Summer Exercise Essentials

1. New Balance Mesh Running Hat for Men and Women

One of the most important things you can do when you exercise outside is protect your skin, especially the delicate skin on your face. Wearing a hat when you're walking or running offers good protection and shade, and this New Balance mesh hat is a favorite of mine because it allows plenty of air circulation so your head stays cool and dry. It also comes in a variety of colors for both men and women.

2. Mountainsmith Dart Hydration Pack

It seems like there's never an easy way to carry water with you when you're out for a walk or run. You either have to search for water fountains or hold a water bottle, which isn't very comfortable. One solution is this small, ergonomic fanny pack. The Dart is small (it holds a small water bottle and includes a pocket for your keys), and the water bottle rests at a slant for easy access. I like this one because it doesn't bounce as much during high-impact activities as others I've tried, although wearing it does make your lower back feel a bit hot.

3. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 30

You already know to wear sunscreen, but it's tough to find one that isn't greasy and won't burn your eyes when you sweat. After trying a number of sunscreens, my favorite is Neutrogena's Dry-Touch. It won't clog pores, it isn't greasy, and it doesn't sting your eyes when you sweat. Even my husband (who loathes sunscreen) likes it. Put it on about 20 minutes before you hit the road for maximum protection. I actually wear this every day, weather I'm outside or not.

4. Nike Running Skort for Women

One of the latest fitness trends for women is the skort -- a workout skirt with built-in shorts that flatters all body types while giving you the freedom to move. This Nike skort is a favorite of mine because it's made of soft Dri-FIT fabric that's UV-protective. It also has compression shorts underneath, so you get full coverage. It's great for any activity, but will be a favorite on hot summer days when you don't want too many layers to bog you down.

5. Nike Featherweight Running Shorts for Men

Men will love these breezy running shorts for hot weather activities. My husband has a pair and has worn them for everything from running to cutting the grass. The coolest thing about them, besides the fact that they're light and wick away sweat, is the built-in iPod pocket. There's a place for your headphone cord, and you can easily change your music without much hassle.

6. Patagonia Sports Briefs for Men

When you're exercising in hot weather, you want protection and support while keeping sweat away from your body. These sports briefs by Patagonia are a great choice. They're soft, lightweight and allow air circulation to keep you comfortable. They also come in a variety of styles and sizes.

7. Women's Seamless Briefs

If I had to choose my favorite pair of underwear, these seamless briefs from Nordic Trac would be my pick. I've worn them while jogging, hiking and biking. They're so comfortable that I wish I could wear them every day -- well, I guess I could if I did my laundry more often. They don't ride up, they don't chafe, and they keep you cool and dry on a hot day. They really do feel like a second skin and are perfect for workouts, indoor and out.

8. Adidas Supernova Short-Sleeved Top

If you're a man, you may be tempted to run or walk without your shirt, especially if the sun is blazing. But no matter how hot it is, it's much better to protect your skin from the sun when you're outside. This sweat-wicking top is perfect for long, sweaty workouts, offering protection without the bulk. It's so lightweight, you'll barely notice it.

9. Zoot Womens Zoot ULTRA Tech Tee

I really love the cut and color of this tee, as well as the sweat-wicking fabric that makes outdoor workouts more comfortable. This top is fitted, but still provides full coverage. It also has two little side pockets you can use to stash a key or a nutrition packet. The Zoot is flattering, and it also has reflective colors so you can run safely in the dark.

10. Cooler Headband

This headband/neck wrap is perfect for just about any outdoor activity. Soak it in cold water for about five minutes and wrap it around your neck or head to keep you cool while you walk, bike, run, work in the garden, etc. This is one of those unusual things that quickly becomes something you can't live without. The website says it stays cool for days. I didn't find that to be true, but it certainly held up through long outdoor workouts.