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 seamless bra you’ll wear all the time…
This is one of our favorite recent Alo buys. This seamless bra is made of a lightweight knit fabric that feels like wearing nothing, making it perfect for everyday wear. But it also has enough support to wear to Pilates or yoga. It looks so good layered under your favorite tank or worn as a top when temperatures are really steamy. ($48, Alo 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)
A T-shirt for when you don’t feel like wearing a tank…
This one from Under Armour has it all: quick-dry, sweat-wicking material, four-way stretch for easy movement, and anti-odor technology. Grab one of the bright colors to really stand out. ($14.21+, Amazon)
A versatile cami from a new activewear line…
Aritzia launched new activewear, and when we saw this cami going viral on TikTok, we knew we had to try it. Don’t let the buttery-soft material fool you — it’s also a performance fabric that’s sweat-wicking. It’s just the right amount of cropped, and the body-skimming fit means you don't have to wear a bra. We find ourselves reaching for this on the weekends, whether we’re headed to a workout class or not. ($40, Aritzia)
An exercise dress for a one-and-done outfit…
This sleek option comes in sizes XXS–6XL, and is perfect for intensive physical activity or just your afternoon dog walk. It’s sweat-wicking, has built-in shorts with mesh side pockets, and is made from recycled plastic water bottles. Plus the adjustable straps will ensure a just-right fit. ($88, 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. ($44.80+, Girlfriend Collective)
Leggings and bottoms
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)
Stretchy biker shorts with side pockets…
They’re moisture-wicking, machine-washable, and have a longer inseam, so there’s enough coverage to prevent thigh chafing. The ergonomic seams give you a full range of motion, and the waistband provides maximum coverage. Plus, they have pockets for stashing your phone. ($19.99+, 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 40 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)
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)
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)
Accessories and shoes
A scrunchie that has a special feature…
If you need an excuse to add yet another scrunchie to your collection, here it is. This one has a zippered pocket where you can stash any small essentials you might need during a workout class or walk. And the super-soft material won’t snag or tug your hair, no matter how tight that high pony is. ($16, Beyond Yoga)
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)
A UPF 50+ hat designed for ponytails...
This moisture-wicking option has tapered panels that’ll keep your hat stable — and keep you cool and comfy as you work out. Adjustable straps in the back let you wear it with your hair pulled back. Plus, it’ll protect against harmful ultraviolet rays. ($29, Vimhue via Etsy)
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)
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. ($79.98+, Amazon)
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 20 fun colors. ($26.99, SPI)
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)
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. ($55, Nordstrom)
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)
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. ($9.95+, 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. ($8.99+, 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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