What to wear for running in Dubai as a woman?
Wondering what to wear for running in Dubai? I recently spent a week there and I ran almost every morning. Here are some suggestions that might be helpful!
The running outfit dilemma in Dubai
Dubai is hot, humid and you just want to exercise wearing a crop top and your shortest shorts. The problem is, this isn’t what you’re meant to wear in Dubai.
The general rule is that you should cover everything from your shoulders to your knees. In reality, I’ve seen most women run wearing tank tops and shorts. Some went as far as wearing only a sports bra, which I wouldn’t recommend.
I was too warm for long-sleeve tops and leggings, so I wore tank tops and shorts. But I made sure to avoid showing any cleavage, wearing see-through clothes and to wear shorts with cycling under shorts.
Please note that this is simply based on my personal experience running along the Marina Promenade (a touristy area) early in the morning. If I was in a less touristy area or in the old town I would have covered up more.
Women’s outfits for running in Dubai
What running shorts to wear in Dubai
2 in 1 shorts that come with cycling under shorts are the best option in my opinion. They allow you to move freely, are lighter than leggings but guarantee to keep you covered. Here are 2 suggestions:
Discover more running shorts with phone pockets here
Lightweight running tops
Pack the lightest, most breathable tops you have in your running wardrobe.
The Nike white vest I wore is no longer available online, but this Dri Fit vest is pretty similar with the same breathable mesh panels. The Nike Dri-FIT Technology allows quicker evaporation which you really want when running in the heat.
Moisture-wicking sports bras
You want to wear a sports bra that doesn’t show cleavage and has sweat-wicking features. Although you’ll most likely end up sweaty and sticky anyway because of the heat and humidity combo.
I have a couple of these Adidas Aeroready Designed to Move bras which are my comfiest ones to wear in the heat.
I also wore my Nike Dri Fit Swoosh bra - I would suggest sizing up as it has a rather tight fit.
Accessories to run in the heat
If you’re going to run after 9am I would highly, highly recommend wearing a cap or at least a visor. Sunglasses are also an absolute must-have.
The risk of dehydration is also higher, so if you’re going to run for over an hour or when it’s particularly warm, it would be safe to carry water/electrolytes with you.
Finally, chafing is never nice but it’s even worse in the heat when you’re sweating from all your pores. Make sure to pack clothes and undies that you can trust to be chafe-free or buy running undies (link below).
Here are my suggestions:
Science in Sport Go Electrolyte - The only electrolyte powder I use, mixed with water. The lemon and lime flavour is super refreshing.
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