While not boasting the highest of compression levels, the Under Armour Iso-Chill is a good-value all-round performance baselayer…

For a full roundup, check out the best compression tops for men

Under Armour Iso-Chill Printed Long Sleeve Top

BUY IT NOW:

$67.99 / £55 / amazon.co.uk

PROS:

  • Rapid drying
  • Lightweight fit and feel

CONS:

  • Low level compression
  • Waist can ride up

Comfort: 5/5
Compression: 3/5
Sweat-wicking: 4/5
OVERALL: 4/5

Under Armour was founded on its expertise in performance baselayers, so it’s no surprise it knows a thing or two about making good technical compression gear.

And while its Iso-Chill compression top doesn’t pack the same high compression levels as the likes of the 2XU Core Compression or the Skins Series 5, it has a close, protective fit that supports your upper body in all the right places. It’s a good all-round base layer that’s well suited for a wide range of workouts and sports, from running to boot camp sessions.  

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This soft, smooth, comfortable baselayer fits closely without being too constrictive and feels good against the skin with no sign of chafing. It has plenty of flex and a wide range of movement, thanks to raglan sleeves that use a continuous piece of fabric from the collar into the arms.

Strategic mesh panels in the underarms and on the lower back help to regulate heat. A big plus is that this thinner Iso-Chill fabric dries as quickly as any compression top on.  

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There’s no watch window in the sleeves so you still have to suffer a cold wrist if you want to see your data on outdoor winter workouts. But the elasticated cuffs are looser than some compression tops and slide up easily.

There’s also only a lightly elasticated waistband, so this won’t always stay put when you’re stretching or reaching. Keeping drafts out of your core means tucking in. We also found the non-stretch neck collar is a little less comfortable than some compression tops on test.

There’s no precise sizing here, and only five sizes, from small to XXL. If you’re after a lively design that bucks the base layer trend for plain block colours, though, the Iso-Chill is the way to go. There’s also a write-in tag on the back, so you can put your name in it – useful if you’re in a team of other Under Armour baselayer lovers.

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