Can you wear a white T-shirt for exercise
Short answer: Yes, a white T-shirt works well for exercise, especially for light and moderate activity. The downside is that sweat, deodorant and dirt show more clearly on white, and some white fabrics become slightly see through when wet.
White for working out
A white T-shirt reflects more sunlight than a dark one, and many people find it feels a little cooler when exercising outdoors in the sun. It is also easy to pair and goes with almost everything. For walks, yoga, strength training and easy runs, a white T-shirt is a perfectly ordinary choice. What really decides comfort, though, is not the colour but the fabric and the fit.
The fabric matters most
During exercise you sweat, and the fabric's ability to handle moisture decides whether you feel dry or clammy. Cotton absorbs a lot of water and becomes heavy and wet. Polyester and other synthetic sports fabrics move moisture away and dry quickly. Bamboo viscose can absorb moisture and feels soft and cool, which many people like for calmer training. A bamboo T-shirt for women is therefore a good option for yoga, walks and lighter strength work.
See through fabric
Thin white fabrics can become more see through when damp with sweat. That is worth bearing in mind if you train at a gym or with other people. A denser fabric or a layer underneath helps. Many people wear a bamboo sports bra under a white T-shirt, which gives support during movement and means the T-shirt can be worn without worry, even when it gets damp.
Marks from sweat and deodorant
White shows yellow marks from sweat and deodorant more clearly than other colours. Let your deodorant dry fully before putting the T-shirt on, and wash it soon after training rather than leaving it in your bag. Yellow marks can be treated with a little liquid detergent before washing. Avoid chlorine bleach, as it can weaken viscose and make marks more yellow rather than white.
Fit for movement
A training top should allow room to move without being so loose that it gets in the way. The sleeves should not pinch when you raise your arms, and the length should cover your lower back when you bend over. For running and fast movement many people prefer a closer fit, while a looser top is pleasant for yoga and stretching. Soft bamboo tops for women can also be a good alternative with a different length and fit.
Washing sportswear
Sportswear should be washed after every use, because sweat and bacteria can otherwise cause lasting odours. Turn the top inside out, wash at the temperature on the label and skip fabric softener, which can settle in the fibres and hold on to smells. White tops stay white longer when washed with other whites. Let the clothing air dry so it does not shrink.
Frequently asked questions
Is white good for exercising in the sun
White reflects more sunlight than dark colours, so many people find it a little cooler.
Does a white T-shirt go see through with sweat
Thin white fabrics can. A denser fabric or a layer underneath helps.
How do you avoid yellow marks
Let your deodorant dry, wash the top soon after training and do not use chlorine.
See our range of bamboo t shirts for men.
