Running is such a simple sport. All you need is a pair of running shoes. Not so fast! While a pair of shoes (or 2) certainly helps, that’s not all you need. Summer Running has some special needs. Check out these Summer 2021 Running Essentials From Head to Toe. This post contains affiliate links.
Running Essentials From Head To Toe
Help to make your run more enjoyable and safer with these 2021 must-haves for runners. Let’s start at the top!
Hats
Stay cooler out there and protect your skin and scalp with a running hat. My picks for the best running hats including some designed for ponytails.
Sunglasses
Essential all year round. It’s fun to add a pop of color to your summer running gear with these super affordable shades. They are light with polarized lenses and at a price point around $20 a great buy. Check out Knockaround glasses in fun colors.
Sunscreen
Yes, you do need to wear sunscreen even if you run early or late. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US and most times it is so easy to prevent. My picks for the best sunscreens for runners here. Don’t forget your lips need protection too. See The best lip balms with SPF. Quick picks this tinted facial sunscreen that does not sting your eyes and this all-over body spray.
Shorts
Summer runs are sweaty! Finding the right pair of shorts for you can be tricky. Here are my top picks for 2021 in multiple styles.
Hydration
Staying hydrated can be complicated. Check out these tips for how to purchase a hydration pack that fits your needs. If you are running for more than 30 minutes in high heat or humidity, it’s a good idea to bring along some water or electrolytes.
My pick for hydration on the run: SIS Hydro Electrolyte Drink. These tablets are drop right into your water bottle for on the go hydration. With only 1 gram of sugar and 10 calories.
Running Watch
Thinking of switching to a lighter weight summer watch? The new Garmin Venu Sq is a touchscreen watch with many of the features of an Apple watch for a fraction of the price. Keep track of sleep, heart rate, training, Pulse Ox, and even hydration. Crushing on the orchid color for summer.
Road ID
Slide one of these emergency contact “sidekicks” right onto your watchband. A nice peace of mind while out on a run.
Seat Covers
Summer runs are super sweaty. Yes, I am a sweaty mess post-run. Loving this Orange Mud car seat cover for post sweaty runs. It does double duty as a changing wrap.
Extra Credit
This selfie stick is great for those on the go run selfies. Folds up and fits right into many hydration packs or belts. Extends up to 5 feet for fun summer action shots and only weighs 4 ounces.
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Summer Running Hats that Go The Distance
Thanks for helping to make the Runners’ Roundup a huge success by visiting all of the hosts: Laura, Me, Debbie, Jen, Lisa
That Orange Mud Pack looks interesting, looking forward to your review.
I just bought a hydration vest last week and I’m very happy with it. It’s really difficult to find one where you have easy access to the bottles while running and that doesn’t make annoying water-swishy sounds!
Yes I agree and I was also concerned where the straps would hit me in the front area. Stay tuned for details. Would love to hear how yours works as well
I need to find some new water bottles for running. I haven’t worn a waist pack to carry them in many years because the ones I had bounced too much and were uncomfortable and ended up leaking. But its annoying to carry a handheld so i need to look into a better option! I love those sunglasses and may need to invest in a few pairs.
The sunglasses are the best you will love them and they have such great colors. The whole water bottle thing has been annoying for years. I can’t seem to find the right one. Hoping my new pack does the trick
I am looking at hydration packs and will be curious to hear your thoughts! My son had a Camelback and I’m starting with that–we’ll see what that feels like.
Thanks for the link up!
I have tried a few in the past and the sloshing and the heaviness was not for me. I hope this one is the winner
I need to look for a visor since I usually wear my hair on top of my head. This is a good reminder!
Usually I don’t worry about hydration since water fountains are on but not this year and I regret it every run. I need to learn finally ha
I don’t think any fountains are going to open up this year!
I can barely run when it’s cold so I’d probably be sweating bullets running in the summer! I always wondered how runner carry water so I’m so glad I found out. Major props to you for getting in those summer runs!
I actually prefer to run in the winter and fall myself!
What a great collection of running gear! I need to upgrade my skirt to that one! Looks fabulous.
New running gear always motivates me!
I’ve heard great things about SuperGoop! I’m hoping to run in the mornings this summer. I’ll have to check all these out 🙂
Yes Supergoop is a great product!
I’m all about sunglasses…my eyes are sensitive to light & no one needs any excess wrinkles happening LOL. I also prefer visors over hats, but I have started using hats more in the past year or so.
I don’t love hats but trying to wear them more to protect my face
I’ve never heard of running skirts, I’ll have to see if I like them better too!
They are comfy and cool to run in
You named all of my summer running essentials! I got a pair of the Knockaround sunglasses in my Bibrave Virtual Summit swagbag and I can’t wait to test them out.
You are going to love them!
I usually carry a handheld but for long runs with drinking fountains closed I need to work out something so I don’t run out of fluids. I really have to be better about remembering sunscreen! I start so early that I’m afraid I forget (until the sun comes out that is!).
That is one reason why I am exploring other hydration options. I am really trying to be better about sunscreen!
Love your picks! I also love knockarounds and supergoop! I’ll have to try the glow screen!
It is fantastic!
I love my knockarounds but I don’t wear them for running! Haha. I wear sporty Under Armour glasses that I’m in love with.
That’s a super cute hat, love it!
The hat is comfy!
Those Lululemon Skirts are so cute. Do they have pockets. With Skirt Sports going out of business I will be needing to find some new skirts that work!
Yes they do have pockets. Some are made for tennis so they can actually hold a ball in the pocket
A hat is a must-have for me on summer runs! I wear a hydration vest with bottles in the front (no bladder so it’s super light) for any run of 10 miles or longer. It is so much more comfortable than a belt and more convenient than just carrying a bottle!
Yes I agree. I hope I like my new vest
I have just started running again and I have been loving it!!! have any shoe recommendations?!
That’s Great! I suggest you get fitted in a running store at least at first. I am running in Brooks Glycerin right now. I like the extra cushion and large toe area
Lululemon does have super cute running skirts. I’ve actually been running more in shorts than skirts the last few years, but either way, I’m all for light and cool.
One of the reasons I try to go out early is that I am allergic to most sunscreens. The ones I’m not allergic too right away toff the bat tend to lead to a rash if I sweat, so… good times.
OH wow I did not realize people could be allergic to sunscreen!
I need sunglasses and I love my Goodrs.
And of course, skirtsports skirts.
Always wear a baseball cap – Brooks are my faves.
I loved all of my Skirt sports skirts but I have recently branched out
I’m with you on the sunscreen and the sunglasses (all year round!). I prefer visors to hats in the summer, though.
You name it, I’ve tried it when it comes to hydration. Since I’m not training for anything long right now, my Skirt Sports has me covered with the pockets for hydration bottles!
I feel weighted down when I put my bottles into the skirts. I am exploring options
The sunglasses look amazing! You just remind me that I need to buy a new pair of running shoes by the Summer x
Definitely!
Thanks for sharing this! I have often wondered about the hydration packs as well. They definitely look like an important investment!
Stay tuned for my review coming soon
Spot on! To accommodate my hair, I find a visor cap easier to use, so if you haven’t tried that already, give it a go!
I do have some visors as well and use them occasionally
Spot on! I use a visor cap to accommodate my hair. If you haven;t tried one already, maybe give that a go too!
I have a Nathan handheld and a running vest as well. Depending on the run or how warm it is, I usually don’t run with the handheld. The running vest is just for longer runs.
Something to add is Body Glide. I use it on each run. Someone recommended Squirrel’s Nut Butter All Natural Anti Chafe Salve. I haven’t tried it yet.
Thank you for linking up with us!
I find the hand held just feels weird holding it for so long. I get so hot on runs even in the winter time
All great suggestions here! I love my Knockaround sunglasses. And I’m glad I found a new hydration pack thats light and comfortable. While its nice to wear less layers in the summer, there are still alot of things to remember!
There are a lot of things to remember!
All great suggestions
Love my brooks caps and skirt sports skirts.
I keep a small towel in my car.
Also wear bug spray. Really bad this year. We had a wet spring.
There are lots of things to remember for a summer run
Oh, that selfie-stick! That looks so practical for running selfies.
I’m always at a loss how to take a proper selfie when my husband isn’t running with me.
I see it’s out of stock but I will check again later.
Oh it’s the best to have along on a run
Who ever said all one needs to run is “just” a good pair of shoes was wrong LOL The shoes are where it starts, then it’s an abyss (and I’m alright with that) 😉
I know the gear is never ending!
AHHH! I need that seat cover! I end every run drenched in sweat, which is not a good thing if you’re driving. I use a towel, but the seat cover would work much better.
I am the same way! It’s fantastic highly recommend it
I’ve only recently become aware of the Garmin Venu. I still have to compare it to the newer model Vivoactive (took a brief look), but it just may be my next Garmin — although I don’t think that’ll be happening for a couple of years yet.
I am still getting used to it but so far so good. I like how lightweight it is and it’s great for summer
I’m definitely team sunglasses! I need them in summer plus, they prevent wrinkles 😂
Yes they sure do help and I love the bright colors
Summer running is the best! I need to add some of these to my list. They are really great ideas for runners. Hope you are well.
Great list!! About the sunglasses though, mine always slip off from my sweat!! I need to get some sort of device to keep them in place!
These are sweat tested! I have run many miles with them check them out. they are a great price too
I am so excited!! I love running so much and im so stoked for summer running. I need that car seat cover
I sweat so much it’s a must have!
These are all great. I tend to feel hotter with a hat, but I never leave the house without sunglasses.
They are a must for sure
Such great tips for running! I need to get out there and stretch my legs like I used to. Thanks for the reminder!
Great time of the year to get back into it
Hydration vests, a trucker hat, and sunglasses are essential in summer!
definitely yes