The winter is approaching faster than you might expect—and with it comes a natural shift in your day-to-day activities. While it might be easy to swap poolside parties with indoor gatherings and beach excursions with trips to the slopes, other necessities can’t be changed quite as easily—including your exercise routine. Fortunately, just because the weather is getting cold again doesn’t mean you have to forgo staying in shape; with the right long-sleeve workout shirt, you can look and feel your best as you're sweating it out on chilly days.
What to Consider
There are about as many styles and options for winter workout shirts as there are types of exercise. While this may seem overwhelming at first, it also makes it easier to get exactly what you need to keep up with your fitness routine, no matter how cold it gets.
The right material can pull sweat away from your body and reduce chill—an important consideration if you'll be running outdoors. Style and type of fit can also be essential for anyone requiring maximum mobility, whether it’s in a game of pickup basketball or lifting weights. And depending on everything from your skin’s sensitivity to the types of movement you’re going to be performing, softness and breathability will matter most when it comes to keeping comfortable.
How We Selected
To find the best options among the many men's long-sleeve workout shirts out there, we researched the most popular models available. We then took into account price, materials, fit, and size ranges. Finally, we consulted thousands of reviews on their respective sites written by customers who know them inside and out. Check out our picks below, complete with information on each product.
Some buyers complain of a strange smell even after washing
Like most Baleaf clothing, this shirt is a great value for the price. It is made from super soft, moisture-wicking fabric with four-way-stretch that makes it great for all types of exercise. It features a longer hem in the back, which keeps it from riding up when you bend over. It comes in 11 different colors and even different lengths for average heights, as well as big and tall sizes.
Some buyers complain of sweat stains after wearing
This top may look like something you would wear out on the town, but it's designed to tackle your toughest workouts with some added flair. The material is partly cotton, so it feels like your favorite T-shirt, but it has Lycra as well, which allows it to stretch and move with you. It is also treated with No Stink-Zinc technology that helps keep you smelling fresh.
If you’re looking for a reliable shirt that’s basic, affordable, and great for doing it all, look no further. This piece has a relaxed, comfortable fit that allows for easy movement and won't feel constricting, as well as stylish color options. The fabric is super lightweight and quick-drying, so you won't feel damp even when working up a sweat.
Key Specs
Sizes
S-XXL
Material(s)
100% polyester
Special Features
Streamlined fit and moisture-wicking properties
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4
Best Value
NELEUS Men's Dry Fit Long-Sleeve Athletic Running Shirts
4
Best Value
NELEUS Men's Dry Fit Long-Sleeve Athletic Running Shirts
Just because you’re looking for peak performance doesn’t mean you need to blow out your budget on winter workout gear. Customers adore this shirt for its fantastic form-fitting shape, comfortable fabric, and long lifespan that all seem to defy the approachable price tag. The raglan sleeves also help optimize movement and make it a versatile piece that works as well for workouts as it does for casual day-to-day wear.
Key Specs
Sizes
S-XXXL
Material
93% polyester, 7% spandex
Special Features
Reflective logo for increased nighttime visibility
If you’re looking to invest in a piece of athleticwear that will hold up year after year, look no further. Weighing just 6.53 ounces, this long-sleeved shirt is made using a special spinning process that turns durable, breathable merino wool into a top-quality textile for your workout. Its fashionable fit and comfortably soft texture make it a good option for running your favorite route—or just running out to grab something from the store.
If mobility is your key concern, compression gear is probably the right bet for you—especially this well-priced piece. Its specialized flatlock seams help keep the garment as close to your body as possible, making any movement feel fluid and reducing chafing. It also uses strategically placed mesh to allow for plenty of breathability, putting it a step above many other comparable pieces.
Anyone battling harsher climates will love this L.L.Bean shirt's ability to function just as well on its own as it does as a base layer under other clothing. It’s also made from quick-drying and moisture-wicking polyester and elastane, making it the perfect option for those days when the temperature fluctuates significantly from morning to night.
Colder weather shouldn’t stand between you and your favorite workout. This versatile piece comes in a fit that’s well suited for all types of exercise routines, whether that's running or lifting weights. The relaxed feel will help keep you focused on what matters most during your sweat sessions as it wicks moisture away from your skin.
There’s no reason you can’t be as comfortable on the court as you are on the couch. This shirt sports a flattering athletic cut and is made from a buttery-smooth polyester-elastane combo, putting it a step above entry-level exercise attire options. Sweat-wicking technology and a slight stretchiness make this slightly pricier option feel like it’s worth it.
Even though it may feel like you go for days without seeing the sun in wintertime, it’s still essential to remember sun protection if you’re going to be outdoors. This shirt offers UPF+ 50 protection from harmful UV rays, keeping your skin safer in any weather. And despite being remarkably breathable, it still clocks in at a relatively light 8.8 ounces, making it a fantastic option for those bright days when you’re going for a run or taking your training outside.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
Zach Mack has worked as a travel, food, beverage, and product writer for the past 12 years. He's a regular contributor for Thrillist and Liquor.com, and his writing has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Food & Wine, GQ, VinePair, Inside Hook, Forbes, Parents, and more. He's also the co-host of the podcast So You Want to Run a Restaurant? and is a regular guest on other shows. Follow him on Twitter @zmack.