What to Wear Running in Hot Weather
Running in hot weather presents a different set of challenges than cold-weather conditions. Rising temperatures, direct sun, and increased sweat make even your easy run feel demanding and leave you sluggish. The right warm-weather running clothing, along with proper hydration, can help you stay cooler, manage moisture, and protect your skin while you run. Our Running Experts share the key clothing pieces, fabrics, and features to look for when building your summer running clothing rotation.
Purpose of Warm-Weather Running Clothing
When it comes to running in hot weather, your clothing should keep you cool, dry, and protected.
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Lightweight Fabrics: Choose breathable, lightweight fabric that allows heat to escape and keep you cooler.
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Ventilation: Look for apparel featuring mesh panels to help improve air flow.
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Sun Protection: If possible, look for clothing with built-in UPF protection, along with coverage-focused pieces like hats or lightweight layers, to help protect your skin during extended time in the sun.
Related Expert Content | In our guide, our Experts explain all the running-specific features to look for in clothing.
What to Wear During Hot Weather
When temperatures rise, your running outfit should focus on lightweight, breathable pieces that help you stay cool and comfortable throughout your run. Our Running Experts recommend the following core pieces:
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Lightweight Running Tops: Look for tank tops and lightweight tees featuring flat seams to reduce chafing.
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Running Shorts: Many runners enjoy split shorts or lined shorts for hot weather runs.
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Running Socks: Look for lightweight styles that wick away moisture and prevent any discomfort.
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Hats & Sunglasses: Accessories like hats and sunglasses help protect you from the sun.
Expert Tip | Focus on lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester and polyester blends, which help manage sweat and keep you cooler in warm conditions.
Expert Tips for Running In Hot Weather
Running in the heat is all about managing effort, staying consistent with hydration, and choosing clothing that helps your body regulate temperature.
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Run Early or Late in the Day: Temperatures are typically lower in the morning or evening, making your run more comfortable and reducing heat exposure.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after your run to help maintain performance and support recovery. In our guide, our Running Experts cover a variety of ways to carry water while running.
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Use Anti-Chafing Balm: Applying anti-chafe balm to common friction areas can help reduce irritation and prevent discomfort during longer runs in hot, humid conditions.
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Adjust Your Pace: Hot weather can impact endurance, so it’s normal to slow your pace slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Running in Warm Weather
Our Running Experts hear many of the same questions from runners choosing apparel for the summer and hot temperatures. Here are answers to a few of the most common.
Running in hot weather becomes much more manageable when you focus on lightweight, breathable clothing that helps your body stay cool and dry. By choosing moisture-wicking fabrics, ventilated designs, and sun-protective features, you can stay more comfortable and consistent even when temperatures rise. If you have additional questions about what to wear running, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with a Running Expert.