13-06-2025
I'm a self-proclaimed sweaty gal. Here are my favorite products for keeping cool during summer workouts
With the temperatures up and the sun out, I love getting out of the gym and adding more outdoor workouts into my weekly exercise rotation. From running by the water to doing an alfresco yoga class, swimming some laps in the pool or getting in a HIIT workout on some grass, there's just something gratifying about sweating it out in the great outdoors. But as you get your blood pumping and feel the heat take its toll, making sure you stay cool is paramount to ensure you can enjoy every outdoor workout you set out on.
As the days get longer and hotter, I'm making some much-needed swaps to my workout wear and wellness routine to beat the heat. Ahead, I've compiled 18 cooling exercise products I'll be reaching for again and again this summer to keep me comfortable no matter the weather.
Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Shorts
The first thing I do when temperatures start to rise is dig out my running shorts from the back of my closet. Sometimes it's just too hot to wear leggings, and these Lululemon Fast and Free shorts have been my favorite for the last few summers. They've gotten an update this year too, with more color options and an even lighter feel. As long as you're not afraid to show a little thigh, these shorts will keep you moving and stay in place for miles upon miles.
Smartwool Active Mesh High-Neck Tank
If I'm running or moving outside, I prefer to do it in just a sports bra if I can (the fewer layers on my skin, the better). But for casual strolls or games like tennis, golf or pickleball where shirts are required, I reach for this Smartwool tank made from a merino wool blend. Though you might think of wool as a cold weather material, wool blends can be excellent for summer since they're breathable, quick-drying and odor-resistant. Related article
The best sun-protective clothing, according to dermatologists and outdoor expertsGymshark Adapt Fleck T-Back Bra
Speaking of sports bras, I've been a longtime fan of the ones from Gymshark, as they stay in place and hold up well over time. For summer, I try to keep things open and airy when I can, and this T-back-style bra is perfect for outdoor yoga or HIIT sessions. Unlike other T-back or halter bras I've seen, I like that this one has adjustable straps for dialing in the tightness and support to just where you need it.
Nike Dri-Fit Club Unstructured Featherlight Cap
I wear a hat year-round for both indoor and outdoor workouts. It keeps hair and sweat out of my face, and during the summer, it protects my head and scalp from the sun. Ball caps made of cotton can get weighed down and stained with sweat, which is why I like these exercise-specific hats from Nike. Made of breathable, sweat-wicking material, this hat keeps my head from getting too hot and the Velcro strap keeps it securely in place while I move.
Bombas Women's Cushioned No-Show Socks
Unless I'm headed for the trails and need hiking socks, my tall crew socks generally get retired for the summer season. These Bombas socks are a more cushioned version of our best-tested no-show socks, and I like that they stay in place, have extra padding for my feet and keep a low profile in my exercise sneakers.
Knockaround Campeones Sunglasses
Because I almost always have a hat on when I workout, I tend to forego workout sunglasses. But they're definitely a great idea for runners, bikers or anyone else who doesn't want to deal with squinting and shielding their face. You don't have to drop a fortune to get a good pair either. These Knockaround glasses are our pick for best budget running sunglasses. They're lightweight, offer 100% UV protection and have water- and oil-resistant coatings that our tester said helped prevent sweat droplets and fingerprints from clouding their field of our review
First Aid Beauty Anti-Chafe Stick
If you have thicker thighs, you know the start of summer and the onset of shorts season correlates to a much higher potential for chafing. An anti-chafe stick can be a lifesaver for outdoor activities like running, hiking or even just walking around. This First Aid Beauty stick is my current go-to with a creamy and clear application that prevents unsightly and uncomfortable bumps or burns.
Hawaiian Tropic Everyday Active Clear Spray Sunscreen SPF 30
As leggings turn to shorts and long-sleeved shirts turn to tanks, it's important to keep every inch of your skin protected from the sun. Before heading out for jogs or any outdoor errands, I make sure to apply a healthy dose of sunscreen to all exposed skin. A spray sunscreen — like this best-tested Hawaiian Tropic one — makes it easy to get every nook and cranny covered. Plus, we love this one's lightweight feel and pleasant coconut scent. Read our review
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
If you don't already have a daily face sunscreen, summer is the time to get one. This affordable Blue Lizard mineral sunscreen is dermatologist-recommended and safe for those with sensitive skin. I used this sunscreen on a recent trip to Mexico, and though it takes some work to fully rub the reef-safe formula into the skin, it never stung my eyes or irritated my face, no matter how sweaty I got.
Degree Clinical Protection Antiperspirant
As a self-proclaimed sweaty gal, I like a strong antiperspirant for both my workouts and day-to-day summer activities. This Degree one gets the job done and dries quickly, so you can get where you need to go and smell good while doing it.
Lume Whole Body Women's Unscented Deodorant Spray
Sometimes, underarm deodorant just doesn't do enough to keep you feeling fresh. That's where this whole body deodorant from Lume comes in. You can apply this to any place you tend to feel sweaty like your feet, back, chest or privates. The spray bottle ensures a quick, mess-free application, and the formula helps eliminate odors so you can tackle everything from workouts to daily errands with more confidence.
Grand Tongo DEET-Free Insect Repellent
I'm great about remembering to slather myself in sunscreen, but the itchy, red bug bites up and down my legs will tell you I'm not good at remembering my insect repellent. Whether you're doing an outdoor yoga class at dawn, going on a trail run or stretching in the evening air, spraying on a layer of insect repellent is a good idea. We tested this Grand Tongo repellent earlier this year and liked that it comes in both fresh scented and fragrance-free options and applies without leaving a greasy feeling on the skin. Read our reviewRelated article
I tried the viral Bug Bite Thing to see if it really works. Here's what I thinkMission Original Cooling Towel
I'd never used a cooling towel until last spring when I reviewed them for our best-tested story, and this Mission Instant Cooling Towel was my favorite of the bunch. Not only does it get incredibly cool in just a few seconds but the brushed microfiber material is soft and comfortable against the skin. It might be a little big to take on a run, but it's an excellent tool to keep in your tennis, golf or yoga bag for when your skin needs some relief. Read our review
Nomadix Tiny Towel, 3-Pack
These tiny towels from Nomadix have helped me out more times than I can count when I'm physically dripping with sweat. They're small enough to tuck in a pocket or running pouch but still large enough to easily wipe sweat away from your face, neck or anywhere else. They're super-portable sweat towels that can give you the instant refresh you need to continue your workout this summer.
Hydro Flask 32-Ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottle
Everyone needs a good water bottle to help hydrate in the heat, and Hydro Flask makes some of the best ones around. I pack this 32-ounce bottle when I head to the gym, park or pool, and the built-in carrying handle makes it easy to tote around even when I don't have a bag with me.
CamelBak 50-Ounce Hydrobak Hydration Pack
On especially hot or humid days, I like knowing I have water at the ready whenever I need it, and this 50-ounce hydration pack holds enough fluid to comfortably support my summer long runs. It also has a small pocket for holding my keys or running gels, and the main compartment is roomy enough to hold a phone or small towel too.
Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds
I use these Powerbeats Pro headphones almost every day and prefer their exercise-specific design to over-ear or on-ear headphones that I tend to find too bulky for working out. These earbuds provide great sound and secure behind my ears to stay in place during workouts of varying intensities. Plus, they're sweat- and water-resistant, so I don't worry about them getting damaged during my runs or weightlifting sessions. You can also grab the newly released and updated Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds.
Tailwind Nutrition Rapid Hydration Electrolyte Powder Variety Pack, 15-Count
You really can never be too hydrated, especially during the hottest days of summer. Dropping an electrolyte powder packet, like these ones from Tailwind Nutrition, into my water bottle helps me properly prepare for my workouts and recover faster once I get home. They taste great as well, so you can actually look forward to getting to use them. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy rounded up a list of products she uses to help keep cool during her warm weather outdoor workouts.
