Best Shirts for Athletic Physiques: Top 5 Brands Compared
By Harry W.
Last Updated July 22, 2024
In this review, we take the top 5 rated t-shirts for athletic physiques, and put them through our rigorous 8-factor test, to find you the ultimate t-shirt for fit, style, quality, durability and more…
- A great T-shirt follows your natural lines to create what we call a “Tailored Fit” — a sharp, well-proportioned look that tells people you’ve got your life in order. Tailored fit is the epitome of understated confidence — something which gives you that extra edge every time you step into a room.
- Most t-shirts today fall into the “fast fashion” category — made with low-quality materials and a disregard of durability. We, on the other hand, are looking for timeless luxury — the kind that people truly notice and appreciate, and which makes you proud to have in your wardrobe.
- Lastly, we wear t-shirts everywhere — so we want to find one versatile enough to work everywhere: bar, boardroom, restaurant, office, day-out… you get the idea.
What to Look for in the Perfect Athletic Fit Shirt
Investing in high-quality fabrics with performance features like stretch, moisture-wicking, and breathability can make all the difference in fit and function. When choosing the best shirt for a muscular physique, consider the following key factors:
- Fit & Tailoring – Shirts should contour the body without excess fabric or tight restrictions.
- Fabric & Stretch – Look for moisture-wicking, breathable, and flexible materials.
- Comfort & Durability – Soft, high-quality materials that maintain shape and structure over time.
- Versatility – Suitable for various occasions, from casual to business settings.
Our Top 5 Tested Picks
True Classic
Affordable Quality
Reigning Champ
Premium Loungewear
TA | Tailored Fit T-Shirt
£68£50 save up to 60% with bundles
Main Specifications - Available in 6+ Colors
- Super Soft – Shape Retention
- Raglan-Cut Sleeves – Crew Neck
- Tailored fit for a sharp look and effortless confidence
- 4-way stretch luxury fabric for optimal movement and comfort
- Moulds perfectly to any physique
- Versatile design that works for both smart and casual (or anywhere in-between)
- TA’s bundle offers mean the more you buy the more you save
- Only available online
- Often sell out quickly due to high demand
The Bottom Line
TA is for men who appreciate simplicity, luxury and timeless style - paired with a second-to-none fit. Where others compromise, TA’s Tailored Fit delivers a sharp, well-proportioned look which commands attention in any setting. They don't sacrifice on comfort either - meaning you look great, and feel even better.
TA’s t-shirts offer a lasting impression in professional, social and casual settings, through their timeless versatility and in our opinion, their bundles offer the best value for money compared to others on the list.
That’s why they’re our top choice.
BYLT
£35
Main Specifications - Available in 16+ Colors
- Drop-cut hem
- 4-way stretch
- High-quality fabrics and premium basics
- Sleek, modern designs suitable for both casual and semi-formal wear
- Fit may not be as tailored-focused as TA's, potentially leading to a less
- Slightly pricier for a more minimalist design
- More trend-oriented, which may not appeal to those seeking timeless styles
The Bottom Line
BYLT brings a sleek, modern look with premium basics that are perfect for those who like to keep things stylish and simple.
True Classic
£30
Main Specifications - Available in 20+ Colors
- Classic side seam for the best look & fit
- Soft tag – tag is screen-printed on the tee for maximum comfort
- High-quality fabrics and premium basics
- Sleek, modern designs suitable for both casual and semi-formal wear
- Fit may not be as tailored-focused as TA's, potentially leading to a less
- Slightly pricier for a more minimalist design
- More trend-oriented, which may not appeal to those seeking timeless styles
The Bottom Line
BYLT brings a sleek, modern look with premium basics that are perfect for those who like to keep things stylish and simple.
CUTS
£54
Main Specifications - Available in 4+ Colors
- Curve-Hem - intended to hit between the waist and hip
- Wrinkle-resistant
- Versatile business casual aesthetic that's perfect for the office or casual outings
- Offers comfort with flexible, breathable materials
- Fit not tailored for muscular builds, meaning it may not provide the sharp, athletic fit that TA offers
- Price point is on the higher side for basic t-shirts
- Limited style variety, with a primary focus on t-shirts and casual wear
The Bottom Line
Elevating the everyday t-shirt, Cuts combines comfort and a business casual aesthetic, ideal for those seeking versatility in their wardrobe.
5
Best for Premium Casualwear
Reigning Champ
£54
Main Specifications - Available in 3+ Colors
- Maintains shape
- Durable
- Premium loungewear with luxurious, soft fabrics that feel great against the skin
- Timeless, minimalist designs perfect for those seeking a refined, casual look
- Limited versatility: Primarily focused on loungewear and basic pieces
- Relaxed fit that may not provide the same sharp
- Expensivefor casual wear
The Bottom Line
Reigning Champ is perfect for those who prioritize luxurious loungewear and minimalist designs that work well for relaxation and casual outings.
Conclusion
So there we have it… TA stands out as the top choice for men who lead with confidence and style. Here’s why:
- True Tailored Fit: Their t-shirts hug you in all the right places offering a sharp, well-proportioned look, while ensuring the perfect amount of comfort.
- Luxury Composition: Their use of luxury performance fabrics complements style, while enhancing comfort, flexibility and durability.
- Performance Benefits:Features like moisture-wicking, 4-way stretch and non-crease fabrics make their t-shirts ideal for all-day wear.
While other brands like BYLT and True Classic offer solid options, TA remains our top pick due to the attention to detail that goes into the fit, style, and performance of each t-shirt. For men who demand the best in life — TA is the cherry on top of the cake.
Tailored Fit T-Shirt #1 Top Choice
🇺🇸 Shipped from the USA •
<div class="dynamic-checkout__content" id="dynamic-checkout-cart" data-shopify="dynamic-checkout-cart"> <shopify-accelerated-checkout-cart wallet-configs="[{"name":"shop_pay","wallet_params":{"shopId":18602387,"merchantName":"TAILORED ATHLETE - ROW"}},{"name":"paypal","wallet_params":{"shopId":18602387,"countryCode":"GB","merchantName":"TAILORED ATHLETE - ROW","phoneRequired":true,"companyRequired":false,"shippingType":"shipping","shopifyPaymentsEnabled":true,"hasManagedSellingPlanState":null,"requiresBillingAgreement":false,"merchantId":"M6BDUVHC375SA","sdkUrl":"https://www.paypal.com/sdk/js?components=buttons\u0026commit=false\u0026currency=GBP\u0026locale=en_US\u0026client-id=AfUEYT7nO4BwZQERn9Vym5TbHAG08ptiKa9gm8OARBYgoqiAJIjllRjeIMI4g294KAH1JdTnkzubt1fr\u0026merchant-id=M6BDUVHC375SA\u0026intent=authorize"}}]" access-token="bc12eb6eb1c368f9b80b26a93d14da52" buyer-country="GB" buyer-locale="en" buyer-currency="GBP" shop-id="18602387" cart-id="e08be86174d06f88ed739950f8006458" > <div class="wallet-button-wrapper"> <ul class='wallet-cart-grid wallet-cart-grid--skeleton' role="list" data-shopify-buttoncontainer="true"> <li data-testid='grid-cell' class='wallet-cart-button-container'><div class='wallet-cart-button wallet-cart-button__skeleton' role='button' disabled aria-hidden='true'> </div></li><li data-testid='grid-cell' class='wallet-cart-button-container'><div class='wallet-cart-button wallet-cart-button__skeleton' role='button' disabled aria-hidden='true'> </div></li> </ul> </div> </shopify-accelerated-checkout-cart> <small id="shopify-buyer-consent" class="hidden" aria-hidden="true"> One or more of the items in your cart is a recurring or deferred purchase. By continuing, I agree to the <span id="shopify-subscription-policy-button">cancellation policy</span> and authorize you to charge my payment method at the prices, frequency and dates listed on this page until my order is fulfilled or I cancel, if permitted. </small> </div>