We are in the middle of winter, at least here in Maryland, and it’s not warming up any time soon! Sure, there are indoor options for getting in your workouts, but most of us want to get outside at least once in a while. While ice may force you onto the treadmill, don’t let the cold weather be the reason you stay indoors. Unless it’s extremely cold having the right cold weather running gear can allow you to continue running outside. Everyone will have their own limits for what they can handle for outdoor runs. However, once you find the right gear you may realize you can run in colder weather than before. Bundle up and get outside!
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Master Winter Running with the Best Cold Weather Running Gear
How do you know what to wear for runs outside in the cold? When you look at the forecast, pay attention to both the temperature and the wind chill. There should also be a “real feel” temperature listed. Usually you will want to dress for the real feel temperature. Keep in mind that if there is a lot of wind causing that temperature to be lower than the actual temperature that some directions may be windier than others.
I’m going to break this down into two categories: cold weather running gear and extreme cold running gear. Cold weather running gear will be for weather that most would consider cold, but manageable to run in, around 20-40 degrees. The extreme cold running gear is for when you get into the teens or single digits and the wind chill is a bigger factor.
Cold Weather Running Gear for 20-40 degree runs
This range of cold weather running will probably feel cold early in the season but you can get used to it. Also, if the wind is minimal it may actually feel quite comfortable. It’s still important to wear the right gear. We will work our way from top to bottom to go through what is needed.
Something to keep your head warm:
A headband may be enough, but a hat will add a little extra warmth. For women with long ponytails it can be nice to have a hat with a ponytail hole.
LuxeThermal Headband
Trailheads Women’s Ponytail Hat
Sunglasses
Sunglasses can help when it’s sunny out or even windy in the winter. When there is snow on the ground the sun can reflect off of it and seem even brighter.
Base Layer
You will also need a base layer, such as a long t-shirt or long sleeve shirt. Thin shirts work well here so that you can wear a jacket over them. You can wear 1 or 2 depending on how cold it is.
Notch Thermal Hoodie
Notch Thermal Long Sleeve
Dash 1/2 Zip
Luxe Long Sleeve
Under Armour Women’s Authentics Long Sleeve Crew Neck T-Shirt
Jacket or Vest
A jacket or vest will be your outer layer and there are different options for different conditions. When it’s in the high 30s but windy I like to wear warm base layers with a light jacket so that I don’t get too warm when the wind is not blowing.
Shield Hybrid Vest
Canopy Jacket
Gloves
Some runners find that their hands get very cold easily. If needed, look into glove that still allow you to use a touchscreen.
Running tights or capris
Most runners will opt for tights when it’s cold out, but some of us will still go for shorts whenever possible. Capris are a good option for in between weather. Finding a good pair of tights can really be the key to a positive winter running experience!
Warm socks
You still want to make sure they won’t cause blisters but slightly thicker socks will be a good option for cold weather.
Your usual running shoes
If it’s snowy out you may want to add some YakTrax or even wear trail shoes or shoes with traction for your run.
YakTrax
Ghost GTX (Waterproof)
Divide 5
Extreme Cold Running Gear for Under 20 Degree Runs or Very Windy Runs
You will want similar items to above, but more layers and try to find fleece lined or warmer items when you can.
Hat
You will want more than just a headband here, so find a warm hat that will stay down over your ears. You could also wear a headband along with a hat for extra warmth.
Neck Warmer or Balaclava
When it gets very cold it can be hard to keep your face warm, which is the one part of your body that usually doesn’t get covered by clothing. A neck warmer or balaclava will add warmth to your neck and you can pull it up over your nose and mouth.
Under Armour Unisex-Adult HeatGear Tactical Balaclava
Winter Neck Warmer
Thermal base layer
If you are wearing 3 layers, you want them to be warm but not too think. Try to find a thermal long sleeve, preferably long enough to be tucked into your tights.
Under Armour Women’s ColdGear Mock Neck
Warm jacket
This will make a big different on those really cold days.
Warm gloves
Some people even use hand warmers inside their gloves for extra warmth.
Shield Lobster Glove
Hand Warmers
Thermal or fleece lined tights
I’ve actually tried wearing 2 pairs of tights before, which I found to be uncomfortable. I think it’s better to invest in a warm pair of tights that are fleece lined or thermal.
Warm socks
Again, something warm but still good for running. (See above.) Wearing socks that cover your ankles will help to make sure that the skin between your tights and socks is not exposed.
If you are relatively new to cold weather running this may seem overwhelming. You can download a PDF with links for essential cold weather gear to help you as you plan your winter running outfits!
Remember, safety is key, but if you want to get outside in the winter there are usually ways to make it happen. Invest in a few good items and hopefully they will last you through many seasons of winter running!
Do you have a limit for cold weather running?
What’s your most important winter running item?
You may also like:
Cold Weather Gear for Winter Running
How to Survive and Thrive During the Winter Running Season
How to Adjust to Running in the Cold
These are great tips! I always struggle with cold hands, at least in the first 20 minutes of a run.
Neckwarmers have become more important to me in the last few years. There’s something about a warm and cosy neck that just makes everything easier when it’s cold out! I don’t pull it over my mouth, though, because it gets very wet after a while.
Warm, fleece tights are key for winter. I love to have some hand warmers in the house for those extra cold days
There is just so much gear!
Right now, we’re struggling because I just don’t have real cold weather gear. I’m doubling up on gloves and gaiters and layering all the things I have to stay warm. For the few really frosty days we get, I always think I can suck it up. It’s never enough.