Image © Canva/Women’s Running

Summer’s heating up, and so is our training. Whether you’re chasing PBs or just trying to keep your cool, having the right kit can make all the difference.

This month, we’re spotlighting summer essentials designed to help you train smarter in the heat – think lightweight sports bras, ponytail-friendly caps, energy-returning super shoes, and natural performance boosters like Beet It Sport’s Race Ready Nitrate Stack.

Plus, if you’re hunting for a new goal to aim for, why not sign up for the Admiral Swansea Bay 10k? A flat, fast course and sea views? Yes please.

And if you fancy even more run inspo and expert tips in your life, you can subscribe to Women’s Running magazine right here. It’s packed with monthly motivation, straight to your door.

Happy running!

Beet It Sport’s Race Ready Nitrate Stack

Summer running isn’t just about hydration – fuel matters too, especially when the heat adds extra stress to your body. That’s where Beet It Sport’s Race Ready Nitrate Stack comes in. This bundle combines three Informed Sport-certified products designed to support you before, during, and after your sessions.

You’ll get a Nitrate 400 Shot to help optimise endurance and oxygen efficiency, an Energy Gel Top Up 100 for mid-run carbs and an extra nitrate boost, and Regen Cherry+, blending beetroot and sour cherry juice for natural antioxidant recovery.

Backed by over 300 independent studies and trusted by athletes at every level, this all-natural trio helps you keep performance on point, even when the temperatures climb.

Want to give it a go? Use code RACEREADYCLUB at check out for 20% off the Race Ready Nitrate Stack

Photo © Fratcel

If you’ve ever tried to run in a “unisex” cap, you know the struggle. They’re often too big, too bulky, and definitely not designed with ponytails in mind! The result? A hat that either wobbles around or squashes your hair in ways that make you want to ditch it halfway through your run.

Fractel is here to fix that. These hats are designed specifically for women, with clever ponytail openings and a fit that actually feels secure and comfortable. They’re made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that wick away sweat and keep you cool, exactly what you need for warm summer sessions.

No more awkward adjustments mid-run, no more hair whipping in your face. It’s a small tweak to your kit that makes a big difference.

Discover our top Fractel picks and find out why ‘unisex’ just doesn’t cut it.

Photo © Admiral Swansea Bay 10k

Looking for a late-summer race to keep you motivated? The Admiral Swansea Bay 10k is a perfect pick. Taking place on 14 September 2025, this iconic event draws thousands of runners to the stunning Swansea Bay coastline for a flat, fast course that’s ideal for chasing a PB, or just soaking up the sea views.

Whether you’re aiming to beat that time or simply want to experience one of the UK’s most scenic road races, this is a race worth adding to your calendar.

It’s more than just a 10k, too. Expect a real community atmosphere, with events for all ages and abilities – from the wheelchair race to junior runs (1k and 3k), and even a mascot race for a bit of fun.

The Race Village keeps the good vibes going with live entertainment and refreshments, and the event has sustainability at its core, offering options like recycled race tees or tree planting, plus medals made from 100% recycled zinc.

Entries close 31 August, so sign up soon if you want a memorable end to your summer training.

Photo © New Balance

Sports bras can look minimal and still mean business, and the New Balance RC Bra is proof. At first glance, it’s all sleek crop-top style, but pick it up and you’ll feel the solid structure built for high-impact runs.

It delivers reliable support that keeps everything in place, mile after mile, without feeling bulky or restrictive. Comfortable, streamlined, and purpose-built for performance, this is one piece of kit that earns its spot in your summer wardrobe.

Despite its substantial feel, the RC Bra stays comfortable and breathable, so you can focus on your run, not your kit.

Photo © Women's Running

Carbon-plated shoes can sometimes feel like they’re running you, not the other way around. The Hoka Rocket X 3 changes that. It’s built for speed, thanks to a dual-density PEBA midsole and updated carbon plate, but still feels stable and surprisingly easy to run in.

It’s lighter than ever, grips well even on damp roads, and offers a smooth, responsive ride that doesn’t leave you fighting for control.

If you want race-day performance without the twitchiness of some supershoes, this is the one to lace up.

Photo © Women's Running

Looking for a watch that can keep up with your training without feeling like a brick on your wrist? That’s where the Garmin Forerunner 570 comes in.

It’s got the premium features you’d expect (think AMOLED display, triathlon mode, and even on-wrist calls) but in a slimmer, lighter design that won’t weigh you down on hot summer runs.

The Forerunner 570 hits that sweet spot: more advanced than an entry-level watch, but without the price (or bulk) of a top-end multisport model. Battery life is solid, the display is bright even in full sun, and the interface is refreshingly intuitive.

Whether you’re building toward a big race or just want smart tracking without the fuss, this one does the job.