The Best Summer Kits For Warm-Weather Workouts
Whether you’re into golf, tennis or hitting the running track, we’ve rounded up covetable sportswear staples for mood-boosting movement
As the mercury starts to spike and the spring/summer season sets in, there’s never been a better time to embrace alfresco sports. After all, getting a much-needed vitamin D boost along with a hit of endorphins is a productive way to spend an hour, whether that’s first thing in the morning or during golden hour.
Indeed, exercise in the sunshine is an ideal decompressor no matter what your activity of choice – from a demanding game of golf to a relaxing yoga class to re-center yourself and stretch away any stress. And nothing motivates a workout more than a new piece of sports kit. For while exercise releases the ‘happy hormone’, cortisol, feeling good while doing it only amplifies the experience. That’s why we’ve curated the best warm-weather kits for SS23, complete with mood-boosting separates your inner athlete and aesthete will love…
“Retro-vibe rainbow stripes work just as seamlessly with white sneakers in the city as they do on the course
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Golf club
Normally the preserve of retirees, golf has garnered a more youthful energy in recent seasons, with younger players enjoying its low-impact sporting credentials and sociable nature. The kit has undergone a similar shift, with more fashion-focused pieces gaining ground on the green and beyond. Take The Upside’s preppy golf dresses, for example, whose retro-vibe rainbow stripes work just as seamlessly with white sneakers in the city as they do on the course. Meanwhile, Bogner’s polo shirts and sleeveless puffer layers are the ultimate workout-to-weekend staples. Our tip? Invest in a visor to ward off the sun’s rays without disrupting your putting potential – and pack an Argyle sweater for sundowners at the country club afterwards.
Tennis hits
As one of the most sartorially inspiring sports for your everyday closet, tennis is an activity that champions personal style both on and off the court. But if you want to keep it classic, it’s hard to go wrong with a sharply-pleated skirt in Wimbledon white – and no label is more aligned to the look than Lacoste. For a fresh take, switch out the co-ordinating polo shirt for the brand’s contrast-collar navy sweatshirt; the white V-neck gives the impression of a collar and feels pulled together, without the need for layers. Wear it with cut-off denims and a cap to nail summer’s game-set-and-match mood.
Front runners
Whether you’re a runner or a cyclist, feeling the summer breeze hit your legs during a workout is an endorphin shot in itself – and wearing the right pair of shorts might just help you pick up the pace, too. Opt for loose-cut, lightweight styles; a fitted compression lining for extra coverage; and fresh spring shades to inject a new-season spin. Adidas by Stella McCartney’s apple-green co-ord is your fast-track ticket to runner’s high.
Power yoga
Comfort is key in all activities, but especially in yoga – after all, a kit that fits like a second skin will enable you to truly focus on your form and flow. Cue Lululemon’s high-waisted bike shorts, which are sculpting without feeling restrictive. Featuring an easy-wearing 8-inch hemline that won’t ride up, they boast a hidden pocket to store cards and keys, and look sleek with a matching black crop for effortless class-to-coffee days.
“Designed with work-to-workout in mind, this label’s understated, unbranded sneakers come in slick neutral colorways
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Good footwork
A strong, supportive sneaker is crucial when it comes to exercise, yet most sports footwear doesn’t seamlessly segue into your everyday wardrobe – and packing a change of shoes isn’t always practical. Thankfully, APL Athletic Propulsion Labs is here to solve that dilemma. Designed with work-to-workout in mind, this label’s understated, unbranded sneakers come in slick neutral colorways (think monochrome or earthy gray) and feature a unique Load ’N Launch technology in the soles that’s proven to help you jump higher. Stylish and performance-led? They’re sure to put a spring in your step whatever the weather this summer.