If you notice something off about your apparel while running, then it’s probably because you are distracted. An itchy fabric might not be noticeable if you are trying it out for the first time, or if you are not moving around much.

However, on the track, your arms will rapidly swing back and forth. Because of that, you will feel effects like chafing or restriction in movement if you have a substandard running shirt. Quality tops do not cause such discomfort.

You should concentrate on the activity, and not what you’re wearing. Other factors that contribute to your comfort include seams, fabric, and fit.

Seams
People usually don’t notice things like seams. Most of us focus mainly on the fabric, buttons, and overall design. For runners, seams make a tremendous difference. The type, number, and location of the seams affect how you will feel when swinging your arm. The main types of seam stitching designs are tapped, flatlock, and overlock.

Cheaper variants often have overlocked seams. Even though they might look appealing due to their zigzag threads, they are quite pronounced, and increase friction. It is not advisable to purchase such kinds of tops. Flat-locked seams are the most popular in sports apparels. The reason for this is that they are robust, lie nearly flat on the fabric, and don’t take up much volume, compared to regular seams.

Additionally, the threads used are usually smooth. You will find most running T-shirts in this review having flat-locked seams. A taped seam is created when a tape is melted over a seam to make the garment waterproof. They are not common in outdoor running gear.

You will notice that most of the apparels here try to use as little stitching as possible, to reduce the chances of chaffing. The ones that have multiple threads are probably to allow for mesh sewing on the side, back or the armpit area.

Fabric
Polyester is the primary material used in these T-shirts. Some have other fabrics like nylon and Lycra, for specific properties. For athletic purposes, polyester works wonderfully, since it is soft to the touch and gentle on your skin. Various weaving patterns help promote the evaporation of sweat. Some fabrics increase the number of models, but this can encourage chaffing due to the increased connection points. Therefore, it’s a delicate balance between effectiveness and comfortability.

Fit
As is with every other sports apparel, you cannot wear those that are too tight or baggy. You should be more critical of this factor when engaging in any physical activity. A loose top will increase the possibility of chaffing. You will also feel as if it weighs you down.

A tight fit will make you uncomfortable, especially if they don’t stretch. Some will frustrate you when trying to put them on, and others may not even fit you. You should always select a comfortable fit, also when picking out a compression shirt.

The T-shirts for runners need to have a design that allows for the circulation of air. That is how they get rid of the heat you generate while working out. When running, you will work up a sweat. A breathable fabric will promote the movement of moisture through the top. You need a top that does this as rapidly as possible. Otherwise, you will end up taking frequent stops, to tend to your sweat-drenched shirt. Even worse, your body temperature may end up soaring: which is dangerous because it might lead to a heat stroke. You should not underestimate the importance of ventilation.

A mesh placed on areas prone to sweat build up like under the arms, back, and shoulders, usually works effectively to provide ventilation. People tend to sweat more around such areas, especially when taking on strenuous physical activities. The more the mesh, the cooler you will be. However, there is a risk that the mesh might rip apart easily or expose too much skin. Make sure you select a quality running T-shirt that is well balanced and has durable material.

Nowadays, people are more conscious of their physical wellbeing. Therefore, many are involved in exercises to achieve their daily fitness goals. Hence, the market for sporting apparels has grown significantly due to the rise in demand for fitness gear. It is common to see people wearing shirts that would otherwise be perceived as only meant for the gym.

People are also wearing sports attire to work. Some do it to express their love for their favorite team while others just want to pull off a sporty casual look. These attires are becoming must-have fashion accessories in society.

Beyond looking at how cool you will look in these T-shirts, also consider what other things you can do, other than running in them. Are they suitable for a hike? Can they handle a backpack? How will they function as base layers? What special features do they have? Answers to these questions will help you select versatile tops.

Different manufacturers try to find ways of making their products attractive. However, fitting everything on one running T-shirt is impossible. In the end, the choice you opt for will be dependent on your preferences. For late night or early morning runners, being seen by oncoming drivers on the road is crucial. Some brands have reflective badges placed in select areas for added safety.

The New Balance Nb Ice 2E’s headphone loop is a feature sought after by music lovers. It’s unique in the market, but the chances are that other brands will eventually adopt the same design. Some tops have useful anti-microbial elements to help control bacteria. The tiny microbes thrive in damp environments created when you sweat: that is how odor comes about. Anti-microbial elements help put a stop to the stench, allowing you to stay fresh as you move about.

UVB protection is another essential feature that you should look into. UVB rays are a type of Ultraviolet rays. The beams are responsible for sunburns, which might lead to skin cancer. UVA rays are also ordinary Ultraviolet rays, which are 500 times more in the atmosphere. From this figure, you can see that UVB rays are more potent. Staying out between 10 am and 4 pm will expose you to the scorching sun. A good shirt with thicker threads will usually block out the rays. However, few will sacrifice breathability since there are thicker. Finding a running shirt with all of the features described above is not easy. However, you can be confident that the list contains viable options with a majority of these features.

Coming up with these products requires research. Prominent brands take them through rigorous tests and simulations. The manufacturers also receive and make use of feedback from sports scientists and pro athletes. They then use the data to make t-shirts that can offer solutions and meet runners’ needs.

A useful top must have moisture wicking properties and breathability. Each brand has its own unique way of incorporating the features into their running T-shirts. Effective base layer alternatives are lighter, to allow for effortless layering.

There are also options that can withstand wear and tear. You can use such tops when hiking, carrying a backpack, or for triathlons, among other activities. They can handle rigorous use and tend to last longer than their counterparts. When considering different manufacturers, more prominent brands are more reliable when it comes to offering such dependable alternatives.