If your New Year’s resolution is to get healthier, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that as much as 50% of the population makes New Year’s resolutions and 38% of those are fitness related. I did a Dry January once but never again… *shudders*
But while gyms are temporarily closing in many parts of the country, fitness class sizes are shrinking and the overwhelming need to get out of the house grows, interest in outdoor running grows with it.
The proof is in the search bar. The search term “winter running” hit a 5-year high in November and with it, queries for the best winter running jackets, tights and shoes for those that might be braving Old Man Winter to run outside in the cold the first time.
If that’s you, welcome! As a California native that moved to the arctic tundra of Minnesota almost 5 years ago, I promise it’s possible to love – okay, at least tolerate – running in the winter.
It’s been said there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear and that couldn’t be more true than when it comes to running in the cold. Once you find the right cold weather running pieces you just have to tackle the mental component of knowing you’re going out in the cold below freezing.
I find turning on energizing music helps get me amped and ready to go. If you need new music to run to, check out this running playlist.
I promise we’ll get to the running gear in just a second! Before we do I should tell you I’m a proud member of the Brooks Run Happy Team so you’ll notice much of the incredible running gear listed is from Brooks Running. I do NOT make any commission from these pieces, I just love them dearly and think you will too.
Okay, let’s do this!
Best Winter Running Jacket
The Brooks Carbonite Jacket is an absolute must have for any winter runner’s wardrobe. I’ve already done a review on this jacket but if you didn’t catch it, here’s the recap.
The material is wind and water resistant so it helps cut the biting cold winds that can come from winter running. Two side zipper pockets are the perfect size to stash your gloves if you start to warm up without your items bouncing around.
You also get the added safety features of targeted reflectivity to help keep you visible on those long, dark winter days.
The jacket itself doesn’t have much warmth but paired with your favorite fleece-lined 1/2 zip or long sleeve, will give you exactly what you need for winter running.
Best Winter Running Tights
LuluLemon’s Align tight better watch out, the Brooks Greenlight Tight is coming for your #1 spot!
The fit, feel and buttery softness of these running tights just can’t be matched.
The wide waistband has impeccable coverage without slipping or moving around while you’re running and there’s even a hidden waistband pocket to throw your keys, credit card or whatever other goodies you may decide to bring with you.
Plus they recently added no-bounce pockets on the legs so you can easily access your phone if you want to change your running song to something more upbeat – or if you need to get directions because you got turned around. Oops.
The fabric has a compressive fit for a flattering hug without making you feel squished in. You can feel confident doing o all your winter running in these tights knowing they won’t pill where your legs may rub together. Whew!
Best Winter Running Shoes
When it comes to picking running shoes for winter, it partially depends on your foot type.
I’m a neutral runner, meaning I have a higher arch that doesn’t tend to pronate, or collapse, when I run.
If there’s snow on the ground or the roads appear a bit icy, I reach for my Brooks Cascadias. They’re technically a trail running shoe but the extra rugged traction meant for uneven trails makes them perfect for slippery ice or snow patches.
When I’ve hit my mileage on my current pair, I’m excited to try the GORE-TEX waterproof version to keep out any melted snow.
To learn more about your foot type, check out the helpful Shoe Finder tool on BrooksRunning.com.
Best Winter Running Socks
I need to break away from the beloved Brooks pack on this one but it’s for a really good reason.
My hands and feet get and stay really cold so when it comes to socks for winter running I step it up.
I found Darn Tough merino wool socks at REI a few years ago and I’ll never look back. While technically not meant for running, I love the Hiker Micro Crew Cushion – I honestly think I have 6 or 7 pairs.
While they’re a bit of an investment at $23, you’ll be surprised to know you can wear them all year. They’re predominately made of merino wool (aka not itchy!) so they stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
And if you’re a military, first responder, medical or teacher – first off, thank you for your service! – but second, they have a discount for you! Check out Darn Tough’s website for more.
Where are you running this winter? Is this your first time running in the cold or are you a pro at it? What’s your advice for cold weather runners or what questions do you have about cold weather running? Keep the conversation going on Instagram and get more running, yoga and general wellness inspiration over on Pinterest.
Pin this image to easily come back to this blog post about the all the gear you need to run in the cold weather in 2021 and beyond.
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