I’m a Marathon Runner and These Are My Favorite Warm Weather Running Clothes.
Let’s get to the point: I’m afraid to run in the heat. In fact, you could say I’m a big kid at this. But while all my favorite marathons will be held in the fall (Philadelphia, New York, Chicago), I will stick to the summer training schedule.
As temperatures rise and summer approaches, runners everywhere are shedding their clothes and adapting their gear to the heat. After running six marathons, I know what it’s like to invest in the right running gear. Here’s a rundown of my favorite gear that keeps me comfortable when the sun kills all my energy and motivation to lace up and hit the road.
Lightweight, technical running shirts.
When it comes to warm-weather running tops, technical fabrics are non-negotiable. My favorite shirts are made from wicking polyester blends that wick sweat away from the skin and dry quickly. (This mixture is what Nike calls “Dri-FIT.”)
Look for shirts that say “thermal gear” or “cool technology.” They typically include mesh panels in high-heat areas such as the back and armpits. At the same time, these technical running shirts can be expensive. Search for “wicking” in the sales section of your favorite activewear brand and you may find several options available.
In the summer, I prefer a looser fit that allows for better air circulation, but not so baggy that the fabric sticks when wet. On particularly hot days, the tank tops provide maximum ventilation while maintaining sun protection on the shoulders and upper back.
And for anyone who wears sports bras, I recommend finding a bra you like and buying five of them (or as many sports bras as you go through before washing). As the weather warms up, I’ve become a big fan of wearing a bra that doesn’t require a shirt on top, although I know that’s not an option for everyone. This sports bra from Ciele has everything in place and is my favorite so far this season.
Breathable running shorts
In warm weather, the right shorts are crucial. I’ve found that shorts with a 5-inch inseam are ideal for comfort and mobility, but be sure to experiment to find the right length for you. If you’re willing to splurge, the best summer running shorts are:
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Built-in earbuds that provide support without restricting movement.
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Quick-drying, lightweight fabrics that do not chafe when wet.
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Small internal pockets for keys and running gels.
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Reflective elements for morning and evening runs.
I especially appreciate the split shorts , which increase range of motion and ventilation when you’re really sweating.
Lightweight, responsive shoe
I started changing my shoes to make them last longer – stay tuned for my results. At this point, you need to know that finding the perfect running shoes is about more than just a style or brand preference: the right shoes are important for performance, comfort, and injury prevention.
Summer in particular is the ideal time to wear the lightest and most breathable sneakers. As for my lightweight pairing this season, I’ve been a fan of the Saucony Endorphin series. For more cushioning and stability, I run in the Nucleo 2s . I know some runners even prefer shoes with drain holes when you encounter puddles or water crossings, although most runners don’t need this.
These days I’m also delving (pun intended) into the world of barefoot running. Something truly minimalist, like Xero Shoes , usually costs less than traditional sneakers. These are tracks because they are made up of significantly less material than your standard shoe. Seriously. Get ready to train like a barefoot runner.
Bonus Shopping Tip: The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 releases on June 1st, making this week the perfect time to snag the Endorphin Speed 4 at a great price .
Hydration and refueling
I’ve dedicated entire posts to refueling during runs in the past and could write an entire book giving my opinion on using gels alone. (A rambling and entirely subjective book, but a book nonetheless.)
If you’re not familiar with gels, think of it as a syrupy packet of quick energy, similar to a Go-Gurt. Most of them advertise a great combination of carbohydrates, caffeine and amino acids. My gel preference is aptly named Gu . Other runners prefer Gatorade gummies , Snickers bars, or even dates in a Ziploc bag.
Proper hydration becomes even more important in warm weather. Depending on the length of your run and water availability, I alternate:
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Lightweight , portable water bottle with hand strap (ideal for runs under an hour)
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A minimalist hydration vest for long workouts.
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My FlipBelt with several small bottles for more balanced weight distribution.
Look for options with extra storage space for essentials like food, phone and keys. The best hydration gear is secure and won’t bounce or chafe, even when you pick up the pace.
And although electrolyte mixtures are overpriced, they will still come in handy when it comes time to replenish all the lost fluid. I plan to test some of them this summer, but for now I can recommend brands like LiquidI.V. and TailWind .
Moisture-wicking socks
Never underestimate the importance of good socks! Cotton is the enemy when temperatures rise because it retains moisture and causes blisters. Instead, I invest in technical running socks made from synthetic blends or merino wool (which, surprisingly, work great even in the heat). Some also feature mesh panels on the top that increase airflow around the toes.
If you want features like odor control and humidity management, be my guest, but I didn’t find a huge difference for this higher price. This six pack from Nike for $30 is okay and I wouldn’t spend much more.
Reliable running cap
Sun protection is crucial during summer runs, and a good running cap serves several purposes: it protects your face and eyes from harsh sunlight, prevents sweat from getting into your eyes, and prevents sunburn on your scalp.
I’m guessing you probably have a baseball cap that gets the job done. Personally, I wouldn’t spend the money on a technical running cap. But if you need something special, look for lightweight hats with moisture-wicking bands and mesh panels for ventilation. Dark beaks reduce glare without overheating the head.
Balm for body glide or against chafing
Anti-chafing agents are required. I cannot ethically write a review of an undercarriage that includes tips for dealing with chafing. When sweat and repetitive motion combine, painful chafing can quickly ruin your run. I pre-apply anti-chafing balm to the most common problem areas: inner thighs, armpits, sports bra lines, and anywhere else that causes friction.
The best products create a long-lasting, invisible barrier that traps sweat and won’t stain clothes. This Body Glide Anti-Chafing Stick works amazingly well for only $8.99. This small addition to your running gear can make the difference between a dull short run and a comfortable long run.
Final Thoughts
Exercising in the heat is not an easy task. The right warm-weather running clothing will allow you to continue your workout safely and comfortably through the hottest months. While quality technical clothing isn’t cheap, I’ve learned over the years how much of a worthwhile investment it is for dedicated runners.
Remember, the best gear is the gear that suits your specific needs. What works for one runner may not work for another depending on body type, running style and personal preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find your perfect warm weather running kit.