When the temperature climbs, your top is either helping you shed heat or trapping it. After a decade of summer training blocks, this is the short list I give every runner in our club.
Start with the fabric
Look for a lightweight polyester blend with a wicking finish. Cotton holds sweat against your skin and gets heavier with every mile. A good technical knit should feel almost dry within minutes of stopping.
Check the ventilation
- Mesh panels along the back release heat where you produce most of it.
- A racerback frees your shoulders and reduces chafing under the arms.
- Flatlock seams stay flat under a hydration vest.
Get the fit right
A tank should skim the body. Too tight restricts airflow, and too loose flaps and rubs. If you are between sizes for a long run, choose the larger one.
Our picks below are the tanks that made it through a full summer of club sessions.
Do you size up for the Tiffany tank or stay true to size?
Great tip about the mesh panels. I switched last month and my long runs are far more comfortable.