Must-Have Accessories For Running In Cold Weather

As the days get shorter and colder, it gets more difficult to keep up your running training routine. Winter conditions lead a fifth of UK adults to cut down on exercise, with activity levels dropping by 37% during these months.  Finding motivation isn’t the only struggle, with the dark, rain, winds, or even ice and snow making for harder running conditions.

However, winter running can be enjoyable if you’ve got the right clothing. With quality winter running accessories, you can stay comfortable and warm as you keep putting in the miles. So if you can’t face spending the whole season on the treadmill or want to get out in the icy air, here are our recommendations for cold weather running gear.

Maintain Your Core Body Temperature

Having a stable core body temperature as you exercise is essential to performing well. Even changes of one or two degrees can have a major impact on your ability to run and recover. When exercising in cold weather, hypothermia can also be a risk. So a runner’s cold weather gear is essential protection against their body temperature dropping to unsafe levels of 35C or lower. 

Layering with lightweight clothes is the best protection against cold weather. It means you’re not weighed down as you run and can take items on or off as your body temperature or the weather conditions change. Base layers are the first defence against the cold and an essential part of each winter runner’s kit bag.

Must-Have Base Layers

When you’re looking for base layers, breathability is key. Any moisture left on your skin will cause heat loss from your body.  Breathable, wicking fabrics help to remove sweat and stop you from getting damp and cold. All this is done while keeping out the winter weather. 

Base layers are available in both tops and bottoms. Briefs and shorts give your legs a bit of extra protection in extreme cold, making them essential for runners living in rural areas or deep winter conditions. Wherever you run, as your lower half is moving in cold weather, your torso and arms are more likely to feel the low temperatures. So having the right base layer shirt is key. 

Available with short or long sleeves, these tops should fit close to your skin without restricting any movement. Choosing a men’s or women’s base layer will also make sure the design comfortably fits your shape and gives you the best protection. Thermal or windproof long-sleeved shirts will give you the most warmth and (depending on your cold sensitivity) can be worn alone when outside temperatures are below 5C.

Stay Dry In Wet And Cold Weather

Low temperatures aren’t the only discomfort winter runners have to face. Rain and showers can quickly make you feel damp and cold, particularly if the moisture gets under your base layers and onto your skin. To keep you moving freely in wet conditions, well-designed cold weather running gear will be waterproof as well as warm. 

When you’re checking the weather before your run, look at precipitation as well as temperature. If constant showers or heavy rain are forecast, then wearing running tights, mid-layers and jackets will protect you against moisture and stop you from getting too cold. 

Essential Rainproof Running Gear 

For an extra barrier against rainy conditions, consider adding the below to your winter running wardrobe:

• Waterproof pants will help keep your legs dry, warm and working hard

• Base layers made from lightweight, breathable fabric can be layered with other items to  maintain your optimum core temperature optimum and wick away sweat (which reduces chaffing)

• Jackets that are lightweight, waterproof and breathable are a great first barrier against winter conditions, particularly if they have hoods 

Keep Hands And Feet Warm

Even if your core is dry and warm, your extremities can quickly get cold if exposed to winter conditions. While frozen fingers might be uncomfortable and distracting, if your feet and toes get damp or numb, it can affect your running performance and put you at risk of injury.

To stop the rain and cold from getting in and causing problems, having thermal socks and winter gloves for running in winter is essential.

Quality Running Gloves And Socks

When looking at women’s and men’s gloves for running, look for must-have features like breathable, lightweight fabrics that are insulated, windproof and water-resistant with plenty of stretch. This will help your hands and fingers stay warm, dry and free to move. Tactile materials on the fingertips and thumb mean you can use your phone or smartwatch touchscreen without removing your gloves. 

Similarly, thermal socks made from breathable fabrics will wick away moisture from your feet and toes while keeping them warm and dry. This will reduce the chances of discomfort, friction and blisters. Look for socks with extra support in your toe and heel box or arches for even more running comfort. 

Make Sure Your Head Stays Warm

Any exposed skin will quickly get cold and damp in winter weather. Your head, neck and face is particularly sensitive to windchill, icy temperatures and sleet or rain. This can quickly make you feel uncomfortable and distract you from the road or trail ahead. Hats, head or face warmers and headbands will all help keep these areas covered and stop winter conditions from stopping you in your tracks. 

Running Headwear For Winter

To keep your head covered without being weighed down or distracted, a thermal, windproof and breathable beanie is a good lightweight option for keeping you warm. If you just want to protect your ears from the wind and cold, then a headband will fit well under a hood without being too heavy or tight. 

If you plan to run in rain, sleet or wind (or just want to be prepared for it) then a face or neck warmer will give you extra protection without disrupting your breathing. 

Alternatives To Long Sleeves And Pants

When temperatures hit freezing or below, wearing longer layers (like long-sleeved tops and tights) is a must to keep you protected and performing well. However, some runners prefer the freedom of shirts and shorts even in colder weather.

Arm And Leg Warmers For Runners

Arm and leg warmers offer more flexible cold weather protection. Get breathable, water resistant and windproof ones you can take off or put on as your body or the outside temperature changes. Close-fitting without restricting movement, they’re also useful for warm-ups or in changeable conditions.

Embrace Winter Running With GOREWEAR

Designed for all-weather athletes, GOREWEAR running gear will keep you comfortable as you keep up your winter running schedule. Made from quality fabrics that are breathable, lightweight and weather resistant, they can be layered up so you stay warm and dry without being weighed down. So you can enjoy training and racing in the icy air all winter long.