The Best Summer Gear for Runners That's $50 or Less

Written by
Jackie Veling
Summertime's here, and the livin' is easy—but that doesn't always mean it's cheap. As you plan for upcoming racecations and fall training programs, we know running can get expensive this time of year.

The good news: Upgrading your gear to more heat-friendly alternatives doesn't have to cost a fortune. Each of these summer must-haves is $50 or less, so you can get all the performance (and sweat-wicking capabilities!) you need without breaking the bank.
ASICS GEL-Cool Seamless Top
$50
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A simple, lightweight tee goes a long way on a summer run, which is why we can't recommend this option from ASICS enough. What makes this shirt a true standout is the cooling 3D GEL pattern located on the back. This strip creates specific ventilation zones to draw away body heat and allow the shirt to better wick away sweat. And if you hate wearing tight clothes in the summer, this shirt has just the right amount of breeziness.
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New Balance Ice 2.0 Short Sleeve
$44.99
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New Balance recently updated this popular short sleeve to include even more mesh panels on the back. You know what that means? Ultimate breathability. The shirt also contains sweat-activated NB ICE cooling technology, which works to increase airflow and wick away moisture. Other impressive features include: 360-degree reflectivity, so you'll be safely spotted from every angle, a small headphone port on the back collar to keep cords in place and underarm gussets for better range of motion.
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Body Glide
$14.99
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Nothing derails a run quite like body chafing, and it's time to admit we all suffer from it. Whether you need it on your legs, your arms or even your neck, this body glide stick is more than up to the challenge of soothing your skin with just a few strokes of its allergen-free balm. Expect a dry, invisible and non-greasy barrier that will carry you through countless miles with zero irritation, making it the best running buddy you've ever had.
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Nike Miler Men's Running Tank
$24.97
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Your high school track team had it right all along—a simple, mesh tank is all you need to run fast without overheating. This Nike running tank has both mesh back and side panels for optimal breathability, flat seams for zero skin irritation and reflective details for any nighttime runs. It comes in five different colors, too, so you can switch it up for each run.
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Athleta Sunlover UPF Tank
$49
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Sometimes a shaded trail is nowhere to be found, which can mean long runs under an unforgiving sun. That's where this tank from Athleta comes in. Simply throw it on and feel confident that the UPF 50+ rating has you well-protected from the sun's rays. This tank is also lightweight, breathable and has an overlap detail on the back that encourages better ventilation. As part of Athleta's commitment to sustainable clothing, it's also made with recycled nylon.
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Anker Soundbuds Bluetooth Headphones
$25.99
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There's never been a better time to geek out on headphones now that there are so many affordable options. Take these Anker Bluetooth Headphones, for example. With over 2,500 four-star reviews, they are an Amazon's Choice product thanks to their high resolution that delivers clear sound, CVC noise cancellation technology and customizable EarTips, so you can achieve the perfect fit. The battery also lasts up to 13 hours, and if you forget to charge it, a quick 10 minutes will give you a full hour of juice. Best part: They're under $30!
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New Balance 3-Inch Impact Short
$44.99
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Who wears short shorts? Summer runners wear short shorts. If the mercury is climbing especially high in your part of the country, throw on these teeny three-inch shorts and never look back. They're cut from moisture-wicking stretch woven fabric and have a semi-split construction on the side, so you can pick up the pace by elongating your stride. You'll also find a wide, flattering waistband and zippered back pocket. Did we mention it comes in four colors?
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Under Armour Speedpocket 9"
$44.99
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This best-seller from Under Armour is a fan-favorite for a reason. It checks all the boxes—like, all of them. Made with a fitted construction that strikes the right balance between hugging the body without feeling constricted. This short is also water-resistant, sweat-wicking and made with anti-odor technology. It has a front, expandable pocket that's perfect for holding your phone with zero bounce. Let's not forget the mesh side panels for extra ventilation and reflective logos to keep you safe on the road. See what we mean?
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Balega Ultralight No Show Running Socks
$13
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Want to cut down on those crazy tan lines? Try these no-show socks from Balega. The brand has always known how to make a superior running sock, and this ultralight version is no exception. With an extra-deep heel pocket, moisture wicking fibers, mesh ventilation panels and the signature high heel tab to prevent the sock from slipping, these socks will give a new meaning to happy feet.
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Brooks Juno Bra
$42.25
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A cult-favorite for women runners everywhere, it's time to add the Juno bra to your collection this summer. Unlike other bras that are molded with individual cups, the Juno comes with one lightweight, perforated "unicup" that locks female runners into place. Brooks' DriLayer sweat-wicking fabric also works wonders as the miles wear on, so you can stay cool. And the main reason it's on this list? It's finally on sale!
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Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70+
$11.99
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Load up on the sunscreen, thanks to this runner-friendly version. Not only does it provide broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection from the sun, but it also resists water for up to 80 minutes. That includes any rubbing and wiping you do as the sweat pours (we're all guilty of it). It's also oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores.
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Saucony Women's Freedom Cap
$25
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The wrong running cap can sometimes make a hot run even hotter, but this version from Saucony can be donned without concern. Made with ultralight Freedom Jersey fabric, the Women's Freedom Cap will keep your head both cool and dry, even as the sun beats down overhead. There's also mesh panels for extra ventilation, front and back reflective details if you run in the evenings and an adjustable back closure for a perfect fit.
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