The 16 Best Winter Running Essentials (That Actually Make You Want to Go Outside)

One of the main items you need in order to keep you warm is a proper base layer. Look for materials like merino wool, polyester, nylon, and Lycra. These are all quick-drying, unlike cotton which will just stay wet once you start sweating, thus making you cold. This long sleeve from Lululemon checks all the boxes: fitted, thumb holes, and made of nylon and recycled polyester. It also comes in a bunch of colors.

There are a variety of performance fabric long sleeves on the market and for the most part, they are going to achieve their intended purpose of keeping you warm and dry. This top, however, from Bandit is a grailed item for winter running due to the built in hood that fits snuggly like a balaclava. If you live somewhere where the wind makes your ears feel like they might fall off, it would be worth signing up to be notified when they restock a majority of sizes.

There are a variety of performance fabric long sleeves on the market and for the most part, they are going to achieve their intended purpose of keeping you warm and dry. This top, however, from Bandit is a grailed item for winter running due to the mock neck that adds a little extra neck warmth. 

Best for: Early mornings, windy routes, and anyone who’s constantly tugging at their collar mid-run.

Once you have your base layer, something like this half zip will be enough for those days that are in the 40ºs. This fits snugly, keeping you warm, and is made of the softest performance fabric. The tighter fit is also helpful if you need to keep layering.

Keeping your core warm makes all the difference when the temperature is dropping below 40º. This vest from women-owned running brand, Oiselle, is thoughtfully constructed for winter running. It has a hood that can roll up into the collar and five pockets for all your belongings and fuel. The back of the vest is also designed with a reflective bird pattern, so you are seen on those dark mornings and evenings.

If the temperature is reading something below 30º, a long sleeve is not going to cut it. If it is a dry day, this lightweight puffer made with PrimaLoft insulation provides warmth without the bulk. It has a hood and funnel neck so no heat is escaping around your neck and the whole jacket packs into its front pocket, making it great for travel. It comes in ten colors and could easily be incorporated into the rest of your winter wardrobe during the season.

Every runner needs a jacket that is resistant to the elements. This one from Nike is designed to keep you dry thanks to its lightweight, proprietary Storm-FIT tech material, large hood, and flaps that cover the zippers so water does not get in.The bungee cord hem prevents it from feeling bulky, and the loose fit makes the jacket ideal for layering. This is outerwear that will carry you from the beginning to the end of the season each year.

For most mild winter days, standard running leggings are sufficient. If you live in a place that does not get cold enough to justify buying a super warm pair, layering a standard pair of sweatpants over your leggings is a great tip.

Not to state the obvious, but you probably should pack your shorts away until at least daylight saving time. Most days, any full-length leggings will do the job and many brands carry fleece-lined pairs, but if you know you are often going to be running on frigid days, this pair from independent New England brand, Tracksmith, is worth the splurge. They are made of a water-repelling, double-layered fabric for warmth and a wind-blocking overlay for protection. They almost feel like a wetsuit when you are putting them on.

Before setting out, consider the ground. Running on black ice only has to end badly once to learn a lesson. Best to stay inside if the roads are covered with that. If it is just wet, there are options. The Nike Pegasus was the top running shoe in 2024 according to Strava’s Year In Sport trend report. These are a winterized version of the popular shoe with a waterproof GORE-TEX upper to keep your feet dry from the rain and slush, an all-terrain outsole, and reflective details throughout to help you stay seen at dawn and dusk.

It is always important to wear good socks when going on a long run, but it is even more critical during the winter. Socks made of moisture-wicking material keep your feet dryer, and thus warmer, and also protects them from getting blisters when it is slushy out and your feet are likely to get wet.

Gloves feel like umbrellas in that you can buy them for cheap at most end displays once the weather turns. But like umbrellas, buying a nicer version does make a difference. These convertible gloves-to-mittens from On have a brushed lining for extra warmth and touchscreen-friendly thumbs and index fingers. This doesn’t feel like an important detail for running until you are trying to use your nose to pause your Strava.

You do not want numb hands to be the reason you cannot finish your miles. If your hands are particularly vulnerable to getting cold and you frequently brave the coldest parts of the day, such as early mornings, these rechargeable hand warmers will make all the difference.

There is a popular medical myth that almost half of the body’s heat is lost through the head. The figure is probably closer to 10% unless it is the only uncovered part of the body. When you are getting all bundled up, do not forget about a hat. Looking for one that is moisture-wicking, and ideally covering the ears will keep you the warmest. This one from Athleta has a hole for a ponytail and is water repellent.

A running hat is also useful to have in the closet during the winter. Besides wearing SPF, you still need to be protecting your skin from the sun, even if it is cold out. Beanies are your warmest option because they cover your ears, but a fleece hat with a bill offers that sun protection. Additionally on really wet days, this type of hat is a better choice; it keeps the rain off your face and is made of a lightweight, quick drying fabric so you do not just have something wet sitting on your head for miles.

Winter is known for being dark, but if you are running during the day in a snowy location, that snow can act like a mirror, bouncing back the sunlight. Sunglasses are helpful to protect your eyes from UV rays and also save you the energy you would waste squinting. This pair is also helpful on the days the rain feels like it is coming down sideways, because while these reduce light reflection, they also repel water so you have a clear vision of the road ahead.

Some days you have to just cut your losses and hit a treadmill. Barry’s Bootcamp classes will get your heartrate up and integrate speed work and strength training. Besides, cross-training can only make you faster and stronger, helping you avoid getting injured.

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