For many of us, motivation to workout wanes in winter. When temperatures begin to drop, even exercise enthusiasts are forced to fight the temptation of a warm blanket when the alarm to go for a run or hit the gym goes off on a chilly morning.
While there is, unfortunately, no quick fix for the delayed sunrises or seemingly-freezing temperatures at this time of year, we can offer you one thing: a means to defend yourself against the cold. While we may like to exercise in a singlet or sports bra during summer, in winter, a long-sleeve top is an essential part of our activewear rotation. Especially when worn with leggings, a good long-sleeve gives you some added armour to brave the cold. However, that extra fabric can, at times, get in the way or irritate the skin. Accordingly, finding a top that fits well, is breathable and wicks (or at the very least, airs) sweat is a surprisingly difficult task.
Luckily, we’ve done the hard yards for you and rounded up the very best women’s long-sleeve activewear tops to shop this season. Shop them below—after all, everyone knows that new activewear equates to a boost in motivation.
Find Your New Favourite Long-Sleeve Women’s Activewear Top
01
Lululemon Define Jacket
from $149 at Lululemon
This is seemingly TikTok’s favourite long-sleeve women’s activewear top—and for good reason. Not only is is butter-soft, breathable and equipped with sweat-wicking fabric, it looks great too. Featuring a zip closure at the front, thumbholes and secure side pockets,
While it may be slightly finnicky for intense mat or HIIT workouts, it is a practical and stylish option for winter walks, weightlifting or low-intensity cardio (and who are we kidding—brunch outings).
Sizes: 4-24. | Colours: Black, Bone, Tan. | Materials: Body; 81% Nylon, 19% Lycra Elastane. Lining; 89% Nylon, 11% Elastane.
02
Lorna Jane Ultimate Comfort Anti-Odour Long Sleeve Top
from $90 at Lorna Jane
This top’s superpower is undeniably its anti-odour treatment, which will keep you feeling fresh during and post-workout.
Crafted from the brand’s four-way-stretch fabric, it won’t hold you back and is designed for movement and comfort. With a high neckline and form-fitting, mid-length silhouette it is ultra flattering and sure to become a staple for both exercise and lounge days.
Sizes: XXS-XXL. | Colours: Plum, Espresso. | Materials: 80% Nylon 20% Elastane.
03
Under Armour Women’s UA Train Seamless Long Sleeve
from $69.99 at Rebel Sport
Under Armour has billed this top as “pretty much the most comfortable thing you’ll ever train in.” Their call is a big but admittedly fair one: this longsleeve is crafted from a soft knit fabric with engineered mesh ventilation in the places you need it most, and features limited seams for maximum comfort. The material is also fast-drying and wicks sweat.
Sizes: XS-XL. | Colour: Green, Black. | Materials: 90% Nylon, 10% Elastane.
Also Available:
04
Cotton On Active Core Zip Through Long Sleeve
from $49.99 at Cotton On Body
With a two-way zip through front and fitted body shape, there’s no denying this long-sleeve is stylish—but it’s just as practical as it is pretty. The soft fabric is moisture-wicking and has four-way stretch for maximum movement. Plus, it features thumbhole cuffs to prevent the sleeves slipping, as well as secure zipped pockets for convenience. The fabric is relatively thick, too, so it’s sure to keep you warm—perfect for low-intensity exercise.
Sizes: XS-XL. | Colour: Black, Salt and Pepper, Element Blue. | Materials: 88% Polyamide, 12% Elastane.
Also Available:
05
Nike One Womens Classic Dri-FIT Top
from $60 at Nike
An easy-fitting crew neck style crafted from lightweight fabric, this pick from a beloved fitness brand is great for winter workouts when you’ll be working up a sweat.
What’s more, the silky smooth material is sweat-wicking and fast-drying, with the brand’s Dri-FIT technology actively moving sweat away from your skin for quicker evaporation. This will ensure you are comfortable and feel fresh after any kind of session.
Sizes: XS-XL. | Colour: Black, Light Blue. | Materials: 89% Polyester, 11% Spandex.
Also Available:
06
H&M DryMove Seamless Activewear Top
from $34.99 at H&M
High street activewear can be hit or miss but H&M always seem to know exactly what we want from workout clothes.
Employing the retailer’s DryMove fabric, which helps to draw moisture away from your skin, this slim-fit top will work hard as you do. Complete with raglan sleeves and thumbholes, and constructed with as little seams as possible, it is ultra comfortable and easy to move in.
Sizes: XS-XXL. | Colours: Black, Cream, Dark Plum. | Materials: 96% Polyamide, 4% Elastane.
07
P.E Nation Takeover LS Top
from $149 at P.E Nation
If style is a priority, it’s hard to look past P.E Nation. This long-sleeve women’s activewear top from the homegrown label is a versatile essential, with the thinner, nylon-based fabric making it great for daytime workouts or times when you just need to take the edge of the chill. With thumbholes, fashionable contrast panelling and a branded graphic front and centre, this top will carry you through cardio and make you the envy of Pilates and weight training classes.
Sizes: XSS-XXL. | Colour: Navy. | Materials: 82% Nylon, 18% Elastane.
Also Available:
08
Skins Series-1 Long Sleeve Top
from $114.99 at The Iconic
This is the pick for those looking to enhance their potential. By providing the right compression in the right places, Skins products are scientifically proven to accelerate blood flow, helping deliver oxygen to your muscles more quickly and therefore improve performance and aid recovery.
This top is made from that famous compression performance fabrication, which also happens to boast a generous stretch. It also has a flatlock seam construction for comfort, and is sure to appeal to athletes (pro or amateur) who want to get the absolute most out of their activewear.
Sizes: XS-L. | Colours: Black, White, Red, Navy, Sky Blue. | Materials: 77% Polyester & 23% Elastane.
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