It’s almost summer, and with one or two mini heatwaves now firmly under our belts, it’s time to start thinking about the best summer workout outfits. If you've started transitioning your workout wardrobe to reflect the warmer weather, you wouldn’t be alone - stats from Klarna show a huge spike in the popularity of summer-related sportswear, with 75% of Brits incorporating summer sportswear into their everyday style.
For some, transitioning their fit kit into summer-friendly outfits means switching their go-to gym leggings, running trainers and workout tops to more lightweight and breathable materials. For others, it’s a switch to more cropped or loose-fitting designs - cycling shorts, longline sports bras and oversized gym T-shirts, to name a few.
Just know one thing: whatever your summer priorities, there’s a piece of workout kit to suit you. That’s why we decided to round them up for you - I know, I know, we shouldn’t have!
So who are "we" exactly? Well, I’m Valeza, Marie Claire UK’s Junior Shopping Editor. It’s literally my job to trial the best fitness clothing and accessories every day (and I’m a huge fan of low-impact workouts like Pilates, yoga and strength training), so I feel I’m pretty well-positioned to pick out the best summer workout clothing for you to shop. The same goes for Ally Head, MCUK’s Senior Health Editor, multi-marathon runner and fit kit-testing veteran.
I also enlisted the help of three health experts from different fields of fitness - Liz Patient, founder of Pilates for Runners, Paola Di Lanzo, founder of Paola's Body Barre, and Lillie Bleasdale, personal trainer, run coach and founder of PASSA, to provide their tips for finding the best summer workout outfits along with their top shopping picks.
What did we look for in the best summer workout outfits?
We've tried and tested every single product in this list - at least a few times - so you can be sure that they've passed our scrupulous testing process. For team MC, it's essential that the products we recommend don't just look good but actually perform too. Here's what we made sure to include...
- Lightweight and breathable - this pretty much speaks for itself, our summer kit alternatives had to feel more appropriate for hot weather than their wintery counterparts.
- Sweat-wicking - we sweat even more during summer workouts, so materials that show sweat patches easily are simply not welcome in this list.
- Comfort - the last thing we want during a hot workout is an uncomfortable piece of kit, so did they feature a 4-way stretch? A buttery soft material? Did they rub while running? All pressing questions while we were trying and testing.
- Fit - whether they were oversized and flowy or form-fitting and cropped, they needed to suit every type of sweaty summer workout.
- Price - would we get our cost per wear?
Junior Shopping Editor Valeza trying one of the picks from this round up
10 best summer workout outfits: as tested by fitness experts and editors
1. Best lightweight leggings for summer
"These leggings are bestsellers for a reason. Having tried them myself, I find them to be the perfect summer workout leggings - made from a lightweight, super stretchy and sweat-wicking material. I own them in a statement-making zebra print, but they also come in more neutral, block-colour styles if you’re after something more muted. I find them both comfortable and flattering thanks to the four-way stretch and sculpting fit - best paired with the Power sports bra." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
2. Best colourful summer workout shorts
"I'm a big fan of BAM sportswear - it's sweat-wicking, breathable, and genuinely sustainably made, too. I love these shorts from their new summer drop, making a lightweight, comfortable and stylish addition to my workout rotation. So far, I've worn them with the matching sports bra for running, Pilates, and home strength workouts, but I can't wait to pack them for my summer holiday and wear them hiking, too. Only cons to note - they don't have any pockets and might be a little short, for some, however, the brand does have plenty of longer length options on offer, too." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
3. Best low-impact summer sports bra
"It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of a longline sports bra - because when it’s sweltering outside, the last thing you want to do is wear multiple layers of tops. This crop top from Free People is flattering, super soft and *just* the right length to pair with high-waisted leggings - plus it’ll give you all the support you need for lighter workouts. I’d suggest pairing it with the Never Better leggings in a matching sunshine orange - AKA the perfect shade for summer." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
4. Best short unitard for running
"There's a reason this FP Runsie has gone viral - largely, because it's one of the cutest workout outfits currently available to buy but also performs, too. Sure, you definitely need to wear a high impact bra underneath it (something I learnt the hard way - do not run in this without extra support!), but it's super comfortable and offers a great all-in-one option. I like how soft the material is, that it sweat wicks well and keeps you cool for sweatier workouts, and how style-forward it is, too. Plus, less suitcase space taken up with workout kit and more room for dresses = a firm yes from me." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor
5. Best short unitard for low-impact workouts
"I’m a huge fan of unitards - they’re the perfect one-and-done piece for Pilates and yoga. No sliding down or bunching up in sight. The Flexa bodysuit from BAM is utterly ideal for summer, and here’s why: it’s the most comfortable and flattering thing I’ve ever put on my body. The four-way stretch allows it to move with me and hug my waist comfortably, also, the cycle short bottom half never digs into my thighs. Naturally, the shorter length of the legs and the sleeves makes it great for summer workouts. Oh, and it’s seamless, so has a super chic feel." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
6. Best tennis dress
"Tennis clothing has been more popular than ever this year, and it provides us with some of the most summer-friendly workout wear. The Set tennis dress from Vuori is my newest obsession - it’s the perfect piece to wear while working out in the sun for several reasons. It has built-in shorts (with pockets, of course), a flattering pleated skirt and low-yet-fitted neckline to keep you supported during your workouts." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
7. Best luxury workout legging
"These leggings are lightweight, breathable and sweat-wicking, making them perfect for the summer months. The 7/8 length is ideal for petite frames, and the high-waisted design is incredibly flattering. I only wish they were a little more affordable, but these leggings are worth every penny." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
"Alo has a perfect blend of stylish and high-performance activewear which makes it a perfect choice for summer exercising, offering superior fabric breathability at the same time. I would recommend to choose high-waist leggings or shorts for extra support and coverage. A good top option for summer is the design with open back, enhancing airflow and keeping you cool even during the most intense exercise sessions. Alo sets are a versatile choice for any workout." - Paola di Lanzo, OG wellness guru and founder of Paola's Body Barre
8. Best loose fitting workout top
“I love a loose-fitting top in the hotter weather, but I still want to look and feel great. For me the Oner Active cropped vest top is a firm favourite for my weights sessions. If you’re not keen on flashing your abs then there is a longer version too. For me it ticks all the boxes - it’s lightweight, functional and flattering.” - Liz Patient, founder of Pilates for Runners
We'd suggest pairing it with these chic and classic cycling shorts.
9. Best sports bra for summer runs
“My go-to bra for long runs is this Runderwear bra. It’s the only one I’ve found where I never get chafing and it’s comfortable no matter how hot it gets, or how far I run. I’m small chested so I can get away with this lightweight balance bra, but I also have their specialist running bra with more support, and love that one too.” - Liz Patient, founder of Pilates for Runners
We'd suggest pairing it with the matching running briefs which are sweat-wicking and also prevent chafing.
10. Most fashion-forward summer workout outfit
"Belsize has become my personal favourite classic athleisure brand when choosing my workout outfits. Its blend of functionality and style makes it perfect for any season. In summer, I love to wear the classic two-piece set like this chic Scallop set: a sports bra and leggings which we also have at our PBB studio in Fulham. These sets are made from a lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking fabric that ensures you stay dry and cool during movement. Belsize outfits are my top favourite choice for PBB method - a blend of ballet barre conditioning, dynamic Pilates, functional training and cardio focused classes." - Paola di Lanzo, OG wellness guru and founder of Paola's Body Barre
11. Best all-round sports bra
"I've long been a fan of New Balance kit and wear it for most races, long runs and strength sessions. This new bra design from the brand gets my vote, though - I've worn it on repeat since receiving it and love that it's designed for runners, but suitable for all workouts. Offering ample support without any chafing, it also has a pocket on the back for essentials. I wear mine with the NB Sleek Pocket High Rise Short" - Lillie Bleasdale, personal trainer, run coach and founder of PASSA
What type of exercise clothing is best to wear during hot weather?
According to Liz Patient, founder of Pilates for Runners, comfort is key when working out on warmer and sunnier days. “Whether I’m running, on the mat doing Pilates or in the gym, I prefer to wear tops that allow me to move easily, without feeling like it’s sticking to my skin”, she states, “on the bottom half, I tend to opt for something a bit tighter like mid-length cycling shorts to provide some balance to a loose-fitting top. That way, I can stay cool, comfortable and put together.”
Paola di Lanzo, founder of Paola's Body Barre, agrees, adding: "In hot weather, it's essential to wear clothing that is both breathable and moisture-wicking while working out. Lightweight fabrics that allow for maximum airflow and quick drying are ideal." Her advice? Look for items with mesh panels or strategically placed ventilation (like the ones in this round up) to enhance breathability. "Loose-fitting clothes can also help, as they allow air to circulate more freely around your body," she concludes.
What is the best workout material for summer?
"The best materials for summer Pilates or barre workouts are those that effectively wick away sweat and dry quickly, such as polyester and nylon blends" says di Lanzo, "these synthetic fabrics are excellent at pulling moisture away from your skin, which helps to keep you cool and comfortable. Additionally, look for fabrics with UV protection to guard against the sun's harmful rays."
When it comes to more high-impact workouts like running, Patient agrees: “during the summer, I recommend choosing materials that are lightweight and breathable. Runners in particular will understand that with hotter temperatures comes an increased risk of chafing during long runs, so it’s important to find items that don’t rub in all the wrong places.”
