4th of July running gear to stock up on

Best for runners seeking a technical singlet for racing in warm weather

With its lightweight dual-textured fabric, the SENSE Aero Singlet won’t hold you back when you’re sprinting to the finish line. The unique fabric does a great job of keeping you comfortable in warm conditions, and the glued seam construction helps prevent chafing during longer runs. Salomon has also added reflective branding on the back so you’re more visible when training in low-light conditions.

Best for runners seeking a technical tank for warm conditions

If you are training or racing in warm conditions, you’ll want to check out the Active Mesh Tank.

Constructed with Smartwool’s sophisticated blend of merino wool and Tencel Lyocell, the Active Mesh Tank does a great job of keeping you cool when the temperatures are rising. The fabric’s wool merino content also helps resist retaining odours, which sometimes plague full synthetic tanks. For additional warm-weather comfort, Smartwool has spec’d targeted mesh zones that provide increased breathability and has employed offset shoulder and side seams to reduce the risk of chafing.

Best for runners seeking a comfortable racerback tank for warm conditions

As the temperature and humidity increase, reach for Smartwool’s Active Mesh Racerback Tank. This stylish running top is packed with subtle design and construction features that make it perfect for summer running. Starting with the fabric, Smartwool employs its tried-and-true blend of merino wool and Tencel Lyocell. This fabric combination resists retaining odours while ensuring runners stay cool in warm conditions. Smartwool also adds targeted mesh zones that provide additional breathability and comfort as the temperature or pace increases. Finally, the racerback design ensures easy movement and additional cooling while maintaining an appropriate degree of modesty.

Best for competitive runners who want the best

The S/LAB product line has always represented the pinnacle of Salomon’s design and manufacturing skills, and these shorts live up to that heritage. Weighing just 60 g, with a 3″ inseam, and using an ultra-light stretch fabric, these shorts will not hold you back as you sprint to the finish line. And while there is no escaping the minimalist purpose-driving construction of these shorts, Salomon still manages to add a number of subtle nice-to-have details. Take, for example, the addition of Salomon’s 37.5 Technology, which provides exceptional thermoregulation in warm conditions. Salomon also uses glued seams, which reduce bulk and weight and help eliminate chafing. Finally, one small side pocket is perfectly sized to accommodate an energy gel.

Best for runners seeking no-nonsense running shorts with a 5″ inseam

The Salomon Sense Aero 5″ shorts are the perfect addition to any runner’s summer wardrobe. Salomon has spec’d a classic 5″ inseam and mated it to their Active Fit construction and 4-way stretch fabric, ensuring unrestricted movement during long easy runs, as well as more spirited interval workouts. The shorts also feature Salomon’s micro-perforated Aerotech fabric, which offers superb breathability and comfort in warm conditions. For the waist, Salomon employs a low-profile elastic waistband that minimizes chafing and provides a secure fit. Finally, a simple, easy-to-access front pockets offers ideal storage for an energy gel, credit card or ID. These are great workhorse shorts at a very reasonable price and should be part of every runner’s clothing collection.

Best for runners seeking technical merino wool blend shorts

Constructed with a unique stretch-woven exterior fabric and a merino wool and Tencel Lyocell blend liner, the Active Lined Shorts deliver exceptional comfort and easy movement. This savvy fabric construction also avoids retaining odours (thank you, merino wool), and the Lyocell fibres help keep you cool in warm conditions. The women’s version features a modest four-inch inseam that won’t restrict movement, while the adjustable drawcord waist provides a secure and comfortable fit. Finally, a small zippered pocket is perfectly sized for small essentials.

Best for runners seeking lightweight, low-bulk socks with sophisticated construction

The Swiftwick Aspire One is a great addition to every runner’s kit. With their sophisticated construction, these socks provide the mild compression, cushioning and moisture management necessary to keep your feet comfortable when running. Swiftwick employs its unique AnkleLock technology and GripDry fibres to prevent the socks from shifting and sagging during long runs. Grab a couple of pairs and treat your feet!

Best for runners seeking max cushioning for training and recovery runs

The Bondi 9 is not only lighter and more durable than its predecessor, but it now also offers even more cushioning. Hoka has updated the Bondi 9 midsole with an additional 2 mm of supercritical EVA foam, resulting in a supremely plush ride that’s perfect for long, easy runs and logging daily training miles. As a max-cushion shoe, no one will be shocked to know that the Bondi 9 has a substantial stack height (42 mm in the heel and 37 mm in the forefoot for the women’s model, while the men’s clocks in at 43 mm and 38 mm). That’s a lot of cushioning! Hoka has also updated the upper, which now features a 3D moulded heel collar that provides a more secure and comfortable fit. Speaking of fit, the Bondi 9 is ideal for runners with more slender feet, but may feel a bit snug for those who require more room in the forefoot. If, however, you have a narrow forefoot and are looking for an extremely well-cushioned shoe for training and recovery, the Hoka Bondi 9 may be perfect for you.

Best for neutral runners seeking a fast, versatile shoe for training and racing

If you’re looking to pick up the pace, but don’t want/need a carbon-plated super-shoe, then check out the new Endorphin Speed 5. Built with a midsole featuring an updated version of PWRRUN PB foam that sandwiches a full-length nylon plate, the Endorphin 5 delivers a firm, responsive ride that is perfect for speed work, tempo runs, or racing. The addition of Saucony’s Speedroll construction further encourages smoother and faster transitions. From a numbers perspective, the Endorphin Speed 5 clocks in with a 36 mm heel stack and a 28 mm forefoot stack for 8 mm of drop. These are proven numbers and should work for the overwhelming majority of runners. For the upper, Saucony has employed a new lightweight engineered mesh that provides excellent comfort and breathability. Underneath, an XT-900 carbon rubber outsole provides solid traction and has been strategically beefed up in high-wear areas for increased durability. If you want a fast and training shoe with a firm, responsive ride, consider the Endorphine 5.

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