Summer running can feel like training on the surface of the sun. But with a little prep (and the right gear), you can keep your cool and your skin intact. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just trying not to melt, these tips are your summer running toolkit.
🔥 Cooler Heads (and Necks) Prevail
When temps hit 65°F and up, it’s time to activate your cooling strategy before you feel hot.
💥 Top Cooling Gear:
- Ultra Crazy Runner Ice Bandana – Wrap around your neck (a key cooling zone) and go.
👉 Want one? Email us: ultracrazyrunner@gmail.com - Ice Hats or Caps – Pop some ice on your dome or in the pocket.
- Arm Sleeves – Soak or stuff them with ice for long-lasting relief.
🎯 Cool These Core Zones:
- Neck
- Underarms
- Wrists
💬 Pro Tip: Use cooling tools early—not once you’re already roasting.
Photo Credit-Jenny Thornson
“Honestly wouldn’t have happened without your bandanas. They were life changing with little or no bounce.”– Coach Reese Slobondiak, course record holder and winner of the Kettle Moraine 100, swears by it.
☀️ Smart Summer Running Tactics
🕓 Time It Right
- Run early or late to avoid peak heat. (unless your goal is heat training)
- Shade is your friend.
- Slow your pace and run by RPE (Rate of Perceived Effort). Heat = extra load.
💧 Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
- Start hydrated—don’t chase the deficit.
- Sip consistently before, during, and after (think IV drip pace).
- For longer runs: aim for 16–24 oz/hour depending on conditions and your sweat loss rate.
⚡ Electrolytes Matter
Sweat out sodium, potassium, magnesium—replace ‘em!
- Use electrolyte mixes, salt tabs, base salts, or sports drinks.
- Especially important on runs over 60–90 minutes.
🌡️ Listen to Your Body
- Early signs of heat illness: chills, dizziness, nausea, or fading pace.
- If your body’s throwing red flags, don’t ignore them. Cool off, adjust, or call it. That’s not weakness—it’s strategy.
😖 Chafe Happens… Unless You Plan
Sweat + friction = the enemy of happy running. Protect your skin and your sanity.
Top Tips to Stay Chafe-Free:
- 🧴 Lube early, lube often – Anti-chafe balm is your best friend. Reapply before long runs or at aid stations. Don’t forget seams!
- 🩳 Ditch the cotton – Choose tight, moisture-wicking, seamless gear to reduce friction.
- 🎒 Vest straps beware – Lube underarms, chest, back—anywhere your pack rubs.
- 🚿 Shower ASAP post-run – Use gentle soap to avoid irritation.
💬 Pro Tip: If it burns in the shower, you’ve found the chafe zone. Protect that spot next time!
Stay cool, stay smart, and stack those sweaty summer miles the Ultra Crazy way.
Because nothing says “hardcore runner” like ice down your shirt and salt on your face.
🐾 Zukey approves.