MMy experience in high school was difficult in all the familiar ways: broken friendships, teenage insecurities, and classic diary entries about how “no one could understand me.” There is one silver lining though? When I joined the high school cross country team and fell in love with running.
Since then, running has become a big part of my life. Although I am not a three-time marathon runner, I regularly run over 20 miles per week and am currently training for a half marathon. I even joined one of the New York manage clubs (no, not dating). And today I still preach about the benefits of a morning run and feeling energized. runner's high (I swear this is not a myth).
And if you're itching to trade that monotonous hour on the elliptical for a refreshing run, you don't have to wait until the groundhog sees his shadow begin. Running in winter is invigorating—I prefer my daily dose of icy fresh air to the stifling humidity of New York summers.
But if you run in cold weather, you need the right gear. As someone who grew up in the cold Illinois winters, I'm no stranger when it comes to cold weather clothing. Below, I've outlined seven of my favorite pieces for winter running. Personally, I've kept all of these items warm for years, from long early morning runs to snowy treadmill workouts.
And be sure to read to the end, where I recommended a couple shoes who dethroned my time-tested Hooks And running watch worth the splurge.
Layer up:
Lululemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve
The first rule of winter running: wear a base layer. When it comes to base layers, it doesn't get much better than Lululemon's popular Swiftly Tech long sleeve. I bought my first shirt many years ago and it still looks like I bought it yesterday.
The elastane material gives the upper a stretchy, comfortable feel, while the Silverescent technology wicks away sweat and reduces odor, keeping me dry on my runs (and allowing me to wash it less often). I also appreciate the thumb holes, which help keep my hands warm in cold weather.
Mule
lulhemon
Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve
US$54
FP Movement Cut It Out Long Sleeve Running T-shirt
FP Movement Cut It Out Long Sleeve Running T-shirt
long sleeve running top Cut it out
US$68
Whenever I need to wear more clothes but don't want to sacrifice style, I immediately reach for FP Movement clothing. This top is one of my favorites from the brand: it has a tighter fit and serves as the perfect base layer for more intense speed workouts at my local trail. I think the cropped style is perfect to pair with high-waisted leggings. I also like tops with thumb holes because my hands always get cold quickly when I run.
FP Movement Cut It Out Long Sleeve Running T-shirt
long sleeve running top Cut it out
US$68
Nike One Leggings with Pockets
Nike
Nike One Leggings with Pockets
US$45
Until the temperature officially hits freezing, I'm usually dressed in my trusty clothes. Lululemon Hotty Shorts. When the weather makes me reluctant to switch to leggings, I prefer this model from Nike. They're made from a mid-weight fabric that, while thick enough to keep feet warm, is still breathable.
These leggings have three pockets: one on each leg (where I usually keep my keys) and a back pocket designed to safely store your phone while you're on the move. I also appreciate the mesh-lined waistband that helps keep them from slipping.
Nike
Nike One Leggings with Pockets
US$45
Patagonia Synchilla Fleece Pullover
Patagonia
Synchilla fleece pullover
from US$139
Female
Male
I love layering this Patagonia fleece over my Lululemon Swiftly Tech. The second layer has everything I need: a warm, reversible Synchilla fleece that locks in heat, and a fabric that both wicks moisture and dries quickly. I like that the collar extends to the neck, and I appreciate how the elastic piping on the cuffs helps seal out cold air. Plus, it is produced in a Fair Trade Certified facility.
Patagonia
Synchilla fleece pullover
from US$139
Accessories with intent:
Hanes Crew Soft Socks
Hanes Crew Soft Socks
Soft Crew Socks
from $10.98
Female
Male
A good pair of socks is one of the most underrated items to add to your winter running wardrobe. There's nothing worse than wearing a pair of shoes that expose your ankles to the elements, or a material that's too thin and leaves your ankles blistered.
Although you can easily spend over $50 on a pair running socksmy favorite this affordable pair from Hanes, made from a cotton blend, they're soft to the touch and won't slip during your runs.
Hanes Crew Soft Socks
Soft Crew Socks
from $10.98
Softshell gloves Athleta
Athlete
Softshell gloves
US$27
There's nothing like freezing your fingers to ruin your run. I recently went on a long run and made the mistake of forgetting my gloves. When I returned, my fingers were so cold they were numb. Despite all of the above, a pair of well-constructed gloves is absolutely essential.
I love this pair from Athleta, which protect my toes from the cold without feeling too thick or bulky. If you use your phone to track your runs, this pair also features touchscreen fingertips and grip points, making them suitable for rock climbing or hiking too much.
Athlete
Softshell gloves
US$27
FP Movement hat
To avoid returning from a run with frozen, bright red ears, take a hat or winter running headband with you. I prefer the first one, which I think holds in place better.
This hat from FP Movement protects my forehead and ears from wind and snow with its soft ribbed knit. Although the style I personally use is no longer sold, the brand makes similar styles. knitted embroidered stylish logo.
Store year-round staples:
Acics Novablast 5 sneakers
Asiaki
Novablast 5 sneakers
from US$149.95
Female
Male
A well-fitted pair of running shoes is one of the most important tools in any runner's kit. I thought that nothing could topple my beloved Hoku Clifton, but this recent pair is from Asics made them win.
The Asics Novablast 5 is supportive yet lightweight, making it a versatile shoe that I can wear for both long runs and speed workouts. The sole has a trampoline-like design that gives it bounce, and I love that my feet feel soft without feeling too clunky to weigh me down. They are not waterproof but can withstand puddles well. I recently ran in them in a cold downpour and with the help of a few paper towels they were dry in 24 hours. These shoes are bouncier than my Hokas, but somehow feel more supportive, making me feel faster than I actually am.
Asiaki
Novablast 5 sneakers
from US$149.95
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music
Garmin Forerunner 165 with music
Precursor 165 with music
from $249.99
I bought the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music as part of an early Black Friday sale and, aside from showering, it hasn't left my wrist since.
This watch offers a variety of running metrics, including heart rate, pace, power, and vertical oscillation (rebound). It also acts as a pocket running coach, offering daily workouts tailored to my running goals and recovery. And for the wellness buffs out there, it collects data on my sleep, heart rate variability, and stress levels. With all the tracking capabilities and long battery life (up to 11 days in smartwatch mode), plus the ability to download music for offline listening, this watch is worth the investment.
Garmin Forerunner 165 with music
Precursor 165 with music
from US$249.99
