Best winter running gear to add to your wardrobe this year, according to experts
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For runners, wintertime bites.
Sub-zero temperatures are not only hard to jog in, they’re hard to dress for as well. So when a fleece zip-up doesn’t cut it anymore, it’s time to pack on the layers.
But what if you didn’t have to?
Thanks to the many innovations in tech wear and athletic clothing, wearing less can still keep you warm.
From thermal fabrics to wind-resistant materials to body-mapped mesh zones that let the skin breathe, there’s plenty of new design features that can help you adapt to the weather.
In the list below, we round up picks from editors and experts at the most established women’s health, fitness and running magazines including Runner’s World, Women’s Health, Shape and Women’s Running.
Ready to get outside?
Here’s eight of the best winter running gear items to warm up with this season.
Reebok PureMove Bra
According to one test editor at Runner’s World, the PureMove Bra from Reebok has a “smooth, second-skin feel”. With no back hook or underwire, this sports bra is easy to pull over your shoulders before a run.
Perforated ventilation holes and a padded band ensure a cozy fit while Reebok’s Motion Sense technology stops bouncing by stiffening at the sign of sudden movement. “I ran downhill, took off at race pace, and pranced over puddles in the rain. My breasts didn’t budge,” the test editor added.
The PureMove Bra is available in sizes XS to XXL.
SHOP IT: Reebok, $60
Knix Dream Short
With a built-in, three-layered pad that can hold up to five teaspoons of fluid (the equivalent of what three regular tampons can trap), the Knix Dream Short protects against bladder leaks and period spills. Available in sizes XS to XXXXL, there’s a pair to keep every body comfortable.
“These underwear are a game-changer,” one Runner’s World tester said. “Nothing—I mean nothing—leaked through my underwear. I was dry and comfy for [my] entire run.”
SHOP IT: Knix, $38
ALSO SEE: 'A slam-dunk winner': Winter runners are obsessed with this Lululemon down-filled jacket
Arc'teryx Women's Taema Pant
A hand-selected pick by Women’s Health editors for their thick, thermal lining and super-soft fabric, the Arc'teryx Taema Pant is perfect for trail running.
Made with a material that has excellent stretch and recovery, the Taema Pant gives you full freedom of movement and conveniently manages moisture.
SHOP IT: Amazon, $150
Lululemon Down For It All Jacket
Lululemon’s Down For It All Jacket has got to be one of the most stylish running jackets on the market, and it was designed with runners in mind.
The wind-resistant and water-repellant fabric is layered with stretchy, breathable fleece and insulated with Lulu’s PrimaLoft material for extra warmth.
Plus, it comes with thumbholes, a zippered pocket to stash your belongings, and reflective details too.
ALSO SEE: Best sustainable activewear to shop right now: Leggings, sports bras, bike shorts, shoes and more
SHOP IT: Lululemon, $198
MPG Sport Score Recycled Polyester Zebra Print High-Waisted Leggings
If you struggle to find winter workout gear that are warm and breathable, MPG Sport is for you. These Canadian-made, sustainable leggings offer four-way stretch and breathability, plus they have pockets so you can keep your essentials close by. The best part? They come in four statement-making hues.
SHOP IT: MPG Sport, $58
Oiselle Lux Gloves
Bulky running gloves are the worst, or at least that’s what editors at Women’s Running think. A staple for chilly days to protect delicate skin from frostbite and windburn, Oiselle’s Lux Gloves offer just enough of a shield.
Highly-rated for their soft and thin material, the Lux Gloves are completed with touchscreen compatible fabric on the thumb and pointer finger. Bonus: They come in four different colours and provide full wrist coverage too.
SHOP IT: Oiselle, $28
Smartwool PhD Ski Ultra Light Pattern Socks
Keeping your calves warm can be challenging when the temperature dips below freezing, so Women’s Running recommends slipping on a pair of these moisture-wicking, knee-length socks from Smartwool.
Made from a natural and synthetic blend that never bunches up, the brand’s Shred Shield technology reduces wear from toes and body-mapped mesh designs allow the skin to breath easy.
SHOP IT: Smartwool, $25
Sweaty Betty Rapid Wool Beanie
Shape editors say that this merino wool beanie will give you some “hipster cred” — but not so much that the slouchy top will flap behind you as you run.
The perfect transitioning piece from going out on the trails to grabbing your morning coffee, this adorable moisture-wicking design from Sweaty Betty can do it all.
SHOP IT: Sweaty Betty, $58
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