--- source_url: "https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a26977933/summer-running-gear/?utm_source=openai" title: The Best Summer Running Gear of 2026 - Summer Running Gear Reviews mirrored_at: 2026-08-10T01:03:49.859Z host: www.runnersworld.com cited_in_42a: true mirror_canonical: "https://index.42a.ai/www.runnersworld.com/gear/a26977933/summer-running-gear/index__q__utm_source_openai" --- > **Original source:** https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a26977933/summer-running-gear/?utm_source=openai Sun’s out, runs out. Whether you’re braving the heat or stepping on the [treadmill](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20834859/the-best-treadmills-for-runners/) to avoid it, summer is an ideal season for heading out the door carefree as you anticipate your workout. And who doesn’t like cannonballing into a pool or lake after a workout? But alas, there are some considerations before having your run in the sun. Unlike running in the cold when you can de-layer, running in the heat isn’t as straightforward. By prepping with the right apparel, accessories, _and_ [sunscreen](https://www.runnersworld.com/training/g19576604/best-sunscreen-for-runners/), you can make those balmy days less of a slog. The right [shorts](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22749888/running-shorts/) can prevent thigh chafing, and an ergonomic [handheld water bottle](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/g40444712/best-running-water-bottles/) will ensure you get plenty of hydration. Running gear can optimize your run and make heat waves less miserable and actually enjoyable. ## Quick Glance: Best Summer Running Gear ## Best Kit for High Humidity... **Top** - [Bandit Vanisher Reverso Scoop Neck Run Bra](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2Fnext-gen-stamina-reversible-bra)​ - Rabbit Ice Perf Tank ([Men’s](https://rei.pxf.io/c/3006986/1448521/17195?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F244408%2Frabbit-ice-perf-tank-top-mens) | [Women’s](https://rei.pxf.io/c/3006986/1448521/17195?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F243063%2Frabbit-ice-perf-tank-top-womens)) **Bottom** - [Bandit Women’s Vanisher 5” High Waist Compression Shorts](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2F5-next-gen-stamina-compression-shorts-1)​ - [Bandit Men’s Vanisher Quarter Tights](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2Fnext-gen-stamina-reinvisioned-quarter-tight-with-mesh)​ - [LSKD Accelerate 3” High-Rise Running Short](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.lskd.co%2Fproducts%2Faccelerate-3-high-rise-running-short-pink-rose)​ ## Best Anti-Chafing Kit... **Top** - [Lululemon Women’s Swiftly Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt 2.0](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=30347&awinaffid=1264447&campaign=&clickref=ruw|xid:{xid}&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.lululemon.com%2Fp%2Ftops-short-sleeve%2FSwiftly-Tech-Short-Sleeve-2-Race%2F_%2Fprod9820343&platform=pl) - [Lululemon Men’s Mile Maker Mesh Short-Sleeve T-Shirt](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=30347&awinaffid=1264447&campaign=&clickref=ruw|xid:{xid}&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.lululemon.com%2Fp%2Fmen-ss-tops%2FMile-Maker-Mesh-Short-Sleeve-T-Shirt%2F_%2Fprod20004699&platform=pl) **Bottom** - [Smartwool Women’s Active Lined 4” Short​](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.smartwool.com%2Fen-us%2Fproducts%2Fwomens-active-lined-4-short-sw003077) - [Tracksmith Men’s Twilight Half Tights](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fm-twilight-half-tights)​ ## Best Summer Racing Kit... **Top** - Tracksmith Twilight Tank ([Men’s](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fm-twilight-tank) | [Women’s](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fw-twilight-tank) | [Cropped](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fw-twilight-crop-tank))​ **Bottom** - [New Balance Women’s RC Essential Short​](https://www.amazon.com/New-Balance-Womens-Essentials-Short/dp/B0F6ZPJMY4/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) - [New Balance Men’s RC Short](https://www.amazon.com/New-Balance-Seamless-Short-Black/dp/B0C5NT8B25/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20)​ ## How We Selected In Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley, we are subjected to frosty winters and sweltering summers that can rise above 100 degrees with 80 percent humidity. Over the years, I’ve learned to take workouts down a few notches when the heat rises, to scorn cotton-made running apparel, and to protect my corneas with [polarized shades](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a22095874/best-new-running-sunglasses-reviewed/). Fellow _Runner’s World_ staff also provided their recommendations. Allow us to make your sweaty runs more tolerable and chafe-free. We divided apparel into three summer kits: high humidity, anti-chafing, and racing. However, all apparel works across these categories (yes, I’m that runner on the rail trail sporting briefs during a slow workout). A summer essentials accessory section is also included, because like I always say no matter the season before heading out: Wear your sunscreen! ## Full Reviews * * * ## High Humidity Heavy Hitters ### Pros - Reversible - Phone pocket - Doesn’t cause chafing - Doesn’t show sweat ### Cons - Pockets under arms may cause chafing when storing, but our tester didn’t have an issue with this model - Stock runs out fast Senior Features Editor [Pavlína Černá](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/251593/pavlina-cerna/) loved how lightweight the Vanisher Reverso was, and how it didn’t show her sweat stains. The bra has three pockets; the back phone pocket is also waterproof so your screen doesn’t get slick and your phone doesn’t get sweat-logged. It also didn’t cause underarm chafing, an issue Černá ran into testing the Bandit’s other no-sweat-stain bra, the [Vanisher V-Neck Race Crop](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2Fnext-gen-stamina-rounded-v-neck-crop-print-1), due to the side pockets. Credit: Rabbit ### Pros - Perforated material - Relaxed fit - Racerback ### Cons - Large armholes can cause underarm chafing The “Perf” stands for perforated, but this tank is light and airy for sweltering summer runs, making it close to perfection. The racerback cut allows for full-range mobility and provides even more ventilation during a hot workout. The armholes are quite large, so you may want to swipe some anti-chafing balm under your arms just in case. [Shop Men’s at rei.com](https://rei.pxf.io/c/3006986/1448521/17195?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F244408%2Frabbit-ice-perf-tank-top-mens) | [Shop Women’s at rei.com](https://rei.pxf.io/c/3006986/1448521/17195?subId1=ruw&subId3=xid:{xid}&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F243063%2Frabbit-ice-perf-tank-top-womens) Credit: Winston Zhou ### Pros - Four gel pockets, three phone pockets - Waterproof phone pockets - Gripper hems - Doesn't show sweat marks ### Cons - Shorts don’t show sweat but retain it Černá also tested the Vanisher Shorts after she ended a hot run with a gigantic crotch sweat mark wearing her favorite bottoms. The Vanisher endured long miles in 80-degree heat. Černá was pleased no crotch stain showed postrun. However, the shorts do retain sweat; a heart-shaped sweat stain was left on the asphalt where she sat. A men’s version, the [Vanisher Quarter Tights](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbanditrunning.com%2Fproducts%2Fnext-gen-stamina-reinvisioned-quarter-tight-with-mesh), is also available. [Bandit Vanisher Collection Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a71854251/bandit-vanisher-collection-review/) Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Split short design with ventilation - Woven high waistband - Breathable lightweight material ### Cons - One narrow interior drop-in rear pocket These shorts are so feathery light and flowy. The material, which is polyester and elastane, doesn’t cling to your skin. The leg openings have a high-split cut, making them billow out like a basset hound’s ears when they run. The woven waistband sits right above my belly button, but you can get these shorts in a [low-cut](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.lskd.co%2Fproducts%2Faccelerate-3-mid-rise-running-short-marshmallow) as well. Deputy Editor Mallory Creveling, CPT, loves wearing the low-rise shorts with a lightweight T-shirt. [LSKD Accelerate Short Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a70857313/lskd-accelerate-bra-review/) * * * ## Anti-Chafing Champions ### Pros - Seamless, lightweight construction - Anti-odor silver threads - Not too long for short torsos ### Cons - Runs small How I wish I had worn this T-shirt at the 2025 Boston Marathon. The scorching race had me dumping aid station water on my head and shoulders, resulting in this ugly rash on my armpits during the run and the week that followed. The Swiftly, which I also own as a [long-sleeve](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=30347&awinaffid=1264447&campaign=&clickref=ruw|xid:{xid}&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.lululemon.com%2Fp%2Ftops-long-sleeve%2FSwiftly-Tech-LS-2%2F_%2Fprod9750543&platform=pl), is made of feathery, lightweight material and has a tailored fit that isn’t too tight or too flowy on the torso. The short length doesn’t bunch around my waist on my short frame (I’m 5 feet). Silver threads also fight odor. ### Pros - Relaxed fit that isn’t baggy - Breathable mesh construction ### Cons - Sizing runs large The Mile Maker is made for sweaty runs with its lightweight woven construction made of quick-drying, mostly polyester material. The relaxed fit allows you to run without constriction or distraction. Senior Gear Editor [Cat Bowen](https://www.runnersworld.com/author/227204/cat-bowen/)’s husband wears these often, and loves how well they wick away moisture, saying “I don’t feel like I’m drowning after a workout.” According to Bowen, that’s an impressive feat. Credit: Smartwool ### Pros - Breathable liner - Stays put with external drawstring - Reflective detail - Zippered pocket ### Cons - Limited sizes and colors A four-inch inseam on flowy shorts sounds like Chafe City, but Bowen promises these shorts won’t cause the skin are your thighs to peel. A breathable merino wool liner makes the interior not swampy—or stinky—and the split legs and relaxed fit provide ultimate air flow. Another major plus is the amount of storage. Bowen praised the pockets for their girth and functionality. [Smartwool Active Lined Short Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a73273495/smartwool-active-shorts-review/) Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Three pockets with lots of storage space - Soft, ribbed material - Long, fitted legs don’t ride up ### Cons - Thick liner that’s visible through fabric - Fabric is thick for humid runs Tracksmith’s Twilight Half Shorts are the ideal no-riding-up inseam length (8 inches for men, 5 inches for women) and are made of an über-soft textured material that I can’t stop brushing my hands against when I’m sitting or stretching. The three pockets provide generous space for storage. Deep side pockets and a zippered rear give options if you’re a phone-on-the-thigh or phone-in-the-back (hi!) runner. An interior drawstring allows you to tighten the waistband, but I found tying it is unnecessary because the fit is comfortably snug. The fabric is thick but it dries fast on hot runs so you’re not sopped with sweat. Eight inches of leg coverage also prevents friction between your thighs on a run. [Shop Men’s at tracksmith.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fm-twilight-half-tights) | [Shop Women’s at tracksmith.com](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fw-twilight-short-tights) [Tracksmith Twilight Half Shorts Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a71005339/tracksmith-twilight-half-tights-review/) * * * ## Race-Day Ready Summer Gear ### Pros - Lightweight - Soft material - Cropped fit ### Cons - Shows sweat stains I own multiple colors in this tank top. The fitted crop feels like silk on my skin. It’s my favorite singlet on hot days when I’m not sure about running topless. It’s easy to tuck under my sports bra’s straps and doesn’t distract as it trails behind my back. The Crop Tank does show sweat but I kind of like how that makes my hard effort all the more evident. Also available as a [regular tank top](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fw-twilight-tank) and [men’s tank](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=74968X1576258&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracksmith.com%2Fproducts%2Fm-twilight-tank). [Tracksmith Twilight Crop Tank Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a70858166/tracksmith-twilight-crop-tank-review/) Now 23% Off ### Pros - Not too baggy - Room for storage - External drawstring ### Cons - Red color is more orange than red The RC Short is made of New Balance’s NB Dry, a fast-drying material that’s great when you’re sweating from trying to snag a PR in high heat. The shorts have a seven-inch inseam with a split leg for mobility. A seamless interior brief provides comfort and support, and two drop-in pockets provide storage for gels. There’s also a back zipper pocket for storing discards—because littering while racing was never cool. These shorts are also available as the [RC Essential Short](https://www.amazon.com/New-Balance-Womens-Essentials-Short/dp/B0F6ZPJMY4/?tag=runnersworld-auto-20) for women, which has a three-inch inseam. * * * ## Must-Have Hot Weather Accessories Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Easy bungee adjustment/closure - Available in multiple colors - Comes in S/M, M/L - Soft brim ### Cons - Small for heads with big hair Our [Best Overall running hat](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20859698/best-new-running-hats/) features woven mesh panel construction that’s lightweight and fast-drying. Besides the flexible brim, which provides coverage from the sun, the hat is UPF-protected as well. My favorite feature is the bungee toggle closure; it’s the simplest way to adjust the fit midrun instead of struggling with a buckle or snaps. ### Pros - Lightweight frame - Nosepiece stays put on low-bridge noses - Cheap price ### Cons - Minor irritation the first couple of runs when you’re getting used to wearing the frame These affordable sunglasses don’t slip on my low-bridge nose thanks to an adjustable nosepiece. The polarized lens provides protection against UVB and UVA rays. I also love Goodr’s funny names for its models. Among its several choices, you can opt for the purple-framed Tentacle Tag Champion or orange-tinted Dante’s Shin Splint Inferno. [Goodr Bolt G Review](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a69487616/goodr-no-slip-sunglasse/) ### Pros - Ergonomic, grip-free design - Large, expandable zippered pocket - Integrated insulation - Adjustable, cushioned strap ### Cons - The insulated sleeve can be tricky to remove or reattach - Some users report occasional leaking issues with the cap or bottle I want to offer a heartfelt thanks to Amphipod for their ergonomic grip-free [handheld](https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/g40444712/best-running-water-bottles/). Cramps in your stomach are one thing but carpal tunnel from holding a water bottle should be a crime. The thoughtful design also features an expandable zipper pocket for holding gels or keys, and a leak-free Jett-Lock cap with easy-squeeze water flow. It’s dishwasher safe, too. ### Pros - Not greasy - Doesn’t leave a white tint on dark skin - Water and sweat-resistant - No harsh or heavy smell ### Cons - 40-minute reapplication - Some users report eye irritation when you sweat This non-greasy, non-offensively smelling SPF 50 sunscreen doesn’t leave a white residue on my very tan skin. My only gripe is the requirement to reapply every 40 minutes for reliable protection. Fortunately, it’s available in small tubes so you can drop it in a pocket and reapply midrun. Credit: Trevor Raab ### Pros - Glides on to protect from friction - Easy stick balm application ### Cons - Some didn’t like the stickiness BodyGlide is the go-to anti-chafing balm for preventing friction under arms, between the thighs, you name it, glide it on. You can get an under-one-ounce version of the stick, which is perfect for pocketing in your shorts. ### Pros - Lots of flavors - Sweet with a hint of salty ### Cons - Too sweet for some I forget my drink isn’t originally fruit juice when I sip water that’s mixed with Liquid I.V. The flavors make water less boring. The powder’s mix of vitamins, sodium, and glucose settle in my sensitive stomach, instead of giving me agita on my run. * * * ## What to Consider ![Headshot of Amanda Furrer](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/834ca306-afa9-4d8c-acdb-b604ad955588_1651178293.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:* "Headshot of Amanda Furrer") Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.