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7 Best Long-Sleeve Running Shirts
(Backed By Research)
If you’re a runner, and your long sleeves don’t hold up then it’s time to turn up your apparel game. Lucky for you, we’ve done the sleeve hunting and found the right long-sleeved shirt for you (well, 7 best long-sleeved running shirts, exactly). It wasn’t an easy task, but for money well spent on your side, it’s worth it.
For this, we compared and analyzed the wear comfort, versatility, and whether or not they’re machine-wash articles. So, let’s cut to the chase and head-on to our round-up on the 7 best long sleeve running shirts, you need to have.
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Quick Picks
- Best Overall – NIKE Women’s Dry Element 1/2 Zip Running Top is an excellent Nike running top that keeps you fresh all day with its Dri-Fit technology.
- Runner Up – Tommie Copper Men’s Pro-Grade Shoulder Support Shirt has 4D stretch compression fabric and shoulder support panels to keep your profile strong and confident.
- Best Budget Option – Merino 365 Women’s 100% New Zealand Merino, Long Sleeve Top is the go-to wear to regulate body temps while you take on bigger runs. Merino wool makes it super soft to wear.
1. NIKE Women’s Dry Element 1/2 Zip Running Top – Best for Everyone
The NIKE Women’s Dry Element 1/2 Zip Running Top is the go-to pick for outdoor workouts. Thanks to its half-zip closure and slim-fit design, it promises adjustable wear and is super comfortable for the skin. And wicks away sweat the second you break it.
Related Article: “11 Best Running Shirts For Heavy Sweaters (Runner’s Opinion)“
Most buyers love the size options, they’d pick it up for the upcoming birthdays. While some had a problem getting it machine washed, saying the sleeve unravels near the hand. Overall, it’s a solid buy.
Pros
- Comfortable interior fabric makes it easy to wear for outdoor errands
- The half-zip coverage is adjustable to the weather
- The Dri-Fit technology wicks away moisture instantly
Cons
- Limited color options
2. Tommie Copper Men’s Pro-Grade Shoulder Support Shirt I UPF 50, Long Sleeve Compression Shirt – Best for Posture Support
If you want all-day comfort, you can’t do better than Tommie Copper Men’s Pro-Grade Shoulder Support Shirt Long Sleeve Compression Shirt. This long-sleeved shirt has an ergonomic seaming and multi-layer panel to keep your running profile confident. Copper Znergy fabric technology engineers it to keep you fresh and sweat-free.
Customers love it’s well fit and keeps them odor-free. It doesn’t cause pressure on the shoulder, so it’s been classified as a hidden gem for a lot of buyers. However, for some buyers, the price is expensive, and have expressed concerns about quality control.
Pros
- The ergonomic seaming and multi-layer panels level up your posture.
- 4D stretch compression fabric makes it a stretchable all-day comfort wear.
- Patented Copper Znergy fabric technology keeps you sweat-free and odorless.
Cons
- Too pricey for a compression shirt.
3. Volt Women’s 5V Heated Thermal Half Zip – Best for Warming Your Body’s Core
For a warm feel and fashion-forward look, go for Volt Women’s 5V Heated Thermal Half Zip Perfect for Warming Your Body’s Core. With a 5000mAh battery, it supercharges heating with the dial adjustable to three settings. It’s machine wash, so it’s a must-have wardrobe essential for winter runs.
Buyers that picked it up love how it balances body temps, and think the battery compartment is a game changer. The machine wash is a plus but odd-size options don’t fit well for running in the cold.
Pros
- The 4-way stretch lets you get on your athletic spirit.
- The 5000 mAh battery keeps you nicely warm in chilly conditions
Cons
- Limited color options.
4. Gore Bike Wear Men’s M Mid Long Sleeve Zip Shirt – Best for Winter
The Gore Bike Wear Men’s M Mid Long Sleeve Zip Shirt promises a warm and versatile running experience. Made with 96% Polyester and 4% Elastane this shirt allows you to go full-on athletic mode. The long sleeve design and zipper closure are convenient features, making it a must-have for a winter workout wardrobe.
Buyers love how this shirt goes well with an undershirt on a sunny run, and the zipper gives it an edge against its competitors. The only downside is it comes in has limited size options.
Pros
- Warm wear for winter workouts.
- Made with 96% Polyester and 4% Elastane it’s a durable article.
Cons
- Dry Clean only which means it can be hard to maintain.
The Rhone Reign Men’s Long Sleeve Workout Shirt is a great wardrobe pick for runners in action. The Nylon and Polyester combo with a nice touch of Elastane makes it a super durable and flexible shirt. Thanks to moisture-wicking technology it’s odor-resistant, keeps you dry, and comes with base layers to keep you fresh all-day.
You can pair it with “9 Best Lightweight Running Jackets (Tried & Tested)” for extra coverage and stylish look during your running activities.
Runners with sensitive skin love this article, saying it’s super comfy and doesn’t cause chafing. However, some users have concerns regarding the lightweight nylon and polyester feel of the shirt. Overall, it’s one of the 7 best long-sleeved running shirts in your wardrobe.
Pros
- It’s a premium quality shirt made with nylon polyester and elastane.
- The moisture-wicking technology pulls away sweat instantly.
Cons
- Lacks material stretchability.
6. Merino 365 Women’s 100% New Zealand Merino, Long Sleeve Top, Thumbloops – Best for Long Running
The Merino 365 Women’s 100% New Zealand Merino, Long Sleeve Top is made with 100% New Zealand Merino wool. It is a great article for many physical activities including yoga and snowboarding. It features thumb loops and cuff binding and is the best women’s long-sleeved running shirt designed by women.
Buyers love to put it on as a top wear, and it fits nicely for hefty and muscular runners. Though the price is justified, it can run you into size problems, like being too lengthy at the torso.
Related Article: “Does Running Burn Belly Fat And Love Handles (5 Easy Tips)“
Pros
- Super soft and can wick up moisture easily.
- It’s a Crossfit for regular strolls and serious running.
- Features thumb loops and cuff bindings so it’s a nice buy for female runners.
Cons
- Lack of color options (Available in color rose only).
7. Long Sleeve Athletic Shirt for Men S – 4XL Dri Fit Performance Workout Shirt – Best for Athletes
Does your shirt shrink away, instantly? Try Long Sleeve Athletic Shirt for Men S – 4XL Dri Fit Performance Workout Shirt. These shirts are lightweight and breathable with 96% polyester and 4% spandex. It is a great buy for peak performance making them one of the best men’s long sleeve running shirts.
Related Article: “How Long Does It Take To Run 7 Miles [The Ultimate Guide]“
With great quality and soft to wear it is popular among runners, gym goers, and people who love to lounge for a weekend. However, some customers have found this shirt too baggy in the torso area.
Pros
- Lightweight, breathable, and can wick up moisture.
- Provides UPF 30+ UV protection which blocks away 97% of UV rays.
- Unbelievably soft and stretchy.
Cons
- A little bit warmer.
Buying Guide: Best Long-Sleeve Running Shirts
There’s nothing wrong with asking for buying advice or tips for running gear, especially if you don’t know where to start. Here’s a quick buying guide for the best long-sleeved running shirt to help you make a wise purchase.
1. Check Out Different Styles
You can explore the running aisle and look for the shirts that suit you best. Check out long-sleeved tees that go with the best long-sleeved running shirt for cold weather.
2. Fabric
Go with industry-leading fabrics like polyester or Lycra for better breathability. They can wick moisture easily and are super durable. And they can take up rounds of machine wash, all while maintaining a durable and comfortable feel.
3. Sizing Options
Yes, size matters. Go for anything in between close-fitting to loose ones based on your style and weather.
Close-fit shirts can tuck easily and are suitable for lengthy runs while loose picks are fit for relaxed strolls and casual jogs.
Related Article: “Long Distance Running Vs Sprinting (7 In-Depth Comparisons)“
4. Features
Does your favorite running shirt offer UV protection? Check again. Always go for running shirts with great features like quick-drying fabrics, and thumbholes add a nice touch to the whole article. That’s how you should spend your top dollar for the best men’s long-sleeved running top.
5. Should Weather The Storm
See if your running shirt goes well for a top tee or an undershirt. For sweaty runners, a good running shirt should wick the moisture instantly. It will keep you from rain or stormy winds. Go for the best long-sleeved running shirt for hot weather.
Related Article: “11 Best Running Shirts For Heavy Sweaters (Runner’s Opinion)“
Bottomline
You never know when nature’s thermostat might turn up. So it’s always a good idea to have the 7 best long sleeve running shirts ready to grab before you pound the pavement.
Before they go out of stock, I’d highly recommend you check out NIKE Women’s Dry Element 1/2 Zip Running Top for a high-performance workout. And Merino 365 Women’s 100% New Zealand Merino, if you’re on a tight running budget. And last but not least Tommie Copper Men’s Pro-Grade Shoulder Support Shirt as it comes with 4D stretch compression fabric and shoulder support panels for confidence running.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If that’s your style then yes. Wearing long-sleeved running shirts can help you cope with cold weather nicely so you can jog more passionately.
Nylon, hands-down. It can wick sweat, is breathable, and super stretchy so it’s a comfortable buy for lengthy runs.
Doesn’t matter. Running shirts should improve your running performance, and wick sweat effectively. Also, it’s a plus for running shirts to have UV protection.
