Training through summer heat requires more than discipline; it demands gear that won’t weigh you down, trap heat, or cling when the sweat starts pouring. Whether you’re running intervals, grinding through metcons, or hitting a beach workout, wearing the right workout clothes in hot weather can make all the difference.
Ten Thousand designs sweat-tested gear engineered to thrive in high-heat conditions, with athlete-backed performance details that help you stay focused. Here's a guide to the best breathable summer workout clothes for men.
What to Look for in Summer Workout Clothes
When temperatures rise, your gear should work as hard as you do. Here are the features that matter most in summer training apparel:
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Lightweight materials that won’t trap heat and allow your body to regulate its temperature naturally. These fabrics often feature engineered weaves or reduced material density that improve air circulation without sacrificing coverage.
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Moisture-wicking performance to draw sweat away from the skin and accelerate evaporation. This helps reduce discomfort and chafing while also maintaining a balanced body temperature.
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Quick-drying fabric that doesn’t soak or sag, ideal for high-output training or workouts that transition from gym to outdoors. Look for garments that utilize hydrophobic yarns or mesh-infused zones to reduce dry times.
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Ventilation through design or fabric construction, including laser-cut perforations, mesh panels, or vent placements at heat zones like the back, underarms, and sides. These design elements reduce heat buildup and improve airflow.
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Odor resistance to stay fresh between sessions. Fabrics treated with antimicrobial finishes like silver ions help combat bacteria and maintain freshness through repeat wear.
Each piece you wear should help regulate temperature and support movement, not distract you from it.
Interval Short
Purpose-built for versatility, the Interval Short offers everything you need for summer training: breathable fabric, secure fit, and options with or without a built-in liner. The waistband is supportive without being restrictive, and the cut encourages full range of motion—ideal for movements like deep squats, sprints, and plyometrics.
In high-heat conditions, the quick-drying, sweat-wicking materials help keep your body temperature in check, making these shorts especially ideal for demanding training schedules in hot conditions where staying dry and cool session after session is key or outdoor sessions. Lightweight yet durable, they’re a favorite for lifting, circuits, treadmill runs, and more. A true daily driver for your warm-weather rotation.
Session Short
Designed for breathability and speed, the Session Short is a go-to for high-output training in hot, humid conditions. Its featherlight shell and built-in brief liner deliver excellent ventilation, while the side slits and streamlined design make it ideal for running, sprint drills, or any workout that demands mobility, airflow, and reliable performance in high-temperature environments. These are the shorts you reach for when staying light and fast is non-negotiable.
Set Short
The Set Short brings hybrid performance to beach days, gym days, and everything in between. Made from quick-drying, water-repellent fabric with bonded hems to prevent chafing, it excels in high-heat conditions. These shorts are tailor-made for the summer athlete; perfect for sweaty training sessions under the sun, fast transitions from land to water, and recovery walks back from the shoreline. The minimalist silhouette is sleek enough for travel, while the athletic cut and lightweight mesh liner offer reliable comfort in and out of the water. Whether you're logging miles on sand or jumping into a cold plunge, these shorts won’t hold you back.
Breathable Shirts for High-Heat Training
Interval Shirt
The Interval Shirt is built to handle the toughest workouts in the hottest conditions. Its ultra-lightweight fabric is engineered for rapid moisture management, helping regulate your core temperature even during outdoor Hyrox sessions or long training sessions in full sun. The cut is athletic yet unrestrictive, allowing for maximum mobility while keeping sweat off your skin.
For those who prefer extra ventilation or a minimalist fit, the Interval Tank offers the same performance fabric in a sleeveless silhouette. Ideal for high-intensity days or training in peak heat.
Tactical Shirt
For more rugged training environments, the Tactical Shirt blends abrasion resistance with advanced airflow and durability. Built to perform in heat and direct sun, it’s a trusted layer for hot-weather hikes, field workouts, or bodyweight sessions on rough terrain. Thermoregulating fabric helps manage heat buildup, while built-in sun protection shields against prolonged exposure. This is gear made for long outdoor sessions where grit, sweat, and sunlight are all part of the plan.
Session Shirt
Lightweight, breathable, and built for speed, the Session Shirt is your training partner for peak-heat performance. Crafted with a soft knit fabric that wicks sweat and dries fast, it delivers comfort without cling—ideal for everything from humid morning miles to high-intensity circuit work. The performance cut offers freedom of movement without excess bulk, and the minimalist aesthetic makes it easy to wear in and out of the gym. Designed to support your output in the hottest conditions, the Session Shirt keeps airflow high and distractions low when you need to focus on the next rep, stride, or round.
Final Tips for Training in the Heat
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Hydrate consistently, before, during, and after your workout to help regulate your internal temperature and support endurance.
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Support your nutrition by fueling your body properly, especially in the heat. Electrolytes help replenish minerals lost through sweat and support hydration and muscle function. A small snack before training, like fruit or simple carbs, can provide fast energy without weighing you down.
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Train earlier or later in the day to avoid peak sun exposure, which typically occurs between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
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Wear light colors and ventilated gear to reflect sunlight and encourage airflow, minimizing heat absorption.
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Incorporate rest intervals during longer sessions to avoid overheating and maintain consistent output.
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Cool down properly after training with light movement and stretching in a shaded area, and consider using a cold plunge, cold towel, or water rinse to bring your core temperature down.
Above all, gear up in apparel that supports your performance, never holds you back. Ten Thousand’s collection of summer workout clothes for men is engineered to keep you cool, dry, and focused when the temperature climbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fabrics for summer workouts?
Look for lightweight, breathable materials like polyester blends or performance-engineered fabrics with moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties. Ten Thousand gear is built with these qualities in mind.
Can I wear the same gear for running and strength training?
Yes, especially when it comes to multi-functional pieces like the Interval Short and Shirt. They're designed to move with you across different types of training without compromising comfort or durability.
What makes Ten Thousand gear good for summer?
From quick-drying shorts to breathable, odor-resistant shirts, Ten Thousand’s apparel is made to perform under pressure—even in high-heat, high-humidity environments.