Our Favorite Running Gear Finds for July

If triple-digit temperatures are making it hard to stay motivated, some new running gear can be all it takes to get excited about your next run.

This month’s roundup includes everything from lightweight shorts and a new gear bag to summer-inspired electrolyte flavors and a few other favorites we’re loving.

If there’s a brand you think we need to try, drop us a comment! Or if have you tried one of these, let us know, as we’re always looking for more feedback on what’s working and what’s not.

Evap Active Short 7″

These shorts are ready for just about any summer adventure.

They’re just as comfortable for road runs and trail miles as they are for post-run lake dips or hanging out at a backyard BBQ afterward.

The lightweight fabric is designed to help regulate your body temperature, dries quickly, and never feels heavy or clingy, even on hot, sweaty days.

Of course, we’re always happy to see plenty of pockets, including a zippered pocket and a built-in key loop to keep your items secure.

We also liked that the built-in liner feels more comfortable than a traditional underwear liner.

Combined with the true-to-size fit and 7-inch inseam, these shorts stayed comfortable whether we were running, working out, or just wearing them around the house.

Bonus points for being made with recycled materials, too.

• Size: S – XXL
• Inseam: 7″
• Color: 4 available
• 54% Recycled Polyester / 46% Polyester – 129 GSM (solid) / 135 GSM (print)
• UPF50
• Available from Blackstrap.com for $69.99

-David, Gear Tester

Janji Ultrahauler Supertote

Love having a bag with your running gear always ready to go?

That’s exactly what we loved about the Janji Ultrahauler. All the essentials are always on hand, so any time we walk out the door to drive to the trails, our gear is ready.

The Ultrahauler Supertote is a structured 40L gear-hauling weekender that offers a streamlined approach to gear organization.

It combines the utility of a durable gear hauler with the versatility of a modern weekender bag with a zippered main compartment, expandable storage, six organizational drop-in pockets, an oversized mesh compartment for post-run gear, a removable change mat/seat pad, and multiple carry options.

Carry options include grab handles, shoulder straps, and a detachable crossbody strap that allows it to adapt to a variety of travel scenarios, while a waterproof base adds durability for everything from trailheads to airport terminals.

• Size: 40L
• Colors: 2
• Three carry options (shoulder straps, grab handles, cross-body strap)
• Waterproof base
• Available from Janji.com for $198

-Coach Amanda

Equinox Pro LED Face Mask

Summer running can be tough on your skin.

Between the sun, sweat, and hours spent outside, it’s no surprise that your skin may feel a little irritated by the end of the season.

This LED mask uses red and near-infrared light therapy to help calm redness and support your skin’s natural recovery.

It’s designed to be used for about 10 minutes at a time; remember, less is more, especially with stuff like this.

It’s definitely not a replacement for sunscreen (keep applying that before every run), but it can be an easy addition to your post-run routine.

If you’re too tired to commit to a multi-step skincare routine after training, this is a simple, low-effort way to give your skin a little extra TLC throughout the summer.

• 656 medical-grade LEDs
• 6 targeted modes
• 2 year warranty
• Available from luyors.com for $395 (usually $779 but currently on sale)

-Coach Amanda

RIPT H2O Audio Noise Canceling Headphones

Whether you’re traveling for a racecation or want to tune out the noise around you at the gym, these noise-canceling headphones are a great option.

They may look a little bulky, but they’re surprisingly lightweight and comfortable.

The padding around the ear cups and headband is soft enough to wear during long flights, workdays, or strength sessions without causing discomfort.

You can connect them to your phone, laptop, or tablet via Bluetooth, making them just as useful for listening to music and audiobooks as for watching movies on the plane.

They also have a built-in microphone, so you can easily take calls without removing the headphones.

• Sweatproof and water-resistant
• Microphone included, noise cancelling, volume control
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Battery life: 50 hours
• Noise control: Active noise cancellation
• Colors: 2 available
• Available from Amazon.com for $249

-Coach Amanda

Gnarly Cherry Limeade (Limited Edition Flavor)

If you’re looking for an electrolyte drink that tastes like summer, Cherry Limeade is hard to beat.

The sweet-tart flavor is especially refreshing after a hot run, but it’s just as good before or during your workout.

One scoop is plenty for everyday hydration (and it packs a lot of flavor). If you’re heading out for a longer run or spending a lot of time in the heat, simply add more based on your hydration needs.

We’re also big fans of Gnarly’s ingredient list. Along with sodium, it includes potassium, magnesium, and calcium to help replace the electrolytes you lose through sweat.

• Available in a 14.1oz bag
• 250mg Sodium
• Vegan
• Available from Gognarly.com for $29.95 for a limited time

-Coach Amanda

Feetures Stride Flex Tee

This relaxed fit tee became one of our go-to running tops. If you’ve ever dealt with arm chafing from a tank top, this is definitely one to check out.

Feetures made it with a lightweight technical fabric that’s moisture-wicking and quick-drying, making it a great choice for hot summer runs, workouts, and race days.

The fit it not overly long or cropped, so it hits the perfect spot for having enough coverage but also doesn’t feel like you’re swimming in an extra flowy shirt or that you need to constantly pull it down.

It’s versatile enough that you can wear it while working out, or for a more athleisure look, throw it on with a pair of jean shorts and head out for brunch or to run some errands.

• Size: XS- XL
• Color: 7 available
• Available in 2 and 3 packs
• Available from Feetures.com for $59

-Coach Amanda

Outdoor Research Shadow Wind Hoodie

The Outdoor Research Shadow Wind Hoodie is a fine example of what this company sets out to do, and it far exceeded our expectations for an ultra lightweight, packable wind shell. 

It offers UPF 30 sun protection, wind protection, and is also water-resistant—which all three were needed when out and about exploring along the coast of the Big Island of Hawaii since the terrain and weather are so varied. 

The top is lightweight enough to wear and not feel hot, plus the fabric is really soft, breathable, and has some stretch to it. The hem also features a drawcord for a more custom fit and to keep it secure on windy days. 

This jacket has two features that we absolutely love: three roomy pockets (big enough to fit your phone into) and a hood that can be stowed away into the collar with just a little snap when not needed. 

We would compare this jacket to the Patagonia Houdini ($119), which is also lightweight and packable, but lacks the usable pockets like on the OR Shadow Wind Hoodie, and isn’t nearly as stretchy. 

Would we recommend this product to a friend? The answer is yes, and we already have.

• Sizes: XS-XL
• Colors: 3 available
• Stowable hood with bonded brim
• Zip chest pocket which doubles as the stuff stack
• Fabric is bluesign-approved; 90% nylon and 10% spandex
• Available from Outdoorresearch.com for $140

-Laura, RTTF Coach and Gear Tester

Is there a piece of gear you’ve been dying to know about or an area you’d love to see us focus on? You know the drill: drop a note below, and we’ll be happy to get the team on it if we can!

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