bearable, but fun.

In this season, we need running shirts that slip on effortlessly when we鈥檙e still half-asleep in the morning, and float on our skin when we鈥檙e cramming in a tempo workout on a sticky afternoon. We searched for, and found, the best women鈥檚 running tops鈥攖-shirts and tanks鈥攖hat can handle the challenges of summer while making us look good and feel cool.

Update May 2025: We selected new running tops in all but one category, carrying over the perennially popular Tracksmith Session Tee. We also added objective lab measurements on air permeability and dry time to help you select the best summer running shirt for you. Be sure to check out the 鈥淗ow We Test鈥� section below for more details on our methodologies and how to interpret the lab data.

At a Glance

• Best Tee for Hot Weather Running:
• Best Tank for Hot Weather Running:
• Best Raceday Tank:
• Most Versatile Tank:
• Most Versatile Tee:
• Best Value:
• Best Trail Running Tank:
• Best Trail Running Tee:
• Softest Tank:
• Softest Tee:
• What to Look For
• How We Tested Running Tops In the Field and the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab
• Meet Our Lead Testers

How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Best T-Shirt for Hot Weather

Craft Pro Hypervent Running Tee 2.0

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely lightweight
鈯� Seamless comfort
鈯� Shows sweat

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

In summer heat, a shirt that feels barely there and still provides shoulder coverage is a Godsend, and the Craft Hypervent Tee 2.0 delivers. It鈥檚 made of a super-lightweight recycled polyester/elastane blend that isn鈥檛 the fastest drying or airiest but is silky smooth against the skin with a mesh back that breathes well while still shielding us from the sun. 鈥淚t鈥檚 great for summer heat because it鈥檚 so lightweight鈥攊t flitters like an aspen leaf,鈥� raved a tester.

Taped seams at the neck and sleeves are comfortable (no chafing) and add to the shirt鈥檚 feminine silhouette. The sleeves are cut longer than regular tees and add coverage, while the raglan design allows unrestricted arm movement. 鈥淣o seams is a huge plus for me,鈥� said a tester who also loved the lack of a papery tag rubbing the back of her neck. 鈥淭his was a shirt I didn’t have to think about while running,鈥� said another.

Best Tank for Hot Weather

Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Tank

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely lightweight
鈯� Minimal branding allows versatility
鈯� Runs large

Lab Dry Time: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

We loved the feel of this tank for everything from warm-weather runs in Colorado to high-humidity hikes in the Caribbean. Testers described the recycled polyester Capilene Cool fabric as 鈥渆xtremely lightweight鈥� and said it helped them 鈥渕aintain comfort while sweating.鈥� The thin fabric dries quickly, a bonus in summer heat, whether on the run, during water sports like stand-up paddleboarding, or when traveling.

Like most Patagonia apparel, the fit of this tank runs a little large, but we liked the relaxed shape. It鈥檚 one tester鈥檚 go-to shirt while wearing compression-style bootie shorts. 鈥淚 like the coverage of the longer cut,鈥� she said. We also loved the versatility of the tank鈥檚 styling鈥攖he only visible branding is a tiny Patagonia tag at the bottom seam, so it doesn鈥檛 look overly athletic and out of place off the trail.

Best Raceday Tank

Hoka Airolite Run Tank

Sizes: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Airy fabric and cut
鈯� Fabric is rated 40+ UPF
鈯� Higher neckline provides coverage
鈯� Can creep up under a pack

Lab Dry Time: 2 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

This tank is ready for race day with a highly breathable material and a slim fit that stays out of the way of an arm swing. We love the airy feel of the super lightweight pinhole mesh combined with an even-more-open mesh panel on the upper back鈥搕he whole tank breathes fantastically. It鈥檚 thin, super lightweight, and feels cool against the skin. 鈥淚 definitely noticed it helped keep me feeling cooler and dry even when sweating heavily in higher temps,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淚t feels very performance-oriented,鈥� said another. In the lab, it scored the highest mark for air permeability among all shirts tested. The fabric is so light that it crept up a bit while we tested it under a hydration vest, but it stays perfectly put on its own.

Most Versatile Tank

Brooks Luxe Tank

Sizes: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Super soft
鈯� Minimal branding
鈯� Underarm seams slightly rub (but not chafe)

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 2 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

This soft, breathable, minimally branded tank looks so good we鈥檝e worn it casually to run errands around town, but the stylishness doesn鈥檛 compromise how well it feels and moves on the run. The cut is slightly long and loose, which makes it comfortable, flattering, and adds to its versatile appeal鈥攊t can work both tucked in or left out. 鈥淪o soft and breathable,鈥� said a tester, while another marveled at how lightweight the material felt against her skin.

A couple testers noted the underarm cut was a tad high, making the non-flat seams rub their armpits, but it was more of an irritation than a run-ruining situation鈥攏o chafing. But that was easy to overlook given the tank鈥檚 versatility. 鈥淭his tank is great to layer under a long sleeve for a morning run when it starts cool and will warm up,鈥� said one tester. 鈥淚 also love it for a short run, when it can double as a casual tank to run errands in before or after.鈥�

Most Versatile Tee

Tracksmith Session Tee

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Versatile
鈯� Soft and Stretchy
鈯� Runs slightly large

Lab Dry Time: 1 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 2 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

We鈥檝e used this as a go-to running tee and an all-day tee鈥攚earing it casually throughout the day then on an evening run. One tester even slept in it. Made of 84 percent polyester and 16 percent spandex, the Session Tee is exceptionally stretchy. It鈥檚 also finished with an odor-resistant treatment that seems to work: We鈥檝e worn it for multiple runs without washing and swear that we鈥檙e not offending trail partners. (They concur.) The Session Tee dries slower and is less airy than other high-performance tops鈥攕o it isn鈥檛 the best choice for the hottest days鈥攂ut makes up for that in soft comfort and style.

鈥淚鈥檓 in love with everything about this shirt: the fit, the fabric, the performance,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淚t felt like a hang out shirt that I could run in!鈥� another raved, 鈥淚 forgot about this shirt during the run because it was so comfy and has the most perfect fit!鈥�

Best Value

2XU Aero Singlet

Sizes: XXS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Lightweight and breathable
鈯� Reflective detailing
鈯� Can feel loose around the midsection (this can also be a positive)

Lab Dry Time: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

It鈥檚 hard to find well-functioning running apparel under 40 bucks, but this tank delivers. Its lightweight, sweat-wicking front (a double-knit recycled polyester), combined with a super-breathable mesh back kept us cool for all our summer running. 鈥淭his tank wicked sweat away, didn鈥檛 chafe, and was very comfortable in warmer temps,鈥� said a tester.

The simple cut provides a bit more coverage on the backside than traditional racerback tanks, and has a looser fit around the middle. Some felt it to be too baggy at the waist and loose on the lower back while others liked the flowy feel. Reflective details add safety in dusk and dawn light.

鈥淭he lightweight fabric throughout seems inherently breathable,鈥� said one who also praised how quickly sweat dried. 鈥淭he fabric is slightly textured as opposed to just one single layer which seemed to encourage even more airflow, and it dried quickly,鈥� said another. The lab confirmed the testers observations: this tank had the best combined performance scores of all the tops we tested.

Best Trail Running Tank

Arc鈥檛eryx Norvan Tank

Sizes: XXS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Wide shoulder straps work well under a pack
鈯� Lightweight, airy, and quick-drying
鈯� 80 bucks is a lot for a tank

Lab Dry Time: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 2.5 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Some tank shoulder straps can start to rub underneath a hydration vest or traditional running pack straps, but not the straps on this one. A wider cut at the shoulders stayed flat and in place under a pack during hours of mountain running in Colorado鈥檚 Indian Peak Wilderness.

This is a looser-fitting tank, which we loved for its forgiving fit all around and slightly longer cut. The material鈥攁 softer polyester frontside with a meshy backside鈥攆eels great against the skin, breathes well, and dries quickly (the fastest-drying of all the tops here, according to the lab). All seams remained comfortable over hours of wear as well鈥攏o chafing here.

Best Trail Running Tee

Black Diamond Distance SS Tech Tee

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely lightweight, breathable, and quick drying
鈯� Zero irritation over long wear
鈯� Not as cottony feeling as some others

Lab Dry Time: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

We鈥檝e worn this tee under a pack over multi-day runs from hut to hut in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, as well as on multiple short runs around the Boulder Foothills and neighborhood suburbs. This shirt performs: It鈥檚 super-quick-drying, moisture-wicking, highly breathable polyester jersey material with a 鈥淨uick Dry鈥� finish that never feels bogged down with sweat. The Anti-Odor finish also proved effective鈥攄id we mention that multi-day, multi-wear hut trip? We got no complaints from our running mates. Flat lock seams, a flat hem, and lack of a tag add to overall comfort, as does this shirt鈥檚 ridiculously lightweight feel on the body.

鈥淟oved the material. It’s loose, super ventilated and fits well throughout,鈥� raved a tester. 鈥淓xcellent performance,鈥� said another.

Softest Tank

Rabbit EZ Tank

Sizes: XXS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Super soft and comfortable
鈯� Bonded seams
鈯� Runs small (size up!)

Lab Dry Time: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 2 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Talk about buttery soft. This tank is made from the brand鈥檚 recycled polyester/spandex blend that feels like your favorite old cotton t-shirt, softened in the wash after decades of use. But unlike cotton, this material dries quickly after being soaked in sweat. While the material might not be as breathable as some other techier-feeling tanks or tees in this roundup, it feels fantastic on the skin and still performs even when damp. 鈥淭he softness and overall comfort made up for the lack of breathability,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淚t’s become one of my favorites. It’s just very 鈥榚z鈥� to wear.鈥� We find ourselves reaching for this tank, and the Rabbit EZ Tee, for lounging; it鈥檚 that comfortable.

Bonded seams around the armholes and neckline remained soft and proved irritation-free for our team of testers.

Softest Tee

Oiselle Flyout Boxy Short Sleeve

Sizes: 2-14

Pros and Cons
鈯� Great combo of style and function
鈯� Great range of sizing
鈯� Takes longer to dry than some

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

This comfortable, functional tee converted more than one non-crop-top-wearing tester into big fans. The polyester/lyocell/spandex fabric felt fantastically soft next to the skin and kept us dry when we sweat鈥攖he fabric effectively moves moisture to the outer layer where it evaporates. (While the sweat doesn鈥檛 stay against the body, it does seem to remain on the shirt鈥檚 fabric for longer than some quick-dry materials.)

The boxy, crop-style cut adds airflow. We loved it when paired with high-rise thin tights on warm runs and appreciated the cut for gym workouts. 鈥淚 liked how I could see my toes in a plank!鈥� said one.

How To Choose a Running Top

When it comes to summer running clothes, look for comfort, breathability, moisture-wicking, and a chafe-free fit.

Comfort

Aside from chafe-free seams and a cut that allows full arm movement without restriction, consider how the tank or tee makes you feel. Are you comfortable wearing the top both on a run and stopping for coffee afterward? Are you looking for a tank that makes you feel fast on raceday? Do you want a tee that also makes you feel comfortable鈥攂oth in function and style鈥� in the gym?

Materials

Breathable, sweat-wicking materials are essential, as is how the material feels against your skin. While some fabric blends prioritize breathability and quick-drying, others provide a more cottony feel鈥攖he latter sometimes stay wet from sweat longer than the prior, but the tradeoff is sometimes worth it. All tops in this round up perform great on the run.

Fit

The fabric, cut, and seam placement should not restrict your arm movement or your breathing. The best-fitting tops let you forget that you鈥檙e wearing them. Some will fit looser or boxier around the middle, while some have a more streamlined fit. Consider what you鈥檙e after and shop from there. (Our guide describes the fit of each top.)

Tanks vs Tees

T-shirts provide more coverage and therefore more sun protection, and they can also deliver more of a cooling effect, depending on the fabric and fit. Tank tops are typically less restricting and more breathable, because of their lack of sleeves. That doesn鈥檛 mean all tank tops have freedom of movement. Some fit more streamlined around the midsection than others, while some are looser. The looser ones tend to allow airflow, while the more narrow silhouettes depend on their fabrication for breathability. In addition to fit, consider how much skin exposure and coverage you鈥檙e comfortable with, and how the tank interacts with your sports bra and running vest, if you鈥檒l be wearing one. And consider all the settings where you鈥檒l want to wear the top, both athletic and casual.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 8
• Number of products tested: 75
• Number of miles logged while testing: 2,500

We tested as many different shorts, tanks, tees, and other kinds of summer apparel (like sun shirts and crop tops) as we could get our hands on between June and October 2024, with an eye toward products that would be new to consumers in 2025. Our testers ranged in age from 20 to 40, each with more than a decade of running experience and at least one ultramarathon under their belt. We evaluated products by comfort first, followed by style, utility (ability to multitask as casual wear was a big plus), and durability. We also compared the new shirts to those test in the previous year and retained any that were still available and performed better than anything new in their categories.

How We Tested Running Shirts in the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Air Permeability

Air permeability is a measure of how much air (in volume) is able to move through a fabric. It is not the same as “breathability” which measures how moisture vapor (sweat) moves through a fabric. The more air permeable, the more the cooling breeze makes it through your shirt and reaches your skin directly. To test this in the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab @ CU Denver, we use a James Heal AirPro, a machine that uses a vacuum pump to pull air through fabric clamped between plates with a specific diameter opening to measure the flow rate at a pre-set pressure. The greater the volume of air getting through, the more air permeable. This lab test only evaluates the material itself, and can’t account for how the cut and design of a garment aids its airiness.

Dry Time

The lab tested drying time by soaking each shirt and then recording how long each needed to dry. Each shirt was weighed while dry, then soaked in tap water until all of the material had absorbed water. After soaking, they were hand wrung until all excess water stopped releasing from the fabric, leaving a fully saturated, but not soaked, shirt. The saturated shirts were weighed again to get the “wet” starting point and then put on a mannequin to dry. Weight was recorded every hour to start and then every 15 minutes as they approached dryness, stopping when the sample was within 4 percent of the original dry value. Allowing for 4 percent of weight gain (a few grams) takes into account any dirt particles that could be introduced from the tap water or environment, and small hemmed areas of the shirt that may hold a little moisture, even though the overwhelming majority of the shirt is dry.

We compiled the raw data into groups of similar values for each measure to obtain scores of 1 to 5, worst to best, relative to all the t-shirts and singlets tested.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Lisa Jhung writes, runs, and generally adventures from her homebase in Boulder, Colorado. Raised as a California beach kid, she also makes it back to the coast鈥攁ny coast, but primarily the Pacific鈥攁s often as possible. She鈥檚 been testing gear for 国产吃瓜黑料 for a couple of decades and co-manages the road and trail running shoe tests, and maanages the women鈥檚 running apparel, sports bras, and running hydration vest tests.

The post The Best Running Shirts and Tank Tops for Women: Field and Lab Tested appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

With the exception of Scotsmen in kilts, skirts tend to stoke controversy in the outdoors. The first women mountaineers鈥攍ike Henriette d鈥橝ngeville, who, in 1838, became the second woman to ever successfully climb Mount Blanc鈥攄idn鈥檛 have much of a choice but to hike in a skirt or dress, given the gendered fashion norms of the nineteenth century. But in the 1900s, as women became more free to wear trousers, skirts quickly fell out of fashion in mountain terrain鈥攁nd it鈥檚 easy to see why. One rain shower and the soaked, thick wool could weigh up to the equivalent of a small child.

Over the next century, technology advanced exponentially, and hems shortened by a good few feet. These days, skirts do still appear in some active contexts鈥攁lmost every major outdoor retailer sells some version of the garment, whether it鈥檚 a stretchy skort made for summer hiking or an insulated piece for layering over leggings in the cold. And some folks still go long: famously, Bolivia鈥檚 Cholita Escaladora mountaineers continue to hike the high peaks of the Andes in their traditional apparel鈥攃haracterized by long, colorful skirts鈥攅ven amid sheer cliffs and glacial ice.

But recently a new type of skirt has gained traction in the outdoor fashion world, and this time, it鈥檚 marketed toward everyone. Enter: the rain skirt.

This gender-fluid rain layer has captured the attention of both core outdoor enthusiasts and high-fashion designers, as so many gorpcore pieces do. While niche ultralight backpacking blogs rave about how easy it is to slip into or out of a lightweight Gore-Tex rain skirt instead of cumbersome rain pants, nearly identical garments have appeared on the runway at Fashion Week.

In 2020, men鈥檚-specific skirts exploded on the scene, appearing on runways from designers like Jean Paul Gaultier and Malcolm McLaren. In the spring of 2024, the number of skirts almost tripled on menswear runways compared to the previous fall, and many of them have the same features and fabric that you might find on a Patagonia shell.

Take the , from London-based trail-meets-runway brand Maharishi. The minimalist skirt is made from quick-dry, water-repellent fabric and comes equipped with stash pockets and drawstings at the waist and side seams.

While many technical outdoor companies, like Zpacks or Arc’Teryx, carry made specifically for hiking and backpacking, more mainstream brands are picking up on the trend. Houdini recently released , a unisex wraparound style made with 70 percent recycled polyester and 30 percent polyester face fabric and treated with a DWR finish.

There鈥檚 a definite appeal in hiking in a mid-length, lightweight, waterproof skirt: It鈥檚 more breathable between the legs than rain pants, and it鈥檚 easy to slip on and off in variable conditions. While some argue that gorpcore is over, the rain skirt might just prove that it鈥檚 here to stay. So, don鈥檛 be surprised if you see fashionistas wearing metallic, waterproof midi skirts on the streets of Brooklyn this summer鈥攐r if you feel compelled to join them.

听This piece first appeared in the summer 2025 print issue of 国产吃瓜黑料 Magazine. Subscribe now for early access to our most captivating storytelling, stunning photography, and deeply reported features on the biggest issues facing the outdoor world.

The post Are Rain Skirts Officially High Fashion? These Top Designers Seem to Think So. appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Running during the summer can be exhilarating (all that daylight!) and daunting (all that sweat!) at the same time. Whether you embrace the heat and humidity of summer running or long for a return to cold, dark winter days, the right running top can keep you cooler and drier while making you feel fast and fashionable. To help you decide what to wear, we tested over 50 t-shirts and tank tops to find the best men’s summer running shirts.

Update May 2025: We selected new winners in nine categories, including a new best overall t-shirt pick from Arc鈥檛eryx. We also added objective lab measurements on air permeability and dry time to help you select the best summer running shirt for you. Be sure to check out the 鈥淗ow We Test鈥� section below for more details on our methodologies and how to interpret the lab data.

At a Glance

• Singlets
  • Best Overall:
  • Runner-up, Best Overall:
  • Best Splurge:
  • Best for Race Day:
• T-Shirts
  • Best Overall:
  • Runner Up, Best Overall:
  • Best Value:
  • Best Splurge:
  • Best Wool:
  • Best for High Heat:
  • Best Road-to-Restaurant:
• What to Look For
• How We Tested Running Shirts In the Field and In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Best Running Singlets

How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Best All-Around

Adidas Adizero Running Singlet

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Silky smooth feeling
鈯� Suburb mobility
鈯� Saturates with moisture easily

Lab Dry Time: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 1 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

There’s something about a light, airy singlet that makes us feel fast. No other singlet captured this sensation better than the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet. Made from a thin, lightweight blend of 86 percent recycled polyester and 14 percent elastane, the texture feels phenomenal鈥攕mooth and silky, easily moving over the skin. Testers praised its soft touch and barely-there sensation, with one noting it as 鈥渢he lightest and most comfortable singlet I鈥檝e ever worn.鈥�

The fit is slightly slim, but thanks to the stretchy fabric and side slits at the hem, the singlet offers exceptional mobility. Lead tester Cory Smith says, 鈥淚鈥檓 typically between a men鈥檚 small and medium, but since I prefer a slightly looser fit, I went with a medium that fit that bill perfectly.鈥�

The entire singlet has tiny holes in the face to enhance breathability of the tight weave, which testers said let moisture out, but the lab noted doesn鈥檛 allow much breeze through. Testers also said that the fabric tends to stick to the skin when fully soaked through. It did, however, have the fastest dry time among all the singlets we tried, which helped make this stylish, comfortable singlet stand out as one of the best all-around.

Runner Up, Best Overall

Hoka Airolite Run Tank

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Incredibly light
鈯� UPF 40+ sun protection
鈯� Semi-transparent

Lab Dry Time: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

With its silky smooth texture and featherlight feel, we found ourselves reaching for the Hoka Airolite Tank time and time again. 鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 find a single thing to ding this tank on鈥擨 love it,鈥� raved one tester. Crafted with a pinhole mesh, composed of 72 percent recycled nylon and 28 percent elastane, it was one of the thinnest and most delicate tops we tested, making it disappear on the run.

The featherlight fabric wicks moisture efficiently but can become saturated quickly. However, thanks to its minimal weight, even when it was clingy, it never felt heavy or weighed down. In the lab, the Airolite achieved the highest score in air permeability and second highest in dry time. Naturally, its ultra-light design raised concerns about durability. However, after months of wear and repeated washes, one tester was pleasantly surprised by how well it held up.

The tank is 鈥渃ut is long and slim, with just the right width and length of shoulder straps,鈥� noted a tester. One potential drawback is its semi-transparent fabric, but, despite that, we were pleasantly surprised to discover it offers UPF 40+ sun protection. As an added bonus, it鈥檚 treated with an anti-microbial finish鈥攕omething we didn鈥檛 notice in testing but is nice to know it鈥檚 there.

With its smooth texture, near weightless design, and added sun protection, the Hoka Airolite Tank delivers on both comfort and performance. While its ultra-thin, see-through design may not be for everyone, those who prioritize weightlessness and freedom of movement will find it hard to beat.

Best Splurge

Tracksmith Strata Singlet

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Unbeatable heat and moisture management
鈯� Odor resistant
鈯� Costs twice as much as many other well-made singlets

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Tester Scott Douglas says, 鈥淭his ultralight marvel is the best singlet I鈥檝e run in during my 40+ years in the sport.鈥� The fit is slim but not restrictive, with plenty of stretch. The bluesign-certified nylon/elastane blend incorporates coldblack, a Schoeller Textil technology that reduces heat absorption like nothing else he鈥檚 experienced. As someone who can lose 5 of his 130 pounds on an easy hour run in Maine, he says, 鈥淚鈥檓 used to wringing out gear post-run and leaving large puddles. This simply wasn鈥檛 possible when I wore the Strata; although my shorts and socks were drenched, little sweat had collected on the singlet.鈥�

And then there鈥檚 its odor resistance: Douglas ran at least an hour in it every day without washing it during one of summer鈥檚 hottest, most humid weeks. 鈥淚t smelled the same on Day 7 as on Day 1,鈥� he marveled. The Strata is expensive, but a good value, given that owning one eliminates the need for all but maybe one other singlet.

Best for Race Day

SOAR Race Vest

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely breathable, perfect for hot, humid conditions.
鈯� Featherweight design
鈯� Runs small

Lab Dry Time: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Displaying the precision and craftsmanship of a top runway fashion design, SOAR鈥檚 Race Vest stands at the peak of high-performance running apparel. If you鈥檙e looking to turn heads come race day, this is sure to draw attention. 鈥淚鈥檝e gotten more compliments wearing this tank than any other singlet,鈥� says lead tester Cory Smith.

The singlet is made with an Italian-made open mesh fabric that鈥檚 razor-thin and extremely breathable. Even on the hottest, most humid days, body heat escaped effortlessly, while the airy design allowed any breeze to pass through for cooling relief. The lab confirmed the vest鈥檚 airyness: It blew away the field in air permeability and also earned the highest score in dry time.

The only drawback we found was that the fabric doesn鈥檛 absorb and wick moisture as well as thicker materials. However, its sheer lightness let skin dry and cool without pulling sweat away from it.

Premium touches like laser-cut and bonded seams eliminated chafing during our test. With many singlets, the shoulders can shift while running, creating a distraction鈥攂ut not with the SOAR Race Vest. The straps lay flat and stay securely in place. The slim-cut design sits close to the skin and runs small, so if you prefer a more relaxed fit, we recommend sizing up.

Best Running T-Shirts

How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Best Overall

Arc鈥檛eryx Norvan Downward Logo Shirt SS

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Feels luxurious against the skin
鈯� Silver ion polymer treated
鈯� Large logo

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Blending form and function, this shirt wowed our testers with its performance. Despite being marketed as a mountain running shirt, we found it well-suited for runs on any terrain.

The front features a silky-smooth polyester fabric that鈥檚 DWR-treated, excelling at both repelling moisture and wicking it away from the skin. The face fabric feels incredibly smooth and luxurious, gliding against the skin without friction, flowing naturally with every stride. Although the shirt had average lab marks on air permeability and dry time (relative to the other top T鈥檚 in this guide), it never felt weighted down, even when saturated with sweat. Meanwhile, panels under the arms and the entire back are made of an airy mesh, allowing more airflow in high heat areas鈥攚hich we especially appreciated when wearing a hydration vest.

Subtle details distinguish the Norvan Downword from cheaper options, including a tailored fit, laminated neckline, and smoothly finished seams and hems. Plus, a silver ion polymer coating effectively fights bacteria and odors.

One of our biggest pet peeves is when a shirt rides up during arm movements. Although the Norvan Downward鈥檚 fit is trim with a slightly shorter hem length, thanks to the articulated sleeves and split sides, we found the hem stayed put on the run.

Runner Up, Best Overall

Rabbit EZ Tee SS

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Soft and stretchy
鈯� Flat-lock stitching enhances comfort
鈯� UPF 50 protection
鈯� Limited color options

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 2 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Soft, stretchy, and impressively moisture-wicking, the Rabbit EZ Tee takes comfort to a new level. Our testers said it quickly became a go-to for nearly any activity, including everyday wear. Made with a simple, soft polyester and spandex blend with a UPF 50 rating for sun protection, it鈥檚 a shirt you鈥檒l want to keep on post-run for its comfort and style, whether you鈥檙e grabbing coffee or heading to the gym.

Testers appreciated the EZ Tee鈥檚 tailored cut, which offered a comfortable fit that felt neither restrictive nor clingy. One tester described it as 鈥渏ust right鈥攏ot too short, too tight, or too loose.鈥� Thoughtful details, such as raglan shoulders and flat-lock stitching, showcase the attention to detail put into this shirt.

Our only complaint? The limited color options. 鈥淚 could comfortably, confidently buy seven different colors and run in nothing else,鈥� said one tester. And the price is so reasonable that stocking up is a feasible option.

Best Value

Terignota Trail Tee

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely lightweight
鈯� Outstanding price-to-performance
鈯� Limited color options

Lab Dry Time: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

At nearly a third of the cost of other options, you will not find a higher quality shirt at a better price. Crafted from 100 percent polyester with a woven grid pattern, it checks all the boxes: lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. Its woven design and thin fabric reminded us a lot of Patagonia鈥檚 Capilene for a fraction of the price.

Despite being marketed as a trail tee, it鈥檚 equally suitable for the roads. Throughout the warm, sunny SoCal summer, it kept me cool and comfortable, proving to be a versatile go-to for any tempo. After hot and sweaty runs, I was impressed with how quickly the shirt dried in direct sunlight. With a 4 out of 5 in both dry time and air permeability, the Terignota had the highest combined lab score of any tee we tested.

The fit is labeled as relaxed, but I found it slightly on the slim side compared to other shirts in our lineup. It鈥檚 not enough to size up, but I wouldn鈥檛 call it a true relaxed fit.

Best Splurge

SOAR Advanced Tech Tee

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Fantastic range of motion
鈯� Extremely breathable
鈯� Short hem length

Lab Dry Time: 5 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 1 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

London-based SOAR founder Tim Soar says he incorporates his passion for functionality, performance, and sports science into every design, and the Advanced Tech Tee is a prime example of this.

At first touch, the ultralight, stretchy 3D woven fabric felt 鈥渁 bit stiff and scratchy,鈥� according to one tester. But that impression didn鈥檛 last long. 鈥淚t disappeared once I started running,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 actually feel cooler and more comfortable in this than going shirtless.鈥� The fabric鈥檚 subtle stretch and textured weave made it stand away from the skin and stay dry, even when we were sweating profusely. Surprisingly, the lab reported that the tight fabric doesn鈥檛 let much air through, but it has the fastest dry time of any shirt or singlet tested, quickly evaporating moisture.

Additional touches, such as a split hem and one-piece raglan sleeves, enhance freedom of movement, while laser-cut sleeve hems and flat-locked seams reduce potential chafing.

The tee boasts a relaxed fit but leans more toward a European cut鈥攕lightly fitted through the shoulders and chest, with a bit more room through the torso for ease of movement. My only wish is that the hem was a little longer to better accommodate those with longer torsos who prefer more coverage.

Best Wool

Ridge Pursuit Ultralight Merino Tee

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Fantastic moisture-wicking abilities
鈯� Natural odor-resistant
鈯� Wool is an acquired taste

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

When you think of a warmer weather running shirt, wool may not be the first fabric that comes to mind. Most people equate wool with cold weather. But wool, which is naturally both extremely breathable and moisture-wicking, is just as effective in hot conditions as in cold. After testing over six wool shirts, testers all found the Ridge Pursuit Merino Tee the best. 鈥淭his is the closest to my gold standard,鈥� said one tester with an extensive wool collection.

Thoughtful attention was given to every detail, from gusseted sleeves for improved range of motion to a one-inch drop tail for added coverage. Merrow stitching along the side seams ensures a smooth, flat finish to help prevent chafing. The patented Merino wool yarn is engineered to be lighter and stronger and said to deliver twice the durability of traditional 100 percent Merino wool apparel. Testers said it was noticeable. Where most wool shirts we tested felt delicate and lost shape easily, the Ridge Pursuit Merino was more resilient, maintaining its structure even after repeated wear and washing. The merino wool is so naturally odor-resistant, however, you won鈥檛 have to launder it often: One tester found that the 鈥淧ursuit tee can go five runs before it needs to see the hamper鈥濃�攁 boon for those who feel the pain of a never-ending laundry cycle.

With its thoughtful design, durability, and natural benefits, one tester said the Ridge Pursuit Merino Tee strikes 鈥渢he delicate balance of performance, comfort, and value that has long eluded the Merino market.鈥�

Best for High Heat

Montane Dart Nano T-Shirt

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Remarkably lightweight
鈯� Airy
鈯� Limited moisture absorption due to thin fabric

Lab Dry Time: 3 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 4 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

The Montane Dart Nano comes as close as possible to the feeling of running shirtless.鈥淚t鈥檚 lightweight to the point of near-invisibility,鈥� said one tester. Made with 100 percent recycled polyester and weighing a mere 2.8 ounces, the thin fabric allows for excellent airflow. During sweltering runs in the hot and humid Northeast summers, one tester reported his body heat escaped effortlessly through the material, which, he said, 鈥渢ransformed scorching runs into manageable experiences.鈥� Another tester said, 鈥淚t鈥檚 the shirt you鈥檒l reach for without hesitation when the temperature soars.鈥�

The cut is trim, sitting close to the body, but doesn鈥檛 feel suffocating thanks to the featherlight fabric and added articulation, which includes extra room around the underarm so the sleeve won鈥檛 ride up even when your arm is extended. However, the ultra-thin material comes with two drawbacks: It doesn鈥檛 absorb and wick moisture as effectively as some other options and provides minimal warmth on cooler days. But, in the most extreme warm-weather conditions, this ultralight tee offers exceptional breathability and comfort.

Best Road-to-Restaurant

Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
鈯� Suburb range of motion
鈯� High-quality fabric
鈯� Not as good at dealing with heat as lighter, more breathable fabrics

Lab Dry Time: 1 (1=worst; 5=best)
Lab Air Permeability: 1 (1=worst; 5=best)
How We Tested Running Shirts In the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Best suited for runs that start at the track and end at the cafe, the Lululemon Metal Vent Tech blends performance and style with a timeless, refined design. 鈥淚t seamlessly transitions from morning runs to evening restaurants with uncompromised excellence,鈥� one tester reported. Made from a nylon, recycled polyester, and elastane blend, this shirt has a heavier, more substantial feel than the thinner options we tested. It doesn鈥檛 vanish like ultra-lightweight shirts but instead offers a noticeably soft and comforting feel against your skin.

While it鈥檚 not a particularly airy shirt, we found it does breathe and wick moisture adequately to not feel clammy on most days. And, thanks to the built-in stretch, the shirt offers an unrestricted range of motion and doesn鈥檛 hold you back on the run. On extremely hot days, however, when sweat is pouring and the fabric becomes fully saturated, it can feel slightly weighed down.

Given its versatility and comfort, the Lululemon Metal Vent Tech became one of our go-to shirts for just about any occasion, from running to lounging at home to heading out for a casual dinner.

What to Look For in Summer Running Apparel

Dressing for summer running is straightforward鈥攜ou want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, don鈥檛 stink, and don鈥檛 get in the way. Shirt choices come down to how much skin coverage you prefer, fit, and material.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer running鈥檚 high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.
• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Well-ventilated hats reduce squinting while shedding heat. Running tan lines aren鈥檛 something to be proud of.
• Check for chafing. If you鈥檝e ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you won鈥檛 want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when you鈥檙e drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.
• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.
• Banish bacteria. Many high-quality summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.
• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, 鈥淲hatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so I鈥檒l just buy the cheapest gear out there.鈥� Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and don鈥檛 hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 10
• Number of products tested: 20+ singlets, 40+ short sleeve tees
• Number of brands tested: 45+
• Number of miles run in testing: 4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 101 Fahrenheit
• Number of 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab tests: 2

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.鈥攆rom the California beach town of Santa Barbara to central Wisconsin and the high plains of Nebraska, to the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid-70s over both roads and trails. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare today鈥檚 running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer. We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, value, and looks to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

How We Tested Running Shirts in the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab

Air Permeability

Air permeability is a measure of how much air (in volume) is able to move through a fabric. It is not the same as “breathability” which measures how moisture vapor (sweat) moves through a fabric. The more air permeable, the more the cooling breeze makes it through your shirt and reaches your skin directly. To test this in the 国产吃瓜黑料 Lab @ CU Denver, we use a James Heal AirPro, a machine that uses a vacuum pump to pull air through fabric clamped between plates with a specific diameter opening to measure the flow rate at a pre-set pressure. The greater the volume of air getting through, the more air permeable. This lab test only evaluates the material itself, and can’t account for how the cut and design of a garment aids its airiness.

Dry Time

The lab tested drying time by soaking each shirt and then recording how long each needed to dry. Each shirt was weighed while dry, then soaked in tap water until all of the material had absorbed water. After soaking, they were hand wrung until all excess water stopped releasing from the fabric, leaving a fully saturated, but not soaked, shirt. The saturated shirts were weighed again to get the “wet” starting point and then put on a mannequin to dry. Weight was recorded every hour to start and then every 15 minutes as they approached dryness, stopping when the sample was within 4 percent of the original dry value. Allowing for 4 percent of weight gain (a few grams) takes into account any dirt particles that could be introduced from the tap water or environment, and small hemmed areas of the shirt that may hold a little moisture, even though the overwhelming majority of the shirt is dry.

We compiled the raw data into groups of similar values for each measure to obtain scores of 1 to 5, worst to best, relative to all the t-shirts and singlets tested.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like 国产吃瓜黑料 and Runner鈥檚 World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A 13.25km trail race Cory Smith ran while testing the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet.

(Gaia GPS is owned by 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc.)

Scott Douglas

Scott Douglas says, 鈥淚鈥檝e run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and have always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of my life.鈥� and a writer/editor about fitness, he sweats like crazy despite living in Maine.

Other testers included:

• , a Nebraska resident who is a senior running gear editor for 国产吃瓜黑料 and has also been running since the 1970s.
• , a doctor of physical therapy who founded the Pineries Running Lab in Wisconsin.

The post The Best Running Shirts for Men: Field and Lab Tested appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

If you’ve ever seen complete strangers exchange a joyous shout and fist-pump over a shared team jersey, you know the power of good merch. When you wear something representing an organization you care about, you’re immediately part of a special club. That sense of membership can be key to feeling a sense of community and belonging. Of course, not all support-worthy outdoor nonprofits have gear that’s easy to fold into your existing street style. That’s where these seven community organizations stand apart.

Old Man Run Club

Don鈥檛 be fooled: this NYC-based group is for runners of all sorts. Founded in 2018 in an effort to beat the post-marathon blues, Old Man Run Club brings runners together to train and cheer each other on. Retro and urban-inspired makes this mission a stylish one.

Climb Out

This queer-run nonprofit was formed in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties to make the outdoors a safer space for all communities, including Queer, Trans, and other LBGTQIA2S+ members. Classes, community events, and encourage you to climb with pride.

Native Womens Wilderness

Honoring the earth is in native DNA. Native Womens Wilderness, founded in Austin, Texas in 2006, encourages native women to explore and celebrate native lands and wilderness. This community support finds form in featuring the club鈥檚 thunderbird-inspired logo.

Cruxing in Color

Founded in 2019 in Denver, Colorado, Cruxing in Color encourages self-identified people of color to get into climbing. The club assists members with discounted gym and festival access, free gear, and highlighting the mission.

Ebony Beach Club

Ebony Beach Club is an LA-based Black surf and art collective. Founded in 2021, the LA-based club aims to create space for Black people in the surf world. Its are stylish and aspirational, highlighting the artistry of it all.

Hike Clerb

The outdoors is for everyone鈥攁nd that鈥檚 cute. This LA-based, BIWOC-led group was founded in 2017, and is all about making getting outside an inclusive, equitable thing. Its is playful and useful, featuring smiley faces, flowers, and the club鈥檚 ladybug motif.

Black Girls Do Bike

Yes, women of color bike, too. Founded in 2013, Black Girls Do Bike bolsters this community through regional chapters around the country and beyond, along with advocacy efforts, education, and (you guessed it) . Branded cycling gear makes showing your support simple.

This piece first appeared in the summer 2025 print issue of 国产吃瓜黑料 Magazine. Subscribe now for early access to our most captivating storytelling, stunning photography, and deeply reported features on the biggest issues facing the outdoor world.

The post These 7 Outdoor Organizations Have the Best Merch in the Biz appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Every woman is built differently and has a different idea of what makes the perfect sports bra. But every woman wants (and deserves) a bra that is comfortable and supportive, and lets her do activities with zero distraction. In light of that, we had a team of testers鈥攁ll different sizes鈥攖ry more than 30 of the latest sports bras while hiking, climbing, practicing yoga, running, weightlifting, and more to find the models that delivered the best performance and comfort for a variety of different types of bodies, conditions, and activities.

Update April 2025: We鈥檝e replaced the sports bras in four categories, added three new categories (best for summer, best for wearing a pack, and best simple running bra) and changed the categories of two we carried over from the fall round-up.

At A Glance

• Best for Hot Weather:
• Best for Wearing on Its Own:
• Best for High Impact:
• Best for Low Impact:
• Best for Large Chests:
• Best Adjustable:
• Best for Wearing With a Pack:
• Best for Carrying a Phone on the Run:
• Best Value:
• Best Simple Running Bra:
• How to Choose Sports Bras
• How We Tested
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Be sure to also check out our picks for the best women’s running shirts and tank tops.

Best for Hot Weather

Patagonia Live Simply Bra

Sizes: 齿齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Minimal and comfortable
鈯� Dries extremely quickly
鈯� Can fit a little loose under the arms

We鈥檝e worn this bra hiking in 106-degree heat, sweaty weight-lifting sessions, running in all sorts of weather, and jumping in and out of lakes. This bra remained comfortable throughout all of those athletic activities and even while working at a desk for hours.

Its bonded seam construction lies flat and smooth with zero irritation, and the extremely lightweight, soft, 100-percent polyester tricot fabric dries ridiculously quickly. We appreciated that, along with the anti-microbial treatment (HeiQ Mint) that combated odors when we kept the bra on after workouts. Because it doesn鈥檛 contain Spandex, the bra isn鈥檛 as supportive as some others, but it also doesn鈥檛 stretch out as much. It鈥檚 best for low-impact, or any activity for A to C cups.

Best for Wearing on Its Own

Janji Pace Sports Bra

Sizes: 齿齿厂鈥揦齿齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Best range of sizes among pull-over bras
鈯� Unique, flattering and supportive straps
鈯� Removable pads come out in wash

This seemingly simple sports bra has design details we fell in love with鈥攁 flattering neckline with double straps, positioned narrower than most, that weave between each other when they cross mid back. This bra proved supportive enough even for C- to D-cup testers doing high-impact activities like running and jumping. 鈥淣ice encapsulation and I love the cross back with support!鈥� said one. 鈥淵ou don’t usually get 鈥榗ute鈥� with 鈥榮upportive.鈥欌�� We wore this skate skiing, running, cycling, and, when a tester couldn鈥檛 find her bikini, at swim lessons with her son. This bra proved comfortable and up to the task for all activities.

Best for High Impact

Rabbit UtiliBRA-vo

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� 脺ber-secure phone pocket
鈯� Classic racerback fit
鈯� Not the most breathable

If you love classic racerback bras, add a few of these to your underwear drawer. Chances are good they鈥檒l fit and support you well, as one of our testers raved: 鈥淭he fabric hits a sweet spot of compression that I think will please 85 percent of runners鈥攏ot too much, not too little.鈥� This bra also has the most secure back phone pocket we鈥檝e ever used, without being over-designed. 鈥淢ost phone pocket bras try to be all fancy and featured and space-agey,鈥� another tester said. 鈥淭his is the first one I鈥檝e tried that鈥檚 basically just a regular old racerback, both in terms of fit and looks.鈥� The polyester-spandex fabric is slightly thicker than the other favorites, making it a great choice for high-impact activities year-round.

Best for Low Impact

Under Armour UA Infinity 2.0 Low 听

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Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝, Cups A鈥揅 and D鈥揇DD

Pros and Cons
鈯� Built-in padding doesn鈥檛 come loose
鈯� Soft, comfortable, breathable
鈯� Can be hard to find a perfect fit

This good-looking, lightly padded sports bra is offered at a steal of a price. We loved how there aren鈥檛 any irritating seams and that the injection-molded padding鈥檚 strategic patterning gave the bra a lightweight, breathable feel. We found the bra dried quickly even after working up a big sweat, which we loved for keeping us from feeling gross underneath our clothes when running errands on the way home from a workout.

The pullover design and lack of a clasp on the backside makes this a great choice for workouts that include mat work, like belly-up core work, Pilates, and yoga moves. And the mesh panel on the back 鈥渁dds breathability without any distractions,鈥� said a tester.

Not only does the built-in padding eliminate the problems of losing a pad in the washing machine or having to uncrumple removable pads every time we put on the bra (truly, the worst), but we found the shape flattering and not excessive. Note that some testers found that the material buckled on the sides鈥攁lthough with so many size options, they thought they could likely find an ideal fit with a different size/cup combination.

Best for Large Chests

Brooks Crossback 2.0

Sizes: 30鈥�40 band, AB鈥揇DE cup

Pros and Cons
鈯� Extremely comfortable
鈯� Molded cups stay put
鈯� Only medium impact for the largest of chests

The Brooks Crossback 2.0 bra is not the absolute most supportive sports bra for large chests during the highest impact activities, but for virtually everything else, we loved its ability to support us comfortably. While most bras intended for bigger chests achieve support by either compressing tightly or encapsulating with stiff materials, zippers, and/or burly fasteners, the Crossback 2.0 utilizes strategic engineering鈥攔einforced materials in the shoulder straps and chest band鈥攁nd a wide range of size options for an almost custom fit. Testers loved how this bra鈥檚 smooth, flat crossback straps didn鈥檛 dig into shoulders and worked great under a backpack, as well as the lack of irritating seams and the soft but effective encapsulation.

鈥淭his works nicely for medium-impact activities without smashing you to death,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淟ove the snug fit of the material, but not snug as in too tight,鈥� said another. 鈥淚 can鈥檛 say enough,鈥� gushed yet another. 鈥淚鈥檓 obsessed with this bra and how this bra performs and that it never chafes me at all.鈥�

Our team wore this bra skiing, hiking, weightlifting, cycling, and running, and only one tester craved more support while running. The bra dries quickly from sweat or after washing and is comfortable during prolonged wear.

Best Adjustable Fit

Tracksmith Allston Adjustable Bra

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揕

Pros and Cons
鈯� Adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap
鈯� Convertible to racerback
鈯� Clip can be felt in racerback mode

This bra is adjustable three ways: the chest band has three clips for dialing size around the ribcage, the shoulder straps are length-adjustable, and the bra can convert to racerback via a clip in the middle of the back, which puts it in high-impact-support mode. The racerback clip can be switched back and forth during one workout. 鈥淚 love the adjustability and the smooth fabric,鈥� said a tester who wore the bra while hiking, biking, and running. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a great bra for someone who might end up wearing a sports bra all day because of logistics, but who wants to ease off the intensity for apr茅s workout.鈥� The Allston Adjustable is made of Tracksmith鈥檚 luxuriously smooth nylon-elastane blend, with interior cups lined with nylon-elastane blend powermesh, which enhances compressive support.

Best for Wearing With a Pack

Oiselle Flyout Bra

Sizes: 2鈥�14

Pros and Cons
鈯� Wide, flat seams remain comfortable under a vest or pack
鈯� Full coverage provides modesty
鈯� Thicker material can feel warm

The Oiselle Flyout Bra has been a favorite among testers for its ability to carry a phone comfortably and securely in the mesh pocket midback. But we also love this bra for its wide, flat shoulder straps that stay comfortable under fully loaded hydration vests and backpacks. We鈥檝e worn this bra for long days on the trail with a hydration vest and have never experienced chafing. The wide chest band and shoulder straps provide ample coverage and combine with compressive fabric for support, even for our large-chested testers. We love that this bra comes in a wide range of sizes, like women鈥檚 dress clothes, so you can find a perfect fit (use the size guide on the Oiselle website to help).

Best for Carrying a Phone on the Run

Rabbit Strappy Pocket Bra

Sizes: 齿厂鈥揦尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Carries a phone midback
鈯� Cute enough to wear on its own
鈯� Thin shoulder straps can dig in under a pack

The Rabbit Strappy Pocket Bra has become our lead tester鈥檚 go-to for travel. It鈥檚 a simple, good-looking sports bra that carries a phone or hotel key card easily and comfortably, and it packs down small, especially with the pads removed. The bra also stays put while diving into bodies of water (ocean, lake) post-run and dries fairly quickly afterward, ready for the next outing. The thin shoulder straps and lower neckline give the bra a stylish, flattering appeal while still providing support and coverage. The next-to-skin liner, made from a material that uses recycled coffee grounds, feels cool, helps control odor (another travel bonus), and helps the bra dry quickly.

Best Value

Nike Swoosh Medium Support

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Sizes: 齿齿厂鈥揦齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Fixed cups mean no pads to lose
鈯� Durable, long-lasting comfort
鈯� Pads, if you鈥檙e not a fan of them

One tester has been wearing an earlier version of this sports bra for close to 20 years. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been all over the world while keeping me comfortable running, cycling, hiking, Nordic skiing, etc.,鈥� she says. The simple, pull-on style bra wicks sweat and remains comfortable for hours. The newest version of this do-anything, durable bra comes with light padding built in (no slipping, no losing the padding in the wash), and is made with sustainable, recycled polyester materials. Its $40 price point makes it among the least expensive sports bras out there, and while it鈥檚 classified as 鈥渕edium support,鈥� it can function as high support across a range of activities for smaller chest sizes. It also lasts for-e-ver.

Best Simple Running Bra

Janji Infinity Sports Bra

Sizes: 齿齿厂鈥揦齿齿尝

Pros and Cons
鈯� Reversible
鈯� No clasps on backside
鈯� Doesn鈥檛 dry as quickly as some others

There is something to be said for a simple, no frills sports bra鈥攏o pads, no clasps, just a traditional pullover racerback. The Janji Infiniti Bra is just that, and testers appreciated its 鈥渘o fuss鈥� functionality. The lack of clasps on the back make this a good bra for doing mat work: stretching and exercising on your back after a run, or for activities like yoga and Pilates. One tester said she鈥檚 looking forward to wearing this while on an SUP or even swimming, while another said the full-coverage cut (it effectively covers side-boob, for most) 鈥渋s appropriate for stripping down in front of strangers.鈥�

We love that this bra is reversible. The triple-layer construction of nylon/spandex with a polyester mesh sandwiched between the two color options provided enough compressive support for all but our largest-chested runners. Those three layers also make the bra take a bit longer than other bras to dry from sweat or while air-drying after washing. But for two bras in one, we鈥檒l take it.

How to Choose Sports Bras

When shopping for the best sports bras for you, you need to consider four factors: intended usage, comfort, support, and breathability.

Usage

Are you looking for a bra to wear on its own or under your clothes? Will you be wearing it with a running hydration pack or hiking backpack? Do you want to be able to do yoga, Pilates, or other exercises on your back (and so, don鈥檛 want clasps or hooks back there)? Do you need your bra to carry your phone (or do you always wear a pack or pockets elsewhere)?

Comfort

Comfort is personal. Nothing can replace trying on the bra to ensure it fits your body and the fabric feels good against your skin. Each brand sizes their bras differently, so be sure to try on a range of sizes.

Support

When it comes to support, different categories like 鈥渓ow impact鈥� and 鈥渕edium support鈥� can be confusing because different brands define them in different ways, and the amount of support needed for various activities completely varies by the individual. In general, bras marketed for low-impact activities like yoga, hiking, or cycling will offer less support and technical features than those for high-impact activities, like running or HIIT classes. On the flip side, bras designed to offer higher support may be less breathable and more constricting.

If you have a small cup size, you may find that low- and medium-support bras work perfectly well for high-impact activities, but women with larger cup sizes often need those 鈥渉igh support鈥� bras even for some low-impact activities. Whatever you choose, know that the bra鈥檚 underband鈥攖he most important part for support鈥攕hould fit securely but not so tightly that you can鈥檛 breathe. (Studies have shown that tight sports bras can restrict breathing and affect running performance.) The straps should not dig into your skin or leave red marks when you take the bra off.

Breathability

Too much sweat accumulation on a bra is not only uncomfortable but unhygienic, trapping bacteria on your skin and back. Sport-specific fabric blends鈥攐ften made with polyester, nylon, or merino wool鈥攕hould have strong moisture-wicking properties, and bras made of thinner fabric will allow more heat and perspiration to pass through.

How We Tested

• Number of testers: 11
• Number of bras tested: 22
• Hours working out in test bras: 500
• Toughest testing conditions: Two-plus hours whitewater paddling and then hiking from the bottom of the Grand Canyon to the South Rim while carrying a full backpack full of gear. Close second: Downhill skiing with a toddler.

We wore these bras for running, cycling, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, yoga, hiking, dog walking, camping, and working at a desk. Every tester wears a different size, ranging from A to DDD cups. If at least two testers agreed that a bra was comfortable and functional, it made our short list. Then we narrowed down the contenders based on functionality for various sports, style, and price.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Lisa Jhung lives and works in Boulder, Colorado, where she writes, edits, and tests gear by doing a variety of outdoor winter sports: running (road, trail, and full-on mountain), Nordic skiing, snowboarding, dog-walking, etc. She also does yoga and lifts weights, sometimes by carrying flagstones around her yard and doing overhead squats and chest presses with a digging bar. She likes to get sh** done while strength training.

The post The Best Sports Bras for Summer 2025 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Back in mid-January I was sitting around the dining table at the in Colorado after a long day of backcountry skiing with Primaloft and San Juan Mountain Guides听 and casually brought up the subject of jacket hoods. Never in my life have I created such an instant and intense conversation about outdoor gear. People all around the table immediately chimed in with loud and passionate opinions, advice, preferences, and stories.

Patrick Ormond, the head guide for the who鈥檇 been leading my group of skiers that day, was unequivocal about his stance:

鈥淭he more hoods, the better,鈥� he said. 鈥淒id you see me today? At one point I had five hoods stacked together up on the ridge. When I鈥檓 belaying ice climbers, I鈥檝e had eight hoods all stacked on top of each other.鈥�

For Ormond, who finds himself in sub-zero temps all winter long, hoods equal essential warmth.

Former ski racer Colin Suszynski said his approach to hoods was 鈥淥CD.鈥� If he鈥檚 wearing multiple layers that all have hoods he鈥檒l spend the time to pull them over his head or helmet one at a time and then take them off so that they nest together and can all be pulled up at the same time if need be. He鈥檚 so particular about how the hoods fit together that he鈥檒l often check his shadow while riding the lift to make sure nothing is askew.

The Cozy Beauty of Hoods

I鈥檓 not as particular or familiar with hoods as Suszynski or Ormond, but I too have a deep appreciation for this often overlooked gear feature. In fact, if I were to list the things that make me feel the coziest, I鈥檇 say sitting next to a wood stove, climbing under a down comforter, and pulling up my hood.

Physically, a hood adds warmth by trapping warm air that escapes from your body around your neck and head. Psychologically, a hood makes you feel protected and less susceptible to the wind, snow, and or rain.

All听 winter, which has been particularly cold this year, I鈥檝e been choosing hooded sweatshirts and jackets over their non-hooded counterparts because I can鈥檛 fathom going outside with the extra protection. The few times I鈥檝e been out in the weather, reached back for a hood and found I wasn鈥檛 wearing one, I鈥檝e felt completely exposed and unprepared鈥攍ike I was walking around in flip flops and shorts, or with my fly down.

Design Details from the Hood Geeks

This talking and thinking about hoods prompted me to learn more about the design and development that goes into the modern hood. My first call was to Dan Abrams, who co-founded 20 years ago, and is known among friends and colleagues as a true hood geek.

Abram says his love for the hood comes from years of storm chasing, which gave him the understanding that when you put up your hood, especially when you鈥檙e skiing on a cold and snowy day, it almost feels like you鈥檙e 鈥減utting on an entire other midlayer.鈥� It adds important warmth that will help keep you on the chairlift and out of the lodge.

When Abrams and his co-founder were designing their original hoods, they realized that smaller jackets鈥攅specially those made for women鈥攃ame with much smaller hoods. This made sense on paper, but the problem is that all helmets are big, so a small hood was never going to cover one, even a small-sized one, much less a medium or large one. To make the Flylow hood functional, the duo figured out the rough dimensions of a hood that would fit the largest helmet but not be so big that it swallowed smaller helmets.

鈥淚 always tell people you need something that鈥檚 about 16 inches tall and 11.5 inches deep,鈥� Abrams says, rattling off the numbers from his memory.

Flylow also puts a lot of emphasis on how their hood adjusts and moves with the user. On their top-end jackets, you鈥檒l always find three points of adjustment: two drawcords by the cheeks and one near the crown. These adjustments ensure a snug fit, and also allow users to cinch down the hood around a ball cap or beanie if they鈥檙e touring instead of downhill skiing.

The hood design also needs to strike a delicate balance in terms of movement. If the hood is too baggy, it stays static, so a skier will turn their head and be staring at the inside of the hood. If the hood is too tight, the skier will feel like they can鈥檛 turn their head without a fight. Abrams says that with the right tailoring, however, the hood never feels restrictive but fits snug.

Flylow pays extra attention to the height of the front collar as well. The height, when zipped, should come over the user鈥檚 lips but sit below their nose. It鈥檚 important to nail that exact spot because it provides warmth for the user鈥檚 face, but doesn鈥檛 cover their nose, which tends to push hot air into a skier鈥檚 googles and cause them to fog.

鈥淭he Foggy Goggle is a great bar in Steven鈥檚 Pass, but you want to stay away from foggy goggles when you鈥檙e skiing,鈥� Abrams says.

Finally, Abrams knows that skiers want their hoods to look good when they鈥檙e not in use, so Flylow spends a lot of time making sure the hoods fall correctly onto the back of the jackets and don鈥檛 look bunched and tangled or skew to one side or the other.

鈥淚t has to sit just right,鈥� Abrams says.

Engineering the One-Hand Pull

Wanting to know more, my next call was to Patagonia, which is also full of great design stories after decades of iterations and thousands of products. Both Corey Simpson, who leads their communications team, and Maggie Elder, a senior designer for technical product, had lots to say.

Simpson said that he鈥檚 watched hundreds and hundreds of hooded product samples come through, and when a hood is designed well, no one notices or talks about it. But when a hood is off, testers and designers notice immediately.

鈥淭he minute that a hood is off even just a little, people absolutely lose it,鈥� he said, laughing.

Elder was the lead designer on Patagonia鈥檚 , one of their top-shelf ski products, and said lots of extra time was spent designing a special hood for that jacket. The hood鈥檚 unique idea came from Elder who loves backcountry skiing and knew that almost every time she crested a ridge she had to pull on her hood to fight off the wind and cold.

On most jackets you have to unzip the collar a bit in order to squeeze the hood over a ski helmet, which takes a while, lets in cold air, and requires two hands. She wanted the process to be easier, so she set out to create a hood that could be pulled up with just one hand, without unzipping the collar.

The solution was to build a little elastic into the front of the hood so that it could squeeze over a helmet but regain its tight shape once it was up. Elder didn鈥檛 want the hood to look scrunched so she designed an elastic hinge on each side of the hood that allows it to expand and contract. She then covered that hinge with a shingle of face fabric. That way, it鈥檚 hidden and the hood didn鈥檛 look like a Pacman eating your helmet.

Elder said she was happy with the design, but then Patagonia had to work extra closely with the manufacturer because it鈥檚 more complicated than you think to build a hinge into a hood and make it 鈥減assive,鈥� a term Patagonia designers use to describe a feature that works seamlessly.

鈥淲e got there with the Untracked jacket but it took a lot of work,鈥� Elder says. I tested an Untracked jacket and confirmed that they indeed got it right: pulling the hood up with just one hand, Elder鈥檚 hinges expanded under their fabric shingles and allowed the hood to easily and smoothly glide over my helmet with minimal effort.

Getting the design right has even higher stakes for Patagonia鈥檚 climbing line because hoods can literally be the line between life and death. A hood needs to provide warmth for climbers who are dangling off the side of a giant wall, but if the hood has too much insulation it could prevent them from hearing instructions from their partner and lead to a mistake.

Plus, climbers are even pickier than skiers.

鈥淪ometimes we鈥檒l get a hooded sample out to two world-class alpinists and one will think it鈥檚 the best thing ever and the other will tell us that the product should never get released to the public,鈥� Simpson says. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 because one person loves the field of view on the hood but the other complains that it lets in too much snow.鈥�

The hood is so important, Simpson says, that it鈥檚 an easy way to tell if a product is more everyday focused or is designed for a bigger and more serious adventure. The serious product always has a hood.

I don鈥檛 have any problem wearing a hoodless jacket around town, but I agree with Simpson that whenever you鈥檙e in an outdoor situation with higher stakes, a hood makes a big difference. The day after our dining room conversation on that Colorado backcountry ski trip found us all standing on a windy ridge at 12,000 feet. There was no way to stay warm without a hood, and everyone automatically pulled theirs up without a second thought. I don鈥檛 know if they noticed how easily the hoods came up and fit just right, but I sure did.

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