Summer Running Essentials
Below are my essentials that make or break running in hot, sunny, and muggy weather. The most important thing with summer running is staying cool and comfortable, and a breathable hat, airy clothes, and lightweight sunglasses go a long way in doing that. Running gear has gotten so expensive, but the picks below are very well-made and with the exception of the sneakers, have lasted me a few summers.
On Cloudmonster - I keep three running shoes in rotation under the guise of preventing injury but mostly because I like to buy new shoes. I’ve been loving the On Cloudmonsters for the past year or so for easy runs, long runs, and the occasional speed workout. They have the super-cushioned feel and maximalist look of Hokas but aren’t as heavy. ($170 at Nordstrom)
Hoka Mach 6 - Another go-to shoe for all kinds of runs. They’re lighter weight than the more ubiquitous Cliftons, so they’re good for fast-paced tempo runs. ($140 at Hoka)
Hoka Bucket Hat - This hat really is perfect for summer running—it’s lightweight, gives you 360-sun protection, and has a breathable mesh exterior that will dry quickly on those hot runs when you just need to stop and pour water on your head. ($28 at Hoka)
Nike AeroSwift Cropped Running Tank - An airy and flowy running top for anyone who’s too self-conscious to run in a sports bra. ($80 at Nike)
Nike Vaporfly - The third running shoe I keep around are the Nike Vaporflys, the only carbon-plated shoe I’ve ever raced in. It’s kind of gross how expensive they are given they barely last 100 miles (the cost per wear is not pretty) but they really do make you go fast. ($260 at Nike)
Ciele Go Cap - I have thick hair and my head gets quite hot when I run in a standard cotton baseball cap in the summer. This Ciele hat is so lightweight that I always forget I’m wearing it. ($45 at The Feed)
Goodr Sunglasses - The absolute best sunglasses for running—they don’t bounce when you run nor do they fog up too much from sweat. And they’re cheap. ($25 at Goodr)
Balega Socks - I admittedly wear cotton Champion socks for many runs but for long runs and races I don’t mess around and wear a pair of Balega blister-resist socks. ($20 at Amazon)
Tracksmith Allston Bra - The downside of this bra is that it has very minimal support, so if you aren’t an A-cup (and I am not), you’ll need to double up and wear another bra underneath. I recommend it though because it has a roomy pocket in the front where I store my phone and gels. (I’ve found that the most comfortable place to store my phone while running is in my bra.) ($75 at Tracksmith)
On 5” Running Shorts - My preferred running shorts are actually a pair of Nike shorts that are no longer made but these ones from On have the same features that make the Nike ones my favorite—a 5-inch inseam, small back pocket, and an adjustable waistband. ($80 at On)
Nathan 18 oz Handheld Water Bottle - I’ve tried a few handheld water bottle options and this 18-ounce one from Nathan is my favorite for summer training runs. It does get a little heavy but the adjustable strap is sturdy and takes the weight off your hands. There’s also a 12-ounce variety that’s probably lighter. ($30 at Amazon)