Priced to Move

Runners demand a lot from their gear. Still, it can be hard to justify spending extra on a top that simply covers us up and gets sweat off our bodies. To figure out what is a true value and what isn't, we asked 20 runners in Boulder, Colorado, to test the latest running tops—scrutinizing wicking prowess, feel, durability, and styling. These seven shirts have qualities that go far beyond their price tags.

$25 or Less

Top Value [Women's]

The Champion Sprint Tee ($25) is well ventilated and feels smooth against skin, thanks to the addition of Spandex to the fabric. Testers liked the V-neck and trim detail around the waist, but the shirt's cut felt loose and bell-like to runners who prefer fitted tops. championusa.com

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Basic Bargain [Men's]

This Starter Wick Tee ($10) moves sweat off your skin and has a light (if coarse) feel. Its side panels provide ventilation on hot runs, and testers noted how quickly the top dried. Note: The Wick Tee's generous cut around the midsection results in a boxy fit. walmart.com

From $26 to $50

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Flash of Green [Men's]

It's easy to feel good about the Asics Eco-Line Sleeveless ($35) since it's made of 80 percent recycled polyester, or the equivalent of two one-liter plastic bottles. The recycling process adds a bit to the cost, but in this case, the result isn't crunchy and stiff like recycled shirts of old. And the knit construction is noticeably breezy and dries superfast. "It's a little heavier than my other shirts, but in a burly, reliable sort of way," said one tester. "I would go for a run in it and go drink beers after," praised another. Note: This top is cut longer than average. asicsamerica.com

Bare Essentials [Men's]

The Pearl Izumi Infinity In-R-Cool Short Sleeve ($45) is the lightest, silkiest shirt of the bunch, "soft enough to wear to bed," noted one tester. And the fabric has topical treatment called "Icefil," which helps transfer moisture and reduce the surface temperature. pearlizumi.com

Odor Fighter [Women's]

Loaded with silver fibers that help cool you down and keep odors at bay, the Brooks HVAC Synergy Sleeveless ($38) has a satiny feel and sharp styling.

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"I am a big, stinky sweater," said one marathoner, "and this shirt was light and wonderfully wicking." brooksrunning.com

More Than $50

Sensible Chic [Women's]

The long, stylish fit of the Lululemon Run Swiftly Short Sleeve ($59) never leaves you exposed midstretch. Testers found the soft, elastic fabric (with silver fibers) felt great against the skin and looked snazzy. "This is a figure-flattering shirt," said one tester. lululemon.com

Tight Hold [Men's]

The CW-X Ventilator Web Tri Top ($75) is like wearing a big compression sock for a shirt. It wraps tightly around the shoulders and chest to improve posture and breathing. One triathlete said of the top, "It hit the sweet spot between being taut and not too restrictive." cw-x.com