Cropped leggings, shorts or skirt: what to wear when it is hot

When it is hot, it is not the length that decides, it is the fabric. But the length helps. Here are the three short pieces we make for the heat, and when each one is right: the capri leggings that end at the calf, the shorts that take up no room, and the skirt with shorts underneath.

What are capri leggings?

Leggings that end mid-calf. Long enough to keep the thighs still through the session, short enough not to get hot. Slimline Capri Sculpting Tights Dark Grey are our only pair, and a limited edition that will not be restocked. Heart-shaped lines with red piping that lift and round the glutes, grey with white inset contrast fabric, a wide elastic waist that keeps the leggings in place, four-way stretch, moisture-wicking and quick-drying. They match Slimline Sculpting Tank Dark Grey, with the same red piping.

When are shorts the right choice instead?

When you are going to swim, travel or train lightly in real heat. Athletic Shorts Black, Athletic Shorts Navy and Athletic Shorts White are the same short in three colours: soft performance fabric with four-way stretch, a supple fit that sits close to the body without pulling, moisture-wicking and quick-drying. They dry fast after a swim and take minimal space in the bag. With the Athletic Tube Top in the same colour they become a set for yoga, the beach walk and the holiday.

And the skirt?

The skirt is the shorts with a layer on top. Slimline White Court Skirt and Goldline Black Elite Skirt have built-in shorts with pockets on both sides and a high waist that holds in. They are made for tennis and padel, and work for golf and town. Read more in the guide to tennis and padel skirts.

Which short piece for which session?

Strength and gym in the heat: capri, because the thighs need the support. Yoga, walking, holiday: shorts. Tennis, padel, golf: skirt. Running: capri if you want leggings, shorts if you want air.

How do you wear cropped leggings outside the gym?

Capri with a long, loose jumper and sneakers is the summer walk. Shorts in black or navy with a white shirt is the holiday. The white shorts with the tube top and a blazer is dinner after the beach.

Which size should you choose?

Your usual. The shorts are true to size and sit close to the body. The capri comes in XS, S and M. The skirts: Slimline White in XS to XL, Goldline Black in S and L.

How do you wash them?

Inside out, at 30 degrees, hang to dry. Skip the tumble dryer.

See also all leggings, tennis and padel and sculpting leggings.