Working out in the height of summer is challenging enough. For modest dressers, finding activewear that feels light, breathable and comfortable can be even harder. I’ve definitely had moments where I’ve skipped an outdoor walk simply because the thought of layering up in the heat felt overstimulating.
Oversized hoodies trap heat, heavy cotton fabrics cling after the first few minutes, and many performance collections still equate activewear with skin-tight silhouettes. Thankfully, that’s beginning to change. A growing number of brands are designing with modest movement in mind, proving that coverage and comfort can go hand in hand.
Whether you’re heading to pilates, a morning walk or an outdoor workout before sunrise, here’s how to stay cool without compromising your style, or your workout.
Prioritise Performance Fabrics
When temperatures rise, what your activewear is made from matters just as much as how much skin it covers. Look for technical fabrics that are lightweight, breathable and quick to dry, rather than thick cotton that holds onto sweat. Mesh panelling and strategic ventilation also help increase airflow while maintaining coverage.
Opt for Relaxed Fits
Modest activewear doesn’t have to mean oversized in every direction. Relaxed T-shirts, longline performance tops and wide-leg training trousers offer room to move without clinging to the body. They promote better airflow while remaining wearable beyond the gym.
Layer Intentionally
Instead of piling on heavy outerwear, choose portable jackets or overshirts that can be slipped on before and after your workout. Breathable layers make the transition from studio to street much more comfortable, especially if you’re exercising early in the morning or after sunset.
Brands Worth Knowing
Modest Era
For workouts where coverage cannot come at the expense of comfort, Modest Era keeps things light with longline zip tops, relaxed trousers and performance hijabs designed to stay in place without clinging. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and a palette of black, chocolate, olive, navy and dusty rose make the sets a practical choice for moving through the heat.
QYNDA
Founded in Kuwait, QYNDA was created to bring a premium approach to modest activewear while celebrating its Arab roots. Using breathable technical fabrics, hidden mesh panels and clever construction, the brand creates activewear that feels cooler to wear without compromising on the coverage many women are looking for.
Lanuuk
Founded by Ayesha Mahomed and Katleya Nielsen, Lanuuk was created to fill a gap in the modest activewear space, offering pieces that balance style, coverage and performance. Designed for women navigating busy, active lifestyles, the collection features four-way stretch, quick-drying and quick-drying fabrics that move comfortably from workouts to everyday life.
LYRA
After making a name for itself with modest swimwear, LYRA has brought the same thoughtful approach to activewear. Lightweight fabrics, practical details and flexible fits make the collection easy to move in, while still offering the coverage the brand is known for. Through its LYRA Good Initiative, the brand also supports women-only fitness and wellbeing workshops, with 10% of proceeds contributing to the initiative and other humanitarian causes.
SOM Active
Founded by Dana Al-Khobaizi, SOM Active takes a calculated approach to modest activewear, creating pieces designed with the Arab woman in mind. Standing for “State of Mind,” the brand focuses on versatile layering, with leggings, sports bras, oversized shirts and jackets designed to move seamlessly from the gym to routine life.
Keeping Middle Eastern body types and lifestyles at the forefront, SOM offers pieces suited to different shapes, including supportive sports bras designed for fuller busts. Its bestselling Moonchild Shirt, made from organic cotton and naturally dyed in Portugal, is lightweight, cooling and designed as an effortless cover-up for warmer climates. The brand also reflects its sustainability values by planting a tree for every garment purchased.
Don’t Forget the Accessories
Summer workouts often mean more time outdoors, making sun-protective accessories an essential part of your activewear rotation. I used to think sunglasses were more of a fashion extra than a workout essential, but they genuinely make a difference on bright morning walks.
Adding to its lineup of performance essentials, Alo is taking its wellness aesthetic beyond clothing with its first-ever sunglasses collection. Featuring sleek silhouettes and polished finishes, the debut range is designed to complete your activewear wardrobe that work just as well after your workout as they do during it.
The Pieces We’re Adding to Our Summer Workout Wardrobe
