Gear Recommended by Reviewers for Maintaining Comfort During Intense Workouts in Warm Climate
Sizzling Summer Sweat Sessions: Beat the Heat with These 20 Must-Haves
Swipe, click, and shop your way to surviving the steamy season, all handpicked for you by our editors.
Alexa, play "Cool" by the Jonas Brothers.
by Emma KershawBuzzFeed Contributor
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.
1. Better-than-Bali Balance: A quartet of moisture-wicking cooling towels to keep the overheated horror at bay post-stairmaster marathon. While 35 seconds on that inferno machine is enough to drench even the most determined among us, these cooling towels will become your personal savior.
2. Jump for Jogging Joy: Ultralight, breathable high-waisted running shorts that'll set your spirit soaring. Critics compare these bad boys to pricier brands, and they also feature a thoughtful underwear liner and a sizeable side pocket - and we all know that pockets make everything better.
BuzzFeed's Emma Lord raves: I recently invested in these shorts because I'm head-over-heels for the similar ones you can get at Old Navy, but they go faster than a cheetah on roller skates. Turns out I adore these even more than the former! I am bowled over by the extensive array of colors you can grab these in (at other places they often vanish before getting a chance to pick!), love that the high-waisted-ness hits my running crop top sweet spot to spare myself the specter of sunburn, and I am head-over-heels for the side pocket for my keys or face mask. I own them in purple, but I'm excited to experiment with other hues!
Ep applauding review: "These shorts are everything! Super comfy, lightweight, feels like you're not wearing anything at all! Tried them for the first time last night during a 30-minute jog in 85-degree weather. They kept me cool the whole*time. No wedgies, although it's been mentioned that those with a larger behind may experience them. The side pocket functions best for petite items like keys or earphones during jogging, but it has the ability to accommodate larger items when strolling.
Get them from Amazon for $23.49 (stock options encompass women's sizes XS-3XL and 37 colors).
3. Sweat Combat Tank: A sleeveless magic garment with built-in sports bra to weather any workout, from low-impact pilates to high-intensity boot camps in the sweltering summer sun.
www.amazon.comBuzzFeed's Emma Lord swears by this tank: "TBH, this miracle entered my radar because of Stephanie Buttermore, a trendy YouTuber who shares Stories of her gym exploits on Instagram. I'm totally smitten by it and now own it in black, pink, AND blue. They're basically my summer uniform now, because they're compression-oriented for my long-distance runs, but also soft enough for casual loungewear. Summer in New York City is heated to the core, so finding something both cooling and budget-friendly has been a godsend!"
Admiring remarks: "I truly adore this tank. It boasts a built-in sports bra, which is super convenient, and the fabric is not only breathable but also cooling. I don't find myself readjusting during my workouts, which is wonderful. I wish it were slightly longer, but that's just my personal preference. I wear it with high-waisted leggings, and it looks fantastic!" -Morgan
Obtain it from Amazon for $18.99 (sizes: S-XXL and 20 colors).
4. Portable Cool Breeze Creator: A hands-free portable neck fan for those sweltering workout moments when cool relief is essential. This thing can be charged via USB and accompanies you on journeys beyond the workout realm.
www.amazon.comIt offers three speeds and even illuminates, making you more noticeable after dark. Expert advice includes tying up your hair in a ponytail (but it's easy to untangle if it gets caught).
Amazing review: "The main reason I don't exercise as frequently as I should is that I perspire horrendously in my hair. I loathe sweating my tresses out and then having to shower, blow-dry, straighten...that's just waaaaay too much! I made this purchase with lofty expectations and wasn't disappointed! It kept me cool throughout my entire workout! I usually Harbor sweat running down my face and into my eyes, causing them to burn - none of that with this bad boy! The two-inch increase in length would have been ideal, but that's just my personal preference." -Nicole W
Secure it from Amazon for $14.95 (available in eight styles).
5. Flexible Rotating Breeze-maker: A battery-operated, rotating fan complete with a tripod that attaches effortlessly to your bike, elliptical, or treadmill, or floats toward your face during long walks to add a gentle breeze, making you feel like the star of a Beyoncé video.
www.amazon.comPersevering evaluate: "This is a fantastic fan to attach to your treadmill. I adore that I can focus it on my face as the built-in treadmill fan directs its chilly breath at your torso. It attaches nicely, staying firmly in place. The battery life is also remarkable. I love the USB charging option instead of utilizing a battery. I would absolutely buy this again." -Alisha
Acquire it from Amazon for $29.99 (stock options: three colors).
6. Immigrant-Esque Sweatbands: A trio of wick-away sweatbands because nobody wants dripping sweat in their peepers while pushing hard at the gym. These will keep the sweat from your eyes and also keep you cool in the process.
www.amazon.comAmazing review: "I am in love with these headbands. They wick away sweat and maintain a cooling effect during my workouts. I no longer need to keep repeatedly wiping sweat from my face. The array of colors is fantastic!" -solomega
Get them from Amazon for $13.99.
7. Chill-Out Ice Roller: A silicone ice roller perfect for those moments you feel the need to unwind, whether it's a scorching park run or your AC has given up the ghost (you know who you are). Just pop it in the fridge or freezer, and roll it over your face for relief.
www.amazon.comCritics also laud its benefits for puffiness and migraines, making it a polyvalent hero.
Enthusiastic review: "Excellent quality for the price. I find it helpful during the mornings for puffy eyes. It's great for exhausting sessions in sunny Florida. I use it to cool down and reduce redness after exercising.
Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (color options: 12).
8. Racerback Triumvirate: A collection of three lightweight crops with deep armholes for triumphant sweats. Forget sleeves - they're overrated.
www.amazon.comWinks to anyone nursing - many reviewers reported that the deep armholes facilitated simpler nursing at home!
Admiring review: "Absolutely adore the trio of shirts I obtained! They are soft, light, and airy, perfect for summer or indoor workouts. Their big side cuts have a pleasant aesthetic, and the colors are as promised. Overall, I am completely satisfied and planning to order more in the near future." -R. Scott
Get them from Amazon for $23.99 (sizes: XS-XL and 14 color combos).
9. Moisture-Wicking Exercise Socks: A review-loved trio to keep your feet dry and comfortable during those sweaty summer sessions. Say adieu to sweaty feet in the fires of hell.
BuzzFeed's Emma Lord has used these socks for over a year: "I've owned a set of these since April 2020, and not only have they survived this long, but they've managed to maintain moisture-wicking capabilities since the day they graced my feet. I've purchased additional sets over 2020 and they've essentially replaced my old socks because they're incredibly comfortable. As a runner who racks up 40+ miles a week and often braves the summer heat, I can't recommend these socks enough."
Flattering review: "These are truly amazing! Super comfortable, great cushioning, and my feet remain cool all day. I'm not a runner, but I walk a lot at work and these tabbed socks have been a revelation. They don't bunch up in my footwear. You can't go wrong with these well-made socks, and I plan to buy more shortly." -Deborah
Get them from Amazon for $14.95 (stock options: S-XL and five color combos).
10. Racerback Yoga Set: A fashionable and unique set featuring a high-waisted top and leggings suitable for yoga and other low-impact workouts, keeping your chest cool and breezy.
www.amazon.comCritical remarks: "I was pleasantly surprised by this set's support and fashionability. I feel more confident in my yoga classes! The ensemble looks high-end. It kept me warm on my walk to hot yoga and cooled me considerably during the class. It was slightly smaller than anticipated. I ordered a small, but a medium would probably have been too large for me (I am 5'6 and about 130 lbs)." -Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (size range: XS-L and 24 colors).
11. Adidas Cloudfoam Sneakers: A fan-favorite pair of sneakers featuring memory foam and stretch mesh for unparalleled comfort. Let your feet breathe, single!
www.amazon.comThese slip-on and slip-off sneakers are the epitome of convenience!
Admiring remarks: "These sneakers are adorable! They are unbelievably lightweight, very cool, and really comfortable. I plan to use them for walking/hiking and for work shoes!" -M H.
Get them from Amazon for $45 (sizes: 5-12 and eight colors).
12. UV Arm Sleeves: A set of arm protectors to wear while you're working out amid nature. They'll shield your arms from harmful UV rays while keeping you visible with bright, fun colors. Reviewers say they remain comfortably cool and have been re-purchased by numerous customers.
13. Cooling Facial Spray: A convenient spritzer for a quick chill-out when you need a refreshing break. It smells delightful and works even better if you cool it down in the refrigerator before using it.
14. Comfortable Running Bra: A supportive sports bra boasting adjustable straps and a racerback, perfect for accompanying your breathable tank tops during those gym fantasies.
www.amazon.comPersuading review: "I wore the bra during an 8-mile steady-pace run. SUCH relief! The bra moved with my movements; it NEVER pinched or chafed. There was noticeable bouncing (as there always is), but I didn't feel like it was bouncing around like a pair of energetic monkeys in a cage! I felt supported throughout the entire run. Granted, it was a cool evening, but I seriously felt the cooling effect throughout the whole mileage. I was not sore during my run, nor did any "sensitive areas" become irritated or sore. ;)" -RocknRunner**
Obtain it from Amazon for $30 (sizes: S-XL and four colors).
15. Ventilated Cooling Cap: A stylish cap that you can wear beneath a regular cap or on its own. Simply dampen it with water, and it'll remain cool for approximately two hours. It also offers UPF 50 sun protection!
www.amazon.comPersevering review: "Worked well for my daily runs...use it as sun protection, and it helped maintain a cooler temperature against the skin than running without it. Would buy it again." -ocamach
Get it from Amazon for $14.97 (stock options: four styles).
16. High-Waisted Crop Leggings: A popular pair of cropped leggings that remain leggings after all. Reviewers swear that they're squat-proof, a crucial factor when shopping for workout gear.
17. Racerback Workout Top: Strut your stuff in style, staying unwaveringly chill during your HIIT routines.
18. Seamless Hipster Underpants: These hip-huggers are equipped with a performance-oriented fabric that wicks away sweat effortlessly. No more clammy undies after a sweaty workout!
19. Compression Calf Sleeves: Enhance your workout comfort and style with these calf aerators for those pesky shin splints or leg pains that can emerge during exercise.
20. UV-Protective Running Hat: Guard your damn head from the unmerciful sun while stepping up your stride, and it folds to slip into your pocket when not being worn.
Reviews have been condensed for clarity and brevity.
Overall:
A comprehensive guide to remaining fresh and cool during your summer workouts was out of reach for this article, but here are 20 essential items that will help you conquer the intense heat while staying chic and comfortable. For top-drawer results, stay hydrated, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and sport ventilated gear made of breathable materials. Happy working out!
- Content brought to you by Emma Kershaw of BuzzFeed: A review of cool moisture-wicking towels, great for post-workout sessions.
- Emma Lord of BuzzFeed raves about high-waisted running shorts, praised for their comfort, thoughtful underwear liner, and sizeable side pocket.
- Emma Lord also swears by a magic garment tank with built-in sports bra, perfect for various workouts in the summer sun.
- A portable neck fan, charged via USB and perfect for cooling down during workouts, receives high praise for its cool relief and versatility.
- A battery-operated, rotating fan with a tripod for easy attachment to exercise equipment is commended for its cooling effects and ability to stay put.
- Sweatbands designed to wick away sweat and keep you cool during intense workouts, available in various colors, receive enthusiastic reviews.
- A silicone ice roller perfect for unwinding after hot workouts or relieving puffiness and migraines has been lauded for its quality and effectiveness.
- A trio of comfortable and airy exercise socks, praised for their moisture-wicking capabilities, have been used by BuzzFeed's Emma Lord for over a year.
- A fashionable and supportive yoga set, suitable for low-impact workouts, keeps users feeling cool and confident.
- Adidas Cloudfoam sneakers, featuring memory foam and stretch mesh, have earned praise for their comfort and convenience.
- UV arm sleeves, designed for outdoor workouts, provide UV protection while keeping users cool and visible.
- A cooling facial spray offers refreshment during breaks, with a delightful scent and greater effectiveness when cooled in the refrigerator.
- A comfortable running bra with adjustable straps and a racerback has been praised for its support, cooling effect, and non-irritating design during extended runs.
- A ventilated cooling cap, which can be worn beneath a regular cap or on its own, remains cool for approximately two hours and offers UPF 50 sun protection.
- High-waisted crop leggings, known for their squat-proof design, have received rave reviews for their ability to stay cool during workouts.
- A racerback workout top is perfect for showcasing your style during HIIT routines.
- Seamless hipster underpants, with performance-oriented fabric that wicks away sweat, have been praised for their comfort and hassle-free design.
- Compression calf sleeves aid in workout comfort and style while addressing shin splints and leg pains.
- A UV-protective running hat offers sun protection and folds for easy pocket storage when not in use.
- With these 20 essential items, you can conquer the heat and feel fresh and cool during your summer workouts. Remember to stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and opt for breathable and ventilated gear. Enjoy your workouts!
