Best race material for hot summer days (2021): shorts, shirts and hand hydration

As a runner the general rule goes, you should dress like it is 20 degrees warmer than ever. That’s why you see runners in singles and shorts when they come out at 45 degrees: when the oven starts up, winter turns to spring and spring turns to summer.

But what do you do when already summer? When the heat waves sets records apparently every month, and when the humidity rises with temperature, to make the ambient air feel like an oppressive sweater? Well, you have reset your expectations. You will be slower and everything will be harder. You should think a little more about your vehicle; make sure you have enough water and are as comfortable as possible.

There is no indirect truism in running in the heat, and acclimatization is a horrible drug: some people don’t leave home without enough water for a night camping trip, while some camels bloom happily without noticing the sun for an hour. Either way, make sure you’re prepared, from the best shoes to sunscreen to hydration packs. Something to stay out of the dreadmill, right?

Be sure to check out our fitness tracker options and our favorite trail running shoes.

Updated July 2021: We’ve removed the old options, like Supergoop sunscreen, and added new ones, like Coros 2 and UE Fits.