As an active person who loves to exercise, you know that wearing the right clothing for your sport or activity is absolutely necessary.
A quality sports shirt is comfortable, breathable, and sweat-wicking. It should also fit well and not hold onto odors. After all, you want to feel confident and supported in your sports shirt, not restricted or smelly.
But how do you find the best sports shirt for your needs? Here are some features to look for when shopping for a quality sports shirt.
Fabric Matters A Lot
Fabric is arguably the most important factor when it comes to activewear. The material needs to be breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy in order to keep you cool, dry, and unrestricted as you move.
A polyester shirt is a great choice as the fabric is durable, lightweight, and moisture-wicking. It can also resist wrinkles and fading. However, polyester can sometimes trap odors and feel scratchy on the skin.
Cotton is natural, soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. It can also absorb sweat and prevent chafing. But just like polyester, it can retain moisture and also tends to become heavy and saggy when wet.
That’s why you may want to go with “hybrid” blends. These fabrics combine two or more materials to create one that has the benefits of each. For example, a polyester-cotton blend can offer both moisture-wicking and breathability.
Other blends, like spandex, are ideal, as they offer both ventilation and flexibility.
Neckline and Style
An uncomfortable neckline that digs into your skin or constantly needs adjustment will drive you crazy mid-workout.
Pay attention to the collar style. Most shirts you will find will either be crew necks or V-necks. Crew necks offer ample and versatile coverage, while V-necks allow ventilation and mobility. They also tend to create a more flattering look for some people, especially those with broader shoulders or longer necks.
Taller mock necks are also an option you could go with. They’re particularly helpful in protecting you from the chill. Just ensure the front isn’t too tight or high.
You could also opt for a tank top. As they have no sleeves and expose your arms and shoulders, they can offer more breathability and freedom, especially for hot weather or high-intensity workouts.
Fit and Fabric Weight
Heavier fabrics can feel constricting and weigh you down during activity. That’s you should look for shirts constructed from porous, lightweight microfiber materials. The lighter and breathable, the better, as this enables heat and moisture to properly dissipate.
You also want to find a shirt with an optimal fit – not too tight, yet not too loose. The best fit allows you to move without restrictions or irritation. Seek a fit tailored to your body type that still enables a full range of motion.
Other Features To Consider
Besides the fabric, fit, and style of your sports shirt, there are some other features that you may want to look for. For instance, some sports shirts have UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) ratings that indicate how well they can block harmful UV rays from the sun.
Some other quality sports shirts have antimicrobial or anti-odor treatments that can prevent or reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause bad smells.
Finding Quality Sports Shirts: Summing Up
The right wear makes all the difference in your exercise or workout. Finding a top that checks all the boxes for your sport and fitness level takes some savvy shopping. Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll secure a stellar sports shirt that performs as hard as you do.
