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

Let your underarms breathe—and show off your biceps.

By Maverick Li
Reviewed by Christian GollayanDeputy Editor, Commerce
Tested by Ted Stafford
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Courtesy of retailers

IS THERE any type of shirt more fitting for beating the heat—and flaunting your guns at the same time—than the tank top? We’re not talking about those sheer, flimsy tank tops that will put you at risk of indecent public exposure. Instead, the subject is the best tank tops for men that will remodel you into a Greek god—even if you’re more dad-bod or have skipped lift days for a good while.

But, considering their humble and not-so-classy beginnings, you might be thinking: “Tank tops are just for frat party bros and gym rats, right?” Wrong. The best tank tops for men have come a long way from a hyped-up undershirt; a tank top is now a comfort staple for lounging, a statement layering piece you’ll want to show off under a zip-up hoodie, and a wardrobe lifesaver in these popsicle-melting days. Not to mention: if Jason Momoa got to wear a tank top at the Golden Globes to free his biceps, then nothing can stop us now.

  • Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

    Best affordable tank top undershirt

    Hanes Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

    $14 at Amazon
    Read more
  • Garment-Dyed Slub Cotton Tank Top

    Best casual tank top

    J.Crew Garment-Dyed Slub Cotton Tank Top

    Read more
  • 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

    Best overall Tank top undershirt

    Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

    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

Our style experts have sourced and tried on over 45 singlets to find the 22 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.

Best Black T-Shirts | Best V-Neck T-Shirts | Best T-Shirts | Best Short-Sleeve Shirts | Best Underwear

Best affordable tank top undershirt

Hanes Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack
Best affordable tank top undershirt

Hanes Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack

Now 25% Off
$14 at Amazon$19 at Walmart

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.

Best casual tank top

J.Crew Garment-Dyed Slub Cotton Tank Top

Garment-Dyed Slub Cotton Tank Top
Best casual tank top

J.Crew Garment-Dyed Slub Cotton Tank Top

Normally, we wouldn't recommend wearing tanks on their own outside of the gym, but we make exceptions to stylish options like this one from J.Crew. Made with slub cotton-like your favorite tee, this tank clings to your body without cutting off circulation so it's fitted but flattering.

In my experience, because of its lived-in look, it's best worn with your favorite swim trunk to beach days or backyard barbecues.

Best overall Tank top undershirt

Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank
Best overall Tank top undershirt

Mack Weldon 18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank

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.

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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

Now 25% Off

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

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

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.

Best calvin Klein Tank top

Calvin Klein Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top

Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top
Best calvin Klein Tank top

Calvin Klein Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank Top

Now 30% Off

We put this on Scream’s Mason Gooding after testing it out in our fashion closet, and had to concede that this is the perfect undershirt tank top—bar none. It’s soft and breathable, doesn’t chafe the actor’s skin, and is cut low enough so that it doesn’t show over his denim shirt.

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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

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.

best muscle tank top

Alo Yoga The Triumph Muscle Tank

The Triumph Muscle Tank
best muscle tank top

Alo Yoga The Triumph Muscle Tank

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.

Best cooling tank top

Under Armour Project Rock Iso-Chill Muscle Tank

Project Rock Iso-Chill Muscle Tank
Best cooling tank top

Under Armour Project Rock Iso-Chill Muscle Tank

I just had to get and test out this tank because 1) it’s a simple but effective sportswear style, and 2) it’s made with nylon, which has become a rare breed in tank tops. Thankfully, Dwayne Johnson knows activewear and helps design this breathable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and soft-feeling tank—all courtesy of nylon. The 10% elastane also means that no matter how buff you are, this top will handle it and move with you.

My favorite part about this tank is how it can really keep you cool even when it’s boiling hot around because of the Iso-Chill tech used in the fabric which helps disperse body heat.

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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

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.

Best tank top for running

Rhone Swift Tank 2.0

Swift Tank 2.0
Best tank top for running

Rhone Swift Tank 2.0

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.

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

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.

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Best value tank top

Vuori Grandview Tech Tank Top

Grandview Tech Tank Top
Best value tank top

Vuori Grandview Tech Tank Top

Just like Vuori's famed workout shorts, its Grandview Tech tank feels as cozy as your favorite sweats, thanks to its super soft knit. Having tested it for working out and hanging out, I find it equally suitable for both. Its performance features like UPF and an athletic fit both shield you from the sun and let you show off some muscles. At the gym, its four-way stretch and quick-drying fabric can take care of even the most grueling workouts. Lastly, because of its chafeless design and perforated ventilation, I've worn it all day long with no complaints.

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

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.

Most comfortable Tank Top

Reigning Champ Lightweight Jersey Tank Top

Lightweight Jersey Tank Top
Most comfortable Tank Top

Reigning Champ Lightweight Jersey Tank Top

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 handwork at the gym.

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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

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.

Best basketball tank top

Nike Jordan Dri-FIT Sport Breakfast Club Mesh Jersey

Jordan Dri-FIT Sport Breakfast Club Mesh Jersey
Best basketball tank top

Nike Jordan Dri-FIT Sport Breakfast Club Mesh Jersey

Nike's Dri-FIT line is known for being cool, breathable, moisture-wicking, and comfortable. Its latest Dri-FIT tank top is no exception. With an airy fabric and a recognizable print, this is great for athletic occasions and especially sports.

While it's fully made in polyester which means there's no stretch, because of its relaxed fit, it gives enough room to move with you when you dribble as well.

Best retro tank top

Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Singlet

Van Cortlandt Singlet
Best retro tank top

Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Singlet

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.

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Best graphic tank top

NOBULL Tie-Dye Tank

Tie-Dye Tank
Best graphic tank top

NOBULL Tie-Dye Tank

A gym tank top that doesn’t make you look like you’re ready to hit the bench is not something we’d advocate for, so let Nobull performance-meets-style singlet really elevate your gym rat game. We tested its poly fabric which feels light and is extra absorbent when dealing with sweat, but our favorite part is that it’s blended with Tencel to keep the odor away as well.

Lastly, with a stretch and a roomy fit, we were able to really move in this tank during our testing at the gym. And because of its graphic design, I do love to wear it to the beachside or poolside, just for the vibe.

Best outdoors tank top

The North Face Sunriser Tank

Sunriser Tank
Best outdoors tank top

The North Face Sunriser Tank

While it’s made in polyester, this tank has back panel ventilation to make the fabric extra breathable. Otherwise, it comes with a mobility-friendly fit and stretch, sweat management, and a chafe-less seam design that doesn’t distract us from our tracks.

All in all, we believe it’s a tank top meant for taking on the trails or the hikes since it can keep you in your comfort zone no matter how you move, even with a heavy backpack over your shoulder.

Headshot of Maverick Li
Maverick Li
Style and Commerce Editor

Maverick Li is the Style & Commerce Editor of Men’s Health, where he covers clothing, footwear, watches, and grooming. He was previously the Assistant Commerce Editor at Esquire.

Headshot of Christian Gollayan
Reviewed byChristian Gollayan
Deputy Editor, Commerce

As Men's Health's Deputy Editor, Commerce, Christian Gollayan oversees all shopping content on menshealth.com. He relocated back to New York by way of Portland, where he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in InStyle, Food & Wine, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia. 

Headshot of Ted Stafford
Tested byTed Stafford

Ted Stafford is the Fashion Director of Men’s Health. He oversees all style and fashion content for the brand, and also styles their fashion stories. His active lifestyle informs his passion for translating great designs into real-life style, a favorite part of his job. Prior to joining Men’s Health he worked at GQ magazine and Calvin Klein

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