You’ve probably heard the saying that there is no bad weather for running, only poor gear choices. Or something like that! If you are a regular reader around here, you probably know, I enjoy cold weather running much more than summer heat. It is essential to be prepared for more comfort and performance. Here are a few of my go-to winter running essentials. The post contains affiliate links.
Go To Winter Running Gear
Gloves
While I have numerous pairs in rotation, I keep reaching for these Brooks Fusion gloves. Midweight gloves that are perfect for the ’30s and 40s for me. Available in 4 colors. On a colder day, I add in a set of hand warmers. I especially like the magnet that holds them together.
Base layer
I great sweat-wicking form-fitting base layer is essential. I reach for the lululemon run swiftly and the Athleta flurry or momentum most often. They hold up great after multiple seasons of use and wash.
Running tights
I like a little bit of a fleece lining for cold weather running. My go-to? The Brooks Momentum thermal tights and the Athleta Ranier tights. I like the freedom of movement that both provide along with the warm gentle hug feeling. Both fit true to size.
Outer layer/jacket
In the fall, I like a vest as a lighter layer. However, now that we are in the midst of winter, a practical jacket is a must. The Brooks Hybrid shield has quickly become a favorite for comfort and functionality. I find myself grabbing it often for runs in the low 30s and upper 20s.
On a cold and rainy/snowy day, I love the fleece-lined, waterproof Lululemon Cross Chill jacket. It keeps me dry and warm on a weather-challenging day. Available in 5 colors.
Shoes
When the winter weather really rolls in, regular running shoes don’t always cut it. Brooks Gortex Ghosts are a waterproof version of my favorite running shoe. (Full review coming soon).
This is some of my favorite essential winter running gear. Not much keeps me from getting outside for my run and I am always looking for the best gear to keep me safe and comfy. Tell me what else you would add to my list!
Thanks for helping to make the Runners’ Roundup a huge success by visiting all of the hosts: Me, Debbie, Jen, Lisa
I love that Brooks Hybrid Shield jacket!
I don’t like wearing hats so I often add a warm headband. Today it’s snowing in Switzerland so I guess I’ll have to wear a hat!
I also don’t love wearing hats! I usually only wear them if it is raining or crazy cold
I’ve also been loving the Hybrid Shield jacket this year. And I’ve bee wearing my vest more than I expected, especially since many days have been pretty mild.
The vests are also great to have. I am loving the shield jacket!
This year I’ve converted to layers and a vest rather than a jacket. I like skirts over tights and wear my DIY arm sleeves. It gets me out in any temps
I wore vests a lot in the fall. I sometimes go to the jacket so I can take it off and tie it around my waist
These all are great suggestions! Most are also quite colorful, which is (sort of) a necessity for me 🙂 I still prefer a fleece jacket/vest combo (with a thermal base layer underneath), because I don’t like the underarm “bulk” of a jacket…plus, I get more color combinations that way (priorities, LOL).
I love vests in the fall but then I move to jackets so I can take them off and tie them
I love the jackets that you highlighted. I find it so easy to overheat on Winter runs if I am wearing a heavier jacket.
same here! It can be hard to judge how warm you get out there
I absolutely love that Brooks Shield jacket–the strategically places stretchy panels make for easy movement. And you and I agree on winter tights–those are the only tights i wear now. The gortex Ghosts and Cascadias are amazing!
Loving the weight of the jacket as well. Wish the fleece tights came in more colors
Well… I won’t be needing any of this, but I read this post just for the fun of it. It’s been about 23 years since I lived in a winter-y climate and boy have things changed! All this gear sounds amazing. I didn’t know Brooks made a waterproof version of the Ghosts- that is genius!
ha ha I guess you won’t! The shoes are amazing. I am doing a mini review tomorrow. They are great for rain
It’s amazing how differently our body temperatures run. I would have to add mittens to wear on top of the gloves and remove at least one layer of upper body clothing. I realized just before Christmas while wearing my full length festive tights how miserably hot I get when my shins are covered. LOL
my upper body gets much warmer but my hands are always cold!