Spoiler alert—step one is wearing a tee that actually breathes.
Austin summers don’t play. Between triple-digit temps, music festivals, and enough humidity to steam a taco, staying cool takes more than just willpower. But don’t sweat it (literally)—we’ve pulled together a survival guide for beating the heat while repping your city in vintage-style Austin t-shirts that are built for both comfort and cool points.
1. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Yes, everyone says it—but in Austin, it’s the difference between having a chill summer and passing out on Rainey Street. Iced Topo Chico? Count it. Frozen margs on a shaded patio? Hydration-adjacent. Either way, drink up and don’t forget your SPF.
2. Go Where the Water Flows
If you’re not wading through Barton Springs in July, are you even from here?
- Barton Springs Pool: Always 68º. Always a vibe.
- Deep Eddy Pool: Texas’s oldest and coolest historic swim spot.
- The Greenbelt: Bring Chacos, bug spray, and someone who knows the trailhead.
Want to know what not to bring? Heavy shirts that trap heat. Instead, opt for something light, soft, and full of Austin soul—like any of our Austin Is Cool Tees. This retro Austin t-shirt is made from breathable cotton and vintage-inspired for that just-thrifted feel (without the weird smell).
3. Dress Like You Belong in a Vintage Polaroid
Tanks may seem like a go-to, but our advice? A lightweight, breathable cotton tee is better at wicking sweat and way better at turning heads. Especially when its vintage design is a nod to Austin and the city’s style history.
Our Austin Is Cool Collection is packed with:
- Retro Austin graphic tees
- Vintage-style summer shirts
- 100% cotton t-shirts made for Texas heat
From the SoCo sidewalk strut to back patios at Hotel Vegas, you’ll blend right in—and stand out.
4. Know the Chill Zones
Need a break from the heat and the hype? Here’s where to recharge:
- Waterloo Records: AC + vinyl + music nerds = paradise.
- Alamo Drafthouse: The only place where 72º and a giant soda still feel edgy.
- Jo’s Coffee (South Congress): Take a selfie at the mural, sip cold brew, and catch a breeze. Bonus: our tees photograph very well.
Stay Cool. Look Cooler.
Your survival kit for summer in Austin starts with gear that works as hard as you do—whether you're sweating it out at ACL or chilling at Deep Eddy.
Shop the full Austin Is Cool Collection
Sweat in style. Keep Austin vintage.