The 6 Best Active Tanks in 2021 - Active Tank Tops - Runner's World

Staff, Courtesy of Sweaty Betty

Tank tops have always been a staple piece of athletic wear, but they have evolved way beyond cut-off old T-shirts, and are now often made of high-tech materials that help to keep you cool, comfortable, and perform at your best. Whether ticking off miles, banging out a circuit workout, or practicing your sun salutation, tank tops are a great option that will keep you from feeling too exposed while still allowing for maximum mobility. We have gathered up some of our favorites for every activity. Look below for some tips on what to look for and in depth reviews each model.

How to Choose a Tank Top

When deciding which tank top will be right for you, your biggest concern should be what activities you plan to perform in them. If you want a tank for neighborhood walks, some weekend yoga and an occasional hike, you could go with a cotton or rayon shirt. These are super soft and comfortable to the touch, but they will hold onto water if you start to sweat too much. For higher intensity activities where you may start to sweat more, look for a shirt that is moisture-wicking and possibly ventilated. This will both keep you cooler, and help prevent any possible chafing.

Women will also want to consider the possibility of a built-in bra. These are great for low-intensity training, but if you are looking for a tank to wear while running, or for cardio or HIIT, you may want to consider a traditional tank as your own sports bra will generally be more supportive.

How We Choose Our Products

To find the best options among the many workout tanks out there, we researched the top models available. We then took into account price, materials, size availability, range of motion, and extra features like SPF and ventilation. Finally, we consulted more than 1,900 reviews, written by people who've bought these models on sites like Amazon to settle on these six.

1

Most Flattering—Women's

Alo Yoga Women's Rib Support Tank

Sizes: XS-L

This Alo top is fully padded and has a built-in supportive bra. Made from 90% nylon, it is soft to the touch, but the spandex and ribbed knit make it flattering and form-fitting. It comes in five neutral and earth-toned color options, and sizes ranging XS to L. 

• Built-in bra
• Flattering, stretchy cut

• Not very size-inclusive
• Expensive

2

Best Ventilation—Women's

Outdoor Research Women's Echo Tank

Outdoor Research

Now 14% off

Sizes: XXS-XL

This top is super lightweight and great for hot summer training. Whether hiking, running, or cross training, this tank will help keep you cool. 

While ventilated across the entire surface, this tank is also SPF 15, which helps to protect you from long hours in the sun. It comes in eight different colors, and has a cute cutout style on the straps that elevates it beyond a typical workout tank. 

• Super breathable and ventilated
• Cute strap detailing

• SPF doesn't protect shoulders where the sun hits most

3

Most Sustainable—Women's

Sweaty Betty Energise Workout Tank

Sweaty Betty

Now 33% off

Sizes: XXS-XXL

Many workout clothes contribute negatively to climate change with micro-plastics and unsustainable production. This tank, however, focuses on sustainability by using 95% recycled polyester. It is moisture-wicking and has a lightweight, breathable feel. There are five color options, and this offering is size-inclusive, ranging from an XXS up to an XXL.

• Uses sustainable materials
• Neutral colors go with everything

• A bit pricey

4

Best Sun Protection—Men's

Outdoor Research Men's Echo Tank

Outdoor Research

Now 38% off

Sizes: S-XXL

This tank top is moisture-wicking, and great for every activity—running, hiking, lifting, you name it. It is odor-resistant, and has 15 SPF as well as having superior breathability, which helps to keep it cool. 

While technically a tank top, it does have a bit more shoulder coverage than a typical tank—this helps to protect your skin when spending a long time in the sun. 

• SPF protection
• Wide strap protects shoulder
• Super breathable

• Not the best color options

5

Most Comfortable—Men's

Alo Yoga Men's Practice Tank

Sizes: L-XXL

This yoga shirt is 100 percent cotton, which makes it feel both super soft and high-quality. It will stay cool for a bit, but since cotton is not a sweat-wicking material, it would be better suited for activities like yoga, hiking, or a brisk walk where you won't be perspiring too heavily. 

• Great for sensitive skin
• Super soft to the touch

• Not a lot of size options
• Not moisture-wicking

6

Best Overall—Men's

Adidas Men's Heathered Tank Top

Sizes: XS-5X 

This classic Adidas top comes in just about every color imaginable, and it is suited for a number of different activities. It is soft and breathable as well as being moisture-wicking, which makes it great for cardio, and the relaxed fit makes it a great option for big movements. It is also incredibly size-inclusive, ranging from XS up to 5X. 

• Size-inclusive
• Great for any activity

• Not all sizes available in every color

Gabrielle Hondorp Before joining Runner's World as an Editor in 2019, 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.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io