If you plan on running in the winter, the only way for it to not be horrible is if you dress appropriately. As they say, there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing!
I’ve been running my entire life and have trained for 2 marathons in the middle of Minnesota winter (one that was held in Arizona in January so just a couple months of cold but also the Boston Marathon in April which I trained for during a polar vortex year).
I’ve learned more than my fair share when it comes to winter running and I’m excited to share all my tips with you!
Winter Running Essentials
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1. Fleece Leggings
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One of the best swaps you can make in winter is going from your regular leggings to fleece leggings. That little bit of extra warmth can make a huge difference! Your legs will stay warmer which allow you to stay out longer than you otherwise would.
Another thing I do when the temperatures REALLY drop is to do a pair of regular leggings with a pair of fleece joggers over the top. The joggers are fitted enough to not be annoying but give you that extra layer of protection that really helps.
2. Wicking Long Sleeve
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There are so many different long sleeves to buy and the most important thing to look for is one that is wicking! Everyone has preferences of fitted or loose so I’ll share a few options of ones I love.
I personally prefer a more fitted top in the winter since I’m usually layering multiple layers over the top. It keeps things in place and doesn’t get all bunched up.
3. Running Jacket
I have quite a few running jackets and honestly many of them are so old that they aren’t sold anymore! Really good jackets will be an investment but trust me, they last a long time as long as you take care of them.
I have a few different styles of jacket as well. The red one is one from Amazon that’s on the much more affordable side. It’s not incredibly warm but when paired with a good base layer it will be good for down to 20 degrees or so.
Another good one is the yellow brooks one (similar one here). I love the color so I can be seen and it’s amazing at wind resistance!
4. Running Hat
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I prefer a proper running hat that wicks the sweat away but you could probably be fine with any hat that isn’t lined. I found this hat on Amazon and it’s both super affordable and great for winter! I’ve worn it in 0 degree weather and was both warm and dry (it didn’t hold on to my sweat!).
5. Buff
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This a multi purpose item that I’ve used ever since I really got into winter running. You can use it for ear protection (fold it up to create a smaller section to cover your ears) which is great if you tend to run hot.
On those really bitter cold days (I use this when it’s usually 10 degrees or colder) or when it’s super windy, add this over your face! It’s still very easy to breathe through and keeps your nose and cheeks perfect warm.
When you use it, be sure to pull it up over the top of your hat. This will help it to stay where its supposed to. Another thing to do is to rotate it around while you’re running to see
6. Running Gloves
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Gloves vs mittens are a hot topic and can vary largely by who you are talking to. When the weather is above 20 degrees, I stick with running gloves. My hands can get sweaty and cold so gloves help prevent that a bit. I typically always use a proper running glove like these Smartwool ones that help wick away sweat.
7. Mittens
Shop Mittens (these are similar to mine that aren’t sold anymore) | Shop Gloves
Anytime the temps drop more than 20 degrees, I add a pair of mittens over the top of my gloves. Sometimes it’s too much but more often than not my hands stay nice and warm with the double layer for both warmth and wind protection.
8. Wool Socks
Shop Darn Tough | Shop Smartwool (Shop both at Schuler Shoes)
Is there anything worse than cold toes? Cold toes while running! I wear wool socks all winter long even when I’m not running but they’re a MUST when I’m running. I love the taller crew socks to ensure my ankles stay covered and warm.
I like both Smartwool socks and Darn Tough socks. The one added bonus for Darn Tough is they have a lifetime guarantee! If you get a hole you can get a replacement, no questions asked (both me and my sister have utilized this!).
8. Running Vest
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Lower on the list because for true winter running you probably will need more than just a vest, but as the weather starts to warm up a bit, they’re very helpful! A vest is great at keeping your core cozy warm without overheating you. This one is a bit of a splurge but the quality is worth it. I wear it every fall and spring to stay warm without overheating.
9. SPI Belt
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I don’t always run with my phone during the summer months when I’m going out and about in my neighborhood but I ALWAYS run with my phone during the winter. You never know when a patch of ice will send you flying and nobody wants to be stuck injured on the side of the road with no way to contact help.
You can always tuck your phone into your jacket pocket but I found using a SPI belt is helpful to prevent the bouncing that’s happens with that. I have 2 SPI belts (a skinny belt version and the new wide belt version). They’re 100% worth it for the ease of carrying your phone!
10. Good Running Shoes
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Obviously the number one thing you need when running is good running shoes! I typically rotate between a few different styles so my feet don’t get too used to one style of shoe. I’ve found that doing that helps me to get injured less often!
I have 3 pairs – Hoka Clifton, New Balance 860 and Brookes Glycerin GTS. I’ve worn the Hokas and New Balance for years and just added the Brooks into the mix this year. I don’t usually use any sort of ice protection – to be frank, if it’s so icy that I’ll need some sort of crampon I just stick to the treadmill.
Other Running Gear
If you love running and run year round, be sure to check out my running essentials post for even more fun products! Things like my go to watch, my hydration belt and the racing shoes I wear – there’s even more fun over there.
And there you have it! Some of my all time favorite winter running gear perfect for anyone wanting to get some outdoor miles in during winter. I hope it was helpful!