Are you looking for big and tall workout tops? To find the right one, you’ll need to examine a few key features, including fit, flexibility, comfort and construction quality. The Under Armour Tech 2.0 Short-Sleeve T-Shirt is a high-quality performance t-shirt praised for its made-to-last design and an excellent choice, but there are plenty more.
Big and tall sizing includes the categories big, tall and big and tall.
Big sizing: Big sizing includes styles that are 3XL and above. These are cut generously across the shoulders, chest and torso. Additionally, many styles have broader and longer sleeves. Some big shirts also feature more spacious necklines.
Tall sizing: Tall sizing, expressed as “LT,” as in “4XLT,” begins at a size large and continues through big sizing. These sizes designs’ are for men who are 6 foot 2 inches tall and often have longer torsos and arms. As a result, shirts in this range will have longer sleeves and hemlines.
Big and tall sizing: Big and tall sizing, as their name implies, includes a combination of the style and fit features listed above. For example, a workout top in big and tall sizes may be available in sizes 3X, 3XL or 3XLT.
It’s imperative to try on and move around in a few workout options so that you know the correct size and fit. Here are a few tests to help determine whether the shirt fits well and will be comfortable for working out:
While cotton was once the go-to option for workout tops, it’s now one of many options.
Cotton blends, which may include a mix of polyester, spandex, rayon or elastane, are appreciated for their durability and flexible fits. These blends are generally color-fast and won’t warp or shrink much in the wash.
Polyester and polyester blends have become popular material options, mainly for their cool and lightweight feel. They’re also fade and shrink-resistant. Not to mention, they don’t wrinkle as much as cotton or cotton blends.
Some big and tall workout shirts have wick-away properties, in which they sweep moisture away from the body. Not only does this keep wearers cool, but it also expedites drying. As a result, wearers can power through tough workouts without feeling weighed down by a sweat-soaked shirt.
A few workout tops on the market have anti-odor properties that trap and manage odors until washed. Some of these tops utilize an infusion of charcoal or feature proprietary material blends. While it seems to be a desirable feature, there’s a mixed reaction from consumers on how successful these shirts are at controlling odor.
Plain cotton t-shirts cost $20 and below, whereas better-quality blends, including those with wick-away properties, cost $20-$40. Performance workout tops from top brands may run as high as $75.
A. Some workout clothes are more expensive because of the label. However, others are expensive because they have better construction and may outlast cheaper styles. Many affordable options are of good quality, though they may lack specialty features, such as wick-away properties.
A. It depends. Relaxed-fit workout tops usually have enough room to accommodate base layers like undershirts or thermal shirts. However, it’s likely a good idea to size up with fitted tops if you plan on wearing them with base layers.
Under Armour Tech 2.0 Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
What you need to know: A long-standing customer favorite, this Under Armour t-shirt receives praise for its comfortable, relaxed fit.
What you’ll love: It’s made with Under Armour’s quick-dry, anti-odor material that sweeps sweat away from skin, washes well, won’t shrink or warp over time and is available in dozens of colors. The soft crewneck also won’t irritate skin.
What you should consider: Some consumers felt the material was a bit too thin. There are mixed reviews regarding fit.
Where to buy: Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Kohl’s
Russell Athletic Cotton Performance Short Sleeve T-Shirt
What you need to know: This classic cotton t-shirt is ideal for those seeking a plain workout top that gets the job done without breaking the bank.
What you’ll love: Made with a soft blend of cotton and polyester, that is also wick-away. Wearers appreciate the longer hem. It has a UPF 30+ rating that blocks out UV rays. It fits well across the chest and in the shoulders.
What you should consider: Even with polyester in its blend, this t-shirt may end up fading.
Where to buy: Amazon
Nike Big & Tall Dri-FIT Swoosh Training Tee
What you need to know: Unlike many other big and tall styles, this Nike tee’s size range includes tall sizes.
What you’ll love: This t-shirt is well-made and well-cut. It runs true to size and gives wearers plenty of room across the upper back to accommodate weight lifting and stretching. The cotton and polyester blend retains its shape well.
What you should consider: The logo may crack or deteriorate after so many washes.
Where to buy: Dick’s Sporting Goods and Kohl’s
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Sian Babish writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
