As the winter chill melts away, it’s time to refresh our wardrobe to reflect the warmer, brighter days ahead. While it’s obvious that basic T-shirts and tank tops reign supreme in spring, we think long sleeves are also a great transitional piece. With the right long sleeve tops for spring, we can enjoy the sunny spring days while having enough protection when the evenings carry a nip in the air. Don’t be fooled by their seemingly simple design – long-sleeve shirts offer a surprising spectrum of variety. From necklines like crewnecks and turtlenecks to fits ranging from loose to relaxed, this versatile garment transcends the realm of “basic” and transforms into a cornerstone of spring travel wardrobe. Keep scrolling and browse our can’t-miss list of the season’s best long sleeves!
For more spring essentials, check out these best travel sneakers and travel-sized colognes for spring!
Table of contents
- ZESICA Ribbed Knit Long-Sleeve Tee
- Jerzees Dri-Power Long-Sleeve Tee
- Russell Athletic Long-Sleeve Performance Tee
- Lands’ End Relaxed Supima Cotton T-Shirt
- Polo Ralph Lauren Jersey Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
- Vineyard Vines Vintage Whale Long-Sleeve Tee
- Lands’ End Women’s Lightweight Fitted Turtleneck
- GAP Everyday Soft Long-Sleeve Tee
- Carhartt Loose Fit Heavyweight Long-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt
- Hanes Authentic Long-Sleeve Pocket Tee
- Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt
- Trendy Queen Long-Sleeve Crop Top
- Comfort Colors Long-Sleeve Tee Style 6014
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Long-Sleeve Tops for Spring Travel?
- Is it better to wear long sleeves in the sun?
- What type of long-sleeved shirts are best for hot weather?
- What is the coolest shirt material for hot weather?
ZESICA Ribbed Knit Long-Sleeve Tee
13
Staying fabulous and cozy is easy with the ZESICA Ribbed Knit Long-Sleeve Tee. This tee has a slim-fitted design that flatters your figure while keeping you warm. Don’t worry; we’ve worn it before and it’s still highly breathable for when the temperature rises. We also think it’s a truly versatile piece. It’s suitable for work, casual outings, and even lounging at home.
Needless to say, there’s a plethora of attractive colors to choose from. However, we think the White model is the easiest to pair. It goes well with various bottoms like jeans, leggings, and boots. This allows you to create different stylish looks effortlessly. Best of all, it’s machine washable and won’t shrink no matter what.
Pros
- Unlike some scratchy sweaters, this tee is soft and comfy.
- You can layer it under a jacket for added warmth.
- It fits true to size.
Cons
- It can be a bit too long for some women.
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Jerzees Dri-Power Long-Sleeve Tee
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Stay dry and comfy no matter what you’re doing this spring with the Jerzees Dri-Power Long-Sleeve Tee. Though designed for men, many women also love wearing it. It’s made for those who can’t sit still and demand both performance and comfort. Its moisture-wicking technology is nothing short of impressive. It actively drew sweat away from our skin, keeping us cool and dry when we were in the gym.
With that being said, we didn’t have to worry about nasty gym odors, too. That’s because this shirt comes with great odor protection, keeping itself fresh even after multiple wears. Best of all, the fabric offers UPF 30+ sun protection, shielding you from UV rays! Step outside with full confidence, knowing you’re protected from the sun.
Pros
- The brand uses sustainably sourced cotton to make this shirt.
- Though designed for men, this shirt can be worn by anyone.
- For its price, it’s surprisingly durable.
Cons
- It’s not as thick as some people expect.
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Russell Athletic Long-Sleeve Performance Tee
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Yes, the Russell Athletic Long-Sleeve Performance Tee is made for active lifestyle enthusiasts. But that doesn’t mean you can’t wear this simple yet versatile T-shirt this spring. One of the reasons why we think it’s perfect for the season is because it boasts Dri-Power moisture-wicking technology. We once wore it for running, and this tee could draw sweat from our skin and keep us cool effectively. Wear this top when the weather gets warmer this spring, and thank us later.
Odor protection is another welcome feature, especially for long or more intense workouts. This helps keep the fabric fresh and prevents unpleasant smells from building up. Even though we sweated a lot, we didn’t have that funky smell. Best of all, it boasts a UPF rating of 30+, offering protection from harmful UV rays.
Pros
- It offers a good value for the price.
- This shirt can be worn for casual workouts as well as everyday wear.
- There’s a wide array of colors to choose from.
Cons
- It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some high-end performance shirts.
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Lands’ End Relaxed Supima Cotton T-Shirt
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This one is for the ladies. The Lands’ End Relaxed Supima Cotton T-Shirt is made from 100% Supima cotton, which is superior to regular cotton in many ways. It’s softer, stronger, and has better color retention. The first time we wore this T-shirt, we couldn’t help but let our jaw drop. It was that soft and comfy! Not to mention, the relaxed fit gave us an easy-going silhouette. You can learn more about the brand’s Supima cotton by watching this YouTube video.
Since it’s not that thick and highly breathable, we think it’s the perfect top for spring. Plus, you can mix it up with anything you want. For extra warmth, layer it under a blazer. For a casual day out, you can wear it on its own. Best of all, this top is inclusive. Aside from regular sizes, it also comes in petite, tall, and plus-sized options.
Pros
- The quality of this T-shirt is second to none.
- It’s both lightweight and breathable.
- You can wash it using your washing machine, and it won’t lose its shape or color.
Cons
- It’s a bit long for shorter women.
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Polo Ralph Lauren Jersey Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
9
Just like its sweaters for men, the Polo Ralph Lauren Jersey Long-Sleeve T-Shirt is also a classic that’s beloved by gentlemen. We were glad we had the chance to try it on, and let us tell you, the material blew our minds away. The specially washed cotton jersey gives it a soft, vintage feel reminiscent of your favorite well-worn tee. This is further emphasized by the brand’s partnership with Better Cotton, ensuring responsible sourcing and sustainable practices.
This top has the brand’s signature classic fit, which is its roomiest silhouette. We had a great time wearing it. It wasn’t hot or itchy, and we were able to move around comfortably. You can also spot the iconic embroidered Pony on the left chest, which adds a subtle brand signature. Learn more about this handsome T-shirt here!
Pros
- There’s a plethora of different shades to choose from.
- This comfortable and breathable T-shirt can be worn for any occasion.
- It won’t shrink or fade even after numerous washes.
Cons
- It’s a little pricey.
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Vineyard Vines Vintage Whale Long-Sleeve Tee
8
Best for Couples. Are you looking for an adorable top that everyone can rock? Look no further than the Vineyard Vines Vintage Whale Long-Sleeve Tee! Made from 100% cotton, this top felt incredibly soft and comfortable to wear all day long. In fact, we think it’s among the comfiest and softest tees we’ve ever tested. We liked how the slim silhouette offered a classic look that flattered our bodies really well.
“This tee is simply adorable! It’s also highly breathable, making it a cute spring essential.”
WOW Travel
But its highlight is none other than the iconic whale logo on the back and chest pocket. These playful details can make springtime more fun, especially if you wear it with your significant other. What’s more, we also think this tee is versatile. It can be dressed up or down, depending on your mood. What’s not to like?
Pros
- This tee has a go-anywhere design that anyone can wear comfortably.
- The whale logos are adorable and make the tee more fun.
- As a low-maintenance tee, it’s machine washable.
Cons
- For a cotton tee, it’s pretty pricey.
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Lands’ End Women’s Lightweight Fitted Turtleneck
7
If you’re into turtlenecks, check out the Lands’ End Women’s Lightweight Fitted Turtleneck. Featuring a soft and lightweight blend of cotton and rayon modal, this top is smooth and comfortable against the skin, making it ideal for everyday wear. We found that this turtleneck is light enough for layering when the weather gets cold, but it’s also perfect on its own in spring.
When we tried it on, we loved how it curved slightly at the waist to accentuate our natural silhouette, while the mid-hip length provided coverage in the back. We also liked how the neck didn’t feel too snug. That said, you can also easily adjust the neck by rolling it up or down as you want. Best of all, during testing, the fabric never felt itchy at all.
While we’re at it, you might as well take a look at these Lands’ End swimsuits one piece and Lands’ End boots for women!
Pros
- The rayon-modal fiber is TENCEL certified, meaning it’s biodegradable.
- It’s machine washable for easy care.
- This top offers the perfect blend of comfort, stretch, and breathability.
Cons
- It tends to run small, so you might want to consider sizing up.
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GAP Everyday Soft Long-Sleeve Tee
6
As the name implies, the GAP Everyday Soft Long-Sleeve Tee is comfortable and versatile enough to be your everyday top this season. Wearing it for the first time, we were impressed by the soft jersey knit material. Its softness was unreal, and we honestly didn’t mind wearing it every single day. Not to mention, many people have said that it holds up well after washing – no shrinking or fading.
This T-shirt features a classic crew neck that doesn’t stretch easily over time, and it has banded cuffs to keep the sleeves in place, whether pushed up or left down. Even better, this top comes in a variety of exciting colors. However, we have to admit that the Crystal Blue Dusk model looks the best. It looks calming and goes well with other colors.
Pros
- This top offers the right amount of warmth without sacrificing breathability.
- It’s a basic T-shirt that will never go out of style.
- Despite its premium quality, this T-shirt is available at a reasonable price tag.
Cons
- The sleeves are a little too short for some people.
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Carhartt Loose Fit Heavyweight Long-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt
5
Best Durability. When demanding work calls, you need reliable gear that can keep up and won’t quit until the job is finished. Enter the Carhartt Loose Fit Heavyweight Long-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt. Who doesn’t know this iconic brand? We’ve found that most of its products have out-of-this-world durability, including this heavyweight T-shirt, which is known for its toughness and functionality. In fact, it has garnered over 2,000 glowing reviews on its official page!
This T-shirt is built with thick, durable fabric to withstand anything you throw its way. We particularly loved the ribbed cuffs, which ensured a secure fit on our wrists, keeping us comfy and focused on the task at hand. Not to mention, it’s available in a bunch of colorways, allowing you to find the perfect piece that matches your style and work needs. Best of all, it won’t shrink no matter how often you wash it.
Pros
- This T-shirt comes at a surprisingly affordable price.
- Despite the heavyweight fabric, it’s still breathable and comfortable to wear.
- There’s a chest pocket to keep your small essentials.
Cons
- It might not look good on people with a smaller build.
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Hanes Authentic Long-Sleeve Pocket Tee
4
Best Budget. You don’t always have to spend a lot to have the best long sleeve top for spring. The Hanes Authentic Long-Sleeve Pocket Tee is among the cheapest options out there. Some of our team members have this tee, and we all love it. We think the fit is relaxed yet flattering, and it only gets better and comfier with each wash. Not to mention, there are plenty of colors to choose from.
Another reason why we adore this tee is because of the convenient front pocket. It’s small but big enough to hold our keys and cards. Not to mention, it’s super versatile. From casual work attire with jeans and sneakers to beach strolls with shorts, this top goes with you regardless of the destination. Heck, you can also dress it up with a leather jacket.
Pros
- The 100% cotton material feels extremely cozy.
- Both men and women can wear it.
- One of the most versatile tops on the market.
Cons
- It doesn’t offer any special, ground-breaking features.
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Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt
3
Best for Workouts. The Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt is a dream for those who love working out, especially runners. This running gear from Lulu is designed to keep you cool, comfy, and confident during even the sweatiest workouts. What impressed us the most was its material. The blend of nylon, polyester, and X-STATIC nylon offered us a balance of durability and breathability. The shirt was also so lightweight that it felt barely there.
Speaking of which, the integrated Silverescent technology, powered by X-STATIC, boasts anti-microbial properties that help prevent odor buildup, keeping you feeling fresh throughout your entire run. No more post-workout stink! Meanwhile, the hip-length cut created a streamlined silhouette that flattered our figure while offering full coverage. Perfect!
For more things Lululemon, check out these beautiful Lululemon mini bags and Lululemon scuba clothing for travel.
Pros
- The seamless construction eliminates chafing, ensuring a smooth and irritation-free experience.
- The thumbholes keep the sleeves securely in place.
- It offers effective sweat-wicking capabilities, which is perfect for active people.
Cons
- Some people might think it’s pricey.
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Trendy Queen Long-Sleeve Crop Top
2
Boost your confidence with the Trendy Queen Long-Sleeve Crop Top. This top is made of a blend of polyester and spandex, which felt lightweight, super soft, and stretchy. We liked how it gave us a second-skin feel. As shown by the post below, it also features a crewneck and cropped, slim-fit silhouette. For women who want to show off their figure this spring, this is the perfect option.
Inspired by the Y2K fashion trend, this crop top is also highly versatile. You can wear it to parties, dates, clubs, or even shopping. It can also be paired with various bottoms, including shorts, cargo pants, and jeans. For a retro-inspired look, we recommend layering it under a jacket and a pair of sunglasses. Grab one, and you’ll be the center of attention.
Pros
- This crop top is available in plenty of different colors.
- Though thin and breathable, the fabric isn’t see-through.
- It’s a chic and versatile option.
Cons
- It might not be the perfect choice for women who are uncomfortable with showing off some skin.
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Comfort Colors Long-Sleeve Tee Style 6014
1
Best Overall. With over 17,000 positive reviews on Amazon, who could say no to Comfort Colors Long-Sleeve Tee Style 6014? This tee has everything you possibly need and more. Made from soft ring-spun cotton, it felt butter-soft and luxurious against our skin. The garment-dyeing process gives it a unique, vintage look and ensures minimal shrinkage.
Despite being a budget-friendly option, this tee is built with durability in mind. It features a twill-taped neck and shoulders, along with rib cuffs. These details prevent stretching and sagging, keeping the garment looking sharp for longer. We also enjoyed wearing this top because of its relaxed fit. It felt both comfortable and non-restrictive, and we think it’s ideal for layer or wearing on its own.
Pros
- The preshrunk fabric ensures the tee can maintain its shape and size wash after wash.
- It’s a unisex top that anyone can wear.
- There are plenty of eye-catching colors available.
Cons
- Some people think the fabric is too thin.
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Our Verdict!
With a unisex design, insane level of comfort, and reasonable price tag, the Comfort Colors Long-Sleeve Tee Style 6014 is our number one pick. But we do understand that it’s not for you, as everyone has different needs and preferences. To help you figure out what’s best for you, we’ve differentiated some of the tops above into the following categories:
- Best for Workouts: Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt
- Best Budget: Hanes Authentic Long-Sleeve Pocket Tee
- Best Durability: Carhartt Loose Fit Heavyweight Long-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt
- Best for Couples: Vineyard Vines Vintage Whale Long-Sleeve Tee
How To Choose The Best Long-Sleeve Tops for Spring Travel?
Choosing the perfect travel tops for spring requires considering several factors, which include:
Fabric
First, you’ll want to consider the fabric. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon blends. These will keep you cool while still providing coverage for your arms. Avoid thick fabrics, which can get quite warm.
Layering
Opt for long-sleeve tops that work well when layered. As temperatures can fluctuate in spring, versatile pieces that pair well with other items make it easy to adjust your look throughout the day. Choose lightweight long sleeves that you can layer nicely under your jacket or cardigan.
Colors
Lighter colors tend to be more cooling as they don’t absorb and retain heat as much as darker colors. Pastels, neutrals, and prints with an airy springtime look and feel are good options. Avoid heavy patterns or overly bold prints in darker shades, as they might get hot easily.
Is it better to wear long sleeves in the sun?
Long sleeves do offer more sun protection than bare skin, reducing your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. However, it would be best if you also considered the weather. If it’s too hot, they can trap heat and make you feel hotter.
What type of long-sleeved shirts are best for hot weather?
For hot weather, you’ll want to wear lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirts. These are usually made from linen, cotton, or chambray and can help you stay cool and dry. You can also consider those made from polyester or nylon blends, as they can draw sweat away from your skin.
What is the coolest shirt material for hot weather?
Some of the coolest shirt materials include natural fibers like cotton and linen as well as synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon.
