One of the best parts about summer is that you can exercise outside. But wearing leggings in the heat is a recipe for discomfort. 

Enter the exercise dress. While exercise dresses used to be something only worn on the tennis court or golf course, they’re actually a pretty great summer option for running, hiking, yoga, or any other workout where long, tight leggings could feel a little too restrictive. 

The best exercises dresses for every workout

We put together this guide to the best exercise dresses for every workout. Wear them while you chase down balls on the tennis court, run through your favorite park, or meet up with friends for brunch.

Girlfriend Collective Undress ($78, girlfriend.com): This exercise dress is made from a sweat-wicking, lightweight material that’ll keep you cool as you swing your forehand or jog in the heat. It even has built-in shorts with small mesh side pockets to stash your belongings. The dress’s UPF 50+ protection will ensure you don’t burn. It’s available in seven flattering shades, ranging from size XXS-6XL. 

Halara In My Feels Everyday Dress-Wannabe ($49.95, halara.com): For low-intensity workouts like yoga or Pilates, this exercise dress can’t be beat. It has a built-in romper with pockets so you can store your phone as well as a built-in bra with enough support for low-impact workouts. The dress is made from a comfortable nylon/spandex blend and features thin shoulder straps that won’t dig in. Choose from 11 fun colors in sizes XS-3X. 

Nike Women’s Training Dress Nike Bliss Luxe ($90, nike.com): Power through a HIIT class without overheating in this exercise dress with a built-in bodysuit. The dress has a tailored fit, clinging to your body in all the right places, and is made with more than 50% recycled polyester fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles. It comes in five flattering hues in sizes XS-3X. 

Athleta Expedition Dress ($90, athleta.gap.com): This chic black exercise dress is a great option for hiking or walking. It’s made from a recycled stretch fabric that feels unbelievably soft on the skin, and it has a zipper in the front that makes getting it on and off easy. It also has an adjustable waist to help you find your perfect fit as well as built-in shorts and zip pockets to hold your phone and keys. Available in sizes 00-26. 

Sweaty Betty Power Workout Dress ($118, sweatybetty.com): Whether you’re a yogi or a runner, you’ll love this moisture-wicking exercise dress that keeps you cool while you sweat. It’s made from Sweaty Betty’s bestselling fabric, a blend of polyamide and elastane that sculpts the body. Plus, the dress has a built-in light-support bra and shorts with pockets. Sizes range from XXS-XXL. 

Nike Women’s Tennis Dress NikeCourt Dri-FIT Advantage ($80, nike.com): If tennis is your jam, then you’ll want this exercise dress in your wardrobe ASAP. Nike’s Dri-FIT fabric is soft, stretchy, and lightweight, and it will keep you dry while you play. The pleats in the front of the dress make it easy to move, while the cutout in the back adds breathability. Available in sizes XS-3X.

Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress ($100, outdoorvoices.com): Chances are you’ve seen this exercise dress all over social media, and for good reason. The dress, available in XS-XL, has a lot going for it: The nylon/spandex fiber is lightweight, the straps are adjustable, and the built-in shorts have pockets so you can store your essentials while you work out. You can’t go wrong with choosing black, white, or navy, but if you’re feeling playful, try the leopard print version of this dress. 

Columbia Women’s Freezer III Dress ($50-$60, amazon.com): For days when you’ve got a workout and errands on the schedule, throw on this exercise dress made from a polyester/elastane blend that’s stretchy and comfortable. The dress features UPF 30 sun protection to help shield you from burning, as well as cooling technology. Have your pick from a variety of colors and patterns in sizes XS-3X. (Pro tip: Throw on a pair of shorts underneath if you’re planning to work out in this dress!) 

Want more from aSweatLife? Get us in your inbox!

First Name

Last Name

Email address:

Leave this field empty if you're human: