When you think about long sleeve shirts, your first thought probably isn’t cool and breezy. Most guys associate long sleeves with cold weather, layering up, or hitting the slopes in winter. But what if I told you there’s a long sleeve shirt designed to keep you cool—even during intense workouts or hot summer days?
Let’s dive into the world of cooling long sleeve shirts and why they deserve a spot in your sportswear lineup.
Why Choose a Long Sleeve in Warm Weather?
You might wonder, Why not just wear a short sleeve tee or tank top? Fair question. But there are solid reasons why long sleeves make sense for warm-weather workouts:
- Sun Protection: Long sleeves provide an extra layer between your skin and harsh UV rays. No sunscreen reapplication required.
- Moisture Management: Modern fabrics wick sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and preventing chafing.
- Temperature Control: Believe it or not, some fabrics are designed to keep you cooler than wearing nothing at all.

The Technology Behind Cooling Long Sleeves
Not all shirts are created equal. Cooling long sleeves rely on advanced materials and smart design features that work together to regulate your body temperature.
1. Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
Sweat is your body’s natural cooling system. Moisture-wicking fabrics pull sweat away from your skin and spread it across the fabric, where it can evaporate quickly—helping you stay cool and dry.
2. Breathable Mesh Panels
Strategically placed mesh panels increase airflow in high-heat zones like the back, underarms, and sides. This boosts ventilation and lets heat escape.
3. Lightweight & Stretchy
Nobody wants to feel weighed down during a workout. Look for shirts made from ultra-light, stretchy materials that move with you. You’ll barely notice you’re wearing it.
4. Cooling Technology
Some performance shirts use special yarns or treatments that create a cooling sensation when activated by sweat. It’s like having built-in AC for your body.

Northyard’s Pick: The Ultimate Cooling Long Sleeve Shirt
At Northyard, we’re all about gear that works with you, not against you. Our Men’s Quick-Dry Long Sleeve Shirt is built for guys who train hard, sweat a lot, and still want to stay cool.
- Breathable quick-dry fabric
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Mesh underarm panels for ventilation
- Flatlock seams to prevent chafing
- Lightweight, soft, and moves with you
Whether you're looking for a basketball long sleeve shirt to dominate on the court, or something for running, hiking, or casual wear, this one covers all the bases. It performs whether you're hitting the gym or exploring the outdoors.
Pro Tips for Wearing Long Sleeves in the Heat
- Go for light colors: Dark shades absorb more heat. Light grey, white, or pale blue are your friends.
- Stay hydrated: Cooling shirts help, but water is still your best friend in the heat.
- Pair it right: Combine your long sleeve with breathable workout shorts or lightweight joggers to maximize airflow.
The Bottom Line
So, is there a long sleeve shirt that keeps you cool? Absolutely. With the right fabric, design, and fit, you can enjoy the benefits of long sleeves without overheating.
Ready to upgrade your gear? Check out the rest of the Northyard activewear collection and see the difference for yourself.