Man running on a sunny path in a matching light grey set

Best Gym Clothes for Hot Weather (Men)

Working out in the heat is harder on your body, and the wrong clothes make it worse. Heavy cotton soaks up sweat and clings to you. The right gear feels lighter, dries faster and keeps you more comfortable. Here is what to look for.

1. Go lightweight

Fabric weight matters a lot in the heat. Lighter fabrics let air move and dry faster. A good summer training tee sits around 160 GSM or lighter. Not sure what GSM means? See what GSM means in clothing.

Close-up of lightweight athletic t-shirt fabric in sunlight

The KYNOS Performance Tee is a lightweight 160 GSM blend of 58% nylon, 28% polyester and 14% spandex. It wicks moisture and dries quickly, so it will not hang on you like a soaked cotton shirt.

2. Pick synthetics over cotton

Cotton holds sweat. Nylon and polyester blends pull moisture away from your skin and dry faster. See polyester vs. nylon vs. cotton.

Man doing dumbbell curls in a sunlit gym in a matching sand set

3. Fitted, not tight or baggy

Baggy clothes get heavy with sweat and flap around. Skin-tight gear can trap heat. A fitted athletic cut that skims your body is the sweet spot. See how gym clothes should fit.

4. Lighter colors for outdoor sun

Lighter colors reflect more sunlight than dark ones, which helps when you train outside. Indoors it matters less. If sweat marks bother you, see what color gym clothes hide sweat.

Man doing kettlebell swings on a sunny rooftop in a matching white set

5. Lightweight joggers for early mornings and evenings

Shorts are the obvious pick for peak heat. For early morning runs, evening sessions or a cold, air-conditioned gym, lightweight joggers are a good call. The KYNOS FlexStride Jogger is a 180 GSM, 80% nylon, 20% spandex knit that is moisture-wicking and quick-drying, with zip side pockets for your phone and keys. See can you run in joggers.

Man power walking along a sunny waterfront in a matching olive set

Stay safe in the heat

  • Drink water before, during and after
  • Train early or late to avoid peak sun
  • Wear a cap and sunscreen outdoors
  • Slow down if you feel dizzy or sick

Man drinking water in the shade in a matching sky blue set

For more, see how to prevent chafing at the gym, why gym clothes smell after washing and cold weather workout gear for men.

Browse the full KYNOS men's collection.

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