Shopping·12 min read

Summer Workout Gear That'll Keep You Cool

Breathable Gear and Accessories to Upgrade Your Summer Workouts
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Amazon, Beyond Yoga, Lululemon
July 19, 2023

This post was originally published in July 2021 and has been updated.

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

By now it shouldn’t come as a surprise that working out has a ton of benefits. (Reminder: Exercise gives you endorphins...endorphins make you happy...and you know the rest.) Thanks to scorching summer temps, it can be difficult to even make it to your workout without sweating through your clothes first. And since no one’s here for that, we rounded up the gear you’ll need to make your summer fitness routine doable — and enjoyable. 

We’re talking stuff that’s breathable, lightweight, and moisture-wicking. Whether you’re hiking, running, or going for a dog walk, we’ve got you covered.

Bras, tops, and dresses

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

A soft, cropped bra top with lots of support…

This cropped tank isn’t just *any* cropped tank. It has a built-in bra that’ll keep you supported without feeling constricting. The cult-fave performance fabric feels like heaven and has a unique texture to keep you nice and dry. It even has UPF 50+ sun protection for outdoor workouts. Plus, the racerback cut is uber flattering. Win. Psst…here are the matching leggings if you can’t resist a good set. ($68, Beyond Yoga)

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Under Armour tee
Amazon

The perfect tee for soaring temps...

This one from Under Armour has it all: quick-dry, sweat-wicking material, four-way construction that makes for easy movement, and anti-odor technology. Talk about containing multitudes. ($23.95+, Amazon)

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girlfriend collective exercise dress with built-in shorts and adjustable straps
Girlfriend Collective

An exercise dress for when you want a one-and-done look…

Sometimes it’s just too hot to wear pants and a top. Sometimes you just don’t have the energy to pick out an entire outfit. This sporty option comes in sizes XXS–6XL, and is flattering, functional, and perfect for intensive physical activity or just your afternoon dog walk. It’s sweat-wicking, has built-in shorts with side pockets, and is made from recycled plastic water bottles. Plus its adjustable straps will let you get the perfect fit. Trust — the hype is real. ($88, Girlfriend Collective)

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girlfriend collective sports bra
Girlfriend Collective

A supportive, full-coverage sports bra for anyone who hates wearing one…

Comfy vibes for the win. 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. Plus, it's made from stuff we love, like recycled plastic bottles. Keeping your boobs supported while you look out for the environment? Yes, please. ($46, Girlfriend Collective)

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Leggings and bottoms

baleaf biker shorts with side pockets
Amazon

Stretchy biker shorts for when you want to keep up with trends...

If you need more convincing, here's why we love these: 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. And they have pockets. We repeat, they have pockets. ($19.99+, Amazon)

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crz yoga lightweight leggings
Amazon

Leggings that’ll give your Lululemon pair a run for their money…

You heard it here first. Designed to feel like a second skin, these are buttery-soft and come in over 40 colors. With slight compression, this pair is great for yoga and other workouts — and it’ll essentially feel like you’re wearing nothing. Plus, there’s a hidden waistband for key or cash storage. Here for it. ($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 tummy support, integrated shorts with pockets, a built-in flexible mesh liner, and super-stretchy fabric. Whether you’re running errands or actually playing on the courts, this one’s a must-have. You’re basically Sporty Spice now. ($28.97, Amazon)

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beyond yoga maternity leggings
Beyond Yoga

Maternity leggings that you won’t want to take off...

These moisture-wicking leggings are made of crazy-soft performance fabric (emphasis on the crazy-soft). They’re especially great because 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 and you’re good to go. Get it, mama. ($110, Beyond Yoga

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Accessories and shoes

beyond yoga scrunchie with hidden pocket
Beyond Yoga

A buttery-soft 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

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goodr running sunglasses
REI

Special running sunglasses to block out the haters (read: 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. Sun = blocked. ($25, REI)

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vimhue via etsy running hat
Vimhue via Etsy

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 back let you wear it over your big messy bun, no problem. Plus, it’ll protect against harmful ultraviolet rays. Winner, winner right here. ($29, Vimhue via Etsy)

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hoka solimar running sneakers
Hoka

These 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 lightweight fitness tracker that won’t weigh you down…

Because the last thing you want in the heat is something heavy and tight on your wrists. This minimal one from Fitbit 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). Plus, you can get call, text, and calendar notifications, too. We love to see it. ($58.93+, Amazon)

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running belt bag
Amazon

A sleek belt bag to hold all your stuff while on the go…

Lightweight, water-resistant, and sweat-proof, this one’s snug fit will prevent it from bouncing up and down during your sweat session. And it comes with a convenient hole for headphone wires. Plus, it has a reflective strip, providing a little extra protection if you’re heading out for a walk or run at night. It’s a yes from us. ($11.99+, Amazon)

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lululemon running visor
Lululemon

A visor that’ll keep the sun (and your hair) off your face...

This wide-brim option is the perfect solution — and won’t make the top of your head feel like it’s gonna melt. It’s specifically designed for runners and is made of a special fabric that’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking. Bonus points for its adjustable closure so you can easily perfect your fit. Onward and upward. ($28, Lululemon)

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original universal tevas
Teva

The cult-favorite sandals that can be worn for literally 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. And means you can make them as tight or loose as you want. ($55, Teva)

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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 bean) and can be thrown in the wash. They have cushioned support, and a flexible design to conform to your movements. Long summer walks and runs, minus any foot pain? Priceless. ($135, Allbirds)

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copper-infused arch support bands
Amazon

Arch support bands that’ll provide some relief during your workouts…

These copper-infused compression bands allow for full range of motion while staying odor-free — which is perfect for both high- and low-impact activities. They can be worn under socks and provide compression to reduce muscle strain and redistribute pressure. Customers love how the bands lift their arches, lessening pain immediately. ($19.95/2 pack, Amazon)

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anti-chafe balm
Amazon

An anti-chafe balm that’ll provide long-lasting comfort on the hottest of days...

Exercise + hot, humid days = chafe city. 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 vegan, and won’t clog your pores. Savior of the summer. ($10.99+, Amazon)

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anti-blister foot balm
Amazon

And the accompanying anti-blister balm to break in your new sneaks...

Apply this balm to places that typically form a blister (hi, back of the heel) to make your next workout so much comfier. The sweat-resistant formula is made with plant-based ingredients, and it won’t leave behind a greasy residue. There’s even vitamins A and C to soften skin and restore moisture. It’s all about being proactive instead of reactive. ($9, Amazon)

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