Temperatures may be dipping far below a number any of us like, but spring half marathon training is also kicking into gear. That means it’s time to embrace the season of cold-weather runs. You can definitely log every mile on the treadmill, but, trust me, that gets old quick. To make those frosty miles not only bearable but actually enjoyable (and safe!), the right cold-weather running gear is a must. Being dressed for the elements can make all the difference between a successful run and a miserable one.
If you’re new to running — or just adjusting to a new climate — figuring out what to wear can feel like a puzzle.
The golden rule of getting dressed for cold-weather running: dress as though it’s 10 degrees warmer than the actual temperature outside. Running heats you up fast, and what feels chilly at the start will soon feel comfortable once you’re in motion — I swear.
Still, knowing where to start or which pieces to invest in for maximum comfort and performance can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together a complete guide to cold-weather running essentials.
From must-have layers to our favorite gear recommendations — plus tips for dressing in a variety of winter climates — we’ve got you covered (literally).
Keep reading to learn how to gear up for winter runs and maybe even treat yourself to a few new additions for your cold-weather running wardrobe. After all, the right gear can turn a daunting winter run into a surprisingly awesome adventure.
What to Wear for Winter Running
Generally, one of the best materials for cold weather running gear (or any cold-weather layering) is merino wool. This makes fabric temperature regulating but breathable, so you will be warm without overheating. It is also moisture-wicking, odor resistant, and durable.
Winter also brings limited daylight hours, so consider a headlamp and other running safety gear.
Cold-Weather Running Gear Checklist
Whether it’s 40°F and sunny or -40°F and a blizzard, here’s a list of the winter running gear you’ll want to be prepared with:
- Winter running hat
- Running gloves
- Cold weather water-proof running jacket or running vest
- Socks
- Running shoes, preferably trail running shoes for wet, slippery conditions
- Running pants
- Running tights
- Long sleeve shirt
- Gaiter
- Sunglasses
What to Wear in 50°F Weather
For most runners, temperatures in the 50’s still feel pretty warm. Here’s what we recommend wearing:
- Shorts or light leggings
- Long sleeve, or short sleeve/tank top with a light quarter zip
- Thin running gloves, as the hands are one of the first things to get cold
- Potentially a hat, like a light cap to keep some heat in
- A light rain jacket or windbreaker if it’s raining
- A tall sock to keep your ankles warm — and the mud-splattering to a minimum
What to Wear in 40°F Weather
When it dips into the 40’s it’s going to start feeling a bit chilly. Now you will want to seriously consider opting for:
- Leggings or pants in lieu of shorts
- A warmer hat or headband
- Thick gloves
- A neck gaiter to help keep your heat in
- A long sleeve shirt
- A windproof jacket, since wind can be biting and make a run feel even colder
- Tall, warm socks
- Start to consider a weatherproof shoe, especially if you are going to be fighting some nasty precipitation
What to Wear Below 32°F
At 32° and below, you are officially running in the cold. This means you will want to prioritize your warmth and make sure that you don’t have exposed skin besides your face. Opt for:
- A warmer hat here — something knit or made with a tech fleece
- Insulated gloves
- A neck gaiter
- Thick, fleece-lined running tights or a jogger
- A long sleeve
- An insulated running jacket with a hood to pop up for extra warmth when you need it.
- Tall, thicker sock, ideally merino wool
- A waterproof shoe if you will be running through snow, slush, or mud
Our Favorite Winter Running Hats
Carhartt Beanie
It’s hard to go wrong with a classic beanie when it comes to running hats and headwear. This one is thick, plush, and comfortable on the head. It’s not tight, but the ribbed knit makes it stay snug enough that it won’t slide up and down as you run.
It also comes in a ton of different color options. And, because of the foldable design, you can adjust it to any head size.
Buy It: $20
Trailheads Trailblazer Ponytail Hat
If you have long hair, it can be difficult to find a running hat that won’t mangle your hair up inside or have it flopping out the back. This one has a hole for your ponytail to poke through. And, a versatile design of an ear warmer that can be flipped up or down for different temperatures.
Since it is a cap design, it also has a brim which works to keep the sun out of your face and protect your skin. Whether it’s winter or summer, you should use sunscreen for skin protection.
Buy It: $34
Winter Running Gloves
Janji Vortex Wind Block Gloves
The crème de la crème of running gloves, the Vortex Wind Block are super lightweight but seriously warm and protect you from both the cold, the wind, and the water. They are made with a glove liner covered by a stowable mitten shell depending on how bad the weather is. I also love that they have reflective details for short winter days, and are touch-screen compatible. The only downside: These gloves sell out very fast every release, so they’re hard to get your hands on.
Buy It: $42
Nike Fleece Gloves
For super cold days, you want a glove that can really trap the heat. The Nike Pacer Gloves uses proprietary material to keep heat in and the cold out. The knit cuff and adjustable strap also help to keep them snug on your hands so you don’t have to worry about them moving around or sliding off. And they’re touchscreen compatible.
Buy It: $25
Waterproof Running Jacket
lululemon Down for It All Jacket
If you are heading out in under freezing weather, you’re going want an insulated jacket. This one by lululemon is one of the best winter choices you can make. It has a water-resistant exterior fabric and is insulated with a combination of down and synthetic down fill.
The synthetic 700 down fill is placed on exterior parts of the jacket to prevent the down from clumping and taking on water while helping to keep you incredibly warm.
It also has a flattering tapered fit, and a hoodie for easy extra warmth in even the coldest weather.
Buy It: $228
Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket
If your main concern is precipitation not super cold temperatures, you may be better off opting for a waterproof outer layer rain jacket that wicks moisture from inside and out.
This one by Janji is lightweight and packable, and is made with 100% nylon ripstop making it both water and windproof. It also has excellent core ventilation to help keep you from overheating, and a fitted hood that won’t fall off in a strong headwind.
Buy It: $208
Socks
Bombas Merino Wool Blend Quarter Socks
While Bombas may not be the first sock brand that comes to mind for most runners, these have been my go-to favorite running socks for years.
The quarter length is just long enough to keep the ankles from getting cold without feeling too tight or causing overheating. It also has an arch lock which keeps it in place on your foot. Since it is made with a merino wool blend it is also naturally moisture-wicking and odor resistant.
Buy It: $22
Feetures Merino 10 Max Cushion Mini Crew
If you like a taller sock, this Feetures one is also a great option. It’s a bit on the thicker side and has a reinforced heel and toe for additional durability. It also has targeted arch compression which helps to support the arch, and an anatomical design that forms to the shape of the foot. It also has extra cushion and padding on the bottom of the foot which makes both extra comfy and warm.
Buy It: $20
Winterized Trail Running Shoes
Hoka Clifton 9 GTX
If you want a high-cushion model and also don’t need a ton of extra grip, the GTX version of the Clifton is an excellent choice to get you through the slogs of winter. It’s lightweight, and has a rocker which helps to smooth out your gait. Since it has Gore-Tex in the upper, it is also got a waterproof outsole and wind resistant so your feet will stay warm and dry.
Buy It: $160
Nike Pegasus Shield
The Pegasus Shield has long been my favorite winter running shoe. Not only is it water resistant and windproof, but it’s also insulated so it keeps your feet warm as well as dry. It runs very close to the feel of the regular Pegasus with a light, springy feeling — but it has the addition of extra grippy rubber treads that give you sure footing in slippery conditions. The Pegasus Shield has sadly been discontinued by Nike, but you can still find the men’s pair on Amazon (for now).
Buy It: $109
Winter Running Pants & Leggings
Baleaf Women’s Fleece Lined Leggings
This affordable basic is great for winter runs. These leggings are fleece-lined for extra warmth but still super stretchy so they will move effortlessly with the body. They have a rear zip pocket where you can store some small essentials, and the fabric is even water resistant.
They also have a thick waistband which prevents them from falling down while you run.
Buy It: $45
Janji Transit Tech Pant
These joggers are designed to take on the colder temps at a fast pace. Made from a thick, four-way-stretch fabric, they are super warm without being constricting. The Transit Tech material is breathable and moisture-wicking, but also wind-resistant and has a water-repellent finish. These pants also offer great storage with both a roomy back pocket and side pockets as well.
Buy It: $94
Long Sleeve Running Shirt
Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer
Super light, and soft to the touch, with extreme breathability – this Tracksmith top makes an excellent base layer and should be the core to your winter running clothes.
It is made with Smartwool merino wool, and has a seamless design which means that it helps prevent blistering, overheating, and chaffing.
It also has built-in ventilation which keeps you cool and dry, and a flattering fit which can be worn as a base layer or on it’s own. It’s the kind of shirt you can wear year-round.
Buy It: $100
Brooks High Point Long Sleeve
Another excellent long sleeve, this top by Brooks is made for hitting the trails. It is also made from merino so it will keep your temperature regulated and your body dry. This long sleeve t-shirt has a particularly high cut which protects against irritation when wearing a top layer or vest, and thumb holes give it some hand coverage for when it’s not quite cool enough for gloves. A great midlayer for all colder weather seasons.
Buy It: $66
Neck Gaiter
BUFF Merino Wool Neck Gaiter
A Buff is one of the most versatile pieces you can own as a runner. It can be used as a gaiter, hat, headband, facemask, you name it. This one is made with merino wool, so it’s great for winter, and will help wick away moisture if you get toasty. We love the merino wool as well because it reduce any chafing — especially important for a neck warmer that covers your face.
Buy It: $24
Stoic Polar Fleece Neck Gaiter
When it’s super cold out, you may want to opt for something a bit heavier. This polar fleece gaiter can be cinched up to cover the face or just stay tight around the neck. It is also wind resistant so it gives you a bit more protection than the thinner, lighter buff.
Buy It: $17
Sunglasses
Tifosi Tyrant 2.0
Lighting can change quickly in the winter, but these sunglasses can keep up. Made with Fototec lenses, they are designed to adjust to changing light conditions. They also have built-in ventilation so they won’t fog up, and the rubber nose grips keep them comfortable and slip-free.
Buy It: $80
Goodr Mach G
It’s hard to go wrong with a pair of Goodr’s. This aviator style is one of my favorites especially when running in the snow because they are polarized, lightweight, and the large lenses keep light from seeping in the sides. They also come in a ton of fun colors with even funkier names — and at only $35, they are a steal.
Buy It: $35
FAQs About Cold Weather Running
This will really come down to the individual, but it’s scientifically too cold to run if it is under 5°F. Below this, you are putting yourself at risk of injury.
For extreme cold you will want to have multiple layers, a thick hat and gloves, and probably an insulated jacket — down is best. You may also want to carry hand warmers with you as the hands are one of the first things to lose heat while running.
