The 16 Best Sports Deodorants for Your Sweatiest Workouts

Native Deodorant is a solid choice if you’re seeking more long-lasting odor protection to keep up with your toughest workouts. This deodorant offers up to 72 hours of odor protection and made our list of Best Aluminum-Free Deodorants. Native is also a favorite for odor protection among experts we consulted with. “This deodorant delivers a natural scent derived from grapefruit, apricot, and lavender oil, and includes olive oil and aloe that soothes the skin,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Dr. Zeichner also notes that the vegan formula absorbs wetness with tapioca starch, but also protects the skin with ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil.

“Although it’s not marketed as sports-specific, Native is the only deodorant that keeps me odor-free through teaching a morning yoga class and a full day of work. I love that it’s aluminum-free and comes in a plastic-free option for less environmental impact,” says Julie Kaur Kalair, MPH, RDN, an ayurvedic dietitian and a certified exercise physiologist.

Native Deodorant is available in 25 scents, including an unscented option. Scents include Coconut & Vanilla, Blackberry & Green Tea, Cucumber & Mint, among others, and the deodorant is free of aluminum, parabens, and phthalates. These heavy metals and preservative ingredients may sometimes be added to deodorant or deodorant-antiperspirant products to help block sweat (aluminum as a metal), preserve fragrance, or provide the desired texture (parabens and phthalates).

While some people may have concerns about the safety of these ingredients, more research is needed to fully determine the risks associated with them and the safe limits.

It’s important to note that all deodorants on their own — like this one — are free from aluminum, as aluminum is only typically added to deodorant-antiperspirant products to block sweat. So any deodorant without an antiperspirant, like Native Deodorant, helps prevent odor from sweat but doesn’t block sweat.

This deodorant is a “gentle roll-on formula that glides easily onto the skin, providing lasting protection while keeping underarms soft and smooth,” says Zeichner. It’s designed in shape to contour to the armpits for easy application, and is paraben-free, dye-free, and phthalate-free. The active ingredient is 18 percent aluminum chlorohydrate to block sweat and is available in five scents: Regular, Powder Fresh, Satin Breeze, Shower Fresh, and unscented.

Ban Invisible Roll-On Antiperspirant Deodorant goes on clear and stays clear without any residue, even on dark clothing, says Katie Tuttle, an editor and writer who tested this roll-on for Everyday Health. Tuttle says that during testing, Ban Invisible Roll-On Antiperspirant Deodorant provided up to 24 hours of odor and sweat protection the majority of the time, other than in very hot and humid conditions, where some level of sweating may be inevitable.

It’s also free of dyes, parabens, and phthalates, as well as cruelty-free, meaning it was manufactured without any animal testing in the process. It’s worth noting that this roll-one can also take a bit longer to dry as it is a wet formula, although this is typical for most wet roll-ons.

Degree Advanced Antiperspirant Deodorant Dry Spray stands out as one of the best spray deodorants for active lifestyles, thanks to its easy spray application and 17.6 percent aluminum sesquichlorohydrate to help reduce sweating. The Motionsense technology refers to fragrance capsules that burst as you move, to help support long-lasting freshness while being active.

Ideal for workouts, sports, or any high-sweat situations, this spray goes on clear and dry without heavy residue. “After a full day of work, I would normally be a bit sweaty, but I have not noticed this with the Degree spray. It also does a great job of preventing odor,” Tuttle says. She notes that while the sweat-blocking and odor-protecting effects didn’t last the advertised 72 hours, they did last for up to 24 hours. Just be mindful not to over-apply, as excessive spraying may lead to yellow stains. As an antiperspirant plus deodorant, it contains aluminum sesquichlorohydrate as the active ingredient to help prevent wetness.

Of note, this spray is advertised for men due to the scent, but it worked just as well for Tuttle. The can is on the smaller side, which can be convenient when traveling or on the go.

If you’re looking for a traditional stick or solid deodorant for your active lifestyle, Ban Unscented Invisible Solid Antiperspirant Deodorant fights both sweat and odor for 24 hours and also made our list of Best Deodorants for Sensitive Skin. “This unscented stick not only neutralizes odor but also addresses underarm wetness without causing irritation,” says Zeichner.

This solid stick goes on smooth and dry, and doesn’t tug on the skin when applied. “This performed well; it kept my underarms mostly dry and odor-free, though at the end of a long walk in very hot, humid weather, I did have some dampness,” says Tuttle. She also noted that some may prefer a scented version, as it may mask odor better as the day goes on.

It contains aluminum as the primary active ingredient to fight sweat production, and is available in both unscented and scented versions, like Powder Fresh. It’s also free of baking soda for those who are sensitive. However, it may leave a light residue on your clothes.

If you have sensitive skin or are looking for odor control beyond the underarms, Secret Aluminum-Free Dry Feel Cream is our top pick for a whole-body sports deodorant cream. You can apply it wherever you sweat, like under your breasts, around your privates, and on your feet. It’s a deodorant only and doesn’t contain an antiperspirant to block sweat from forming.

This deodorant is available in Completely Clean scent and Light & Fresh scent. The cream goes on white but rubs in clear. “Applying a lotion to my armpits took me a bit to get used to, but applying it elsewhere on my body just felt like applying lotion,” says Lili Ladaga, an editor who tested this deodorant for Everyday Health. While it can take a few minutes to dry, this is typical for any cream due to its thickness compared with a spray or stick.

Lume wipes are easy to use and carry around, and are formulated with a mild cucumber scent. “[The wipes] didn’t leave a residue on my skin or transfer to my clothes,” notes Ladaga, adding that the deodorant wipes kept her odor-free all day. However, the wipes can tear easily, so she recommends pulling them out gently to reduce this risk. “Make sure the package is tightly closed to prevent the wipes from drying out,” she adds.

If you’re seeking maximum odor and sweat control for active days, a “clinical strength” antiperspirant contains higher concentrations of active ingredients than most regular-strength over-the-counter options. Secret Clinical Antiperspirant Deodorant is designed to fight three types of sweat — caused by stress, heat, and activity — while still being kind to sensitive skin with conditioners like dimethicone, a silicon-based molecule.

It contains 20 percent aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly as the active ingredient to help block sweat and is free of baking soda. Ladaga tested the Light & Fresh scent, which has a light powdery smell, but the product is also available in Active Fresh, Stress Response, Waterproof, Completely Clean, Cool Waterlily, Lavender, Powder Protection, and Free & Sensitive.

This soft solid goes on wet and can leave some white residue if you don’t let it dry, says Ladaga, but it held up impressively well: no odor and only slight dampness, even after a Pilates class. She recommends applying it at night as directed to enhance its effectiveness.

If you prefer a quality unscented deodorant or want to avoid potential irritants, Vanicream Deodorant for Sensitive Skin is our top pick. It also made our list of the Best Aluminum-Free Deodorants. “It’s perfect for sensitive skin — this formula is free of fragrance, dyes, and common irritants while still providing solid odor and wetness protection,” says Garshick. It’s a gel-based stick formula, which some may prefer over a dry stick that can leave residue, and is free of aluminum, all fragrances, oils, baking soda, botanical extracts, and alcohol.

Jessica Migala, a writer who tested the product for Everyday Health, appreciated the simple ingredient list and said it kept her dry for about 16 hours (when applied at night). Because it’s a gel, however, it does initially feel a bit wet and on application, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

If you’d like your deodorant to double as a subtle perfume, Salt & Stone Deodorant Gel comes in two luxurious, gender-neutral scents: Santal & Vetiver, with notes of Australian sandalwood, amber, cedar, and vetiver; and Bergamot & Hinoki, with notes of Italian bergamot, grapefruit, hinoki, and eucalyptus. “This fragranced deodorant uses the same fragrances as in their perfumes. In addition to neutralizing body odor, it can help hydrate your skin with seaweed extracts and prebiotics,” says Zeichner.

The gel formula glides on smoothly and dries quickly with no residue. This deodorant can be a good option for people who prefer fancier scent options. While it is scented, however, the scent is milder and some report it doesn’t provide as much long-lasting protection.

If you want a gentle deodorant formula for whole-body odor protection, Lume Whole Body Deodorant Smooth Solid is a quality choice that can be used on your underarms, privates, and more.

“It can be challenging to find a natural sports deodorant that actually works, and Lume does the job effectively. I’ve tried a ton of sports deodorants, and Lume has been a standout one for me,” says Kathryn Durston, RDN, owner of Naturally Good Nutrition in Grand Rapids, Michigan, noting she likes Lume’s Smooth Solid deodorant because it has 72-hour protection and is aluminum-free.

Lume Whole Body Deodorant Smooth Solid, which made our list of Best Whole-Body Deodorants, comes in nine options, including Lavender Sage, Clean Tangerine, Peony Rose, Minted Cucumber, and more. Our pick is the unscented solid stick, but it’s also available as a cream stick. However, during testing, Migala wasn’t too keen on how wet this deodorant felt; she had to keep her arms up to help it dry faster.

I tested Real Purity Roll-On Deodorant for a week and liked its naturally sourced ingredients, such as lavender and rosemary oil, and its subtle scent. This deodorant roll-on is lightweight and goes on smooth, leaving no residue. “This deodorant delivers a natural scent derived from grapefruit, apricot, and lavender oil, while olive oil and aloe soothe the skin,” says Zeichner.

It contains aloe vera as one of the main active ingredients, has a nice fresh scent that is not overpowering, and doesn’t feel heavy or wet, despite being a roll-on. I typically use solid sticks, but I found this roll-on dried pretty quickly, and I forgot it was there. It’s not an antiperspirant, so I still sweat with it, but it did help reduce odor during workouts like my runs and strength training sessions.

Megababe Daily Deodorant made our list of Best Aluminum-Free Deodorants, and it’s our pick for best long-lasting deodorant. It goes on smoothly and clear with no residue, dries quickly, and kept Migala dry for about 20 hours, which she found impressive and longer-lasting than some others on our list. She loves the spa-like scent of Peachy Pits, and the solid round stick fits the underarm well. While Megababe didn’t last quite as long as advertised, Migala was still impressed and plans to make the switch to this product.

This deodorant comes in cute, retro packaging that you’ll want to show off and in several beachy scents like Sunny Pits, Sandalwood, and Rosy Pits.

It’s worth noting that in some cases, a rash may occur in people who are sensitive to the oils in this product. While the 2-ounce size is slightly smaller than most sticks, Kopari's gentle yet effective formula makes it a top choice for anyone wanting clean, skin-friendly odor protection.

Old Spice Total Body Deodorant Spray made Everyday Health’s list of Best Whole Body Deodorants, so it makes sense as the best deodorant for men on this list as well. As the name suggests, you can spray this deodorant everywhere, including your privates. Denatured alcohol is the active ingredient to help prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. “This aluminum-free spray formula is strong enough for the underarms, but gentle enough for full-body use, including the chest and the groin,” says Zeichner.

This deodorant is available in Cucumber & Avocado, Lavender & Mint, Fiji, and Vanilla & Shea; is free of aluminum, parabens, and dyes; and can be conveniently used on the go. The spray uses ozone-friendly propellant, which means the gas used to dispense the aerosol spray does not deplete the ozone layer.

Ashley Ziegler, an Everyday Health editor, asked her husband to test the Cucumber & Avocado scent. “This men’s spray deodorant goes on wet but quickly becomes dry and leaves no residue,” he says. He noted it performed well, keeping him dry and odor-free even in 90-degree weather, comparable to his regular deodorant. It may be a good choice for those who like sprays and need reliable protection in hot, sweaty conditions, he added.

He did note that the spray went on cold and had a fairly strong fragrance, which may be jarring for those with sensory sensitivities. It’s important to note that, similar to other alcohol-based products, it may sting or burn initially on application.

Degree Clinical Protection Antiperspirant Deodorant made our list of Best Antiperspirants for Women for workouts, due to its ability to noticeably reduce underarm sweat. “I noticed less underarm sweat during and after exercise. With its fresh, floral scent, it also had one of the best fragrances of the lot I tested, which helped with odor control and smelling fresh for hours after I first applied it,” says Lacey Muinos, a writer who tested it for Everyday Health.

Degree Clinical Protection Antiperspirant Deodorant is available in several fresh, jasmine, and floral scents and has a soft, silky texture. Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly is the active ingredient to block sweat. The consistency of this antiperspirant/deodorant is silky and more similar to a lotion than a typical dry stick. The only downside is that it could leave a bit of residue on clothes if you don’t rub it in long enough.

Arm & Hammer Ultra Max Antiperspirant Deodorant earns its spot as the most affordable deodorant-antiperspirant on our list. The low price makes it accessible to anyone who wants reliable odor and wetness protection without a high price. It comes in a compact, solid stick format that’s convenient for when you’re on the go or traveling. “Affordable and effective, this deodorant offers reliable odor and wetness protection without breaking the bank,” says Garshick.

This deodorant glides on smoothly and is available in three scent options: Fresh (woodsy scent), Powder Fresh, and unscented. To help reduce wetness, it’s 19 percent aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly. It’s worth noting that it can leave white residue on clothes if applied too heavily. Ladaga found it to be effective and long-lasting, and she recommends it for budget-conscious shoppers who prioritize odor protection and don’t mind a stronger, simpler scent profile.