6 best quick-drying shirts for men, according to experts
Things to consider
material
Look for tops made of polyester or nylon. These high-quality materials are suitable for “quick-drying” and have moisture-wicking properties that move sweat away from the body and speed up the evaporation process. As a general rule of thumb, choose a quick-drying shirt made of at least 70% polyester or nylon. These synthetic fibers are designed to wick moisture and also provide antibacterial benefits. On the contrary, cotton usually cannot be used because it absorbs and retains moisture. Thick cotton can also be a breeding ground for odors and bacteria, making it less suitable for hot, sweaty workouts.
fit
Most shirts are either classic, slim or wide-fit, Hamlin said, but larger shirts are usually more breathable. This is especially beneficial if you are training in hot climates. “Personally, I prefer a dry fit that’s roomy enough to pull 3 to 4 inches past the belly button before the shirt stretches too tight,” says Mike, CSCS, conditioning specialist and founder of Everflex Fitness. Hamlin says. Hamlin, a trainer, has tried many quick-drying shirts that can withstand long periods of activity. “They give you a great, comfortable, relaxed fit whether you’re going for a run, lifting weights at the gym, or working out with a client.”
style
Rest assured, every shirt we have listed will look great in you. Going to the gym is about feeling your best, and feeling your best affects your performance. The ideal cut of the shirt you choose will depend on your personal preferences, but choose an option that is comfortable and appropriate for your intended activity. For dressy activities such as golf, we offer a clean silhouette that fits your body but isn’t too tight. A boxier, looser fit is best for more casual activities and workouts, such as running, weightlifting, and everyday wear.
How we choose
Men’s Health’s fitness editors (some of whom are certified trainers) start by building on our extensive experience and then consulting with other industry experts to select the best quick-drying shirts. We crowdsourced it. We’ve also combed through reviews to consider which shirts are the best-selling and most popular so you can test those shirts as well. The shirts we tried were worn during long runs, basketball games, and intense gym sessions to see how they handled particularly sweaty sessions. After observing how they responded before, during, and after training, I narrowed it down to the items I would like to share here.
Keep scrolling for the best quick-dry shirts from trainers and editors.
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Best overall
Rhone Rain T-shirt
Pros No-chafing seams Raglan sleeves improve range of motion Cons Neckline may be loose for some readers
Of all the quick-drying shirts on the market, the Rhone Rain T-shirt was our favorite thanks to its high-performance materials, UPF 50 sun protection, effortless fit, and efficient design. The fabric is gentle on the skin and does not stick to the body, and is light on the body. The threading process is also very unique, Rhone weaves silver threads into the fabric. This technology was first developed for American soldiers. This allows the shirt to maintain its integrity longer than our competitors, even after repeated wear and washes.
Raglan sleeves provide a wide range of motion for unrestricted movement, and straddle seams eliminate chafing for a reliable, comfortable fit. We love that you can choose a slim or classic style depending on your preference, and that it comes in 27 different colors. The elastane material combined with a blend of polyester and nylon gives the shirt just the right amount of stretch, making it perfect for lifting, climbing, or hot yoga.
The classic fit is tough and has a loose collar so you can feel more free during your workout. If you like tight necklines, this shirt may not suit you.
Read more: The best T-shirts for men we tested
Material: Nylon, Polyester, Elastane Sizes: XS-XXL Style T-shirt
best budget
VRST Men’s Icon T-Shirt
Pros 4-way stretch Provides UPF protection Cons Weak construction if you prefer a tailored fit
You don’t have to spend a fortune on a sturdy, quick-drying shirt. This VRST Men’s Icon Short Sleeve T-Shirt is worth adding to your closet. We were skeptical when we first saw the price for this house brand from Dick’s Sporting Goods, but after using it multiple times, we have to say we’re completely impressed. It makes sense that one of the world’s largest sports retailers would learn how to make shirts that are perfect for athletic movements.
The relaxed fit is made with 4-way stretch fabric that moves effortlessly with your body, while performance materials wick sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable. It’s also antibacterial, so you don’t have to worry about the smell after work. I also like the material, which has a UPF of 39, which gives me some sun protection while running or bodyweight training outside.
The non-constricting crew neck collar provides a relaxed fit and allows air to flow through the fabric. Our testers noticed several times that they could feel the summer breeze more than other shirts while training outdoors. If you like this shirt, it comes in 20 different colors so you can fill your dresser with reliable gym fits.
Material: Polyester, Tencel, Spandex Sizes: S-XXL Style T-shirt
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vest short sleeve
Lululemon License to Training T
Pros Underarm guest for increased freedom of movement Anti-bacterial treatment Cons High price per shirt
Lululemon is known for its performance wear, and this Licensed to Train shirt doesn’t disappoint. The quick-drying material won’t cling to sweaty skin, and the sweat-wicking properties wick moisture away from your body to keep you cool. The material also has anti-odor technology that eliminates odors.
The top-of-the-line design features underarm gussets for increased freedom of movement, and rocker loops for easy hanging to dry after your workout. We also appreciate the classic fit with a little extra room in the chest and waist for a non-constricting look. Plus, added Lycra fibers add just the right amount of stretch and shape retention, so the shirt is built to withstand countless workouts and washes.
Material: Polyester, nylon, Lycra elastane, X static nylon Sizes available: XS-XXL Style T-shirt
best seamless
Gymshark Geo Seamless T-Shirt
Pros All-over mesh construction Lightweight Cons Slim fit can be uncomfortable if you prefer loose-fitting shirts
If you chafe easily or just prefer seamless tops, the Gymshark Geo Seamless T-Shirt is the perfect choice. Sweat-wicking technology and breathable mesh construction keep you cool and dry, while lightweight material with virtually no seams minimizes chafing and distractions. The blend of polyester and nylon allows for quick drying even during sweaty training sessions.
The slim-fit design and raglan sleeves are meant to accentuate your physique (but are by no means restrictive). However, if you prefer a looser fit, this quick-drying pick may be too tight. Luckily, they come in a wide range of sizes, so you can always size up for a more classic, relaxed fit.
Material: Polyester, nylon Sizes: XS-3XL Style T-shirt
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best athletic polo
Nike Nike DRI-FIT Victory Polo
Pros Ribbed collar prevents curling Allows sweat to wick away from the skin Cons Thin material, less structure
Polo shirts aren’t necessarily about comfort, but this Nike Dri-FIT Victory Shirt puts a modern twist on performance. Breathable, sweat-wicking fabric provides a skin-friendly, non-constricting feel, while Dri-FIT technology moves sweat away from your body for quick evaporation, keeping you dry and comfortable.
The shoulder seams are rolled forward for maximum range of motion in the arms, and the ribbed collar prevents curling for a polished look. The standard fit offers a relaxed, effortless feel, but if you prefer a more tailored look, the thinner material offers less structure.
Material Polyester Size Range XS-4XL Style Polo
best golf polo
Under Armor Men’s UA Tech Polo
Pros Lightweight, breathable and wide size range Cons Material may be less durable than other options on this list
Whether you play 9 or 18 holes, the right golf polo is a must to get the best game possible. Luckily, this Under Armor Tech polo shirt excels in all aspects: quick-drying, moisture-wicking, breathable, and lightweight. The textured fabric does not cling to the skin and is gentle to the touch.
The three-button placket and structured collar give it a clean, structured look, and it’s available in a variety of sizes depending on your body type and style preference. Please note that the material may be less durable than other options on this list, so it’s important to wash the garment inside out on a gentle cycle with like colors.
Material Polyester Size Range XS-4XL Style Polo
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