When the Heat Hits, It’s Time to Switch Up Your Routine — Here’s What You Need to Enjoy Summer Fitness All Season Long

When the heat hits, I’m always thrilled to pull out Athleta’s Speedwork Mid Rise Run Shorts. They are the comfiest shorts I’ve ever owned, and the ultra-airy recycled nylon and polyester fabric keeps me incredibly cool, no matter how hot it gets. The short length is perfect for me, allowing for plenty of bare leg, unencumbered by fabric. The wispy outer layer allows plenty of airflow, while an internal shell keeps me shielded and protected. I also like the hidden internal pocket and the hidden drawstring that gives me a perfect fit.

The shorts are super easy to take care of. Quick-dry and wrinkle-resistant, if they end up crumpled in my drawer, I can still throw them on and look attractive, which makes me excited to work out. Just keep in mind that these shorts might be a bit too short for some people. Also, they don’t feature flat seams, which can help prevent chafing. I’ve never had any issues with them though.

The CRZ YOGA Seamless High Crewneck Racerback Tank is a summer staple you can wear for running, yoga in the park, or a weekend hike. Made from breathable polyamide and elastane, it’s moisture-wicking, breathable, and lightweight, all the features you want in a good summer workout top. I love the racerback design. Not only does it allow my shoulders to move freely, without worrying about slipping straps — it also keeps my upper back and shoulders feeling cool and free. Mesh vents in the back and armpit areas add extra breathability.

I’m a sucker for cute workout clothes, and this top gets my approval on multiple levels. It’s form-fitting but not clingy and comes in beautiful, vibrant colors, like a cornflower blue and aquamarine. Those two color options are on my shopping list now, since the white one I have now is slightly see-through. Also, if you want a top with a built-in bra, look elsewhere.

I firmly believe that you will not find a better everyday summer running shoe than the Asics Novablast 5. Lightweight, breathable, plush, and comfy, they include everything you could want in a warm-weather trainer. The springy sole offers ample cushioning to protect my joints as I strike hard concrete. Because of this cloudlike comfort, I’m able to run for longer. The soles also offer plenty of energy return, which helps propel me forward and makes my runs easier.

A mesh upper provides exceptional airflow — I never overheat in these. Since the mesh is flexible, I can easily move my forefoot and wiggle my toes, so I don’t feel restricted in the summer heat. Overall, I feel light on my feet and happy in these running shoes. But keep in mind that the plush soles make them bulkier than those of some competitors. I also found that the traction isn’t as good on rocky or slippery trails, compared with some other options, but these shoes are so breathable, lightweight, and comfortable that I don’t mind.

I love the Rocky Mountain National Park design. The colors are vibrant, and I love the visual reminder of the great outdoors, which is what summer is all about. The gaiter is quick-dry and lightweight, making it easy to take care of. I’ll be bringing this gaiter on all my summer hikes and to music festivals to protect me for hours in the summer sun. Just keep in mind that it feels quite long when wearing it as a gaiter, though I’ve had no issues with it staying put. The lack of hemming on the edges makes me question if it will fall apart after extended use, but in my research, I’ve not come across that as an issue.

Inspired by a 1960s and 70s alpine mountaineering aesthetic, thse stylish, versatile, and well-crafted Kazu Tourer Sunglasses will be a pair I wear all summer long. They feature shatterproof lenses that repel oil and fingerprints, great for active lifestyles and sweaty hands.

Small side shields block peripheral sunlight, keeping me protected. Mini airflow vents along the upper and side edges of the lenses help prevent fogging. I also like how sturdy they are — they’ve held up well for about a year.

Given their cute aesthetic, I feel equally comfortable wearing them on mountain hikes, brewery stops afterward, or even just as everyday sunglasses. They’re also lightweight, but not as much as those of some competitors, so keep that in mind. These also cost more than $300, so you’ll want to take good care of them.

Biking is a wonderful way to explore parks and trails or to commute during the longest days of the year. The 12-speed Eaglebear Black Bike comes with a choice of tires for pavement or trail, so you can hit the routes you love the most. Writer Raki Swanson loves how well-constructed and sturdy it is, despite its lightweight design. Importantly, “This is so darn easy to ride,” Swanson says. “It is so smooth, like a hot knife through butter.”

The bike also offers plenty of storage, including three water bottle mounts, front and rear rack mounts, and a top tube mount. The bike is very speedy, with well-positioned handlebars and dual brakes for serious stopping power. But given its speed, the bike may be intimidating for beginners. Additionally, some may find the seat uncomfortable.

I love working out with music, which is something I couldn’t do while swimming until now. The H20 Audio Multisport Waterproof Headphones, which let me listen to music without blocking out my environment, ensure that I never get bored while swimming laps again.

These headphones use bone conduction technology, which means the vibrations travel through your skull bones and are transmitted directly to the inner ear. The built-in MP3 player holds 8 gigabytes of music, allowing me to listen to my favorite tunes whether I’m in the pool or in the ocean. And since they don’t block my ears, I can still be fully aware of what’s going on around me. Plus, they’re comfy to wear and easy to use. Note that, while these headphones also have Bluetooth connectivity, you’ll need to listen to pre-downloaded music when using the MP3 player. You can use these headphones outside of the water too, but I prefer to more traditional ones on land, as these are a bit quiet.

Teton TrailRuner 2L Hydration Pack is an affordable, convenient, and comfy way to stay hydrated, wherever your summer plans take you. Weighing less than a pound and measuring 16 by 10 by 3 inches, it is ultralightweight and compact. Made from durable rip-stop material, “it’s comfortable and convenient,” says writer and editor Olivia Campbell. “It’s well designed to be ergonomic and seems pretty good quality.”

The pack has a pocket and bungee straps to secure snacks and essentials, and it is adjustable at the shoulder, chest, and waist to stay secure. And at less than $30, with a lifetime warranty, you won’t find a better deal on a hydration pack. Given its small size, you’ll want another option if you’re looking for more storage space. You may also want to note that some users report that the water tube damages easily.

I feel more alert and hydrated during workouts after drinking this formula. And I have no problem drinking it daily because the peach-mango flavor tastes absolutely delicious. Plus, I avoid artificial sweeteners like the plague, and this formula contains none. All of that said, if you want a straight electrolyte mix without herbal or amino acid energy boosters, you’ll want to find an alternative.