The Best Summer Running Gear for Surviving the Heat
Suns out, runs out. ’Tis the season to step off the treadmill and box up your winter running jacket for next year. Summer is an ideal season for heading out the door carefree as you anticipate your workout. And who doesn’t like cannonballing into a pool or lake postrun? But alas, there are some considerations before having your run in the sun.
Unlike running in the cold when you can de-layer, running in the heat isn’t as straightforward. By prepping with the right apparel, accessories, andsunscreen, you can make those balmy days less of a slog. The right shirt can prevent underarm chafing and an ergonomic handheld water bottle will ensure you get plenty of hydration. Running gear can optimize your run and make heatwaves less miserable and actually enjoyable.
For more summer running essentials, check out our coverage of the best moisture-wicking running shirts, hydration packs, and sweat-resistant sunscreens.
Best Summer Running Gear Preview
- Best Women’s Short-Sleeve: lululemon Swiftly Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt 2.0
- Best Men’s Short-Sleeve: lululemon Mile Maker Mesh Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
- Best Bra: Bandit Vanisher Reverso Scoop Neck Run Bra
- Best Anti-Sweat Stain Shorts: Bandit Vanisher 5” High Waist Compression Shorts
- Best Running Hat: Ciele FSTCap SC
- Best Water Bottle: Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Handheld Water Bottle
- Best Electrolyte Powder: Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
How We Selected
In Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, we are subjected to frosty winters and sweltering summers that can rise above 100 degrees. Over the years, I’ve learned to take workouts down a few notches when the heat rises, to scorn cotton-made running apparel, and to protect my corneas with polarized shades. Fellow Runner’s World staff gave their recommendations. Allow us to make your sweaty runs more tolerable and chafe-free.
Full Reviews
Apparel
lululemon Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve Shirt 2.0
lululemon Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve Shirt 2.0
Pros
- Seamless, lightweight construction
- Anti-odor silver threads
- Not too long for short torsos
Cons
- Runs small
How I wish I had worn this t-shirt at the 2025 Boston Marathon. The scorching race had me dumping aid station water on my head and shoulders, resulting in this ugly rash on my armpits during the run and the week that followed.
The Swiftly, which I also own as a long-sleeve, is made of feathery, lightweight material and has a tailored fit that isn’t too tight nor too flowy on the torso. The short length doesn’t bunch around my waist on my short frame (I’m 5 feet). Silver threads also fight odor.
lululemon Mile Maker Mesh Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
lululemon Mile Maker Mesh Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
Pros
- Relaxed fit that isn’t baggy
- Breathable mesh construction
Cons
- Sizing runs large
The Mile Marker is made for sweaty runs with its lightweight woven construction made of quick-drying, mostly polyester material. The relaxed fit allows you to run without constriction or distraction.
Senior Gear Editor Cat Bowen’s husband wears these often, and loves how well they wick away moisture, saying “I don’t feel like I’m drowning after a workout.” According to Bowen, that’s an impressive feat.
Pros
- Reversible
- Phone pocket
- Doesn’t cause chafing
- Doesn't show sweat
Cons
- Pockets under arms may cause chafing when storing
Senior Features Editor Pavlína Černá loved how lightweight the Vanisher Reverso was, and how it didn’t show her sweat-stains. The bra has three pockers; the back phone pocket is also waterproof so your screen doesn’t get slick and you phone doesn’t get sweat-logged.
Bandit Vanisher 5” High Waist Compression Shorts
Bandit Vanisher 5” High Waist Compression Shorts
Pros
- Four gel pockets, three phone pockets
- Waterproof phone pockets
- Gripper hems
- Doesn't show sweat marks
Cons
- Shorts don’t show sweat but retain it
Černá also tested the Vanisher Shorts after she ended a hot run with a gigantic crotch sweat mark wearing her favorite bottoms. The Vanisher endured long miles in 80-degree heat. Černá was pleased no crotch stain showed postrun. However, the shorts do retain sweat; a heart-shaped sweat stain was left on the asphalt where she sat.
Bandit Vanisher Collection Review
Pros
- Lightweight VentAir fabric wicks sweat and doesn’t cling
- Breezy relaxed fit
Cons
- Women's has boxy silhouette
The Tracksmith Meridian Tank is that summer singlet you can slip over your head for a thin layer of coverage. The fabric is stretchy and provides UPF50+ protection. The grid pattern is the brand’s quick-drying VentAir tech. This tank won’t plaster to your sweaty torso midrun thanks to its relaxed fit and non-clingy material. The women’s tank has a slightly boxy fit, especially if you have a short torso like me, but that was no longer an issue after I tucked it inside the Meridian Shorts.
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Pros
- Lightweight
- Soft material
- Cropped fit
Cons
- Shows sweat stains
I own multiple colors in this tank top. The fitted crop feels like silk on my skin. It’s my favorite singlet on hot days when I’m not sure about running topless. It’s easy to tuck under my sports bra’s straps and doesn’t distract as it trails behind my back. The Crop Tank does show sweat but I kind of like how that makes my hard effort all the more evident.
Tracksmith Twilight Half Tights
Pros
- Three pockets with lots of storage space
- Soft, ribbed material
- Long, fitted legs don’t ride up
Cons
- Thick liner that’s visible through fabric
- Fabric is thick for humid runs
Tracksmith’s Twilight Half Shorts are the ideal no-riding-up inseam length (8-inch for men, 5-inch for women) and are made of an über-soft textured material that I can’s stop brushing my hands against when I’m sitting or stretching.
The three pockets provide generous space for storage. Deep side pockets and a zippered rear give options if you’re a phone-on-the-thigh or phone-in-the-back (hi!) runner.
An interior drawstring allows you to tighten the waistband, but I found tying it is unnecessary because the fit is comfortably snug. The fabric is thick but it dries fast on hot runs so you’re not sopped with sweat.
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Pros
- Available in 3-, 5-, 7-inch inseams
- Lots of storage space
Cons
- Runs small
- Some experienced legs riding up
I’m a big fan of FlipBelt’s 5-inch Comp Elite shorts for their pockets, but I get how some runners prefer longer inseam lengths. The brand’s compression shorts offer a range of lengths so you can have the option to bare your legs or have protective inner thigh coverage.
The waistband is like a utility belt, with a phone pocket sleeve in the front, a zippered rear, and zipper side pocket with a key loop. Two drop-in pockets can’t stand in as a phone holder if you’re a phone-on-the-thigh runner.
For men, we liked the Flipbelt Ouray Compression Short.
Pros
- Good breast support
- Long cut makes it feel like a cropped singlet
Cons
- Hard-to-reach back phone pocket
The Janji W’s Long Bra is a durable sports bra that manages moisture well and provides plenty of coverage. It’s the kind of bra you wear sans tank top, no second layer required.Bowen praised the Long Bra for not riding up or digging in on her hours-long trail runs. A small peeve is that the back pocket is hard-to-reach, but the sum of the Long Bra’s parts makes this a drawback we can overlook.
Accessories
Ciele FSTCap SC
Pros
- Easy bungee adjustment/closure
- Available in multiple colors
- Comes in S/M, M/L
- Soft brim
Cons
- Small for heads with big hair
Our Best Overall running hat features woven mesh panel construction that’s lightweight and fast-drying. Besides the flexible brim, which provides coverage from the sun, the hat is UPF-protected as well. My favorite feature is the bungee toggle closure; it’s the simplest way to adjust the fit midrun instead of struggling with a buckle or snaps.
Pros
- Lightweight frame
- Nosepiece stays put on low-bridge noses
- Cheap price
Cons
- Minor irritation the first couple of runs when you’re getting used to wearing the frame
These affordable sunglasses don’t slip on my low-bridge nose thanks to an adjustable nosepiece. The polarized lens provides protection against UVB and UVA rays. I also love Goodr’s funny names for its models. Among its several choices, you can opt for the purple-framed Tentacle Tag Champion or orange-tinted Dante’s Shin Splint Inferno.
Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Handheld
Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite Handheld
Pros
- Ergonomic, grip-free design
- Large, expandable zippered pocket
- Integrated insulation
- Adjustable, cushioned strap
Cons
- The insulated sleeve can be tricky to remove or reattach
- Some users report occasional leaking issues with the cap or bottle
I want to offer a heartfelt thanks to Amphipod for their ergonomic grip-free handheld. Cramps in your stomach are one thing but carpal tunnel from holding a water bottle should be a crime. The thoughtful design also features an expandable zipper pocket for holding gels or keys, and leak-free Jett-Lock cap with easy-squeeze water flow. It’s dishwasher safe, too.
Pros
- Not greasy
- Doesn’t leave a white tint on dark skin
- Water and sweat-resistant
- No harsh or heavy smell
Cons
- 40-minute reapplication
- Some users report eye irritation when you sweat
This non-greasy, non-offensively smelling, SPF 50 sunscreen doesn’t leave a white residue on my very tan skin. My only gripe is the requirement to reapply every 40 minutes for reliable protection. Fortunately, it’s available in small tubes so you can drop it in a pocket and reapply midrun.
BodyGlide Original Anti Chafe Balm
Pros
- Glides on to protect from friction
- Easy stick balm application
Cons
- Some didn’t like the stickiness
BodyGlide is the go-to anti-chafing balm for preventing friction under arms, between the thighs, you name it, glide it on. You can get an under-one-ounce version of the stick, which is perfect for pocketing in your shorts.
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Variety Pack
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier Variety Pack
Pros
- Lots of flavors
- Sweet with a hint of salty
Cons
- Too sweet for some
I forget my drink wasn’t originally fruit juice when I mix and sip Liquid I.V. in my water. The flavors give me variety and make water less boring. Its mix of vitamins and sodium and glucose also make it settle in my sensitive stomach.
What to Consider
Cat Bowen, senior editor of commerce; reviews, is a seasoned runner with more than 20 years of distance running experience, including dozens of marathons, half marathons, and even a few ultra marathons. For over a decade, she has tested parenting, fitness, home, and running gear and written in-depth guides to help readers with their next purchase. Holding multiple advanced degrees and currently studying kinesiology, Cat Bowen brings research-backed insight to all of her guides. Passionate about women’s health and neurodivergent inclusion, she advocates for closing research gaps and helping others—especially AudHD people—find joy in running and fitness.
Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.