A workout top should be comfortable, breathable and allow for full range of motion while you exercise. For some women, this means a loose-fitting T-shirt and for others, a fitted tank top.
You may be wondering if any old T-shirt will do at the gym or Pilates studio. Workout tops are designed to withstand sweat and neutralize odor, while regular tops aren’t.
To learn more about workout tops for plus-size women, read this buying guide. At the end are some of 2021’s best plus-size workout tops, like the super comfy, high-performance Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist Tank Top.
What to know before you buy a plus-size workout top for women
Material
Cotton is a classic material used in workout tops because it’s highly breathable and absorbs odor well. However, in high-intensity workouts, this natural fiber absorbs moisture and will stay damp if you sweat a lot. Bamboo is a newer, popular natural material used in activewear because it’s more eco-friendly than cotton. Not only that, but bamboo also provides moisture-wicking properties and is soft and breathable.
Synthetic fabrics dominate activewear: mostly polyester, Spandex (or Lycra), nylon and rayon. Blends of these fabrics are common, and you’ll also see them blended with cotton. On the whole, synthetic fibers are more durable than natural ones and are fade-resistant. Some even provide UV protection. Tops constructed from any of these synthetics are less likely to appear worn after multiple washes and wears. Most importantly, they stretch without losing shape and wick sweat away from the body.
Size
In general, women’s plus-size workout tops run in sizes 1XL-5XL. Some brands use numeric sizing, like U.S. size 10-40. It’s always best to look at the manufacturer’s sizing chart to compare the sizes with your exact measurements. Also, fabrics like cotton or cotton blends can shrink in the dryer, so you may want to size up if your top contains any cotton.
Fit
When choosing a workout top, first consider whether you prefer a loose fit or a form-fitting cut. All workout tops are designed with mobility in mind, so loose versus fitted is the buyer’s preference and doesn’t affect performance. Another preference is hemline: waist-length versus longline. Some plus-size wearers prefer a longer hemline, which falls below the hip and gives more coverage to the upper thighs and backside. Tunic cuts provide full coverage of the bottom.
Color and design
While it may sound silly, fitness experts agree that wearing activewear that you feel confident in makes a positive impact on your workout. Choosing colors and patterns that excite you may motivate you to get into your workout top and get working out. That being said, workout tops come in a variety of neutral colors that are easy to match with whatever bottoms you have. Others feature brand names or trendy patterns like space-dye.
Plus-size women’s workout tops styles
T-shirt
T-shirt workout tops commonly feature crew neck or V-neck collars. T-shirts provide modest coverage. While there are some fitted T-shirt styles, most plus-size workout tees have a boxy or loose cut, which isn’t always flattering. Another downside is that T-shirts can reveal underarm sweat stains, even if they’re made from moisture-wicking materials.
Tank
Tank tops are a popular activewear style because they’re sleeveless and your armpits can breathe and sweat without the risk of sweat stains. Plus-size tank tops are often loose-fitting with long hemlines. While comfortable, loose tanks can appear baggy. Fortunately, more brands are now offering inclusive size ranges on fitted tanks which have a compressive fit, like sports bras, and offer varying degrees of torso coverage.
Long-sleeve
Long-sleeve styles are great for outdoor workouts because they provide added warmth and coverage. They generally have crew necks or mock turtle necks, which can include a zipper to help you regulate your temperature. Another convenient feature some long-sleeve styles offer is thumb holes, which keep your sleeves from riding up during exercise. Long-sleeve workout tops tend to have shorter hemlines, however, which not all plus-size buyers like.
Plus-size workout tops for women cost
Women’s plus-size workout tops start at $15 and cost up to $50 for premium apparel brands.
Plus-size workout tops for women FAQ
What are workout tops with built-in bras?
A. Many women prefer wearing a tank with a built-in bra to yoga and other low-impact workout classes, which eliminates the need for wearing a separate sports bra. You can also wear some of these built-in bra styles with your sports bra during high-impact exercise for added control. Built-in bras offer a range of support from minimal in the form of an elasticized shelf bra, to full support in the form of an inner sports bra with a top wrapped around it.
Should I wear a plus-size crop workout top?
A. Go for it! Many women of all sizes like pairing a cropped workout top, be it a tank or tee, with high-waisted leggings for an on-trend look that doesn’t leave you feeling too exposed. Form-fitting crop tanks are also called long-line sports bras and come in extended sizing.
Which plus-size workout top should I get?
Best of the best plus-size workout top for women
Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist Tank Top: available at Amazon
Our take: A popular racerback tank that’s lightweight and features anti-odor technology.
What we like: Wick-away material keeps you dry as you sweat. As long as you hang this tank to dry, it’ll last a long time. Comes in neutral colors that are easy to match with bottoms.
What we dislike: While its long hemline is a plus for many consumers, for others this shirt can ride up during workouts.
Best bang for your buck plus-size workout top for women
Just My Size Women’s Plus-Size Cooldri Tank: available at Amazon
Our take: Available in bright colors, this cooldri tank is perfect to hit the gym.
What we like: 100% polyester wicks away sweat and doesn’t shrink in the wash. Loose fit and side vents allow for high mobility and breathability. High neckline. Fun shades.
What we dislike: For a longer hemline, you’ll need to size up.
Honorable mention plus-size workout top for women
Champion Women’s Jersey V-Neck Tee: available at Amazon
Our take: A relaxed workout tee that provides ample coverage and room to move.
What we like: V-neck isn’t too revealing. Cotton-polyester blend is breathable and soft. Features both moisture-wicking and double-dry technology. Trusted name brand in athletics.
What we dislike: May be too narrow up top for women with broader shoulders.
Ana Sanchez is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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