Fitness
Fitness Trainers Put a Bunch of Quick Dry Shirts Through Their Paces—These Are The 6 Best
What to Consider
Material
Look for a top made from polyester and/or nylon. These high-quality materials qualify as “quick dry,” and have moisture-wicking properties that pull sweat away from your body while also speeding up the evaporation process. As a general rule of thumb, opt for a quick-dry shirt made of at least 70 percent polyester or nylon. These synethic fibers are designed to wick away moisture and also bring antimicrobial benefits. On the flip side, cotton is usually a no-go since it absorbs and retains moisture. Thicker cotton can also become a breeding ground for odor and bacteria, which is less than ideal for hot and sweaty workouts.
Fit
Most shirts come in a classic, slim, or wide fit, but the larger the shirt, the more airflow you’ll typically have, says Hamlin. This can be especially beneficial if you’re training in hot climates. “I personally prefer a dry fit that’s large enough where I can pull the shirt from my belly button three or four inches before the shirt stretches tight,” says Mike Hamlin, CSCS, a conditioning specialist and founder of Everflex Fitness. Being a trainer, Hamlin has tried plenty of quick dry shirts that can handle a long day of activity. “It gives me a nice, comfortable, relaxed fit to go on my runs, lift in the gym, and work out with clients.”
Style
Rest assured, any of the shirts that we put on our list look good while being worn. Going to the gym is about feeling your best, and looking your best can benefit how your perform. For the shirt that you choose, the ideal cut depends on your preferences, but choose an option that’s comfortable and suits your intended activity. For dressier activities like golf, we suggest a streamlined silhouette that’s tailored to your body but not too tight. For more casual activities and workouts, like running, weightlifting, or day-to-day wear, a boxier, looser fit is the right one for the job.
How We Chose
Men’s Health fitness editors, which is comprised in part by certified trainers, started with our expansive experience and then consulted with other industry experts to crowdsource the best quick dry shirts. We also took into account what shirts were the bestselling and most popular, combing through reviews, so that those pieces could also be put to the test as well. The shirts that we trialed were worn during long runs, basketball games, and intense gym sessions to see how they handled particularly sweaty sessions. Once we had observed how they handled the before, during, and after a workout, we narrowed it down to the items shared here.
Keep scrolling for the best quick dry shirts, according to trainers and editors.
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Pros
- Chafe-free seams
- Raglan sleeve for better range of motion
Cons
- Neckline may be loose for some readers
Out of all the quick dry shirts on the market, the Rhone Reign Tee was our favorite thanks to the performance material, UPF 50 sun protection, effortless fit, and efficient design. The fabric is soft on the skin, without sticking to your body, and light on the body. Their threading process is also pretty unique, Rhone weaves silver threads into the fabric, a technique that was first developed for American military soldiers. This helps the shirt maintain its integrety longer, over the course of more wears and more washes, than the competition.
The raglan sleeves offer better range of motion, so you’re never restricted, and the straddle stitching seams are chafe-free for a reliable, comfortable fit. We also love that it’s available in a slim or classic style, depending on your preference, and comes in 27 different color ways. The elastane material paired with a polyester-nylon blend also offers just the right amount of stretch in the shirt making it great for lifting, climbing, or hot yoga.
The classic fit is tough to beat, and the looser collar can help you feel more free while working out. If you’re the kind of person who likes a tight neckline, this might not be the shirt for you.
Read More: Best T-Shirts For Men, Tested by Us
| Material | Nylon, polyester, elastane |
|---|---|
| Size range | XS-XXL |
| Style | T-shirt |
Pros
- 4-way stretch
- Provides UPF protection
Cons
- Less structured if you prefer a tailored fit
A solid quick dry shirt doesn’t have to break the bank, and this VRST Men’s Icon Short Sleeve Tee is worth adding to your closet. We were skeptical when we first saw the price point for this in-house brand from Dick’s Sporting Goods, but after a lot of use, we have to say we’re thoroughly impressed. It does make sense that one of the largest sports retailers in the world would learn how to make a great shirt for athletic movement.
The relaxed fit is made with 4-way stretch fabric that effortlessly moves with you, and the performance material wicks sweat away from the skin to keep you dry and comfortable. They made sure to treat the shirt with antimicrobial technology, so that you don’t have to woirry about odor after putting in the work. We also like the material features UPF 39, giving a little extra sun protection during those outdoor runs and bodyweight sessions.
The fit is relaxed, with a non-restrictive crewneck collar, and air flows through the material nicely. Our testers noticed a few times during outdoor workouts where they could feel the summer breeze better than with other shirts. And if you like this shirt, there are 20 different colors, so you can fill up your dresser with reliable gym fits.
| Material | Polyester, tencel, spandex |
|---|---|
| Size range | S-XXL |
| Style | T-shirt |
Pros
- Underarm guest for greater mobility
- Includes antimicrobial treatment
Cons
- Pricey for a single shirt
Lululemon is known for their performance wear, and this License To Train shirt does not disappoint. The quick-dry material doesn’t cling to sweaty skin, and the sweat-wicking properties pull moisture away from the body to keep you cool. The material is also treated with anti-stink technology to eliminate odor.
Design is top-tier thanks to the underarm gusset for greater mobility, and the locker loop allows for easy hanging and drying post-workout. We also appreciate the classic fit which is tailored to have a little extra room through the chest and waist for a non-restrictive style. What’s more, the shirt is made to last through countless workouts and washes because the added Lycra fiber adds just the right amount of stretch and shape retention.
| Material | Polyester, nylon, Lycra elastane, X-static nylon |
|---|---|
| Size range | XS-XXL |
| Style | T-shirt |
Pros
- All-over mesh structure
- Lightweight
Cons
- Slim fit may be uncomfortable if you prefer a looser shirt
If you’re prone to chafing or just prefer a seamless top, the Gymshark Geo Seamless T-Shirt is elite. The sweat-wicking tech and breathable mesh structure keeps you cool and dry, and the lightweight, barely-there material is seam-free for minimal chafing or distractions. The polyester and nylon blend also ensures a quick dry experience for even the sweatiest workouts.
The slim fit design and raglan sleeves are meant to accentuate your build (though never restrictive), but if you prefer a looser fit, this quick dry pick may be too tight. Fortunately, it is available in a wide size range so you can always size up for a more classic, relaxed fit.
| Material | Polyester, nylon |
|---|---|
| Size range | XS-3XL |
| Style | T-shirt |
Pros
- Ribbed color prevents curling
- Wicks sweat away from your skin
Cons
- Thin material provides less structure
A polo doesn’t always scream comfort, but this Nike Dri-FIT Victory shirt puts a modern spin on performance. The breathable, sweat-wicking fabric is soft on the skin for a non-restrictive feel, and the Dri-FIT technology moves sweat away from your body for quicker evaporation, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable.
The shoulder seams are rolled forward so you have maximum range of motion in your arms, and the ribbed color helps prevent curling for a polished look. The standard fit delivers a relaxed, easy feel, but it does provide less structure due to the thinner material if you prefer a more tailored look.
| Material | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Size range | XS-4XL |
| Style | Polo |
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Wide size range
Cons
- Material may be less durable than other options on this list
Whether you’re playing nine or 18 holes, a proper golf polo is mandatory to deliver your best game. Luckily, this Under Armour Tech Polo delivers on all fronts: it’s fast-drying, moisture-wicking, breathable, and lightweight. The textured fabric is also soft-to-the touch without clinging to your skin.
The three-button placket and structured color offers a clean, structured look, and it’s available in a wide variety of sizes depending on your body type and preferred style. Just note that the materials may be less durable than other options on this list, so it’s important to wash the garment inside out on the gentle cycle with similar colors.
| Material | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Size range | XS-4XL |
| Style | Polo |
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