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Rona Ahdout

The 15 Best Tank Tops for Men, Tried and Tested by Style Editors

Let your underarms breathe—and continue to flex those biceps before summer wraps.

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THERE’S STILL TIME to make the most of your tank tops before summer calls it quits. Besides, they have the range—they’re great as undershirts, moisture-wicking layers for workouts, and easy to wear on their own when the temps rise. The difference between a good one and a great one comes down to fit and fabric—get those right, and you’ll have a tank top that holds its shape and shows off your gains. You can layer one under a camp collar shirt or let it fly solo without looking like you’re headed to a frat party.

As a style editor who works out four to five times a week, I’ve tested over 30 options in the last few years, and our team has been testing tanks since we first wrote this story in 2020. But don’t worry, even if you’re not jacked, you can still pull one off. I’ve run through gym-ready options, fashion-forward styles that can be tucked into dressy trousers for resort fits, and ones to lounge around the house. Just steer clear of deep necklines, clingy fits, or anything see-through (unless that’s your thing).

Best Tank Tops for Men

What to Consider

Fabric

100% cotton tanks are often the gold standard. It’s soft and breathable, but it absorbs and retains moisture, so it may feel heavy or clammy during intense workouts. 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 good, 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. A 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 commuting 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 layering easier and more comfortable, and the length should be long so you can tuck it into your pants.

How We Selected

To find the best tank tops for men, our style team led by Style Director Christian Gollayan, has been testing styles since this story first dropped in 2020. We’ve put more than two dozen menswear brands through the wringer, from trusted names like Calvin Klein, Hanes, and Carhartt to newer style players like Alo, CDLP, and Todd Snyder.

Each tank went through weeks of real-world testing to get the full scoop on fit and quality. We tracked how snug they were, how they held up after a long day, and how visible they were under other shirts. Athletic singlets logged hours at the gym and on runs, where we checked flexibility, breathability, moisture control, and whether they caused any chafing. Fashion-focused tanks were judged on styling versatility, comfort, and airflow. Every single one faced the wash test, a construction check, and a price-to-value comparison. Keep reading to see the top 15 tank tops to rock this summer.

Best Deal tag iconBest Deal
18-Hour Jersey Rib Tank
Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Soft modal blend
  • Comes in a single, three-pack, or discounted bundle set
  • Stretchy fabric
  • No-show neckline
  • Available in a single tank or 3-pack

Cons

  • Not the best option to wear for workouts

After testing a ton of tank tops, Mack Weldon stands out for striking the right balance between comfort, fit, and structure. Like the brand’s bestselling Airknitx Boxer Brief, this tank feels soft enough to lounge or sleep in, while keeping you cool from day to night. Whether you’re wearing it under a button-up or rocking it solo on a hot July afternoon, it never feels flimsy or overly tight. Our testers with more sculpted physiques found it especially flattering—it highlights the shoulders and biceps without veering into full compression mode.

The cotton-modal–spandex blend holds its shape under any layer. But what’s really unique is the construction process: The manufacturer waits 18 hours for the fabric to fully expand before cutting it, locking in a perfect fit that won’t warp, even after repeat wear and washes. That said, I’ve found it’s not the best choice for workouts as the heavier fabric doesn't wick moisture or breathe as well as technical fabrics during sweaty gym sessions. Style-wise, it can be worn on its own with shorts for a casual summer fit, but is also light enough to wear as an undershirt.

Read More: Best Undershirts for Men

Fabric48% Cotton, 47% modal, 5% spandex
FitSlim
SizesS—XXL
UseUndershirt
Colors3
On Sale
Cotton Tank Undershirts Pack
Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Softens with use
  • Multiple amount packs available

Cons

  • Not as stretchy as others that we tested

Hanes has updated its classic white undershirt with a cooling cotton fabric that kept me dry for hours. Even when I wore it solo in high 70-degree temps, I didn’t experience any clammy feeling; just pure softness. Since it’s more sheer than expected, I keep it layered under my plaid shackets. That said, it’s fine on its own around the house, but not exactly beer-hall material. The good news is that my pits stayed smelling fresh from sun up to sun down.

One area where this tank top lacks is flexibility. The first time I pulled the tank top over my head, I noticed it wasn’t as stretchy as the others that I’ve tested infused with spandex or elastane. But the extra-long length that ensures the hem stays tucked, making it a neat base that won’t ride up.

Fabric100% Cotton
FitSlim
SizesS—3XL
UseUndershirt, casual
Colors3
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Metal Vent Tech Sleeveless Shirt

Pros

  • Seamless construction
  • Odor fighting fabric blend
  • Strong moisture control
  • Minimal seams to reduce chances of chafing

Cons

  • Expensive for an athletic tank top

Lululemon’s new Metal Vent Tech singlet is the tank version of one of our favorite workout shirts. It has mesh zones along the front and back to keep air flowing, so I wasn’t drenched or feeling weighed down five minutes into my hot-weather workout. I found the fit is perfect—not too tight, not too loose. It skims the body from the chest to the waist, allowing me to easily hit sprints and tackle arm curls. During my HIIT circuits full of burpees and jump squats, I noticed that this tank now comes with more flex than ever as well.

Yeah, it’s the priciest performance option on the list, but you get what you pay for. It doesn’t stretch out or lose shape, even after a bunch of washes and wears, thanks to a bit of elastane in the mix. On top of that, you can get away with wearing it more often and staying fresher for longer without worrying about BO, since it’s made with Silverescent technology: the brand’s proprietary fabric that helps prevent buildup of bacteria that can cause funk.

Read More: Best Workout Shirts

Fabric53% Nylon, 40% polyester, 4% elastane, 3% X-static® nylon
FitSlim
SizesXS—XXL
UseAthletic
Colors6
Tech Stretch Tank Top
Now 33% Off
Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Stretchy
  • Hides sweat well

Cons

  • Armpit is a bit high

For a tank top that is definitely not an undershirt, this one from Amazon ticks all the right boxes. We love its slim-but-not-tight fit, making it versatile for workouts or casual wear. The cut is much longer than others on the list, which offers more coverage while preventing those awkward mid-rep ride-ups. The elastane provides a solid amount of stretch, but the racerback design really amplifies mobility, so you’re not feeling restricted when you’re crushing lat pulldowns and shoulder presses.

Given its affordable price point, I was impressed by its overall quality and function. No matter how much I sweat, this tank has always felt breathable and stayed fresh post-gym, which is why I still felt comfortable enough to keep it on for dog walks and smoothie runs. While I wouldn’t try to style this tank and layer it under a button-up, it definitely gets the job done for performance and holds up after multiple wash cycles.

Fabric95% Polyester, 5% elastane
FitSlim
SizesXS—XXL
UseCasual, athletic
Colors8
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Big Workwear Pocket Sleeveless T-Shirt

Pros

  • Chest pocket adds functional element
  • Oversized fit increases breathability and comfort
  • More shoulder coverage

Cons

  • Fabric might be too heavy for workouts

Carhartt’s relaxed-fit tank brings more shoulder coverage than your standard tank, and a lot more grit. This cut announces itself as part of the frat boy or gym bro starter pack, and we love the vibe. Made from 100% cotton, the jersey knit is noticeably heavier than the others on the list. That added weight gives it serious durability, though it’s not the best pick for high-intensity workouts.

Its oversized, loose fit is where it shines. Wear it solo, without any layers, so the roomy cut can drape just right and put focus on your biceps. While I found the cotton fabric is more substantial than polyester blends, it still feels comfortable on the skin and breathes in hotter temps. And unlike your average basic tank, this one comes equipped with a chest pocket, a practical bonus for stashing your keys or small cash.

Fabric100% Cotton
FitOversized
SizesS—4XL
UseWorkout, Training
Colors1
Cotton Classic Fit 3-Pack Tank
Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Soft feel
  • Available in multipacks
  • Loose arm hole

Cons

  • Doesn't have as much stretch as others on the list

Calvin Klein boxer briefs tend to steal the spotlight, but the brand's ribbed tank top deserves some love, too. The classic fit skims the body, but doesn’t hug your chest super tight. It has a standard neckline and wider armholes to flaunt your new arm day gains. Where this Calvin really shines, though, is in the soft, breathable 100% cotton fabric. Despite lacking spandex (which usually trades softness for stretch), the tank isn’t exactly rigid. I can fit it over my head without feeling like it’s going to tear, which is a problem I’ve run into with tanks made from stiff, low-grade cotton.

I found this tank to be form-fitting, but I tend to wear it as an exposed base which is very much on-trend, especially in the summer. I’ve worn this one under an opened button-up, tucked into chinos, and it delivered on both comfort and style. It’s the kind of tank top that earns its place in your rotation, whether you’re layering or going minimal.

Fabric100% Cotton
FitForm fitting
SizesXS—XXL
UseUndershirt
Colors3
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Most Comfortable Workout Tank Top

Vuori Strato Tech Tank

Strato Tech Tank
Most Comfortable Workout Tank Top

Vuori Strato Tech Tank

Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Super breathable and lightweight
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Keeps ultra-soft touch after each wash

Cons

  • Sizes tend to go quick

A comfy workout tank shouldn’t cling, stick, or soak halfway through your session. That’s why we always reach for Vuori’s Strato Tech Tank. I sweat quickly, but the top’s polyester blend kept me from being drenched while jogging in Central Park. The athletic silhouette is also roomy in the chest, so it was easy to bench press heavier weights and complete sets of pushups. And since the fabric incorporates a reasonable amount of elastane, it easily moves with me when I stretch and warm up.

I’ve tossed this tank in the wash several times, but it still maintains that ultra-soft feel. This top does have a gym-first vibe, but its sweat-wicking fabric keeps it dry enough to wear straight to a casual lunch spot or the grocery store.

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Features at a Glance

Fabric96% Polyester, 4% Elastane
FitAthletic
SizesXXS—3XL
UseAthletic
Colors3
The Triumph Muscle Tank
Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Very soft material
  • Sweat-wicking
  • Wearable for the gym and casual outings

Cons

  • Neck is a bit tight

This tank puts your chest and arm gains on full display. The relaxed-not-baggy cut has armholes large enough for buff guys looking to flex. The neckline is wide and rounded, rather than being deep, which can transition from the gym to lunch. I’ve found the soft jersey fabric is super breathable and keeps me relatively dry during my sweat-dripping Barry’s classes. Speaking of workouts, this tank comes in neutral colors that easily match with your gym shorts.

This tank has a street-ready vibe that I don’t mind rocking for park picnics or casual rooftop drinks. No matter which you decide to go with, each one can pair with regular shorts, too. When I’m not doing yoga or out and about, I wear this tank to lounge in front of the TV, because the material feels that comfortable.

FabricTriblend jersey
FitSlightly drapey
SizesS—XXL
UseGym, casual
Colors5
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This is an image
A person wearing a tank top and shorts standing against a neutral background
This is an image
A person wearing a tank top and shorts standing against a neutral background

Pros

  • Flattering fit
  • Ribbing adds structure
  • Great to lounge in and wear for casual outings

Cons

  • Sizes tend to go fast

You might not expect one of the softest men’s tanks out there to come from Skims, but our Men’s Health guys swear by them. This one is ribbed, breathable, and fits like a second skin without squeezing the life out of you. The stretch reminds me of a great pair of boxer briefs that I own. I’ve worn it on long WFH days, during apartment cleaning sprees, and even to sleep when I’m too lazy to change.

Since the fit runs slim, I’ve tested it mostly as a base layer. I’ve worn it under an overshirt for casual dinners as well as a blazer once to see if it could pass for a polished undershirt, and it did. What really sets it apart is how it flatters your frame. The cotton-elastane fabric blend isn’t compressive, but the vertical ribbing adds structure to keep everything looking smooth and put-together. It subtly shapes your upper body: chest, shoulders, even your arms without screaming “gym bro.”

Fabric97% Cotton, 3% Elastane
FitSlim
SizesXS—5XL
UseUndershirt, layering
Colors5
Second Skin Tank Stay-Tucked Undershirt

Pros

  • Soft, luxury appeal that doesn't give cheap
  • Looks great under a dress shirt when worn open
  • Can handle multiple washes without being dingy

Cons

  • $40 might seem a bit steep for one tank alone, but has multi-pack options

If you’re wearing a dress shirt or button-down open, the last thing you want is an undershirt that looks like an undershirt. Tommy John’s Second Skin Tank is the rare exception because it has a clean, luxury appeal. The modal-spandex fabric is soft and stretchy, but not flimsy. I’ve washed it a number of times and it has not become dingy in the least bit. In terms of fit, it sits close to the body without adding bulk and layers neatly. The stay-tucked design keeps it in place, too, meaning you won’t have to constantly readjust it throughout the day. It’s simple and discreet enough to look put-together even when you’re showing a little of it. Sometimes I wear this around the house when I have no plans but to lay on the couch and binge some TV.

Fabric90% Lenzing Modal, 10% Spandex
FitSlim
SizesS—4XL
UseUndershirt, layering
Colors2
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Best Quick-Drying Tank Top

Uniqlo Dry Color Ribbed Tank Top

Dry Color Ribbed Tank Top
Best Quick-Drying Tank Top

Uniqlo Dry Color Ribbed Tank Top

Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Most affordable pick on the list
  • Made with DRY technology
  • Flattering fit
  • Sizes range up to 3XL

Cons

  • Not as much stretch as others

A quick-drying tank top in the summer is my secret weapon against sweat. That’s why we recommend this ribbed style from Uniqlo. The brand uses a proprietary moisture-wicking treatment to keep you feeling cool, even in blazing temps. Our testers range from lean to buff dudes, and this tank fits all of them, so it’s universally flattering. The deep neckline and large armholes draw attention to those chiseled pecs and biceps. Plus, its light fabric can pull double duty as an undershirt.

In terms of style, you can wear this option with all kinds of shorts. We found it goes with cargo shorts, basketball shorts, board shorts, the list goes on. Although it’s the least expensive item on the list, the quality feels more premium than what you’re paying for. And of course, you can stock up on one in every available neutral color and not break the bank.

Fabric73% Cotton, 27% Polyester
FitSlim
SizesXXS—3XL
UseCasual, Athletic
Colors6
Navy Knitted Tank Top
Credit: JOE LINGEMAN

Pros

  • Looks sharp with a suit, summer pants, or dressier trousers
  • Great option wear on vacation
  • Breathable in the dog days of summer

Cons

  • Not the best pick for the gym

A dressy tank top delivers a little more edge than a simple T-shirt, especially when pairing it with a suit. Take this number from Suitsupply. The unique fabric mix features Californian cotton for that durable, breathable feel, and Mulberry silk to give it a smooth, slightly glossy finish. It’s tailored for a closer fit to the body, but I found it’s still breathable in the dog days of summer.

While you may want to choose another option on the list for athletic purposes, it’s a great choice for showing off some style on vacation. Our fashion editors have worn it on the beach and for dinner at the resort, coupled with shorts and summer pants. You can even layer it under a linen shirt or a thick cardigan in cooler weather once the seasons change or temps fluctuate.

Read More: How to Wear a Tank Top

Fabric70% Californian Cotton, 30% Mulberry Silk
FitSlim
SizesXS—XXL
UseCasual
Colors4
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This is an image
van cortlandt singlet
This is an image
This is an image
van cortlandt singlet

Pros

  • Mesh fabric increases breathability
  • Unique sash detail across the chest adds style points
  • Odor protection
  • Gold pins come attached to the woven label

Cons

  • On the pricier end, but will last a long time

Year after year, our fitness editors have raved about Tracksmith’s running clothes for their style and function. Take this tank top, which has the brand’s signature sash across the chest in a singlet that’ll make you the best-dressed guy at your run club. The top has a soft, performance mesh that’s stretchy and breathable, so you’ll look and feel cool come race day. In fact, our fitness editors have tested it to train for the New York City Marathon. They found the polyester-elastane fabric does a great job of wicking away moisture, even after 10 miles in 80-degree weather.

I wore it during hill repeats and the fabric didn’t trap heat or feel suffocating, even during tough inclines. The ventilated mesh on the chest kept me dry the entire workout. Compared to other tanks I’ve run in, this one kept me fresh enough to hit the grocery store and pick up a smoothie after intense training. I went with the navy and ivory mashup, but there’s a handful of colorways to try out and pair with gym shorts.

Fabric82% Polyester, 18% Spandex
FitStandard
SizesXS—XXL
UseRunning
Colors6
This is an image
Model wearing a sleeveless top and lightcolored trousers against a plain background
This is an image
This is an image
Model wearing a sleeveless top and lightcolored trousers against a plain background

Pros

  • Mesh stitch enhances cool vibes
  • Fashion-forward, looks great with high-waist pants
  • Tailored, but loose in the chest and arm
  • Lightweight cotton-nylon blend

Cons

  • Pricey but made with premium materials

Tanks like this one from Todd Snyder deserve to be on full display, not hidden as a base layer. For starters, the cotton-nylon blend creates a unique mesh texture that feels breathable yet substantial—lightweight enough for summer, but structured enough to hold its shape. It reads more fashion-forward than your average tank, with a tailored fit that works just as well layered under an overshirt as it does worn solo with trousers or linen pants.

The open-stitch weave adds character and taps into the current mesh trend without feeling gimmicky. The craftsmanship is solid too. It won’t stretch out or fall apart after a few wears. Our tester found the fit is tailored but not tight in the chest or arms. No restriction even when reaching for a glass off the top shelf.

To level things up, our style editors suggest tucking it into high-waisted pleated pants for a sharper look at a summer soiree or rooftop party. And yes, it’s priced at $198, but it backs that up with premium materials, sleek design, and surprising versatility.

Fabric78% Cotton, 22% Nylon
FitSlim
SizesXS—XXL
UseDressy occasions
Colors2
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Best Upgrade

Rib Tank Top

Rib Tank Top
Best Upgrade

Rib Tank Top

Now 40% Off

Pros

  • Premium heft gives it real structure
  • Breathable relaxed fit that doesn't cling
  • Stretchy enough for a range of movements

Cons

  • Priciest, but it's made with long-lasting premium material

CDLP offers a ribbed tank that’s actually worth wearing out. It’s made with a trifecta of elastane, Tencel, and pima cotton, which feel heftier and more premium than your typical lazy-day tank. That’s partly due to the 320 gsm (grams per square meter) fabric weight, which gives it some real structure. Still, this isn’t something you’d reserve for the gym. The neckline’s cut a bit lower than Abercrombie’s version, but still feels right for a boardwalk stroll or a resort dinner. It pairs well with shorts, flowy pants, or swim trunks.

The regular fit keeps things breathable when the heat index hits the high 80s, and it’s not clingy so the fabric moves with the breeze. When I pulled it on, it stretched with me without feeling like I would rip a seam. If you want a closer-to-the-body fit, we’d suggest sizing down. The price is up there, sure, but this isn’t your average ribbed tank. It’s got weight to it, holds up after two washes, and looks solid with just about anything.

SizesXS—XXL
UseLayering, Solo
Colors7

How Can a Guy Look Good in a Tank Top?

From testing several tank top fits in our fashion closet with our style editors, we recommend getting the fit and occasion right before you start styling. For fitness or sports, a relaxed fit like that of muscle tanks will absolutely do. Pairing it with shorts is also a no-brainer. But if you're going out in a loose tank top, avoid overly baggy tanks that can make you look sloppy.

For layering, tank tops in summer can easily go under short-sleeve shirts like Hawaiian shirts aside from being worn on their own. In the fall or spring, wear them under unbuttoned shirts or shirt jackets to let you breathe without getting cold.

Lastly, we caution about experimenting with prints. A solid color is what we recommend, and that's what you should get creative with. If you do want to go for bold patterns or graphic prints, those classics like Adidas stripes, Nike checks, or just camos and color-blocking stripes will work the best. Keep it to a minimum is what we're saying.


Shop More of Our Favorite Menswear Essentials

How to Wear a Tank Top | Best Undershirts for Men | Best Linen Pants | Best White T-Shirts | Best Black T-Shirts | Best V-Neck T-Shirts | Best Polo Shirts | Best Henley Shirts | Best T-Shirts | Best Short-Sleeve Shirts | Best Underwear | Best Shorts for Men | Best Boxer Briefs | Best Boxers | Best Swim Trunks | Best Moisture-Wicking Underwear

Headshot of Joseph Cheatham
Joseph Cheatham
Style and Reviews Editor

As the Style and Reviews Editor for Men's Health, Joseph covers all-things fashion and grooming. Previously, Cheatham was a commerce editor for Spy, and he has written for Travel + Leisure.

Headshot of Christian Gollayan
Christian Gollayan
Style and Reviews Director

Christian is the Style and Reviews Director at Men's Health and Women’s Health, where he oversees shopping and style content for both brands. He started his magazine career as an accessories assistant at Vogue, and has since held editorial roles at Tatler Asia and The Manual. When he’s not online shopping, you can find him on long walks with his two corgis.

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