We’ve rounded up our team’s favorite winter running gear to help you keep warm, comfortable, and motivated all season long. The right gear will make cold weather running far more enjoyable and keep you on track.
The key to surviving winter runs is layering. And yes, some of us definitely overdress and regret that choice about five minutes into the run. Living in Colorado, this happens to me all the time, it might be in the 20s but once the sun comes out, things warm up fast.
If you’re standing in front of your mirror wondering what to grab from your closet, we already have a full guide on what to wear running at every temperature to help take the guesswork out.
Here, we’re breaking things down and sharing some of the best winter running gear.
Best Winter Running Gear
Here are the must-have pieces of gear to keep warm while running through the winter. We’re going to list both a budget and a splurge item in each category because our team has put a lot of gear through it’s paces and we don’t always think you need the top end item.
Often the difference will be more around fit than performance.
👉Base Layer
Budget Friendly – Rabbit EZ Tee Long-Sleeve T-Shirt ($55)
The Rabbit EZ Tee long-sleeve shirt is made from classic moisture-wicking fabric that’s a combination of polyester and spandex. I have tried some other models like the Outrun, which is thicker for cooler runs, so it was fun to slip this on recently and find it super thin and lightweight.
Rabbit has super loyal fans, so if you’ve never tried their gear, I definitely recommend it.
The updated design is more for a flowy fit and not as form-fitting as previous styles.
This shirt is also incredibly soft. Not going for a run today? It’s great to wear to lounge or run errands too!
Details
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colors/Patterns: 8
- Available from REI.com for $55
Quick Take
- Sweat-wicking material and is quick drying
- Super soft material that keeps you warm
- Runs big so make sure to size down
- Some say that the new fit is too flowy and not as form-fitting
It’s a Splurge- Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer ($100)
The Brighton Base Layer long sleeve running shirt is one of our favorite base layers.
It can be worn on its own or serves as a great base layer under a jacket or vest. It boasts a comfortable fit that’s not too loose but not too tight. If you’re a sweater, it is going to show the wet marks but the material does dry rather quickly.
It’s made from an engineered Merino mesh for a seamless and lightweight fit. The core of the shirt is a mesh that’s more open, while the sleeves are made with a closed knit to keep your arms warm.
Tracksmith tends to run small in terms of fit, so if you don’t want something that form-fitted, go up a size for a more comfortable fit.
Details
- Sizes: XS-L
- Colors: 7
- Care: Machine wash, line dry
- Available from Tracksmith.com for $100
Quick Take
- Lightweight but still warm
- Odor resistant
- Dries super quickly
- Sizing can be super iffy
👉Tights
Budget Friendly- Crash 2.0 PolarTec Tights from Title Nine ($99)
WINNING for so warm and an easy to use phone pocket! As a runner who really hates to be cold, these are my go to when winter is throwing down.
This isn’t a chilly morning pair, but really that legging you want when the temps have really started to drop. They are my go to for getting through really cold runs. I love that the side zippered pocket is big enough for a phone, but not quite as easy to get things in and out as spandex pockets thanks to the zipper.
The bonus of the zipper is you can use these for a ton of winter activities.
And of course I’m a super fan of the fact that Title Nine is all about women’s gear alone!! And has them in both petite and long.
Details
- Sizes: XS to XL
- Material: Polartec® Power Stretch (89% recycled poly/11% spandex)
- Colors/Patterns: 5
- Available from Titelnine.com for $79
- They also come in a barrel pant now if you’re looking for a looser fit
- Bonus code RUNTOTHEFINISH is good for free shipping
Quick Take
- PolarTec fleece is the warmest, but light and super fast drying so you won’t feel overheated
- Available in regular, petite and long
- The pocket, ehhh not sure you’re getting a phone in there
- Truly only for your coldest days
It’s a Splurge- Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Thermal Tight 28″ ($148)
These Lululemon fleece running tights are designed for warmth and will keep you warm during all your runs during the winter months. Winning because they’ve added a phone pocket to the newest version!
They’re high-rise, which let’s be honest isn’t always my favorite. BUTTT so many of you love it because they stay put during those long runs, sprints, or even when you’re stretching post-run. No tugging and adjusting needed.
I’ve been testing these and they aren’t a thick fleece, so they definitely make for a good cold weather tight when it’s not that sub 30 with wind kind of day, but just a cold winter morning.
Details
- Sizes: 0-14
- Material: 87% Recycled Polyester, 13% Lycra Elastane
- Colors/Patterns: 3
- Available from Shop.lululemon.com for $148
Quick Take
- Water-repellant fabric for running through snowy conditions (great wind blocker)
- Drys quickly and helps wick moisture away
- Hi-Rise tight waistband helps keep them up while running
- Side pocket is a little tight for a phone, but possible
- After a few wears they tend to get a little loose and you may have to readjust the drawtstring
- If you’re wearing the brighter colors, you will see the sweat marks
- May start to show the wear in certain areas if you grab these often
👉Jackets
Kinda Budget Friendly- Athleta Flurry Force Insulated PrimaLoft® Jacket II ($159)
One of the things that we often find troubling with winter runs is that we start cold, begin sweating then are in a strange hot cold scenario.
This jacket felt so extremely light, but with the Primaloft through the front chest it’s designed to keep your core warm and when that happens your body will continue to work on warming your fingers and toes!!!
Love that it’s also going to break the wind there, which helps with warmth.
Since your core is warm, this has light sleeves and the back is actually lightly aerated. All of these means a good fit that keeps you warm, but not over heated.
There are two side pockets which you could shove a phone it, but I rarely like a phone in my running jacket. No matter how snug I feel like it bounces.
Coach Amanda wore a Medium in this and felt good that I could layer under and it was not too tight.
Details
- Color: 2
- Size: XXS-XL
- Care: machine wash and dry
- Available from Athleta.com for $159
Quick Take
- Definitely a jacket you could wear with packs and not worry about rips.
- Zipper pockets so you won’t lose anything
- Thumbholes for extra warmth especially if you forget gloves
- Some have reported the zipper getting stuck
- Sizing tends to run big
It’s a Splurge- Lululemon Down For It All ($228)
This is a super warm jacket, so it may be too much for some of you, but again, add wind and dark, and it’s great for a short, easy run.
Plus, even if you wind up sweaty during your run, the jacket is designed to be odor-resistant, which we love! It’ll help you get a few wears out of it before needing to throw it in the washing machine.
It’s also not super form-fitting, so that you can wear layers underneath for those super artic-feeling days.
For days where you don’t quite need a sleeping bag, this is your go to cold weather jacket. It’s designed to move with you, has a great collar to actually keep your neck warm and a good phone pocket!
Probably one of the most loved winter running jackets we hear about from runners all the time.
Details
- Colors: 4
- Size: 0-14
- Water-Resistant, Glyde™ Fabric
- Available from Lululemon.com for $228
Quick Take
- PrimaLoft® insulation in the hood, shoulders, and sleeves stays warm even when wet
- Water-resistant and windproof
- Slimfit but not too much so that you can still layer
- It’s made with goose down fil,l which some may be allergic to
- Not enough colors
- Some have said it’s better for everyday wear vs. running
👉Vests
Budget Friendly – Craft Subz Vest ($110)
We haven’t personally tested this specific vest, but we’re big fans of anything Craft, especially winter gear.
The Subz vest is perfect for those who tend to overheat while running. And the bonus feature here is that you can slightly unzip the sides if you need to let a little extra cool air hit your core.
There’s even a back pocket so that you can store your phone, keys, and nutrition for longer runs. 
Details
- Color: 3
- Size: S-XL
- Care: Machine wash delicate, tumble dry
- Available from Craftsports.us for $110
Quick Take
- Design allows for movement and doesn’t feel restrictive
- Back pocket to carry your extra stuff
- Not super bulky but still super warm
- The fit is a little boxy
- Arm holes tend to run smaller
It’s a Splurge- Oiselle Firecracker Vest ($168)
If a jacket is just too much for you this is our pick for the best winter running vest.
Running in a vest means that your organs are warm and protected, which then allows the body to send more blood flow to your arms, feet, hands, etc.
So if you’re tired of overheating but don’t want to be cold, a vest could be the answer! This one has a lot of pockets PLUS reflective designs on the back to keep you safe.
While it’s not the most compactable outlayer, it’s definintely going to keep your core warm on those colder winter days.
If you’re someone who tends to overheat, we highly suggest giving a vest a try. Plus, we love the fact that you can pack the hood away in a zippered pocket so that it’s not flopping around when you’re not wearing it.
Details
- Color: 3
- Size: XS-XL
- Care: Machine wash delicate, tumble dry
- Available from Oiselle.com for $168
Quick Take
- Full zip with an internal waist bungee and thumb holes
- Highly durable and is going to withstand a lot of wear
- Lightweight and super warm
- Reflective design to keep you safe running in the dark
- Stuffing shows through the stitching and doesn’t look great
👉Socks
Budget Friendly- Anlisim Merino Wool Socks ($17)
We’ve said it before, but we love running in wool any time of the year. But particularly in the winter, especially when it’s snowy outside.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can get this 5-pack of high-quality merino wool socks from Amazon. They’ll keep your feet warm and dry for many miles.
Plus, there’s added cushioning to give a little extra comfort and not feel itchy or too tight like some other wool socks.
Details
- Material: 70% Wool, 23% Polyester, 5% Spandex, 2% Nylon
- Color: 8
- Size: M-L
- Available from Amazon.com starting at $17 for a 5 pack
Quick Take
- Odor control
- Wicks away moisture
- Extra cushioning for comfort and support
- Made from a thicker material so not ideal for hot days
- Only taller socks available, no low rise
It’s a Splurge – Smartwool Running Socks ($22)
Winter means my toes often feel like popsicles, and that isn’t terribly pleasant when you’re pounding the ground.
But super thick socks can mean sweaty feet, which also become cold…what’s a poor determined runner to do?!
The answer lies in merino wool! Merino wool is a fiber you can wear year-round thanks to its ability to regulate temperature, move moisture, and resist odors.
This makes it perfect for winter, as it keeps your feet warm while still being moisture-wicking. These socks feature a performance-oriented fit and a mesh ventilation design.
They also call their wool technology ‘Indestructawool,’ which features a construction method that’s known for its incredible durability. So, if you’re looking for running socks that’ll last, these are the ones for you!
The one thing to remember when looking at winter socks is that as they get thicker, you need to consider replacing your shoes to ensure they don’t become too tight and cause blisters.
What’s great about Smartwool is you can get a variety of designs and also heights. They are a MASSIVE hit among trail runners and winter runners.
Details
- Height: crew
- Material: 49% Merino Wool 47% Nylon 4% Elastane
- Color: 3
- Size: S-L
- Price: from Smartwool.com starting at $22
Quick Take
- Available in a wide variety of heights
- Great for summer running (wool is a winner year round)
- Made to last for a long time
- Thicker material can make your shoes feel smaller
👉Serious Warmth Gloves
Budget Friendly- Nike Women’s Dri-Fit Tempo ($30)
These have been my stage one, ok it’s starting to get chilly, gloves for a super long time. I have a couple of pairs because they’ve lasted forever and well one would go missing…I’d get another pair and find them both.
This lightweight spandex glove is great because it’s just what I need for the first 2-3 miles of a lot of fall/winter runs when I’m adjusting to the temperature changes.
I know they wick away the sweat well and fold up super tight, so I can shove them in my pack or a pocket if I decide I don’t want to wear them any longer
The Dri-Fit fabric definitely helps you stay dry and comfortable, and the mesh accents make them breathable and lightweight.
The design features articulated fingers and palms that fit really great and the silicone grips are definitely a plus on top of it all!
Details
- Sizes: S to L
- Colors/Patterns: 1
- Available from Amazon.com for $30
Quick Take
- well-made and durable
- lightweight and compact
- silicone grips
- some customers say they run small
It’s a Splurge- Ibex Merino Wool ($50)
These are such great year-round gloves. Merino wool is that perfect lightweight for those chilly spring and fall mornings. It’s going to easily wick away sweat, providing just the right level of warmth.
These gloves feature a conductive material on the index finger and thumb that definitely works.
We give these two thumbs up when it comes to being able to use a touchscreen. 
The sizing of these gloves are unisex so you may need to size down for a more comfortable fit.
These are so easy to throw in your bag or pockets if your hands start to get too warm. They’re also great for layering for when it’s super cold out and you need a little extra warmth.
Details
- Unisex Size: XS-XL
- Material:94% Merino Wool, 6% Lycra Elastane
- Colors: only black
- Care: Says handwash, but I’ve dumped them in the washer on cold
- Available from Amazon.com for $50
Quick Take
- Not itchy or rough materials for it being wool
- Fit true to sizing
- Works well with touchscreens
- Super thin, so not warm on really cold winter days, great as a layering glove
- Takes time to dry if you get them wet
👉Mittens
Budget Friendly- Trailheads Touchscreen Quilted Mittens ($38)
Full-on mittens are going to be the warmest option and the extended cuff prevents air from coming down through the wrists.
I can’t vouch for the touchscreen because I feel like that rarely works, but so many of you with super cold fingers told me that mittens like these were your winter running go-to.
I’m a fan of this particular brand because they do a lot of testing and are a budget-friendly mitt. The downside for me with mittens is the lack of dexterity.
BONUS: Stuff hot hands in your gloves on super cold days.
It’s a trick many friends with Raynaud’s Syndrome use and one that got me through a VERY LONG morning of filming running scenes.
Details
- Warmth Level: 9
- Sizes: S to L
- Material: Polyester, Spandex
- Colors/Patterns: 1
- Available from Amazon.com for $38
Quick Take
- the warmest gloves on the list
- extended cuff to keep your wrists warm, too
- 200g Polartec Power Fill insulation is warm without being too bulky
- mittens lack dexterity
It’s a Splurge- Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Mitten ($50)
This is another great pair from Smartwool and they’re specifically designed to keep your hands warm when it’s windy.
These are the perfect pair to grab on those cold, wintery days. You can either wear them as gloves or add the mitten layer for extra warmth.
When you’re not wearing the mitten layer, just tuck it in the little pocket without it feeling extra bulky or annoying.
Details
- Warmth Level: 8
- Sizes: XS to XL
- Material: Main Body: 47% Recycled Polyester, 38% Merino Wool, 15% Elastane
- Colors/Patterns: 3
- Available from Smartwool.com for $50
Quick Take
- does great in super cold temps and snow
- touchscreen works on two fingers
- ability to add the mitten for extra warmth
- can get too hot
👉Headgear
Budget Friendly- Trailheads Trailblazer Ponytail Hat ($28)
If you like to wear a ponytail or braid when running, this Trailheads Ponytail hat is a great choice. This is essentially a fleece baseball cap so it has a slot for your ponytail to fit out the back. Not wearing a pony tail? The opening closes fully to keep out the cold.
What’s great about this hat for winter running, is that it has a drop-down ear warmer. If you warm up enough, just tuck this fleece back up out of the way. I know it’s a little goofy, but if you’re running on those SERIOUSLY cold days this is hat is so comfy!
The hat comes in several colors, has reflective stitching around the ponytail opening and along the brim for increased visibility on low light days.
If you’re looking for something similar but made out of a different fabric, they have a version using Merino wool. While it’s one size fits most, they do offer a men’s version, which is slightly larger.
Details
- Fabric: Polyester/Spandex fleece blend
- Weight: Midweight
- Care: Machine wash, line dry
- Available from Amazon.com for $28
Quick Take
- Reflective details
- Ponytail opening in the back
- Side panels stay put to keep your ears warm
- Truly, truly warm and only for coldest days
- Mixed reviews on the sizing
- Ear covering may not come full down depending on the size of your head and amount of hair
It’s a Splurge- On Core Beanie ($40)
Why don’t more brands make options with a ponytail slot?! It’s my favorite feature ever.
You’ll see me in this A LOT. I’ve had options like this from a few different brands over the years, but they keep getting rid of the pony tail option! This one is thinner, so you can wear it for a variety of temps and know that it’s going to release some heat.
You can see it doesn’t quite cover my ears, but I also don’t have it pulled down as snug as possible because I didn’t need to on this run.
This hat is super stretchy but maintains its shape well thanks to the polyester/spandex jersey blend fabric that helps wick sweat, keeps you dry, and offers great breathability.
Details
- Fabric: Polyester/Spandex jersey blend
- Weight: Light weight
- Available in 4 colors
- Available from On.com for $40
Quick Take
- Lightweight material that keeps you warm
- Love these neutral color options
- Great quality that is going to last through a lot of wears
- Price compared to other options
- One size, not ideal for larger heads
Hat Alternative- Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Headband ($30)
Feel like you get too hot with all the heat trapped on your head?? That’s not abnormal, so another option is the ear warmer, ear band, whatever you’d like to call it.
Coach Stacey swears by this headband for those chilly Colorado runs. It’s lightweight, stays perfectly in place, and wicks away sweat to keep you comfortable. The cozy fleece lining provides just the right amount of warmth for windy winter days without making you overheat.
Bonus points for the headband not getting super wet if you sweat a lot! Some other headbands do not absorb sweat very well, making you feel even colder post-run.
Details
- Fabric: Main Body: 47% Polyester, 38% Merino Wool, 15% Elastane. Overlay: 85% Nylon, 15% Elastane
- Weight: Lightweight
- Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
- Available from Smartwool.com for $30
Quick Take
- Super comfortable and soft material
- Will keep your ears warm, especially in colder temps
- Stays in place even as you pick up the pace
- Some have reported it to be too wide and not a flattering fit
- Too many tags that can be irritating
👉Shoes
You want to look for shoes that have GTX tagged onto the end of their name. That’s your sign, it’s going to be waterproof and ideal for snowy/icy runs. It means that the upper is made with materials like Gore-Tex technology, which is a big win for keeping your feet dry.
It’s a Splurge – Hoka Challenger ATR GTX ($155)
The HOKA Challenger ATR is a popular all-terrain running shoe that is designed for both road and trail running. It has a well-cushioned midsole that provides a comfortable and stable ride, and a Vibram outsole that delivers excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
I have put in enough miles running on the roads to local trails that they must now be retired….sniff! But a great sign of a good shoe!
If you’re going to get these specifically for winter running, make sure you’re opting for the GTX version. This will ensure that your feet stay dry and you have the support you need underfoot to remain upright in icy and snowy conditions!
One of the reasons I liked this shoe so much was that it does have slightly bigger lugs than the others listed here and yet not so much that it feels odd on the roads. I also hate to feel like I am wearing down my trail shoes by running on the asphalt, so knowing these are built for both allowed me to feel good about their lifespan.
The breathable upper helps keep your feet cool and dry, and the outsole provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces. I also like the extended heel, less issues with my foot slipping out.
Details
- Weight: 8.7 oz Women’s, 9.7 oz Men’s
- Heel drop: 8mm
- 5 colors available
- Available in wide for some colorways
- Check it out on Hoka.com for $155 (including low and waterproof GTX)
- Our full review of the Hoka Challenger 8
Budget Friendly – Saucony Peregrine GTX ($140)
The Saucony Peregrine is a popular and versatile trail running shoe that has gained a strong reputation among trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts. Designed to handle a variety of terrains and conditions, the Peregrine combines responsiveness, durability, and traction to provide a reliable and enjoyable off-road running experience.
I always feel really confident in the traction of this shoe and I like the light guard just above the cushion to keep my toes from being wet in the ice or snow.
We appreciate that it’s not one of the overbuilt trail shoes and the traction is fabulous. They have also taken some weight out of the updated models!
BONUS this is a lower stack height than so many of the current shoe trends and many prefer that on the trails to feel more stable.
Details
- Weight: 9.7 oz Men’s, 8.7 oz Women’s
- Heel drop: 4 mm
- Available in wide
- Available in 15 colors (that’s insane)
- Available at Saucony.com for $140
- Read our full Saucony Peregrine 15 review >>
Check out our list of the best trail running shoes to see some other options. Often, trail shoes will come in GTX versions, which will keep your feet dry during those snowy runs!
👉Accessories
These are just a few things we think are essential to add to your gear closet, especially if the temps drop super low where you live and run! They both fall under budget-friendly options as well, which makes it easier to add to the cart.
Hydration Pack Tube Insulation ($10)
The worst thing we realized during my winter runs was finding the ability to get water thwarted by a frozen tube!
This can help, also try to blow air into the tube after you drink to clear out the nozzle.
It may seem like something you don’t need to purchase, but after that first run with a frozen tube you’ll immediately be hitting add to cart.
Details
- Colors: many colors and patterns to pick from
- Fits tube up to 1/2″ diameter
- Available from Amazon.com starting at $10
Quick Take
- Easy to cover your current bladder tube
- Flexible and durable to last for many runs
- Many colors to pick from
- Some have said they’re hard to slide on different bladder tubes
- Can get pretty dirty easily if not taken care of
Ice Cleats ($9)
If you want to be able to wear your regular running shoes, you can easily add ice cleats.
It may take a little bit to get used to the small cleats sticking out of the bottom of your shoes, but trust us, it’s 100% worth it when you reach icy patches during your run.
Details
- Sizes: Small- XL
- Colors: 2
- TPE material that good up to -45C
- Available from Amazon.com starting at $9
Quick Take
- Easily stretches over your running shoes
- Good traction on snow and ice
- Multiple sizes available
- Sizing tends to run small
- Rubber isn’t super durable when wearing them constantly and stretching
There you have it, our team’s favorite winter running gear. We hope that you found something to add to your gear closet to keep you warm this season!
What to read next?
- 12 Women’s Winter Running Tights to Survive the Cold
- 8 Best Road to Trail Running Shoes for Runners Who Go Everywhere
- Best Wool Running Gear for All Seasons
The post Best Winter Running Gear: We Tested 100+ Items in All the Weather appeared first on RunToTheFinish.
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