What to wear for running in winter? – winter running clothes

Winter is approaching. A period when many people don’t want to leave the house. A warm blanket, a cup of tea, and a good book – this is the perfect combination for many. However, there are some people who, even in this cold period, want to continue to take care of their figure and not stop their physical activity. 

If you train at the gym it’s nothing difficult. However, the case is different for runners who choose to run outdoors. If you are one of them, then you need to be prepared and choose the clothes for running in winter. You probably get cold at the very thought of it. 

Because of this weather, there are many items you should have on hand as winter approaches. What should you have in your winter running gear? Find out now! 

Disclaimer: The article refers to winters with snow, rain with snow and ice on sidewalks, with temperatures below -5 degrees Celsius/23 degrees Fahrenheit.

Running in winter – excuses, excuses, and even more excuses

“What to wear when running in winter?”

This is one of the most common questions runners have when winter approaches. It is also one of the excuses for not running in the cold weather – I have nothing to wear, it’s too cold, it’s too dark, it’s too slippery. As you know, any excuse is a good one to give up training outside. 

I hope that if you’re here you’re not counted among such people, and you’re happy to go for even a short run even when there are minus temperatures outside. 

When it comes to winter running gear you should choose to dress as if it were 10 degrees warmer outside. 

“What? What do you mean? I’ll freeze to death while taking my first step outside my apartment!”

It may seem that way to you at first. However, you certainly have some experience with running, and you know that after a warm-up and a short run, your body will warm up. As a result, the cold will no longer be a huge discomfort. 

However, I must point out that if this is your first time running in winter, the first 2-3 times may be tough. Don’t be discouraged. You can get used to this. You surely remember when you started running and couldn’t even run 1 mile without getting out of breath. However, it got easier and easier with time. It’s the same with running in the winter.

What to wear for running in winter so it’s not too warm or too cold?

A moment ago I mentioned that you need to choose your winter running clothes if outside is 10 degrees more. So how? Preferably “dress in layers” – 3 layers of clothes will work best in such weather conditions. 

If you want to dress like this, remember that each layer of clothing should be thin. Don’t dress like you’re going to Siberia or Antarctica. 

What are the benefits of “dress in layers”?

• insulates better against the wind, 
• insulates better against the cold, 
• when you are too warm, you can quickly remove one layer of clothes and continue to be properly dressed for winter weather. 

Get to know layers of winter running clothes 

First layer – underwear and t-shirt 

The first layer of running gear for winter must be made of the right material. Why? You’re about to find out. 

Start with boxers, women’s briefs, or a running bra. Ideally, they should be made of technical material. What is it? It is a material that is made of synthetic fibers. It is used primarily for sportswear, as it performs well in severe weather. 

In this case, it is also worth betting on seamless underwear. This will protect your buttocks and intimate area from chafing. Remember that your underwear should be warm and, above all, comfortable. 

The first layer also includes a thermal shirt, which should also be made of technical material. 

Now that you know what counts as the first layer, I won’t keep you in suspense and will tell you why it’s a good idea to choose a technical material for clothes for running in winter. 

• The tight structure of the technical material better protects against wind and cold.
• It collects sweat very well and transfers it to the outside. 
• Maintain body temperature – so you won’t get overheated or cold. 
• Dry skin without unpleasant sweat. 
• Soft and pleasant material protects against chafing. 

Second layer – sweatshirt and leggings 

What to wear when running in winter? The second layer is a sweatshirt. It will keep you warm and the temperature outside will not be as much of a problem as you would think it would be. 

What is the best sweatshirt to choose for winter running gear? 

• Thin sweatshirt made of technical material.
• Long sleeves that overlap the hand and “hook” over the thumb – so the material will protect your hands from the cold. Moreover, the sleeves will not slide down and expose the skin on your forearms. This will ensure comfort and warmth. 
• High-zippered collar – ideal protection for your neck from the wind and cold air, which you are sure to feel while running.
• Reflective elements – they will come in handy especially when it gets dark. This will ensure your safety, and an oncoming car will be able to see you from a distance.

The second layer also includes leggings – for both men and women. Leggings are tight and retain heat better. It is best to buy ones that are insulated and additionally have reflective elements. If you are a chilly person then you can wear running pants or soft sweatpants over your leggings. This will make you more comfortable while running. 

Third layer – winter running jacket

Let’s move on to the most complicated layer when it comes to running gear for winter, even though it has, after all, only one element – a jacket for winter running. People can argue over choosing the right one, as it is difficult to choose the right model. However, I will help you narrow down your search a bit. 

Many people choose a simple windbreaker, which will be lightweight and will not restrict your movements. However, when it’s freezing outside and you want to go for a run this may not be enough. Then you should think about buying a winter running jacket with insulation. 

It all depends on your body, of course. Some people will put on 3 layers and a jacket with insulation, while others just need the first layer and a winter running jacket. Dress so that you are comfortable and warm (but not too warm). Then you will avoid the cold. In this weather condition is not difficult to come down with a cold. 

What other jacket is worth considering besides a windbreaker or winter running jacket with insulation? 

Rain jacket – in winter there is not always snow. This has been noticeable for several seasons now – it often rains. Such jackets have membranes that protect them from rain. You won’t have to worry about getting wet. 

Clothes for running in winter – is it always necessary to put on three layers of clothes? 

You don’t always have to put on all three layers of clothing. It all depends on the weather outside. 

The first layer, however, is mandatory. Underwear and a T-shirt are essential. The second layer is enough if it is not very cold outside. Just put a sweatshirt over a thermal T-shirt and you are ready to go out. 

It may also be that you ditch the second layer and put on a winter running jacket right away. This is ideal for cold and windy days. 

Winter running clothes – what else is worth having? 

Running beanies 

Many people can’t imagine going out in the winter without a beanie, let alone going running without one. It is an important element of winter running clothes because a lot of heat escapes through the head. A beanie protects your head from losing heat and also from catching a cold and also from wind and snow. 

It is worth choosing a beanie that is made of technical material. A cotton beanie does not wick away sweat very well and your head may be sweaty. Those made of technical material protect against overheating, wick sweat away, and have a good fit. Therefore, it will not slip or fall off your head. 

To protect your sinuses and ears well from the cold, it is worth choosing a beanie that has an extension at the ears and neck area. 

Headband for running in the cold weather 

When it comes to clothes for running in winter, you don’t always have to wear a beanie for running in winter. If it’s chilly but not freezing outside, you can choose a headband. Running headbands are especially popular among women because they support hair from falling into your eyes and face. 

The headband is great for protecting sensitive points such as the ears, forehead, and sinuses. In winter, it is best to choose a headband that is insulated. Most often it has a pleasant fluff inside. 

Flashlight for forehead or chest 

If you think about winter running gear, this piece of equipment will come in handy if you run very early in the morning or the evenings. During this period, the sun sets faster and the night is longer. With a flashlight placed on your forehead or chest, you will be able to see where you are running and not trip over a protruding branch or step in a puddle or hole. 

What’s more, you’ll also be more visible to cars if you run near a busy street. Take care of your safety at night. 

Sunglasses for running in the winter? 

You’re probably wondering why sunglasses are even included here. The answer is simple. During winter days, the sun also appears in the sky, sometimes even very sharp. 

Therefore, to protect your eyes from UV rays, especially the one that reflects off the snow, it is worth taking sunglasses with you to your workout. 

Snow is highly reflective of UV radiation. Don’t be afraid that you look silly. Your eyes won’t get tired and you won’t have to squeeze your eyes during your run. 

Neck gaiter – shield your face while running 

During training, you may feel cold not only on the head but also on the face. You want to protect your throat and respiratory tract. No one wants to be sick after one winter run. 

Is a simple scarf enough? Some think yes, others think no. It will certainly be difficult to wrap it well around your neck. It may slip, unravel and get in the way during training. 

Therefore, it is best to choose a neck gaiter for running in winter. It is a multifunctional piece of winter running gear. It can be used as a headband or a cap. However, its most important task is to protect your throat, mouth, cheeks, nose, and ears. It will keep you safe from the cold, wind, and snow. 

When choosing a neck gaiter, pay attention to whether it is a summer or winter item. For the winter version, it is worth choosing those made of merino wool. 

Anti-smog mask for runners

During the winter, air pollution increases – all because people start heating their homes and apartments. This problem in particular can be seen in larger cities. Therefore, to protect yourself from smog, stock up with an anti-smog mask. It will prevent you from breathing polluted air into your lungs. 

What is a good anti-smog mask? 

• Fitted to your face. 
• Preferably has straps that fasten at the back of the head – this makes it tighter. 
• Ensures free breathing.
• Wicks away moisture.

Gloves – clothes for running in winter

You also can’t forget to protect your hands during a winter run. You certainly don’t want to come back from a workout with frozen and red hands. Therefore, add gloves to your winter gear 

Gloves will keep your hands warm. For running, you should choose a model that has a special material on the index finger. This will allow you to use your phone freely – without taking the gloves off your hands. 

Winter running vest 

During the winter season, it is not always cold outside. If the weather is good then instead of a winter jacket for running, it is worth choosing a vest. This option will also work when it is very cold. All you need to do is put a running vest over your sweatshirt and then a jacket. The vest provides great insulation against cold and wind. What is more, it protects your kidneys, chest, and back. 

What should a running vest be like in winter? 

• lightweight, 
• thin, 
• stretch fabric on the sides – so you will retain more freedom of movement. 
• reflective elements – to be more visible when it is dark outside. 

What about running shoes for winter?

When you think of winter running clothes you also have shoes in your mind. They are also important. What should they be like?

• Strong lug, 
• Higher upper, 
• Coatings that further protect the foot from water, 
• If you run in the snow you can choose shoes with additional spikes

When choosing the right shoes for winter, focus first and foremost on keeping your feet warm. In the second place, there is good ventilation. 

Soft and warm socks 

What socks should you choose for running in winter? Here are some important tips.

• High socks, so that they cover the Achilles tendon, your ankles will be protected from the wind. What is more, snow will not get into the shoe. 
• Made of material that wicks away moisture – preferably technical material or warm and thick merino wool socks. 
• Soft socks so that they do not bruise your foot while running. 

Slip-resistant Shoe Covers

Sometimes there is ice on streets and paths in winter. Especially when there are minus temperatures outside. That doesn’t mean you can’t go out for your daily workout. You only need one accessory to run safely! 

What to wear for running in winter to avoid slipping on the running path? Slip-resistant shoe covers. They are universal, also you do not have to be afraid that they will not fit your running shoes. If you want to run around town, choose those that are made of rubber and have single spikes. For running in mountainous terrain, choose those with thin chains (the so-called traction devices for shoes.)

Don’t worry about muscle strain. Slip-resistant shoe covers are very light and you won’t even feel you have them on your feet, and they will keep you running safely. 

Gaiters – protection against snow getting inside the shoe

Gaiters are a very useful accessory for your winter running gear. Especially when it’s snowing. You pull them over the upper of the shoe so the snow does not get inside. In addition, it warms the calf and foot. 

Don’t forget reflective elements 

In winter, it gets dark quickly. To be more visible, choose clothes that have reflective elements. If you don’t have such, buy separately a headband that will make you visible on the road. These are small items that can save your life. 

That’s it! Now you know what to wear when running in winter. Yes, I know there are a lot of the elements that are in the winter running gear, but after all, it’s cold, snowy, and windy weather. That’s why you need to wear more clothes and accessories that will allow you to run freely, and comfortably. What’s more, the elements will make sure you don’t get cold or overheat during your workout. Dress properly, and you’ll be able to manage to run even during winter, despite the different weather conditions. Although it may be difficult at first, don’t give up and build your fitness and muscles even during this cold time.