It’s not officially winter yet, but as all runners who’ve raced a marathon know, it’s best to get a leg up and be prepared. Last year’s winter was abominable, with record freezing temps going on for weeks. Essential gear sold out fast.
Having the right cold-weather running gear isn’t a total cure for the winter blues, but it sure makes it easier to exit your vehicle at the trailhead. With the right attitude and some fun and functional new accessories that’ll keep you toasty without overheating, you too can continue your year-round training and enjoy the benefits of breathing fresh air, no matter how frigid or dark. As the temperature begins to plummet, you’ll see runners sweating buckets beneath windbreakers, tights, and running pants.
Resist the temptation to bundle up— as soon as you’re moving, you’ll start to overheat. If you’re unaware how to dress given the conditions, you can always turn to our What to Wear tool. Here’s the winter gear we recommend so you won’t be caught off guard when it’s the first snow. 🧤 Hand Protection: Smartwool Active Fleece Insulated Gloves 👕 Stink-Free Base Layer: Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer (Men’s/Women’s) 🦵 Leg Coverage: lululemon Fast and Free Tight (Men’s/Women’s) 👟 Footwear: Brooks Cascadia 20 GTX (Men’s/Women’s) Our staff and team of testers, along with yours truly, have braved below-zero runs to test how this gear fares, as well as worn leggings and jackets in temperate fall weather to test comfort and fit.
We have also enlisted the help of contributing writer Maggie Slepian, who lives in Montana and knows a thing or two about running in harsh winters. She gives us cold-weather gear tips and answers all of our frequently asked questions. This men’s and women’s beanie is the comfiest winter hat Senior Reviews Editor Cat Bowen has worn—ever.
The Skida ski hat is seamless, making it a great choice for sensory-sensitive runners like Bowen, or just really any runner who hates scratchy material on their scalp and forehead. The hat provides a perfect balance of insulation and ventilation so your noggin doesn’t freeze or overheat. The beanie also dries fast and stays put.
The lululemon Fleece-Lines Running Cap ($58) is available in solid black, and is made with water-resistant fabric. Fleece-lined earflaps provide warmth. This wide, soft headband stays in place over your ears and holds your hair back (great if you want to tame flyaways) without creating pressure points with extra elastic.
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