If there’s a piece of men’s clothing that could be considered underrated, it’s the tank top. While many of us may associate tank tops with gym bros who wouldn’t physically fit into a t-shirt, the men’s tank top is actually an incredibly versatile piece of clothing that all men should get behind.
Yes, they’re incredibly useful to wear to the gym, as they can help promote greater movement in your upper body, along with offering greater airflow. But, they’re also a perfect summer staple and something that men should feel comfortable wearing even if their arms don’t exactly resemble Chris Hemsworth’s.
Men’s tank tops can also be used as a layering piece, being able to be worn underneath unbuttoned shirts, for example, making for a clean yet casual look that offers instant style points.
Fortunately, men’s clothing brands have realised the appeal of the tank top, and so you’ll now find numerous brands producing their own versions. There are slightly different styles of tank top, and this most usually relates to the width of the material over the shoulder and the size of the opening underneath the armpit. We’ll admit, the tight-fitting tank tops with small straps should probably best be avoided.
Men’s Tank Tops FAQs
What is considered a tank top?
A knitted piece of clothing, covering the upper part of the body that has no leaves. Usually, it has wide shoulder straps and no front opening.
Can you wear tank tops under t-shirts?
Yes. You can wear it under a t-shirt, especially in warm weather as it effectively absorbs chest and back sweat. Also, if your t-shirt is a little coarse, wearing a tank top underneath can help avoid chaffing.
Should tank tops be loose or tight fitting?
It depends on how you want to style it and the purpose for its use. If you want to primarily wear it as activewear, It should fall just below your belt loops and should be a little loose and billowy. It shouldn't be super tight, hugging the skin. However, if you want to wear a super fitted and snug tank purely in the name of fashion, go for it!
You May Also Like:
But the search for a game-changing tank top can be a tricky task, so we’ve rounded up the best examples that will see you stroll through summer in style.
Vuori
1/18Price: From $48
Sizes: S -XXL
Origin: Encinitas, California
Customer Reviews: “It’s extremely soft and comfortable. It’s fitted without being tight. Design is proportional. Too can be worn to the gym and as well just when one is out and about.”
In 2015, Joe Kudla launched Vuori after noticing a gap in the activewear marketplace. In just three short years, his small business transformed into a multi-million-dollar empire. Inspired by the Californian Coastal lifestyle, Vuori provides a new perspective on athletic wear as its mission is to create products that empower connections with fitness, nature, creativity, and community. Vuori apparel is made for the toughest workouts and encourages you to run harder, jump higher and move quicker.
Their tank tops are made from Strato tech, a material so soft that Vuori boldly claims their tank top is the “softest piece of workout clothing on the planet”. It also wicks away moisture from your skin, perfect for when you’re working out or even just taking a stroll around during the day in the sun, and even benefits from UPF 30+ protection.
Alo Yoga
2/18Price: From $74
Sizes: S – XL
Origin: Los Angeles, California
Customer Reviews: “The cut is flattering, comfortable, and the material is completely breathable.”
Perfect for yogis everywhere, Alo Yoga is the celeb-approved activewear brand selling fast. Much of its success can be attributed to the fact the clothing is of genuinely high-quality and is designed so well that it can comfortably double up as everyday wear, and not just something to pull on for a 45-minute session on a yoga mat.
The Amplify Seamless Muscle Tee is a jersey tank made from seamless knit construction, allowing for extra flexibility through its breathable engineering and heathered design. Complete with four-way stretch and wicking properties, you’ll be able to release your chakras in complete comfort.
Todd Snyder
3/18Price: From $58
Sizes: XS – XXL
Origin: New York
Customer Reviews: “I was hesitant to purchase this because of the reviews saying it feels cheap etc. Completely false. I wanted a tank that was soft and noticeably nicer. This is it. I feel I got exactly what I hoped it would be. A solid, high quality tank. Definitely recommend.”
Launching his eponymous fashion label in 2011, Todd Snyder has widely become a style expert for the modern gentleman. Defining style in unexpected ways, Snyder infuses his love for New York into the DNA of his brand.
Todd Snyder just has the one tank top design in its arsenal, but in true Todd Snyder fashion, it’s pretty damn perfect. The Made in L.A. tank top could just be one of the best basic tank tops we’ve seen. Garment-dyed for rich, unique colour (there are four to choose from) and texture that lasts for a long time, this eye-capturing tank top is made from materials that are super comfy and flattering, proving good style can be attainable and playful too.
Rhone
4/18Price: From $58
Sizes: XS – XXL
Origin: Stamford, Connecticut
Customer Reviews: “The perfect performance tank. I used this for a recent half marathon and it did not disappoint.”
Like the Mediterranean Sea it’s named after, Rhone is as purposeful as it is aesthetically pleasing. Their motto, “inspire one another in the pursuit of progress”, is evident in the design of their activewear as they are all about form and function. They often pair the world’s finest fabrics with some cutting edge technology.
While Rhone insists its Reign tank top can be worn from “the beach to the bar and back again,” if we had one, we would probably just wear it to the gym. The close cut underneath the armpit gives it a more athletic aesthetic, in our opinion. This is no bad thing, of course, as a workout top, you can’t get much better, since Rhone is an absolute king of developing incredibly effective materials for working out.
Lululemon
5/18Price: From $68
Sizes: XS – XXL
Origin: Vancouver, Canada
Customer Reviews: “I love this fabric. Good length and arm hole is a good depth.”
Lululemon was founded by Chip Wilson in British Columbia, Vancouver in 1998. Wilson, created the company name to have many L’s so that it would sound western to Japanese buyers – who usually have difficulty pronouncing the letter. Lululemon offers some of the best technical apparel designed for every type of workout (not just yoga, as some tend to believe), which includes a range of some of the best tank tops on the market.
Lululemon’s range includes tank tops well-suited to everyday wear, along with those that are best worn in the gym. The Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless 2.0 is a perfect all-rounder in our opinion, offering a slightly relaxed fit and being available in a good choice of colours. The material itself benefits from Silverescent technology which promises to prevent odour build-up, and a seamless construction prevents chafing.
On Running
6/18Price: From $100
Sizes: S – XXL
Origin: Zürich, Switzerland
Customer Reviews: “I’ve always liked the cut of these tanks. They accent your shoulders and the fit is perfect.”
From humble beginnings in Zürich, Switzerland, three friends had plans to change the world of running. Starting out as a labour of love, Caspar Coppetti, Olivier Bernhard, and David Allemann revolutionised activewear and it’s safe to say, nearly a decade after, with over 6,500 premium retail stores in over 50 countries, they’ve done just that.
Their tank tops for men are of some of the highest quality as they’re designed for specific weather and styles of exercising. Whether you’re going on a cold run in the morning or working out in the humidity, On Running, have tank tops for every occasion.
Tracksmith
7/18Price: From $62
Sizes: XS – XL
Origin: New England, USA
Customer Reviews: “This is the first tank I’ve tried-out for longer distance runs and I loved it. I was worried about chafing on the side seams and the interior of my arms due to being a broader bodied person, but I had zero issues after 14 miles. The tank is light-weight, breathable, and quick to dry. I will be adding more to my rotation.”
When Tracksmith launched, they commissioned British illustrator Gary Chalk to create their own original brand image of a hare. The company named the hare “Eliot”, a tribute to the legendary Eliot Lounge in Boston. Helping you achieve personal excellence, Tracksmith is an independent running brand offering well-crafted and authentic products for workouts and rest days.
Their men’s tank tops are created from breathable knitwear that will make you feel exceptionally light and are finished with ‘coldblack’ to deliver UV protection and minimize heat absorption, perfect for those exposed to sunlight over extended periods.
Gymshark
8/18Price: From $20
Sizes: XS – 3XL
Origin: Solihull, England
Customer Reviews: “This was my first purchase from gym shark and I’m extremely impressed. Amazing well made clothing, incredible range, fantastic fit and price. Going forward gym shark will be my 1st choice of gym wear.”
Dedicated to creating game-changing workout clothing, Gymshark will have you performing to the absolute max. Everything they design always considers their customers achieving their best results.
A leader in simplicity, they offer some of the best tank tops for men, in a huge range of colours and styles, and all for an affordable price. One of their newer pieces, the Critical Drop Arm Tank 2.0 is perfect for training in while complimenting your physique. Made from a combination of cotton and polyester with a hint of elastane for some stretch, you’ll be able to train harder than you have before.
GAP
9/18Price: From $35
Sizes: XS – 3XL
Origin: San Francisco, California
Customer Reviews: “The fit was just right for me especially since I do HIIT classes almost every day. The quality of the material used is also top notch.”
Founded in 1969 by Donald Fisher and Doris F. Fisher, the company operates six primary divisions, so it’s no surprise GAP is the largest speciality retailer in the United States and an absolute staple when it comes to activewear. Especially considering they make some of the best tank tops.
GAP Fit Active tank tops for men are designed to “move with you every step of the way,” courtesy of the soft and breathable materials made from 72% recycled polyester.
ASOS Design
10/18Price: From $16
Sizes: 2XS – XXL
Origin: London, United Kingdom
Customer Reviews: “Really great even when you are not athletic. Basic but with cool vibe.”
Everybody’s favourite rabbit hole to fall into when online shopping, ASOS, began in London, in 2000. The website sells over 850 brands as well as its own range of clothing and accessories called ASOS Design.
Whether you’re working out or wearing casually, ASOS Design has a collection of graphic tank tops ranging from the classic V neck tank, a jersey tank, to a scoop neck, there is a bucket load to choose from and many featuring high-quality materials at an affordable price. There’s fashionable sportswear too, with many ribbed, camis and knit tank tops, that would pair effortlessly with some high waisted jeans. You can’t go wrong.
Abercrombie & Fitch
11/18Price: From $27
Sizes: XXS – 3XL
Origin: New Albany, Ohio
Customer Reviews: “Super comfortable. Made with Soft and stretchy fabric. Fits me well. Does my body justice. Excellent quality. Is not sheer see through. Great top to go bra-less. Definitely recommended.”
Abercrombie & Fitch is a leading, global retailer of apparel and accessories for men, women, and kids through five renowned brands. Born in 1892, Abercrombie & Fitch aims to make every day feel as exceptional as the ‘start of a long weekend’.
With enduring quality and excellent comfort, customers globally can express their individuality and style through the brand’s apparel. Their easy-fitting lightweight tank tops not only serve for high-function, but they also offer striking patterns and designs, making you feel confident while staying active.
Sunspel
12/18Price: From $50
Sizes: XS – XXL
Origin: Nottingham, England
Customer Reviews: “Sunspel makes truly excellent, simple, classic clothing. I really don’t think that you can beat them from a product perspective.”
Founded in 1822 by Thomas Arthur Hill, British clothing brand Sunspel is behind some of our best-loved pieces, including the humble t-shirt. Even now, the label continues to refine its designs while always striving for originality.
Their signature white tank top is made from 100% cotton and features a scoop neck, a sleeveless design, and a straight hem. Exceptionally comfortable and perfect for wearing to the gym or the office. Its simple, yet effective design, makes it suitable to add a layer or two. This tank would go well with an overshirt blazer or sports jacket.
Organic Basics
13/18Price: From $62
Sizes: S – XXL
Origin: Copenhagen, Denmark
Customer Reviews: “Months ago, I purchased some of their Tencel products and I am very satisfied with their quality, fit and sustainable packaging. Compared to cotton there are almost no signs of wear.”
As the name suggests, Organic Basics believe in sustainable fashion production. With underwear, activewear, and essentials made ethically in Europe with eco-friendly materials including a blend of organic cotton, a wood pulp fibre called Tencel, and other recycled materials.
It also uses renewable energy in its supply chain to reduce its climate impact. Their eco-friendly materials limit the number of chemicals, water, and wastewater used in production. Their soft tank tops are made from Tencel and are soft and smoother than regular cotton. Very flattering as well, with its scoop neck and slim fit style.
Reebok
14/18Price: From $40
Sizes: S – XL
Origin: Bolton, United Kingdom
Customer Reviews: “This shirt keeps me cool. I live in South Carolina so summers are hot and humid. The shirt is not clingy or heavy like cotton. Wicks sweat away from your skin. Well built and showing no signs of wear after a half dozen wash cycles. Worth the price.”
The American footwear and clothing company – also a brand of Adidas, has been distributing high-quality fitness, running and CrossFit sportswear since 1958. Their gym wear and tanks are great for a high-intensity workout session as it’s made with lightweight knit fabric from recycled materials.
Many of their tanks are non-dye, eliminating the dyeing process to help save energy, chemicals and water. Also, singlets are made from organic cotton or recycled polyester. Reebok is not only making sportswear fashionable but eco-friendly too.
Under Armour
15/18Price: From $40
Sizes: XS – 3XL
Origin: Baltimore, Maryland
Customer Reviews: “Amazing fit and comfort perfect for both weight training and cardio. Great fabric cool and style. Love this shirt.”
You may have seen their activewear on the small and big screen, as Under Armour claims its big break came when featured in Oliver Stone’s film, ‘Any Given Sunday.’
While flattering the fibres, Under Armour have created innovative textiles that quickly pull heat away from the skin, designed to keep you cool during some of the most intense workouts. Their Iso-Chill fabric built into their tanks help disperse body heat. Also, not to mention, its four-way stretch construction moves extremely well in every direction, with sweat drying up quickly.
Adidas
16/18Price: From $27
Sizes: XS – XXL
Origin: Bavaria, Germany
Customer Reviews: “Soft material. Quite a versatile item. For sleep/ gym or beach.”
It’s hard to believe this revolutionary sportswear empire began in a small town in Bavaria, Germany. Adidas founder Adi Dassler registered the ‘Gebrüder Dassler Schuhfabrik’, while in his mother’s wash kitchen in 1924. Dassler had one main goal – to provide athletes with the best possible equipment.
Even today, their singlets and tanks for men are endurable in any workout. Whether you’re playing rugby, going for a jog, there’s a top for every occasion. Their Primeblue tank is a high seller, thanks to its lightweight and robust materials. The top is also moisture-managing and aerodynamic.
NIKE
17/18Price: From $28
Sizes: XS – 4XL
Origin: Beaverton, Oregon
Customer Reviews: “I have a few of these because the fit is great and feel of the material is quality.”
NIKE has been a major producer of sports equipment and apparel since 1964. Initially known under a different name – Blue Ribbon Sports, the company officially became NIKE in 1971, named after the Greek goddess of victory.
NIKE often creates some of the most colourful and unique activewear. These festive tank tops are incredibly lightweight, giving you heaps of mobility while you run.
New Balance
18/18Price: From $30
Sizes: XS – XXL
Origin: Boston, Massachusetts
Customer Reviews: “Excellent value for money. I really like the design, it is elegant, discreet and comfortable. Very good choice for running or for use in the gym.”
The American sports footwear and apparel brand was established in 1906 and was originally associated with the New Balance Arch Support Company. It’s now offering some cutting-edge workout tops with its NB DRYx and NB ICEx technologies. The Impact Run Singlet wicks away moisture, allowing you to stay cool and dry on your run. Their mesh singlet also has added ventilation, allowing for optimal airflow and ultra-comfort while you work up a sweat.