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If you’re headed to a humid environment and hate that sticky feeling, try wearing sweat wicking shirts that are designed to keep you cool and fresh. TFG has found styles that would look awesome for your travel capsule wardrobe—check em’ out!
Best Moisture Wicking Shirt
Written By: Laura Pulling
Table Of Contents
Moisture wicking qualities have been in sports clothing for a while. We know that when you exercise and sweat, you get hotter, and when the sweat evaporates that’s when you cool off. Clothes that wick away moisture allow you to cool faster!
Now they’re being made in more designs that look just as good away from the gym. They’re also generally light, packable, and don’t crease—making them a perfect material for sightseeing or traveling in humid climates.
If you’re not familiar with this type of fabric and what it can do, let’s try to answer some questions first:
What Is Moisture Wicking Clothing?
Moisture wicking clothing is made from a type of fabric that draws moisture away from your body and onto the surface of the fabric, where it will evaporate more easily.
How Does Moisture Wicking Work to Keep You Cool?
The moisture wicking material keeps you cool because it allows your sweat to evaporate more easily.
So if you’re sightseeing in a hot climate, or working out in the gym, the capillary action of the moisture-wicking fabric draws the wetness away from your skin, so you feel less uncomfortable and more cooled off!
TFG has rounded up some of the best wicking shirts that feel comfy and dry (t-shirts, polos, and more!), so we’re sure you’ll find one or two that you’ll love!
Best Moisture Wicking T Shirts
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Eddie Bauer
Editor’s Pick: Eddie Bauer Resolution Wicking T Shirt
This Eddie Bauer moisture wicking t shirt is so great for hot weather and has built-in moisture-wicking properties, sun protection, and is super lightweight.
Though it’s traditionally for hiking, it’s a tee that can be used for both sightseeing, lounging around town, or outdoor activities. One user says of this top, “I like the quality and color of this shirt. It’s cool, and I can usually wear it twice before washing it.”
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon
Columbia Cades Cape Tee
These Columbia wickable t shirts are casual and easy-to-wear, the poly blend keeps you cool and dry, plus it has a ventilated back panel for extra freshness.
It comes in a full range of sizes, from an XS to 3X fit, plus different colors too. And as it’s a Columbia brand (reader favorite), you know it’s going to hold up, no matter what you put it through!
Merino wool is popular for its moisture wicking proprieties, these reader picks for merino wool t-shirts will keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter!
Shop Sizes 0-14: Lululemon
Lululemon License to Train Short Sleeve Wick T Shirts
Now it may be a tad pricer, but this Lululemon wick t shirt is cute and goes with everything. Firstly, it has a great shape, with an easy going loose fit that’s a little longer in the back. But the fabric is wonderful too, it’s sweat-wicking and stretchy.
Reviews are great for these sweat wicking t shirts, with one wearer sharing, “I love this shirt! It’s light and breathable. Perfect for working out or dressing cute! I already ordered another one in a different color.”
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Backcountry
Patagonia Capilene Cool Trail Shirt
Patagonia dry wick t shirts are perfect for any activity. Pair it with leggings for active yoga or sports or jeans for a casual but cool look. Made from a recycled polyester fabric, it has built-in odor control and enhanced moisture-wicking technologies, plus it’s super soft and stretchy.
Users RAVE about this short, with one explaining, “I absolutely love this shirt—it’s extremely comfortable, lightweight, moisture-wicking, and cute. I’ve worn this doing activities outside and just hanging around. It’s seriously so soft.”
Shop Sizes S-L: Amazon
BALEAF Dry Wick T Shirts Womens
For an affordable option, check out these BALEAF womens athletic shirts. Combining moisture-wicking technology with UPF fabric makes it great for any activity on a sunny day. Plus it comes in a ton of different colors.
One user describes how she wore this wicking t-shirt every day during a two-week Grand Canyon rafting trip, and says, “This shirt dried quickly whenever given the chance, helping to keep me warm enough, but also kept me cool (and not sunburned) during the hikes.”
It’s also available as a long-sleeve version too!
Shop Sizes M-3XL: Amazon
Kimmery Criss Cross Women’s Athletic Shirts
For wicking tee shirts that are a bit different to your usual tee, try this Kimmery t-shirt style. Lightweight and breathable, plus it has a criss-cross back which adds a cute summery detail, without flashing too much flesh.
One wearer shares, “I wear this shirt at exercise class. I like the loose fit, flattering shape at the bottom edges, and how it covers your rear end over tights. It washed and dried nicely!.”
However, users do say the colors are more subdued than the shades in the pictures online, so be aware of this!
If you want to get even more active, check out the best hiking shirts!
Best Moisture Wicking Tank Top
Shop Eddie Bauer: Sizes Regular XS-XXL | Petite S-L | Tall M-XXL | Plus 2X-3X
Eddie Bauer Departure Tank Top
This Eddie Bauer tank is can be worn when outdoors, exploring a new town or city, or weekend jaunts. It also very versatile and is stretchy and comfortable.
Obviously, this has all the features of moisture wicking tee shirts women love, such as UPF 50+ sun-protection. One wearer sums it up well, “Love the length. Perfect shirt to workout or hike or lounge in and still be presentable enough for errands.”
Thanks to moisture wicking fabrics and breezy styles, you don’t have to let the sweltering heat or an active day stop you from wearing these travel-friendly dresses!
Shop: Amazon (Sizes XS-1X) │ Columbia (Sizes XS-XL)
Columbia Chill River Tank
Considered one of the best sweat wicking shirts, this Columbia tank top has their signature Omni-wicking capability and Omni-sun protection (SPF 50), and is made of a polyester/elastane blend that’s super soft.
Really cute and versatile, you can dress this up or down. One wearer agrees, saying, “This shirt is now my favorite Columbia item. It’s nice enough for work or dinner out, and cool and comfortable enough for play. I own four!”
Available in their website!
Shop: Old Navy
Old Navy Cloud 94 Top
This Old Navy comfy and cute tank comes in a gorgeous colors that wouldn’t look out of place in the streets of Lisbon! It’s high necked, but has wide sleeves and vented sides for a feminine fit that’s as good for sightseeing as it is for a cardio class, making it a great versatile travel piece! Plus, it’s moisture-wicking to keep you cool no matter what.
Get more summer ideas with the best tank tops!
Best Moisture Wicking Polo Shirts
Shop Sizes XS-4XL: Amazon | Walmart
Port Authority Rapid Dry Mesh Polo
A great everyday or travel option, this Port Authority moisture wicking polos is cotton-polyester and has Rapid Dry moisture-wicking mesh. Quite classic looking with the open neck structure and a straight hem; it’s something that could last you through many humid situations!
It comes in multiple colors and sizes (XS-4XL), and wearers love this shirt, with one saying, “Love the shirt; very comfortable, lightweight, and breathable.”
Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon
COOrun Women’s Sleeveless Polo Shirt
Stripes give a truly timeless and casual elegance, and this COOrun sleeveless polo has a nautical feel that would scream chic when touring a harbor in the sunshine. Finished with a v neck design with sleek, fitted fit and stretch fabric for a polished look. It’s moisture-wicking and has UPF protection built-in.
Shop Lands’ End: Sizes XS-XL | Sizes 1X-5X
Lands’ End Women’s Wick Away Shirt
Lands’ End wickaway shirts are made from a poly fabric that ticks all of the boxes as a travel fabric. It’s wrinkle-resistant, fade-resistant, moisture-wicking, and has odor control to help fight odor-causing bacteria. The ribbed no-curl collar also stays flat and neat.
One user shares that this polo is “Bought this top in 5 colors to play pickleball outdoors. It works great and washes extremely well. It has a relaxed fit so is roomy enough to allow for movement in every direction. Does not chafe at all.” but says they run large, so check the size chart before ordering.
Shop Sizes XS-4XL: Amazon
Joe’s USA DRI-Equip Heather Polos
This Joe’s USA wick shirt is well rated by a ton of wearers on Amazon. It’s made from a DRI-EQUIP wicking material that keeps sweat away from your body, and the polyester fabric resists snags to stay newer for longer. We also love that this shirt comes in a ton of colors and a great range of sizing (XS-4XL). The collar is neat and has three buttons for an attractive decorative feature.
One user shares, “Very pleased with color and fit. Hard to find a cute shirt that works well in the Texas heat. Dries very quickly. Highly recommend it!” And others say it’s great for all kinds of activities, such as golf, horse riding, hiking, or even just lounging around!
Get even more cooled off with the best linen tops for summer heat!
Best Moisture Wicking Button Down Shirts
Shop Sizes XS-XXL and 2X-3X: Eddie Bauer
Editor’s Pick: Eddie Bauer Mountain Ripstop Long-Sleeve Shirt
One Eddie Bauer top that TFG readers absolutely love is their Ripstop shirt. It’s so easy for travel, as it’s lightweight, moisture-wicking, provides UPF 50+ sun protection and works for so many different destinations and occasions. They’re made with quality fabrics that feel super comfortable to wear for long periods of time, no matter the activity.
One wearer says about her Ripstop shirt, “Somehow, this shirt resists wrinkles, stains, sweat, and being thrown in a corner after a long day of touring. I was able to wear it multiple times; didn’t have to do laundry like I planned. It’s like a ‘miracle shirt.’ A must-have for sightseeing or hiking.” Available in sizes XS-XXL regular, S-L petite, M-XXL tall, and 2X-3X plus sizes.
Find out why TFG readers constantly choose Eddie Bauer shirts for travel in this review!
Shop Sizes XS-XXL and 1X-3X: Amazon | Columbia
Columbia Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt
TFG readers love Columbia shirts, and we know why! They are just perfect for travel! This Tamiami II shirt gives a polished button-down look that can be dressed in different ways for a fun sightseeing city tour. It wicks moisture quickly, is packable, and has UPF fabric. Plus, you can roll the sleeves for a more casual day look.
One user shares, “Would recommend. I tried three different brands of SPF/sun protection long sleeved shirts this summer, and I like the Columbia Tamiami shirt the best, as it’s a nice fit and a lightweight material, so good on hot days.”
Shop XS-3XL: Amazon
Little Donkey Andy Women’s Long Sleeve Moisture Wicking Shirts
Whether you want a safari-style, or just prefer more tailored moisture wicking work shirts, this Little Donkey Andy button-down will keep you cool. The lightweight nylon fabric wicks moisture away from the body to keep you dry, and it has a breathable mesh panel at the back for extra ventilation.
Users love this top, with one sharing, “This shirt was perfect, exactly what I was looking for. I wanted a well vented, relaxed fitting shirt,” and another explains, “This shirt fits so well that I bought two more!”
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Amazon
Jessie Kidden Long Sleeve Wicking Shirt Womens
For budget moisture wicking button up shirts, check out this Jessie Kidden blouse. The polyester material means it dries quickly and is great for packing for your travel adventures. Plus, it has Omni-Shade technology to keep you cool and a vented back for breathability. The roll-up sleeves are also great for hotter days.
It comes highly rated by users, with one sharing, “I bought this for a four-day camping/rafting trip in Utah. It was my most-worn piece of clothing. The mosquitos couldn’t bite through it, it dried super fast and kept me from getting sunburned. It’s well-ventilated.”
Best Long Sleeve Moisture Wicking Shirt
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince
Quince Long Sleeve Tunic Shirt
This Quince moisture wick shirt has odor control, is resistant to fading and wrinkles, and has moisture-wicking technology to keep you cool. The cute tunic length means you can tuck it into leggings or cropped pants, or wear out over the same.
It also shields you from the sun with UV-SPF40 during whatever activity you have planned—travel or otherwise! One wearer gives a stellar review, “Absolutely love this shirt for hot weather. So silky soft and cooling!! I bought this one and lived in it so much I came back for another.”
Comes in regular sizes XS-XL!
Shop Sizes XS-4XL: Amazon
Joe’s USA Long Sleeve Athletic Shirts Womens
For a versatile long sleeve top that will keep you dry and comfortable, try this Joe’s USA top. The V-neck style has a gently contoured silhouette that flatters the frame without being too tight or restrictive. It’s made from a super soft and breathable material that wicks away sweat and moisture. Plus, it comes in a great size range—from XS-4XL.
One wearer shares, “I bought two of these shirts with long sleeves and later ordered two more with short sleeves because they fit so well. The sizing was accurate, they are super-comfortable, wick away the moisture, and they don’t shrink in the wash. I’m very pleased with the quality of these shirts.”
Shop Sizes 0-20: Lululemon
Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve Wicking Shirts
This Lululemon long sleeve wicking shirt is meant for working out but can also be a cute casual shirt. Pair it with shorts, jeans, or Ponte pants for an everyday look that will still keep you cool. The fabric is a soft nylon blend and has a 4-way stretch, which wicks away sweat.
The thumbholes add a little bit of detail to an otherwise simple top design, one user shares, “I bought a lot of different light, breezy shirts, and this one is the best! It’s the perfect length A great top.”
Many wearers say this works well for women with short torsos as it hits at the waist, not too long.
These women’s wrinkle free shirts are also great for travel!
Women’s Moisture Wicking Shirts Comparison Chart
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How to Pack Your Moisture Wicking Tops
If you’re planning to travel with your sweat wicking shirt, start with packing cubes, they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See more in the video below.
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many women travel carry-on only!
What do you think are the best dry wick shirts? Share your picks with us in the comments below!
For more travel shirts, please read:
- Best Travel Shirts for Women Recommended by Readers
- Best White Button Down Shirts
- Best Linen Shirts for Women: Light and Airy Picks for Summer
- Upgrade Your Travel Wardrobe with the Best T-Shirts for Women
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Magellan fishing gear tops and bottoms work well for me. The women’s versions do not come in a lot of colors, but wear well.
Hi Wendy, thank you for sharing your recommendation with us! Always love hearing about our readers favorite products! ?
Uniqlo airism is my go to
Hi Sarah, thank you for sharing your go to brand for moisture wicking shirts with us! ?