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The humble tank top’s influences and references run as varied as Marlon Brando and Eminem. What started as a basic work-shirt for day laborers and construction workers has now become a common part of every guy’s wardrobe, helping them to keep cool in the hot summer months, and serving as an extra layer of warmth and insulation when winter rolls around.
Named after the “tank suit,” a style of bathing suit worn by men and women in the Twenties for swimming pools (or “swimming tanks”), the tank top has evolved into both a functional and fashionable item of clothing (Note: a tank top is not to be confused with a sleeveless shirt, which has fully covered shoulders versus the strap-style design of a tank).
The best tank tops can serve multiple uses — some are meant for wearing out, while others are best tucked under a shirt. Others can be worn in place of a T-shirt, say, to the beach or when the weather is just too hot for sleeves (even if they are short sleeves).
Worn as an undershirt, a tank top (also referred to as an “A-shirt” or athletic shirt) adds an extra layer between your body and your main shirt or sweater. It provides warmth, while helping to absorb sweat and odors. That common fear of sweating through your shirt? You won’t have that problem if you layer a tank top underneath first.
The best tank tops are also great for working out, helping to keep you and your pits dry by letting more airflow in. On vacation? A tank top is a great lightweight layer for tropical vacations or a day at the beach. Wear it on its own during the day, then throw on a button-down shirt or sweater over top for dinner at night.
