Shopping·11 min read

Summer Workout Gear That'll Keep You Cool

Breathable Gear and Accessories to Upgrade Your Summer Workouts
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Alo Yoga, Aritzia, Beyond Yoga
June 13, 2024

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In the peak of summer, it can be difficult to make it to your workout without sweating through your clothes first. So we’re shedding layers, looking for breathable fabrics, and rounding up the gear you’ll need to make your summer fitness routine doable — and a little more enjoyable. From moisture-wicking tanks to sports bras that can be worn as tops to breezy shorts, we’ve found what to wear to keep your inner temperature down and morale up all season long.

Bras, tops, and dresses

A peach muscle tank
Vuori

An everyday muscle tank to wear from the gym to coffee runs…

You can never have too many muscle tanks — especially if it's from Vuori. The brand is known for its minimalistic athleisure that you can wear straight from a workout to grabbing a midday coffee, and this tank is one of them. The breathable top is crafted with four-way stretch that’s also moisture-wicking. It comes in three neutral hues, including a bright peach option perfect for summer runs. ($54, Vuori) 

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A flowy draped sleeve wrap around top.
Tavi

A flowy top designed for low-intensity workouts…

Is your wardrobe in desperate need of more workout tops? This cropped wrap top from Tavi is an on-trend solution for all your barre or yoga needs. The balletcore draped sleeves are airy and will daintily flow with every movement, while the cinched waist and wrap-around style provides a flattering touch. ($55, Tavi) 

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beyond yoga cropped yoga tank with built-in bra
Beyond Yoga

A soft bra top with lots of support…

This cropped tank has a built-in bra that’ll keep you supported without feeling constricting. The cult-favorite performance fabric has a unique texture to keep you dry, and it has UPF 50+ sun protection for outdoor workouts. Grab the matching leggings if you can’t resist a good set. ($68, Beyond Yoga)

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girlfriend collective sports bra
Girlfriend Collective

A full-coverage sports bra even sports bra haters will love…

This one from Girlfriend Collective has thick straps that create a smooth silhouette, and it’s ultra-supportive thanks to its four-way stretch fabric. It’s not too cropped and pairs perfectly with one of our favorite pairs of high-rise leggings. ($56.00, Girlfriend Collective)

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Leggings and bottoms

running-shorts
Lululemon

Our favorite running shorts with added length…

We hoped for days like these. Lululemon finally made the Speed Up short with a few extra inches of coverage. Plus, these are high-rise for even more comfort. We love that they’re light and breezy and have a built-in lining, so you don’t have to wear anything underneath. ($68, Lululemon)

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crz yoga lightweight leggings
Amazon

Leggings that are just as good as more expensive pairs…

Designed to feel like a second skin, these are buttery-soft and come in over 30 colors. With slight compression, they’re great for yoga and other workouts — and it’ll essentially feel like you’re wearing nothing. These also have a pocket inside the waistband for your key or cash. ($26, Amazon)

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baleaf pleated tennis skirt
Amazon

A tennis skirt you can wear on and off the court…

This sporty-chic skirt has a high waistband that provides full-coverage support, shorts with pockets underneath, a built-in flexible mesh liner, and super-stretchy fabric. Whether you’re running errands or serving on the courts, you’ll be comfortable and cool. ($30.97, Amazon)

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beyond yoga maternity leggings
Beyond Yoga

Maternity leggings with bump support...

These moisture-wicking leggings are made of ultra-soft performance fabric, so they offer you and your bump support, without skimping on the comfort. Just fold the over-the-belly waistband up or down based on your preference. They come in neutral and bright colors. ($110, Beyond Yoga)

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Accessories and shoes

goodr running sunglasses
REI

Special running sunglasses to block out the sun...

These polarized sunnies are glare-reducing, offer UV protection, and come in the cutest colors, like burnt orange and candy pink. There’s a grip on the nose that’ll prevent slippage and give you that no-bounce fit, too — ideal for sweaty runs. ($25, REI)

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hoka solimar running sneakers
Hoka

Popular running sneakers with major cushioning…

So many HQ’rs swear by Hokas. The gravity-defying foam sole and contoured footbed makes you feel like you’re walking on clouds. This lightweight pair is perfect for long walks or all-distance running, and they’re reinforced with extra rubber for the sweatiest feet. PS: Read our full review here. ($125, Hoka)

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Fitbit
Amazon

A fitness tracker that won’t weigh you down…

This Fitbit will feel lightweight on your wrist and will monitor your steps, hourly activity, heart rate, REM sleep, and more. It has a long-lasting battery and is water-resistant (so you can wear it in the pool or outdoor shower). You can get call, text, and calendar notifications, too. ($74.95, Amazon)

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running belt bag
SPI

A running belt we like so much we gave it an award…

We gave this running belt a Good for You Award because it’s like the Mary Poppins bag of belt bags. It’s small, lightweight, and doesn’t bounce while we walk or run, but it somehow expands to fit larger phones, cards, keys, and more. The waistband is fully adjustable, and it comes in more than 35 fun colors. ($26.99, SPI)

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lululemon running visor
Lululemon

A visor that’ll keep the sun off your face...

This actually has a brim wide enough to shield your face — and won’t make the top of your head feel like it’s going to melt. It’s specifically designed for runners and is made of a special fabric that’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking. You can adjust it to fit your head. ($28, Lululemon)

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original universal tevas
Nordstrom

The cult-favorite sandals that can be worn for any summer activity...

Wear your Tevas on a hike, to the beach, or for your morning walks. They’re made from recycled plastic and feature quick-dry webbing, a rubber sole for traction, a treatment to minimize odors, and a molded midsole that’ll provide arch support. The hook-and-loop closure makes them easy to take on and off. ($60, Nordstrom)

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allbirds running sneakers
Allbirds

Machine-washable athletic sneakers...

This pair from Allbirds reimagines the classic running shoe. They’re made with natural materials (like eucalyptus trees and castor beans) and can be thrown in the wash. They have cushioned support, and a flexible design to conform to your movements. One of our editors swears by them. ($135, Allbirds)

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copper-infused arch support bands
Amazon

Arch bands to support flat feet…

If you have low arches or plantar fasciitis, these copper-infused bands allow for full range of motion while staying odor-free. They can be worn under socks and provide compression to reduce muscle strain and redistribute pressure. ($15.95, Amazon)

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anti-chafe balm
Amazon

An anti-chafe balm that’ll prevent discomfort…

Use this between your thighs, on your heels, and where shoulder straps rub to prevent that dreaded discomfort. It’s made from plant-derived ingredients, is allergen-free, and won’t clog your pores. ($9.99, Amazon)

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anti-blister foot balm
Amazon

An anti-blister balm that comes in handy for long runs…

Before you slip on new shoes, apply this balm to places that typically form a blister (like the back of your heel or along your pinky toe). It creates a frictionless barrier that prevents rubbing, and allantoin reduces redness and inflammation. It’s also made entirely of plant-based ingredients. ($8.99, Amazon)

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