Stay Cool and Comfortable During Summer Runs with These Essential Shorts

Stay Cool and Comfortable During Summer Runs with These Essential Shorts

Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics Keep You Cool and Dry

When it comes to running shorts for warm weather, the fabric is arguably the most important factor. You’ll want to look for shorts made of lightweight, breathable materials that help maximize air flow and ventilation. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester are excellent choices – they’re designed to wick moisture away from the skin and dry quickly, keeping you comfortable mile after mile.

Specifically, shorts with Nike’s innovative Dri-FIT technology incorporate state-of-the-art moisture wicking fabrics that are ideal for sweaty summer runs. The microfiber polyester material literally pulls perspiration away from the skin to the outer layer of the shorts, where it can evaporate rapidly. This helps regulate your body temperature and prevents the chilling effect of sweat-soaked shorts in breezy conditions.

In addition to Nike, other leading athletic brands like Under Armour, Adidas, and Brooks leverage advanced textiles to create running shorts that feel cool to the touch and provide superior breathability. Look for shorts made of featherweight polyester or nylon mesh that feel almost like a second skin.

The best summer running shorts will be elasticized, minimizing restriction and friction. A relaxed fit and gusseted crotch also allow maximum airflow to sensitive areas. For top performance on hot days, today’s high-tech fabrics make all the difference in keeping you dry, cool, and chafe-free mile after mile.

A Relaxed, Non-Restrictive Fit Offers Superior Comfort

The cut and fit of running shorts plays a critical role in keeping you comfortable during summer runs. Look for shorts designed with a relaxed, non-restrictive fit that won’t cling, pinch, or chafe when you’re in motion.

Nike’s Dry Tempo running shorts are an excellent example of a relaxed fit short perfect for hot weather. They sit slightly lower on the waist and have a straight leg opening for better airflow. Rather than a tight, compression fit, the looser cut allows freedom of movement while eliminating chafing and irritation.

Similarly, Brooks HYDRO Shorts incorporate a roomy, unrestrictive design to prevent overheating. The lightweight woven fabric and mesh side panels ventilate well while the elastic waistband delivers a customizable, bounce-free fit. Under Armour also combines oversized leg openings with soft, smooth fabrics in their UA Speedpocket Run Shorts to prevent abrasion and discomfort.

When trying on running shorts, focus on how they feel during motion. Bend, stretch, and run in place to assess the level of restriction. The waistband should be secure but not too tight, with enough stretch to accommodate your full range of movement. The leg openings should drape loosely rather than gripping your thighs.

Opt for at least a 7 to 9-inch inseam for the best coverage and chafe prevention. Built-in compression liners can also enhance support and comfort. Above all, the shorts should feel light, airy and flexible as you run, not constraining or suffocating. The right relaxed fit short will practically disappear on your body, keeping you cool, dry and irritation-free all summer long.

Built-In Liners Provide Extra Support and Coverage

Quality running shorts designed for summer should incorporate built-in liner briefs that provide extra support, coverage and comfort on your runs. Integrated compression shorts eliminate the need to wear underwear and can vastly improve performance and prevent chafing during hot weather runs.

Many top brands now offer shorts with a lightweight inner liner made of moisture-wicking performance fabric. Nike’s Dry Tempo running shorts feature a breathable Dri-FIT liner that keeps you cool, dry and supported throughout your run. The smooth flatlock seams prevent skin irritation and discomfort.

Under Armour’s UA Launch SW Shorts have anti-odor liner shorts made of the brand’s signature HeatGear fabric to retain ventilation and breathability even when sweaty. Brooks and Asics also incorporate seamless, chafe-free inner liners in many of their running shorts to enhance comfort.

The ideal compression liner will be lightweight, quick-drying, and offer four-way stretch for unrestricted mobility. It should provide secure support without feeling overly tight or constrictive. Look for shorts with at least a 7-inch inseam liner for decent coverage and chafe prevention.

Well-designed inner shorts can make all the difference in preventing thigh chafing and abrasion during long, hot summer runs. They also eliminate the awkward, bunchy feeling of regular underwear under your shorts. Opt for running shorts with a seamless, breathable liner for the best support, coverage and comfort on hot days.

Mesh Side Panels Maximize Ventilation

Proper ventilation is key to staying cool and dry during hot summer runs. That’s why many high-performance running shorts now feature mesh side panels that enhance airflow to keep your lower body cooler.

Strategically placed mesh inserts add breathability to moisture-wicking shorts like the Nike Dry Tempo. The ventilated side panels allow air to freely circulate, providing superior ventilation to heat-releasing areas. This helps regulate body temperature so you don’t overheat as quickly.

Under Armour, Adidas, Asics, and other leading brands also leverage lightweight mesh fabric in their shorts to accelerate air flow and cooling. The smooth, quick-drying material prevents chafing while maximizing ventilation to the thighs and other heat zones.

In addition to side panels, some shorts incorporate mesh ventilation in the back yoke or along the waistband as well. Tiny perforations in the fabric further aid in rapidly releasing heat and humidity from the surface of the skin.

During an intense summer run, improper ventilation can quickly lead to discomfort and fatigue. Opt for shorts designed with breathable mesh paneling to enjoy superior airflow, moisture evaporation and cooling power. Your legs will feel drier, less sweaty and more comfortable mile after mile, even on sweltering days.

Reflective Details Enhance Visibility and Safety

Running shorts designed for low-light conditions often incorporate reflective details to enhance visibility and safety. On summer runs that extend into the evening, reflective accents can provide crucial visibility to oncoming traffic.

Many performance brands like Nike, Under Armour and Brooks integrate reflective logos, piping or trim into shorts to improve visibility in dim light. Strategically placed reflective hits on the front and rear of the shorts helps reflect light from headlights and street lamps back to drivers.

Some running shorts even feature reflective prints or patterns for 360-degree visibility. Bold, reflective prints allow drivers to spot you from multiple angles, maximizing the chances you’ll be seen. They also add eye-catching style and flair to otherwise basic shorts.

In addition to enhancing safety, reflective details can also make shorts easier to spot in low light so you don’t lose them at the gym or in transition areas during races. They add functionality beyond just the run itself.

So if you plan to run around sunrise, sunset or at night this summer, look for shorts with strategically placed reflective accents. They provide an added layer of protection and confidence during low-light training. Just make sure the reflective details don’t compromise ventilation or comfort during your run.

Vibrant Colors and Fun Prints Add Personality

Running apparel has come a long way from the days of bland black shorts. Today, brands like Nike, Under Armour and Brooks offer shorts in a huge array of colors, prints and patterns to add personality and flair to your running gear.

From bright, tropical hues to bold graphic prints, summer running shorts are available in styles that express your individual taste and mood. Colorful shorts can also enhance visibility for safety. Opt for your favorite vivid shade or a fun, inspired print to add motivation to your runs.

Nike offers the Dry Tempo shorts in colors like Lucid Green, Volt Glow and Sunblush. Their energetic Joyride printed pattern shorts also feature a cool, artsy design. Under Armour has shiny Metallic shorts along with theirATHENE line in colors like Harbor Blue and Mod Pink. Brooks’ Go-To shorts come in Shaded Spruce and Burnt Sienna hues.

In addition to solids, look for shorts with ombre fading, camo and floral prints, geometric patterns, tie-dye effects, and other eye-catching designs. Mix and match complementary tops for customized looks and self-expression.

Running apparel with personality inspires confidence and excitement to get out the door. Choose shorts in colors and prints that put a smile on your face. Then let the compliments roll in on your impeccable summer run style!

Get the Right Inseam Length Based on Height and Preference

When shopping for summer running shorts, consider your height, body type and personal modesty preferences to choose the right inseam length. The inseam measurement determines how much thigh coverage the shorts provide.

Shorter runners usually opt for shorter inseams around 2-5 inches for a flattering fit, while taller athletes often prefer longer 5-7 inch inseams for more coverage. But it ultimately comes down to your comfort level and what feels best for running.

Many brands like Nike, Under Armour and Brooks now offer versatile short styles in multiple inseam lengths. Nike’s Dry Tempo shorts come in 3″, 5″, and 7″ versions to suit different needs. Under Armour’s Launch SW Shorts range from 2.5″ up to 7″ inseams. Brooks’ Switchback Shorts are offered in 5″ and 7″ lengths.

Try out different inseam options to find your ideal balance of coverage versus airflow. Longer inseams provide more skin protection and warmth for sensitive areas, which some runners prefer. But shorter inseams allow for better ventilation and mobility.

You may also want to size up for more coverage while maintaining a preferred inseam length. Determine what feels most comfortable over long distances. The right inseam will keep you confident — not distracted — so you can focus on your run.

Quick-Dry Fabric Wicks Away Sweat and Moisture

To stay cool and dry on hot summer runs, it’s crucial to choose shorts made with quick-drying, sweat-wicking fabric. Advanced performance materials are designed to pull moisture away from your skin and promote rapid evaporation.

Nike’s Dry Tempo running shorts feature high-tech Dri-FIT fabric engineered to maximize breathability. The microfiber construction literally wicks sweat from the skin’s surface to the outside of the shorts where it can disperse and dry quickly. This prevents that damp, sweaty feeling during intense training.

Similarly, Under Armour’s SW Launch shorts incorporate signature UA HeatGear fabric with an ultra-breathable, smooth handfeel to ventilate and dry fast. Brooks’ lightweight Go-To shorts and Asics’ Accelerate shorts also leverage moisture-wicking technology to keep you drier mile after mile.

See if the fabric feels cool to the touch but substantial enough not to be see-through when wet. Give the waistband a light stretch to confirm adequate flexibility and recovery. Then review fabric specs like denier weight and weave patterns for clues on drying performance.

Synthetic technical fabrics that actively wick moisture away from the body are a runner’s best friend on hot summer days. Escape that soggy, weighted-down feeling and stay light and dry every step of your run.

Secure Zip Pockets Store Essentials Safely

Running shorts designed with zippered pockets help keep essentials like keys, cards and gels securely stowed during summer runs. Bounce-free storage prevents distractions so you can focus on your training.

Many performance brands now incorporate zip pockets either in the waistband or along the sides of the shorts. Nike Dry Tempo running shorts feature zip hip pockets to protect belongings, while Under Armour’s SW Launch design has an enclosed inseam pocket.

Zippered pockets eliminate the need to hold items in your hands or awkwardly stuff them into a waistband. Small valuables stay put instead of falling out mid-run. You also avoid the discomfort and skin irritation caused by items jostling around.

Look for shorts with at least one or two zip pockets placed for easy access on the go. Make sure the zippers have a smooth action and adequately sized pull for operation even with gloves on. Avoid shorts with only small waistband pockets that can’t secure larger phones.

Upgrade your running storage with shorts that have secure zippered pockets. Protect your essentials from the elements and forget about them until your run is done.

Size-Adjustable Waistbands and Drawcords Customize Fit

For the perfect fit every run, look for summer shorts with a waistband that can be adjusted to your waist size. Features like drawcords and adjustable tabs let you customize the shorts’ fit for comfort.

Many athletic brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Brooks now incorporate adjustable waists into their running shorts. Nike Dry Tempos have an interior drawcord to dial in the perfect fit. Under Armour’s Launch SW shorts feature an external drawcord for easy adjustability on the fly.

Adjustable waistbands with velcro, buttons, or tie systems also provide flexibility for fluctuating waistlines. This allows you to adapt the shorts’ fit for optimal comfort from winter bulk to summer racing leanness.

Make sure any adjustable closure like a drawcord or velcro lies flat and won’t cause irritation when cinched. Test the full range of adjustability too – from completely loosened to fully tightened. Quality shorts will still feel secure and chafe-free at both extremes.

An adjustable waist gives you the freedom to modify your shorts’ fit as needed before or even during a run. Find your perfect comfort zone with a customizable waistband drawcord or tab closure.

Flat Seams Prevent Chafing and Skin Irritation

To prevent painful chafing and skin irritation during summer runs, look for shorts designed with flatlock seams that minimize friction against the skin.

Performance brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Brooks now incorporate smooth, flat-stitched seams into their running shorts to prevent abrasion on the legs and inner thighs. The flat seam construction reduces chafing by eliminating raised, bulky seams on the interior of the shorts.

In addition to flat seams on the outside of the shorts, look for an integrated liner brief with flat seam stitching. Irritation usually occurs where the edge of the liner meets the leg openings and inseam. Flat seams here are crucial to prevent inner thigh chafe.

When trying on running shorts, pay attention to potential rough spots and irritation. Run and do plyometric moves to detect abrasive seams before you hit the road. Binding, bulky stitching anywhere on the shorts can spell pain during longer mileage.

Save your skin from needless discomfort by opting for shorts with smooth, low-profile flat seams throughout. You’ll be free to focus on your run rather than distracting chafing and rubbing from poor construction.

Stretch Fabrics Move Naturally With Your Body

To allow a full range of motion during running, the best summer shorts feature stretch fabric with built-in flexibility and mobility.

Leading athletic brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Brooks construct their shorts from stretch woven fabrics that retain their shape while accommodating movement. Nike’s Dry Tempo shorts utilize dri-FIT fabric with stretch for maximum comfort. Under Armour’s SW Launch incorporates elastane into the fabric for mobility.

Look for shorts made with at least 10-15% spandex or elastane woven into polyester or nylon. This provides adequate stretch and recovery for an unrestricted feel during running motions. Make sure the fabric retains its density and doesn’t become see-through when stretched.

Test the stretch by doing lunges, kicks, and squats. Quality stretch shorts will move with you without restriction or transparency issues. The waistband should also have ample stretch to avoid digging in or sagging.

Summer running shorts that flex and bend with your body’s natural alignment help eliminate distractions. Performance-boosting fabrics with the perfect amount of stretch mean you can just focus on chasing miles.

Antimicrobial Treatments Reduce Odor and Bacteria

To help minimize odor after sweaty summer runs, look for shorts treated with antimicrobial technology to reduce bacteria buildup in the fabric.

Brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Brooks now offer shorts with anti-odor treatments using silver ions or other compounds to inhibit bacterial growth. Nike Dri-FIT shorts leverage antimicrobials to minimize stench. Under Armour’s SW Launch shorts have anti-odor technology built into the liner.

Antimicrobials reduce the microbes that cause fabric to retain foul odors even after washing. The specialized coatings and additives help preserve the shorts’ freshness by preventing the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

Inspect the fabric’s specs to confirm specialized treatments like silver ion antimicrobial protection. Quality shorts with anti-odor tech will retain less smelly bacteria over time compared to untreated fabrics.

Fight the funk and stay fresher longer with sweat-wicking shorts featuring built-in antimicrobial technology. Keep odors at bay and extend the wearability of your favorite summer running shorts.

Darker Colors Hide Sweat Stains and Marks

To help conceal sweat marks and stains during intense summer runs, opt for shorts in darker shades like black, navy or gray.

Technical performance fabrics helpwick moisture away from the skin, but it’s impossible to prevent all visible sweat marks – especially on sweltering runs. Choosing summer running shorts in darker colors helps minimize the appearance of wet marks.

Nike, Under Armour, Brooks and other leading brands offer plenty of great dark-hued shorts to help disguise sweat stains, including:

• Nike Dry Tempo Running Shorts in Anthracite/Black
• Under Armour Launch SW Shorts in Pitch Gray or Midnight Navy
• Brooks Sherpa 5″ Shorts in Asphalt/Black

Dark greys, deep purples, forest greens and even patterned shorts with darker backgrounds can also help conceal visible moisture until you can change post-run.

The best sweat-wicking performance fabrics help control moisture saturation, but darker shorts provide inexpensive insurance against embarrassingly huge sweat marks on sweltering summer runs.

Youth Sizes for Your Kids’ Comfort and Safety

When shopping for summer running gear for your kids, look for major brands like Nike and Under Armour that offer shorts in children’s sizes. Properly fitted youth shorts enhance their comfort and safety.

Nike makes their popular Dry Tempo running shorts available in smaller sizes for young athletes. Under Armour’s Launch SW shorts come in boys’ and girls’ cuts. Brooks, Asics, and other leading brands also carry shorts sized for children.

Make sure to measure your child’s waist and inseam for accurate sizing when ordering online. Try shorts on in person whenever possible for best fit since youth sizing varies between brands.

Look for performance features like sweat-wicking fabric, stretch construction, adjustable waists, and flat seams found in adult versions, but scaled down appropriately for kids’ frames.

Proper summer running gear like lightweight, breathable shorts helps young runners feel comfortable going the distance without irritation or overheating. Investing in quality youth-sized shorts sets them up for success on the road.