Best Hot Weather Running Gear

Sweaty summers make stronger runners. Although logging miles through the heat and humidity of summer can be difficult, the right tips and tricks for heat training paired with the best gear will pay off come time for those fall races.

Running in hot weather demands a lot from your body, but you can run safely in the heat. Staying hydrated and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is key.

We’re here to help you find the best hot-weather gear to keep you as cool as a cucumber, or at least keep you as cool and protected as possible, so you can get those miles done. You don’t have to wrestle with finding the perfect balance between covering your skin and staying cool– the best hot weather running gear gives you lightweight coverage while staying breathable and airy.

Shop fast-drying tops, lightweight bottoms and all the accessories you’ll need for sunny days on the run. Plus, you can wear a lot of these items beyond your run at the beach, pool or on your summer adventures.

So take a mindful approach to running in the heat and gear up with the best summer running gear and apparel.

• Best Summer Running Tops
• Best Summer Running Tank and Singlets
• Best Summer Running Shorts
• Best Running Sunglasses
• Best Running Hats and Visors
• Best Sports Sunscreen
• Best Hydration Packs

[This page is part of the Best Running Clothes Buyers Guide 2024]

The rabbit EZ Tee short sleeve provides effortless comfort and instant cooling on any run. Cut from unbelievably soft fabric is not only super-comfortable, but it performs well under pressure. The unique fabric blend wicks sweat and dries fast, which means no soggy feeling and no clinging—only EZ, breezy miles.

The Q Speed Fuel Jacquard short sleeve is a classic in the New Balance apparel lineup, and it’s sure to be a go-to for your summer run kit. NB ICEx technology helps you cool off while you bring the heat. Designers make the Fuel Jacquard short sleeve super airy with an open back slit and perforations for added ventilation.

On’s Performance T blends the best of polyester fabric and mesh paneling to create one of the best running T-shirts you can find. High-performing fabric at the front wicks away sweat and dries fast so you can feel fresh during and after your run. A full-length mesh panel at the back offers maximum breathability.

The Brooks Distance short sleeve is a go-everywhere top for any summer activity. Brooks DriLayer technology handles moisture and keeps you cool and dry during and after your run. The super-smooth fabric is soft next-to-skin and transitions easily from running the roads to running errands.

With its lightweight and breathable design, the New Balance Impact Run Tank is a great top for summer running. New Balance used some of their latest technologies, NB DRYx and NB ICEx, to keep you cool and dry. The lightweight material and stylish cut make this Impact Run tank top perfect for running in hot and humid weather.

The Saucony Stopwatch Singlet has all of the technical properties you need to run in the heat and humidity: It’s breathable, moisture-wicking, quick drying and lightweight. It is also soft against your skin and better for the planet because it is made with 100% recycled polyester, making it perfect for summer running or hanging out poolside.

The perfect summer tank for running can be found in the rabbit Bunny Hop Tank. This lightweight and ultra-breathable top is made with rabbit’s signature rabbitMESH material, which is soft against the skin and keeps you cool and dry. Plus, the slim fit and racerback design won’t cling or sag in humid weather. Whether you are speeding around the track or finding shade on the trails, the rabbit Bunny Hop Tank is perfect for any summer running.

Soft and luxurious, you will be reaching for the Vuori Lux Performance Tank time and time again. This buttery smooth tank has a flattering cut for just about any figure. You will stay cool and dry with the moisture-wicking and anti-odor properties so you can wear it for that intense workout or while going to get ice cream. Stay comfortable all summer long in the Vuori Lux Performance Tank.

Show off your muscles in the men’s rabbit Welcome to the Gun Show Tank. This singlet will keep you cool and dry all summer long since it is made with rabbitMESH material that is super lightweight and quick-drying. The tailored fit of this tank is perfect for hot summer days because you won’t feel boxed in.

There is also the rabbit Welcome to the Gun Show perf ICE Tank version which is made from sustainable nylon that uses recycled coffee grounds to keep you cool, dry and reduces odor. Stay comfortable during even the hottest days with the rabbit Welcome to the Gun Show tanks.

Find the perfect balance between lightweight breathability and functional performance with the best summer running shorts.

Whether you’re chasing down a PR or getting after summer mileage, the Brooks Chaser short offers the lightweight performance you need.

Fabric: Brooks DriLayer HorsePower fabric wicks sweat and dries fast. Paired with the sweat-wicking mesh brief liner, the Chaser short promises top-notch comfort.

Fit: 5” inseam, semi-fitted, internal infinity drawcord in waistband.

Pockets: Two drop-in side pockets in the waistband securely hold keys and cards while a back panel pocket is large enough for most smartphones.

The Brooks Sherpa 5” short offers lightweight comfort and high-end performance to any activity.

Fabric: Whether you wear them on a hike or out on a run, the DriLayer fabric wicks sweat away and dries fast to keep you cool and comfortable. Plus, a mesh brief liner offers support and breathability where you need it most.

Fit: 5” inseam, semi-fitted, internal infinity drawcord, wide no-slip waistband.

Pockets: Two internal drop-in pockets and a large, zippered pocket at the back.

The rabbit Hopper Shorts make light work of summer runs

Fabric: Stretchy polyester blend fabric and breezy back paneling provide excellent moisture control and ventilation while a mesh brief liner offers breathability and support.

Fit: 4” inseam, slim fit.

Pockets: Two drop pockets tucked into the wide waistband comfortably store essentials like keys, cards and snacks. A zipped back pocket securely holds your phone or keys.

The Saucony Outpace 5” Shorts will have you ready to run all summer long.

Fabric: The recycled polyester blend with a smooth knit brief liner makes these shorts soft, moisture-wicking and eco-friendly. The perforated hem gives you additional ventilation.

Fit: 5” inseam with an encased elastic waistband with internal infinity drawcord Pockets: Zippered right hand back pocket that can fit most phones and two drop-in pockets at the inside brief

Feather-light fabric and workout-ready durability make the New Balance Impact Run 5” short a go-to for hot weather runs.

Fabric: A moisture-wicking inner brief works with New Balance’s fast-drying fabric to ensure long-lasting comfort on the run.

Fit: 5” inseam, athletic fit, internal adjustable drawcord.

Pockets: An adjustable waistband includes internal stash pockets and a zippered back pocket is large enough to fit a smartphone so you can run hands-free.

Performance tech and lightweight fabric come together to make the New Balance Q Speed Fuel short one of the best summer running shorts.

Fabric: Mesh paneling and NB ICE technology make light work of sweat. A breathable mesh brief liner offers coverage and ventilation to the overall airy feel of the Q Speed Fuel shorts.

Fit: 3” inseam, athletic fit, external adjustable bungee drawcord in waistband.

Pockets: A stash pocket in the waistband holds keys or cards securely while you run.

It’s all in the name. The On Lightweight short weighs in at less than 4 ounces but packs heavy-duty performance for even the hottest temperatures.

Fabric: A mesh brief liner enhances breathability where you need it most. The rear panel of the shorts is cut from polyester mesh for added ventilation while the front panel is constructed from fast-drying polyester fabric.

Fit: 5” inseam, athletic fit, internal adjustable drawcord.

Pocket: An adjustable waistband with an internal stash pocket comfortably holds keys and cards.

Find top-level speed and comfort in the On Sprinter shorts.

Fabric: These shorts offer gentle compression and support throughout the leg and into the wide waistband for a no-distractions fit. Performance polyester fabric wicks sweat and dries in a flash to help you stay comfortable over long mileage or intense workouts.

Fit: 4” inseam, fitted, gentle compression.

Pockets: Five pockets help the Sprinter shorts transition easily between runs, hikes and bike rides. Two side leg pockets are large enough to hold snacks or a smartphone, while three drop-in pockets along the back mesh panel easily fit cards, keys and, you guessed it, more snacks.

The best summer accessories keep you cool and looking hot. Protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated with our top picks in sunglasses, hats and more:

• Best Running Sunglasses
• Best Running Hats and Visors
• Best Sports Sunscreen
• Best Hydration Packs

Beef up your run kit with the hottest sunnies this summer. From non-slip tech to sporty frames, there’s something for everyone from top brands like goodr and more.

Shop Best Sunglasses

Keep the sun off your face with lightweight hats designed for sweaty miles. Shop bold prints or flexible models that store easily in a pack.

Shop Best Running Hats

Sunburn is no fun for anyone. Protect yourself from harmful UV radiation with sports sunscreen developed to withstand sweat and water.

Hydration is key when preparing for and fueling a run. No matter how far or fast you run, quench your thirst with the best hydration packs.

Shop Best Hydration Packs

Standing Behind Our Picks:

Shopping for summer running gear is hard. You don’t know for sure how a shirt or a pair of pants will fit until you try it on. We want to make that easier.

We want you to get the right clothes and gear. That’s why we offer our Happy Fit Guarantee return policy.

Buy new running clothes from Fleet Feet and give them a try—log some miles, get in a few workouts, lounge around. If you don’t love the way the clothes look, fit or perform, send them back within 60 days and we’ll give you a full refund.

Plus, get free shipping on any fleetfeet.com order over $99, and return shipping is always on us.

Want to try something on in person first? Find a Fleet Feet location near you.