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In 2023, 50 million Americans ran or jogged—that’s about 15 percent of the U.S. population. Running in warmer months may be more comfortable, but there’s nothing like lacing up your shoes when the air is crisp and fewer people are outside, especially when you’re exploring a new place.
Yet, naturally, winter running has its challenges. “When it’s cold, motivating yourself to go out can be harder than when it is sunny and warm,” says Channing Muller, a Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) certified running coach in Chicago, Illinois. “Plus figuring out the right number of layers and materials for your running clothes may require some trial and error, as it can vary based on climate, your body’s needs, and how much you sweat.”
To help, we spoke to coaches, marathoners, and everyday runners for their advice on the right running clothes and accessories for tackling cold weather. At the top of the list, moisture-wicking layers to manage sweat and insulated clothing for warmth, plus weather-resistant shoes with good traction. Also important: Reflective features for visibility in low light.
Based on their expert insights, we’ve put together a complete guide for the best winter running gear. Here’s what you need.
The best running gear for winter
“Running in winter often requires extra preparation to tackle weather-related challenges like cold temperatures, snow, sleet, ice, rain, and darker trails,” says Becca Downs, a Colorado-based runner who competed in cross country and track at Indiana University and has completed several marathons, including the Huff 50K—a challenging winter race in Indiana. “The key is to consider clothing that will help and not hinder your runs.”
Moisture-wicking, insulation, and reflective features are important for clothing, while traction and water-resistance are top qualities for running shoes. Here are all the details about our top picks for keeping you on track in the winter.
Best winter road running shoes: Altra Escalante 4 (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: Born from a collaboration with Smartwool, the Escalante 4 has a merino wool upper that adds warmth. Like all Altra shoes, the Escalante 4 have a zero-drop design that keeps your foot flat to the ground for a more balanced stride. This can also help with foot alignment, especially on road runs. The midsole is cushy and absorbs light-to-medium impact from the trail. We like the stretchy, sock-like upper and roomy toe box that lets your toes move freely.
Keep in mind: The zero-drop design is best suited for city or urban running, where running paths are relatively flat and generally well maintained.
Product details: Materials: Merino wool upper, rubber outsole | Type: Road running | Weight: 7.5 oz. | Heel drop: 0mm | Sizes: 5.5-12 (women); 7-15 (men)
Best winter trail running shoes: The North Face Offtrail TR Gore-Tex (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: These North Face trail runners are made to resist abrasions and water. They’re also comfortable with 24 millimeters of padding at the heel and 18 millimeters at the forefront. Hefty 5-millimeter lugs help grab onto trails for a steady run.
Keep in mind: Because this is a technical shoe ideal for rugged trails, it’s heavier than a road running shoe.
Product details: Materials: Ripstop fabric with waterproof materials, rubber outsole | Type: Trail running | Weight: 11.2 oz. (women’s) | Sizes: 5-11 (women); 7-14 (men)
(Here are the best running shoes for men and women.)
Best winter running jacket: Kuhl The One Shell (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: Waterproof and windproof, this lightweight jacket can be worn as an additional layer for winter runs. The company’s “Airskape” fabric is designed to prevent overheating. It has an adjustable hood, cuffs, and plenty of pockets. The underarm vents and hem adjustment allow for a custom fit and the reflective accents are useful when running under cloudy skies.
Keep in mind: This jacket folds down, but it doesn’t come with a case or fold into itself for carrying convenience.
Product details: Materials: Nylon and knit | Sizes: XS-XL (women); S-XXL (men)
(The best trail running shoes, according to pros.)
Best winter running tights: Smartwool Active Fleece Wind Tight (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: These running tights are ideal for winter. They’re made with breathable merino wool, which naturally regulates body temperature, wicks away sweat, and keeps odor at bay. A touch of polyester adds stretch for easy movement. We love the two pockets—one with a zipper and one without—that are deep enough to fit most standard-size mobile devices. The reflective strips on the pant legs and pocket seams are nice details for increased visibility in low light conditions.
Keep in mind: These tights have a slim fit, so you may have to size up if you are in-between standard sizes.
Product details: Materials: Polyester, merino wool | Sizes: XS-XL, 28 in. inseam (women); S-XXL, 29 in. inseam (men)
Best winter running fleece: Smartwool Intraknit Merino Tech Half Zip (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: This fleece top is made with a blend of merino wool and synthetic fibers, plus Durable Water Repellent (DWR) for protection from the elements. The slim body-hugging fit further traps and helps retain heat for comfortable runs. We also appreciate that both pockets are zippered for stashing small essentials, like keys.
Keep in mind: The half zip construction may make it difficult to take this top off mid-run without breaking your stride.
Product details: Materials: Merino wool and synthetic fibers | Sizes: XS-XL (women); S-XXL (men)
(Merino wool base layers to keep you warm anywhere.)
Best winter running top: X-Bionic Long Sleeves Running Shirt (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: X-Bionic’s proprietary fabric is designed to regulate body temperature. No matter how cold or warm it is outside, the company says this shirt helps your body maintain a comfortable 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The structured silhouette and knit fabric help channel airflow to key spots, such as the underarms, back, and neck, to prevent overheating. At the same time, the material helps wick away moisture and reduce friction, according to the company.
Keep in mind: The shirt has built-in compression, so you may need to size up if you prefer a loose fit.
Product details: XS-XL (women); S-XL (men) | Materials: Polyamide and polypropylene | Weight: 1.7 oz.
Best winter running pants: Arc’teryx Norvan Insulated Pant (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: The Arc’teryx Norvan Insulated Pant is made with a multilayered system for overall warmth. The top part is insulated and made to resist wind, while the lower part is made of nylon knit for ventilation. It also has a water-resistant finish that helps protect against rain or snow. The narrow-tapered fit allows for a full range of motion, especially if you’re running on uneven terrain or steep hills. The adjustable drawstring waist helps ensure a snug fit.
Keep in mind: Because of the tapered fit, you may have to size up if you are tall or don’t like narrow fitted pants.
Product details: Sizes: 00-16 (women); XS-2XL (men) | Materials: Nylon and synthetic insulating fabric | Weight: 6.5 oz.
Best winter running gloves: Oiselle Lux Watch Window Gloves
Why we like it: The Oiselle Lux Watch Window Gloves are made from a soft, moisture-wicking fabric that keeps your hands warm and dry while running. The best part of these gloves is the watch window. The cutout for your watch or fitness tracker lets you check activity levels without having to take your gloves off mid-run. They have a snug fit and go all the way to the wrist for full hand coverage.
Keep in mind: The watch window accommodates larger watch faces. Smaller fitness trackers, such as Fitbits, may not show through as easily.
Product details: Sizes: S/M and L/XL | Materials: Polyester and spandex | Weight: Not provided
(12 of the coziest winter gloves for travel near and far.)
Best winter running socks: Injinji Spectrum Trail Midweight Crew
Why we like it: The Injinji Spectrum Trail Midweight Crew socks keeps toes separate, reducing friction and helping to prevent blisters. They’re also great for allowing toes to splay naturally for better balance—especially ideal for running on uneven terrain. They are made with moisture-wicking material to keep feet dry and have medium cushioning that doesn’t feel too bulky or heavy underfoot.
Keep in mind: While these socks come in vibrant color patterns for standing out during the day, they lack reflective elements for nighttime or low-light running.
Product details: Sizes: S-L | Materials: Nylon, Lycra, cooling fabrics
Best winter running hat: Arc’teryx Rho Balaclava
Why we like it: Just like in the summer, runners need some kind of head protection in the winter. A balaclava is great for winter running because it provides full coverage from the cold and wind. This one is made from soft, breathable, and stretchy fabric that fits comfortably under a baseball cap or jacket hood without feeling restrictive. The moisture-wicking properties help block sweat, so you don’t feel cold.
Keep in mind: This balaclava does not have a ponytail opening.
Product details: Sizes: S/M, L/XL | Materials: Synthetic fibers
Best winter running vest: Arc’teryx Norvan 7 Vest (women’s) (men’s)
Why we like it: Running vests are great alternatives to pockets for carrying keys and other essentials. “I prefer a vest to a jacket most days because it keeps my core warm without causing major overheating once you do work up a sweat,” adds Melissa Archer, an avid all-season runner from Vermont.
The Norvan 7 has a seven-liter capacity—plenty of space for water, snacks, even a light jacket or fleece during unpredictable weather. It comes with two 500-milliliter hydration bladders that nest in the front pockets, ideal for longer runs. Additional open pockets in the front and the back can be used to hold an extra layer. The reflective logo adds visibility in low light conditions.
Keep in mind: This vest closes around the upper body via adjustable straps instead of a zipper.
Product details: Sizes: S-L | Weight: 7.2 oz.
(These are Hoka’s best running shoes.)
Tips for running outdoors in winter
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, our experts have a few tips for making the most of winter runs.
Start slow
Muller recommends starting slowly with an easy conversational pace and then building endurance over time. “Anyone who focuses on speed alone when they first start often has a higher injury risk because they are starting from zero,” she says. “The sudden bursts of stress from running can be a shock. Especially in winter, the body needs time to adapt … which can take weeks if not months.”
Choose the right clothing
Archer uses temperature to guide her clothing choices. She prefers a wool base layer because it keeps her warm even if it gets a little damp from sweat. “For temperatures in the 30 degrees Fahrenheit range, I usually just add a synthetic puffer vest on top. For temperatures 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below, I put an additional layer on top of the base layer below the vest,” she says. Gloves and a beanie are also recommended for heat retention.
Dress in layers
All the experts we spoke to suggest dressing for an outdoor temperature that’s 10 degrees above what the thermostat says. “This is because around 10-15 minutes into any run your body will warm up and you’ll feel like it’s warmer outside than it really is,” says Muller. This is why layering is so important—you can regulate your body temperature by peeling off layers while running.
Hydrate
You may not feel as hot or sweat as much in winter, but you can still become dehydrated while running outdoors. Muller explains that hydration is necessary to keep your muscles fueled, even if you don’t feel like you’re sweating.
Condition the body (and mind)
“My biggest tip for anyone getting into winter running is to listen to your body and mind. There’s no shame in turning back if the elements make running too difficult, and there’s no shame in turning back if your heart isn’t in it,” says Downs.
Additionally, she says runners should be aware of how cold weather affects the body, and to be on alert for signs of hypothermia. “It’s common for nose and face hairs to turn white and freeze while running in the winter so be sure you’re keeping your body warm and dry,” she says.
Buddy up or run in a group
If you are new to running, teaming up with a partner or a running group is one way to get motivated to get outside, especially when the weather is not great. You can learn tips and tricks from other winter athletes for overcoming challenging running situations. “Plus, good company and people to keep you accountable is a great way to make the chilly miles fly by,” says Archer.
Frequently asked questions
What running shoes are best for winter?
Both Archer and Downs prefer wearing running shoes that have traction especially if you’re tackling icy trails. If it’s especially icy out, try cleats and crampons. They come in different shapes and sizes to fit all shoe styles. “Flexible rubber cleats with micro spikes on the bottom are good for road running with light ice, while trail runners might prefer some heavier-duty spikes,” says Archer.
What are the best running clothes for winter?
Archer recommends buying running clothes made from merino wool for winter running, including gloves and hats. “This powerhouse fiber wicks moisture and helps regulate body temperature even when wet,” she says.
What to look for in rain and winter jackets for running?
Downs suggests investing in a good windbreaker or waterproof jacket to wear over your base layer. “Also, clothes should be breathable so it doesn’t retain sweat that could cause hypothermia,” she says.
It’s also important to consider visibility when running in the dark. Not only is it important for you to see clearly, it’s equally important for others to see you. Wearing outer layers with reflective elements can help.
References
is a Chicago-based travel photographer, freelance journalist, thru-hiker, and trail runner. She’s covered the outdoors, lifestyle, and travel for multiple publications. Follow her on
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