Working out in hijab in hot weather: a practical guide

Exercising in hijab in hot, humid weather is completely doable. It just rewards a bit of planning. These tips come from training in Singapore, where it is warm and humid all year.

Pick your time

Early morning and evening are cooler and the sun is lower. If you train midday, choose indoor or shaded sessions.

Choose fabric that moves air and moisture

In humid air, sweat evaporates slowly, so fabrics that soak it up stay wet and heavy. Choose a sports hijab with mesh at the back and quick-dry performance fabric, like the Lite Sports Hijab. Avoid thick cotton layers. More in fabrics, explained.

Think about colour

Outdoors, lighter colours absorb less sunlight than black. Indoors it matters less, and darker colours hide sweat.

Keep layers light

• A breathable mesh inner instead of a thick cotton one.
• Loose-fit or quick-dry long sleeves rather than heavy layers.
• Tuck the hijab ends in so fabric is not flapping across your face.

Hydrate and pace yourself

Drink water before, during and after training, and slow down when it is very hot. Take shade breaks on long runs and hikes. If you feel dizzy, unwell or stop sweating, stop and cool down, and seek medical help if it does not pass. During Ramadan, many people move training closer to iftar or after it, and keep sessions lighter.

Pack a spare

For long days, double sessions or hot commutes after the gym, a second hijab means you are not stuck in a damp one.

Wash it after sweaty sessions

Rinsing your hijab after training stops odour building up. See how to wash a sports hijab.

Common questions

Is it unsafe to exercise in hijab in the heat?

Wearing hijab does not stop you exercising safely. Use breathable fabric, train at cooler times, hydrate and listen to your body, as anyone exercising in the heat should.

Which colour sports hijab is coolest outdoors?

Lighter colours like sage or pink absorb less sun than black.

Does a sports hijab really feel cooler than a regular one?

A breathable, quick-drying one does, because it does not hold sweat the way cotton or thick jersey does.