Blazing sun, tropical temperatures, and stifling humidity can combine to make getting out the door an effort in itself, never mind putting in a dozen hot, sweaty miles. Fortunately, there's gear to make that bearable, if not enjoyable. Some of it comes with innovative technology or styling that puts it ahead of the rest of the summertime pack.
Most running caps keep the sun out of your eyes and let sweat evaporate, but this one goes a step farther. Inner panels of silver-infused, thermo-regulating HVAC dynamically move heat away from the head to the cooler bill, where it is then released. Adjustable for a custom fit, with black under the bill to combat glare.
1.2 HIND Metro Short Sleeve/Felicitank
$35/$32
In the height of summer you can never have too many tech shirts. Hind’s lightweight Drylete Hydrator provides inherent stretch and moisture management, as well as UV protection engineered into the fabric. Forward-shifted, flat-seam construction on shoulder and side seams reduces chafing and enhances comfort.
1.3 Other Hearst Subscriptions
$35
Zoot, long known in the triathlon world, has recently been making a foray into the running realm. Among their initial offering is the RUNswift short, which offers maximum ventilation thanks to a full split, an increasing rarity in running shorts, and mesh side panels. Reflective trim enhances safety for those pre- or post-sun workouts.
This variation on the popular sports drink debuted in marathons and road races around the country this year. Formulated with twice the sodium of Gatorade Thirst Quencher, it’s designed to sustain hydration by better replacing the fluids and electrolytes lost during extended training sessions in the heat.
2.2 Everything You Need to Know About Hip Pain
$32
see review above
2.3 SkirtSports MarathonGirl
$60
There are some innovations that, because of their obvious utility and retrospective brilliance, we forget to applaud as revolutionary. Think Ziploc bags. Think Q-Tips. Think Pet Rocks (OK—forget that one). Now we have running skirts. These babies are not your high school gym teacher’s skort. They are fun, cute, and comfy. Waistbands sit low on the hips; slim-fitting, light-weight material allows for freedom of movement. Some come with regular underpant-like liners, others with bike shorts. And you can go from run to restaurant looking not only respectable, but hot—or cool.
2.4 CA Notice at Collection
$17
A new addition to ASICS’ line of high tech socks, the Kinsei features anatomically correct left and right construction, mesh ventilation, a flexible horizontal lace pad, and a variable cushioning footbed.
2.5 We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back
$90
The Cylcone addresses the issue of hot, sweaty feet by creating a whirlwind of ventilation, thanks to an airy mesh upper and a series of vents along the side of the midsole, which allow air to flow in and then up through ventilation channels in the shoe’s insole. The Cyclone’s ride is a blend of cushioning and stability.
Nike continues to push the clothing technology envelope with this piece, which combines Nike Sphere Macro React Cool, Nike Sphere Dry and Dri-FIT mesh. Nike Sphere Macro React Cool's technology adapts to the athlete's performance needs with fibers that open up to increase airflow across your skin, allowing maximum breathability and cooling. Resembling fish scales, the fabric physically opens with increased moisture. Strategically placed vents open when triggered by sweat, moving moisture away from the body. The vents then return to their original position as sweat evaporates. Features include zoned mesh venting on sides and back, placed for ease of movement.
3.2 London Marathon Results
$40
An airy summer short with Dri-FIT stretch woven fabric, Dri-FIT crepe lining, and origami back pocket construction for storage and easy access to items. Reflective piping around back pocket, internal key pocket, and adjustable drawcord at waist.
3.3 DeFeet AirEAtor
$9
This thin sock is perfect for runs on the hot pavement. The mesh weave allows moisture to escape, while the Stayfast cuff keeps the socks from sagging, even on the sweatiest of runs. Available in a variety of colorful designs, as well as customized for race and store giveaways.
3.4 DAA Industry Opt Out
$90
The Wave Rider 9 features Mizuno’s Intercool technology, a full-foot, dynamic ventilation system that expels hot, humid air from inside the shoe. During foot strike, as the midsole is compressed, hot air inside the shoe is transferred through a series of holes and channels within the midsole and is expelled through exhaust ports strategically located on the outsole of the shoe.
