When a new season rolls around, you don't necessarily need to completely overhaul your activewear wardrobe, but it does help to have specific pieces that will make you comfortable with any changes in weather. For example, if it's wintertime, you're going to want to make sure you have some extra layers or thermal or fleece-lined pieces. And when summer's here, you want activewear that will keep you cool—even if you normally workout indoors.
One easy update I like to do is to make sure that I have some easy-breezy workout tops that will keep me cool during workouts and even feel good wearing outside of the gym or fitness studio. My thinking is that these tops will complement my existing wardrobe and are perfect for the high temps. Plus, I don't have to completely overhaul what I already own so that leaves me with a happy budget.
Take a look at some of the best summer workout tops I'm eyeing below—maybe you could use a few some shopping inspo, too.
Zella
Sporty Sheer Stripe Tank
This sheer tank with sporty stripes makes for a lightweight layer.
Vuori
Lux Performance Tank
Vuori's racerback tank is designed for high performance and wicks away moisture while drying quickly.
Nike
Dri-Fit One Crop T-Shirt
This cropped and relaxed T-shirt makes it easy for you to move with ease. It's made with Nike's Dri-Fit technology, which means it won't let sweat disrupt your workouts.
Lululemon
Lightweight Stretch Running Tank Top
Designed for running, this tank lets the breeze in as you run. It sits below the waistband and features scalloped side slits that allow for more movement.
Sweaty Betty
Breathe Easy Run Tank Top
This racerback tank is just so easy to throw on and go.
Athleta
Legend Fitted Tee
Co-created with Olympian Allyson Felix, this performance tee is perfect for medium to high-impact workouts. It features a diamond style mesh to keep you cool.
H&M
Mesh Sports Tank Top
This quick-drying mesh tank top has wide shoulder straps for comfort and is slightly longer at the back for extra coverage.
FP Movement
Between Us Crop Tank
It doesn't get more breathable than this crop tank. It's made with a sheer fabric and has an open back.
Beyond Yoga
Chai Tortoise Featherweight SoftMark Twist Out Tee
This might look like a normal tee, but when you turn it around, you'll see an open-back design with a twist detail.
Alo
Ribbed Peak Tank
The asymmetrical cutout detail here makes for a fun statement piece.
Girlfriend Collective
Ivory Zoe Superstretch Tank
Girlfriend Collective's stretchy tank features a built-in bra that provides support for medium-impact workouts—so you don't really need any more layers than this.
Zella
Excursion Mesh Crop T-Shirt
This cropped top has breathable mesh all over. It makes for a stylish layer outside of the gym, too.
Varley
Paseo Tank
The large cutout at the back of this tank will keep you cool and comfy.
Outdoor Voices
Zoom Halter
This halter tank from Outdoor Voices is made with the brand's SuperForm fabric, which is designed for high-sweat and high-impact workouts.
Lululemon
Mesh-Back Training Cropped Tank Top
The back of this cropped training tank is completely mesh so you know it was designed to optimize airflow. It can provide medium support for B and C cups.
All Access
Stretch-Mesh Tank
This mesh tank features a loose fit, high neckline, and relaxed construction.
FP Movement
She's Got Rhythm Crop Tank
The strappy, crisscross design on the back adds some coolness both literally and figuratively to this tank. And if you're wondering just how much support it has with that open back and all, don't worry—it has a compressive feel.
Year of Ours
The Thread Crop Top
I just the love the colors so much on this crop top—it's so different from the normal black, gray, and white hues of other workout tops. It features a built-in shelf bra and can support you during low-impact exercises.
Lululemon
Cool Racerback Short Tank Top
This racerback tank is made with Lululemon's Nulu fabric, which is buttery-soft, weightless, breathable, and sweat-wicking.
Zella
Go with the Flow Tank
Zella's tank has mesh detailing at both the front and back. The stretchy piece is really easy to wear and will work with just about any type of exercise.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing
, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.