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The 22 Best Tank Tops for Men, Tried and Tested by Style Editors

Let your underarms breathe—and show off your biceps.

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TANK TOPS FOR men aren’t just for showing off your guns. In fact, the right sans-sleeve tops are pretty stylish, while giving your underarms some breathing room. The trick to finding the right tank top: opt for comfortable and cooling fabrics that are not too tight or flashy. That way you wear it as an undershirt to manage sweat, or as a base layer with a camp collar shirt.

Don’t be afraid to wear a tank top on its own, even if you don’t have biceps like Jake Gyllenhall in the Roadhouse remake. Just make sure you find one that fits a little relaxed, with a neckline that doesn’t drop past your pecs, and a fabric that isn’t transparent. Of course, workout shirts and undershirts should fit snugly, but we’ll cover when to wear which type below.

Best Tank Tops for Men

  • 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

    Best overall tank top

    Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

    $28 at Mack Weldon
    Read more
  • Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

    Best classic ribbed tank top

    Hanes Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

    Read more
  • Tech Stretch Tank T-Shirt

    Best budget tank top

    Amazon Essentials Tech Stretch Tank T-Shirt

    Read more
  • Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt Updated

    Best workout tank top

    Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt Updated

    Read more
  • Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top

    Best undershirt tank top

    Calvin Klein Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top

    Read more

Our style experts have sourced and tried on over 45 singlets to find the 20 best tank tops for men below, from performance tank tops that are ready to hit the gym to breathable cotton tank tops that are versatile and cozy to statement tank tops that will shine on their own. So go forth and be your best tank-top-clad self to soak up the sunlight—and onlookers' attention—in breezy, sleeveless panache.

What to Consider

Material

100% cotton tanks are often the gold standard since the material is soft, breathable, and absorbs and retains heat. But cotton doesn't perform the best on blazing, sweaty days and can leave you feeling clammy. That is why polyester is a go-to for moisture-wicking, quick-drying tank tops that still feel soft. Nylon is another great material to consider because of its cooling ability and natural stretch. Blended fabrics that have more than one of the above are our recommendations for athletic or active guys.

Fit

While it’s easier for athletic guys to look great in all kinds of tank tops, men of any shape and body type indeed will look just as well, if they’ve found the right fit. A slim fit, for instance, hugs the torso just right and is more muscle-friendly—and often the default for undershirt tank tops. Classic fit in muscle tanks is loose and relaxed and great for being worn on their own—as well as hiding unwanted dad bod.

Occasion

Where or why you wear tank tops matters more than you think. For instance, lifestyle tank tops that you want to wear on their own while running errands or lounging or committing should be left untucked and come in a relaxed fit. The same goes for workout tank tops since you'll want more room to move in. In both cases, the length can be short or long. But for undershirt tank tops, the fit must be slim to make laying easier and more comfortable, and the length should be long so you can tuck it into your pants.

How We Chose

To curate the best tank tops for men, our editors and writers have personally tried on and tested a variety of styles from over two dozen menswear brands. Well known labels, like Calvin Klein, Nike, and Hanes, have seen years of wear from many of the contributors to this list. Newer brands like Alo, Fear of God, and Reigning Champ underwent weeks, or even months, of field testing to get a feel for fit, construction, and feel.

Each tank top was examined based on designed use. For undershirts, we took notes on how snug the fit was, how the seams felt, how it felt after a long day of wear, and visibility underneath other shirts. Athletic singlets saw hours at the gym, on the run, and many classes to determine flexibility, breathability, moisture control, and any chafing issues. Fashion tops were examined for styling versatility, comfort, and breathability. Every single shirt was considered for how well it stood up in the wash, how well it was constructed, and how the price compared to overall value.

Best overall tank top

Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank
Best overall tank top

Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

$28 at Mack Weldon
Pros
  • Discount bundles available
  • Soft modal blend
  • Stretchy fabric
Cons
  • Too short for some guys to tuck in
  • A little high in the armpit

Mack Weldon effortlessly churns out menswear essentials that we want to buy in bulk, just like this soft jersey rib tank that we put to the test on F1 Star Daniel Ricciardo as well as Michael B. Jordan, whose sculpted physiques were thoroughly flattered in it.

Made with a special cotton blend that holds its shape under any shirt, the brand actually waits 18 hours—which is how long it takes for the material to fully expand— before cutting the fabric into a tank silhouette, thus creating the perfect fit that won’t lose its shape (even after repeated wear). Our testing also shows that the cotton is breathable, and is blended with silky-yet-durable modal and a dose of stretchy Lycra for taking on any undershirt-required occasion.

Read more: Best Compression Shirts for Men

Material48% Cotton, 47% modal, 5% spandex
FitForm fitting
UseUndershirt
Best classic ribbed tank top

Hanes Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack
Best classic ribbed tank top

Hanes Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

Pros
  • Very affordable
  • Softens with use
  • Multiple amount packs available
Cons
  • Gets dingy if not washed with whites
  • Can stretch out over time

Remember what we said about forward-thinking menswear brands? We're referring to Hanes, which updated its classic white undershirt with a performance fabric that cools and wicks away moisture for layering this under button-downs while stylishly keeping your cool.

Our Fashion Director Ted Stafford especially loves it as an undershirt, which is why we had fitfluencer Logan Aldridge put it on and tested it out. The result is expected: The tank top scores high on softness, breathability, and fit.

Material100% Cotton
FitForm fitting
UseUndershirt, casual
Best budget tank top

Amazon Essentials Tech Stretch Tank T-Shirt

Tech Stretch Tank T-Shirt
Best budget tank top

Amazon Essentials Tech Stretch Tank T-Shirt

Pros
  • Very affordable
  • Stretchy
  • Hides sweat well
Cons
  • Only two similar colors available
  • Armpit is a bit high

For a tank top that is definitely not an undershirt, this one from Amazon ticks all the right boxes. Having tried it on ourselves, we love its slim-but-not-tight fit which makes it versatile for workouts or daily wear, and the super soft fabric to me has held its shape even after several washes.

While I’ve dealt with Amazon products that are just frustrating performance-wise, this tank top’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking knit fabric with gentle stretch has not disappointed me—at the gym or under the sun

Material95% Polyester, 5% elastane
FitSlim
UseCasual, athletic
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Best workout tank top

Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt Updated

Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt Updated
Best workout tank top

Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt Updated

Pros
  • Seamless construction
  • Strong moisture control
  • Odor fighting fabric blend
Cons
  • Expensive for an athletic tank top

You should never feel tied down or limited during a workout, and after Lululemon finally gave its best-selling, editor-tested workout shirt the upgrade it deserves, you never will.

During our testing and comparison, we found that the new Metal Vent Tech singlet is cut and fitted so that you have a full, free range of motion as you hit sprints and take on curls. But it's updated with a seamless (read: chafe-less) build, and the fit and weight now feel much less clingy on sweaty skin.

After testing it out through numerous gym sessions, I notice that this tank now comes with more stretch than ever as well. In short, the cult-fav tee is as breathable as its predecessor but now more comfortable and durable to sport for hours on end, wear after wear.

Material53% Nylon, 40% polyester, 4% elastane, 3% X-static® nylon
FitSlim
UseAthletic
Best undershirt tank top

Calvin Klein Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top

Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top
Best undershirt tank top

Calvin Klein Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top

Now 30% Off
Pros
  • Soft feel
  • Available in multipacks
  • Loose arm hole
Cons
  • Only comes in black and white
  • Holds on to moisture

When it comes to Calvin Klein underwear, the boxer briefs get all the attention. As it turns out, the brand makes a really nice ribbed tank top as well. The fit is just right, not too deep in the neck and just loose enough in the arm holes, which is vital for an undershirt. Where this Calvin really shines though, is the soft and breathable 100% cotton fabric. For comparison, the famed boxer briefs are only 95% cotton.

Wearing a form fitting undershirt tank top as an exposed base layer is totally a look right now, and this is the perfect option to give it a try. If you’re wearing your tank under a suit or blazer, tuck it in. For a more casual look with an open button down shirt, you can tuck it in or leave it out.

Material100% Cotton
FitForm fitting
UseUndershirt
Best graphic tank top

Nike Sportswear Club Graphic Tank Top

Sportswear Club Graphic Tank Top
Best graphic tank top

Nike Sportswear Club Graphic Tank Top

Now 32% Off
Pros
  • Light fabric
  • Graphic on front and back
Cons
  • Arm holes are a little hight

Not all athletic tank tops fit like a glove. This one from Nike has a looser fit, similar to your average t-shirt, with a relatively high neckline for a tank. It comes in a modern cotton blend fabric, which has a little give, doesn’t hold onto moisture, and feels light and soft to the touch. You can feel the performance while training, or while chilling during the dog days of summer.

The ‘90s-esque graphics, with neon colors and some tie dye, add a little bold splash to any low key summer outfit. Just add shorts and a pair of sandals to face the daytime heat. If you’re heading out at night, throw a long sleeve chambray shirt over top and leave the front unbuttoned.

MaterialCotton/polyester blend
FitLoose
UseAthletic, casual
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Best running tank top

New Balance Athletics Singlet

Athletics Singlet
Best running tank top

New Balance Athletics Singlet

Pros
  • Very light weight
  • Doesn't hold sweat
  • Excellent air flow
Cons
  • Only for the warmest weather
  • Can look cropped on taller guys

After years of testing out many athletic singlets, this became my go-to running tank top. The super fine mesh lets air flow through without chafing and keeps the weight so light, you barely feel anything on the move. New Balance got the length just right by cropping it a bit shorter than standard tank tops and t-shirts, which also increases airflow by minimizing overlap with your shorts.

My favorite part about this athletic tank is that it also doubles as a casual top or undershirt. Since it is solid black, with one understated logo, it is easy to style. The fabric is lighter and breezier than pretty much any fashion tank top out there.

Material100% polyester
FitBoxy, short
UseAthletic, casual
Best flashy sport tank top

La Sportiva Dude Tank Top

Dude Tank Top
Best flashy sport tank top

La Sportiva Dude Tank Top

Now 20% Off
Pros
  • High visibility
  • Soft feel
Cons
  • Holds sweat
  • No stretch

La Sportiva specializes in gear for rock climbing and other alpine sports. The Italian brand’s bestselling tank is designed to stand out, whether you’re ascending a climbing wall or just chilling poolside. Pure organic cotton was chosen because it is sturdy, breathable, and ages well. On the down side, it will hold onto sweat more than synthetic fabrics.

The slim fit, with a slight hourglass taper of the body, should prevent any snagging without constricting movement in any way. In a unique twist, several solid colored panels are sewn together to achieve this specific look and fit. For a more modest look, a less flashy blue and gray version is available.

Material100% cotton
FitSlim
UseAthletic, casual
Most fashionable tank top

Fear of God Cotton-Jersey Tank Top

Cotton-Jersey Tank Top
Most fashionable tank top

Fear of God Cotton-Jersey Tank Top

Pros
  • Comfortably loose fit
  • Neutral color
  • Soft fabric
Cons
  • Long in the body
  • Fabric is a little heavy

Everything Fear of God makes, this cotton tank top included, is cut loose and flowy without looking baggy or sloppy. The shoulders are a little broader than you’re probably used to, and the body is on the longer side, with a deep “U” shaped neck. Even though the colors are solid earth tones, the fit makes it a strong stand alone top.

Comfort is always key with the best tank tops, but it is especially true with this one. The slightly oversized fit works best with wider cut pants, especially something with a drawstring. If you’re wearing shorts, go for a longer inseam that hits closer to the knee because this tank is extra long.

Material100% Cotton
FitLoose, long
UseCasual
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Best vacation tank top

Ser.o.ya Toby Tank - Beige

Toby Tank - Beige
Best vacation tank top

Ser.o.ya Toby Tank - Beige

Now 57% Off
Pros
  • Very light weight
  • Allows plenty of air flow
  • Easy to style
Cons
  • Can fit a little long
  • Needs to be tucked in as an undershirt

Vacation fits call for relaxed tanks. Take this one from Ser.o.ya, which has a deep cut neck and arm holes that feel like a breeze to move in. The fabric is so thin that it is nearly sheer, but the fit is a little baggy and drapes loosely over your torso. This combination keeps the weight and coverage minimal without being showy.

A great travel tank top can be styled in multiple ways. This one is light enough to be a base layer, with a long sleeve button down or light sweater over top. On warmer days, wear a short sleeve camp collar shirt overtop with the front left open. It can also be worn solo with swim trunks and sandals.

Material100% Polyester
FitStraight, long
UseCasual, undershirt
Best muscle tank top

Alo Yoga The Triumph Muscle Tank

The Triumph Muscle Tank
Best muscle tank top

Alo Yoga The Triumph Muscle Tank

Pros
  • Very soft
  • Modest fit
  • Wide color variety
Cons
  • Neck is a bit tight

Breathable and sweat-wicking, this muscle tank moves easily, which is perfect for yoga, stretching, and running. And while I've dealt with muscle tanks that scream 'gym bro,' this one has a classic fit and a neat look that's understatedly versatile. The light, soft jersey fabric also makes it great for indoor and outdoor lounging.

Huge color variety is another benefit of this comfy muscle shirt. Alo keeps six core colors on hand year round - black, white, navy, gray, charcoal, and tan - along with five or six additional colors that are updated each season. Finding the right color fit in with your workout gear is no problem.

Material50% Polyester, 25% cotton, 25% rayon
FitSlim
UseAthletic, casual
Most versatile tank op

Todd Snyder Made in L.A. Tank Top

Made in L.A. Tank Top
Most versatile tank op

Todd Snyder Made in L.A. Tank Top

Pros
  • Made in USA
  • Sturdy fabric
  • Easy to style
Cons
  • Pricy for a basic cotton tank
  • Only three colors

A favorite in our fashion closet is this casual lean tank that can be worn on its own on the dog days of summer. But since the brand elevates the summer staple with a premium cotton jersey that is softer than soft, it doubles as a tasteful undershirt.

In my experience, whether it’s a bomber jacket, shacket, or camp shirt that I throw on top of it, this tank has always stolen the spotlight from the rest of my fits. The sturdy cotton holds onto the shape nicely and the neck drops just right, not too high and not too low.

Material100% jersey cotton
FitSlim
UseCasual, athletic
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Best no-show tank top

2(X)IST Essential Cotton Square-Cut Tank 2-Pack

Essential Cotton Square-Cut Tank 2-Pack
Best no-show tank top

2(X)IST Essential Cotton Square-Cut Tank 2-Pack

Now 32% Off
Pros
  • Low neck line
  • Naturally stretchy
Cons
  • Can shrink in the wash

In our experience, this is the low-cut neckline that’ll really nail a no-show look for undershirts. Otherwise, this tank also has a lean fit that contours to your body—but doesn’t feel tight like spandex—so that it won’t intrude on your outer layer garment.

It’s comfortable and soft, too. Though our testing shows that it doesn’t have any natural stretch because it’s fully cotton, the spacious arm room and light fabric do let you move with ease.

Material100% Cotton
FitForm fitting
UseUndershirt
Most comfortable tank top

Reigning Champ Lightweight Jersey Tank Top

Lightweight Jersey Tank Top
Most comfortable tank top

Reigning Champ Lightweight Jersey Tank Top

Pros
  • Ribbed collar and arm holes
  • Sturdy preshrunk cotton
Cons
  • Holds on to moisture
  • A bit heavy

This cotton tank top is really a star on its own. The softest caresses your skin and simply does not give out after several wash. But our favorite part is its athletic slim fit which is preshrunk to look nice even beefy, brawny guys. With more room at the chest, it’ll do justice to your years of hard work at the gym.

Something that stands out immediately when you put this tank on is the hefty ribbing that goes around the collar and arm holes. It feels like an old school basketball jersey, with a "they don't make 'em like they used to" sturdiness to the preshrunk jersey cotton.

Material100% cotton
FitSlim
UseCasual
Best Pocket Tank top

Carhartt Relaxed Fit Heavyweight Sleeveless Pocket T-Shirt

Relaxed Fit Heavyweight Sleeveless Pocket T-Shirt
Best Pocket Tank top

Carhartt Relaxed Fit Heavyweight Sleeveless Pocket T-Shirt

Pros
  • Carhartt logo pocket
  • Hemmed arm holes
Cons
  • Not very breathable

Carhartt’s relaxed-fit tank really announces itself as part of the frat boy or gym bro starter pack, and we’re here for it. The cotton jersey knit feels soft and doesn’t get warm on hot days, and there’s even a nifty pocket to hold your small accessories or tools.

Styling-wise, in my experience, due to its loose, oversized fit, I recommend wearing it on its own, under nothing, because that’s how it’ll shine and bring the eyeballs to your chiseled arms.

Material100% Cotton
FitRegular
UseCasual
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Best retro sport tank

Tracksmith Van Cortland Singlet

Van Cortland Singlet
Best retro sport tank

Tracksmith Van Cortland Singlet

Pros
  • Retro racing stripe
  • Antimicrobial finish
  • Very lightweight
Cons
  • Expensive for a mesh tank

Tracksmith specializes in high-end running gear that looks great on and off the track. This singlet is rendered with sleek finishes like a collegiate sash and a perforated fabric for breathability and a stylish texture.

Our favorite part is that it mixes a '70s retro color-blocking design with performance. The fabric feels light but incredibly stretchy—thanks to 18% of spandex!—and it really wicks away moisture when we run and perspire in it.

Material82% Polyester, 18% spandex
FitSlim
UseAthletic
Best tank top for lounging

Tommy John Second Skin Tank Stay-Tucked Undershirt

Second Skin Tank Stay-Tucked Undershirt
Best tank top for lounging

Tommy John Second Skin Tank Stay-Tucked Undershirt

Pros
  • Very stretcy
  • "Stay tucked" design
  • Soft fabric blend
Cons
  • Only comes in single
  • Only black or white

Having worn this with a full suit or a dress-shirt-and-chinos office fit before, I love how comfortable the silky-soft modal fabric feels, and how it really stays tucked in the pants—and won’t rise up even when I’m stretching, courtesy of the 10% spandex.

No matter how I sweat or how many times I wash it, this has always felt breathable and fresh to me, so I always wear it while relaxing at home as well. Even through it is form fitting, the smooth matte finish is modest enough to go as a stand alone top in casual settings.

Material90% Modal, 10% spandex
FitForm fitting
UseUnderwear, casual
Best lifestyle tank top

Adidas Adicolor Classics Trefoil Tank Top

Adicolor Classics Trefoil Tank Top
Best lifestyle tank top

Adidas Adicolor Classics Trefoil Tank Top

Pros
  • Comfy loose fit
  • Old school logo
  • Six color options
Cons
  • High neckline
  • Holds on to moisture

Because any Adidas devotees will appreciate a bold logo. The brand's logo-emblazoned tank is made of a cotton blend, so it wears well outside of the gym on hot, sunny days at the park or the beach.

Personally, I like to style this tank top as my everyday top when I'm just heading to get groceries or meet up with a friend at a bar. Because of its classic fit, I don't tuck it in and always wear it with shorts for a peak summer vibe.

Material100% cotton
FitRegular
UseCasual, atheltic
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Best performance tank top

Sunspel DriRelease Active Vest

DriRelease Active Vest
Best performance tank top

Sunspel DriRelease Active Vest

Now 17% Off
Pros
  • Great moisture control
  • Very soft
Cons
  • Expensive

Moisture-wicking is part of polyester’s DNA, and Sunspel uses its proprietary Drirelease™ fabric to bring out the best of it. No matter how you sweat, this tank can dry you in a heartbeat while remaining soft, ensuring you never feel clammy ever again.

We also love its muscle-tank silhouette which is cut to allow more movement and also cut slightly higher to look more everyday-friendly, meaning you can easily wear out in this tank besides working out in it.

Material85% Polyester, 15% cotton
FitSlim
UseCausal, atheltic
Best tank top for the gym

Rhone Swift Tank 2.0

Swift Tank 2.0
Best tank top for the gym

Rhone Swift Tank 2.0

Pros
  • Antiodor treatment
  • Reinforced seams
  • Very lightweight
Cons
  • High neckline

Long runs in hot weather mean your underarms need extra breathing room. Enter Rhone's Swift Tank, which features a suite of warm weather features including a breathable mesh fabric and anti-odor technology.

Having tested it on treadmills and while jogging in the Central Park, I like how Rhone's tank top has always managed to keep me feeling crisp and never smothers me. The lightweight fabric also holds well wash after wash, and is incorporated elastane to accompany all sorts of motion when I do any cardio or HIIT exercises.

MaterialPolyester and elastane
FitRegular
UseAtheltic
Headshot of Christian Gollayan
Reviewed byChristian Gollayan
Deputy Editor, Commerce

Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.

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