Workout gear you love is important because you want to feel hot emotionally, not literally.

I’m actually getting pretty good at the whole exercise thing, but there’s nothing that deters me more than a sweaty, sticky summer day. Luckily, there’s oodles of functional and fashionable workout gear available that not only helps you stay cool and dry, but upgrades your motivation level from sluggish to Richard Simmons style.

Here are my fave summertime workout gear discoveries:

1. Sunpop Crops

Go from studio to street in these bold and colorful performance tights by Splits59. Made in the USA, their Sunpop Crops are an adorable way to get down to business at the gym, while getting down to fun post-workout.

2. Cool-Down Shorts

The no-fuss Cool-Down Shorts by Alo look as good as they perform. Made of polyester and spandex, these moisture-wicking, antibacterial shorts are the cheese to your yoga session’s macaroni.

3. TechFit Bra

When it comes to a woman’s workout gear, a comfortable, supportive sports bra is essential – unfortunately, they’re a total drag to wear on hot summer days. The TechFit Bra by Adidas helps make this workout must more bearable: It’s made of moisture-managing climalite fabric that sweeps sweat away from your skin with a mesh panel for extra vetilation.

4. Climachill Tank Top

Also by Adidas, the Climachill Tank Top is made of a meshlike fabric and aluminum-silver dots that conduct heat away from the body. Best of all, it features a flattering scoop neck and a racer back.

5. Mesh Scoop Neck Tee

The Nike Infinity Mesh Scoop Neck Tee is a layering tee made of sweat-wicking Dri-FIT mesh that dries quickly to keep you cool and comfortable. The scoop neck can be worn at the front or back for workout versatility, and the smooth, flatlock seaming won’t irritate your skin.

6. Lunar Element Training Shoe

The super-comfy Lunar Element Training Shoe by Nike features a breathable monomesh upper that adapts to weather conditions so you’re always dry and comfortable. Plus, aren’t they pretty? I’ll use any excuse to add bursts of color to my workout gear.

7. Neon No-Show Socks

You can’t buy ah-mazing training shoes without buying their sole mates (Get it?). These Neon No-Show Socks by Under Armour are made of a lightweight, anti-odor moisture-wicking material with an embedded arch support that amps up their comfort level.

8. Half Toe Gripper Socks

As you already know, a sweaty yoga session turns your mat into a slip and slide (only, you know, not fun). I first purchased the full-toe gripper socks, but by the time I’d finish downward dog they’d slide halfway off my feet. That’s when I discovered these ballet-inspired Half Toe Gripper Socks by ToeSox (a.k.a. the best invention of all time). They stay put, both on your feet and on your mat. Seriously, they’ll make you feel like Spiderman.

9. Fruit Infuser Water Bottle

Who’s workout gear would be complete without a way to hydrate? The Fruit Infuser Water Bottle by Good Living in Style is made from BPA-free plastic, is dishwasher safe and fits in most cup holders. Best of all, it comes with extra infuser pump built in to boost your flavor when you’re especially bored of plain ol’ H20.

Check out and shop your favorite summer gear here:

What are your summertime workout gear must-haves?

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Image: teammarche

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