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Running gear is essential no matter what time of year it is — and having the right equipment for the right season can determine your ability to stay comfortable as you hit each mile. As the temperature cools down, you’ll want to trade your running shorts for leggings and more winter running gear that’ll help keep you warm and grounded as you bound through snow and ice.
It may be tempting to hit the gym on the treadmill during the colder seasons, but for some runners, you can’t get the same experience of jogging outdoors with at-home gym equipment. That means you’ll have to brave the cold and, at times, snowfall if you want to fit your morning run in before work.
The most common winter running gear usually involves a thermal top, lightweight vest or jacket, leggings, gloves and a beanie to keep your ears warm. It’s tempting to want to throw on your parka when the temperature begins to reach peak winter chill, but that added weight may make it harder to run at the pace you’re used to.
Determining the best winter running gear comes down to finding something insulating yet lightweight to prevent you from feeling weighed down. You’ll also want to consider layering things like a thermal top under a light vest or running jacket and some insulating gloves to keep your hands warm.
Rather than hunt for these yourself, Billboard Shopping did the digging to find a mix of some of the best winter running gear to help get you started. No matter what your budget or needs are, there is a list of essentials below to help get you started or refresh your gear as you prepare for your winter running journey.
Best Winter Running Gear
Baleaf Fleece Lined Leggings
Once the weather dips below 40 degrees, slip on these fleece-lined leggings to stay warm as you jog in the cold. The material is made from a mix of spandex and polyester that’ll help trap heat while also being water resistant.
Due North Everyday G3 Ice Cleat
Prevent slips and falls from slippery ice and snow with a pair of these ice cleats. They black stretchy design aims to slip over your running sneakers so you don’t have to go out and buy a new pair of shoes. The rubber material will also help stabilize you even on some of the most slick terrains.
ColdGear Compression Mock
Keep your arms and chest covered with a lightweight yet insulating long sleeve top. The thermal shirt features a variety of shades to stock up on and personalize to your liking. It’s also versatile enough to wear alone or layer under a jacket.
Down for It All Vest
Stay cozy and fashionable in a chic vest that’ll move with you as you run. The puffer design is filled with an insulating and water-resistant Glyde fabric that’ll aim to rest on your hips without getting in your way as you exercise.
Lauzq Winter Fleece Ear Warmers
Your ears can stay warm without worry of it blowing off. These ear warmers uses a fleece material that’s soft and heat insulating. And did we mention it’s only $10?
Gadiemkensd Winter Running Hat
Keep your hair out of the way while keeping your entire head warm with this running hat. It features a baseball cap style with an opening in the back to slip out a ponytail and added material to cover your ears and block out the sun.
Trialmaker Winter Weather Gloves
Don’t forget to keep your hands warm as you go for your run wit a pair of winter gloves. It comes with adjustable straps on the wrist to keep the cold air from escaping inside. The design comes in one size that’ll fit most hands and a polyester material for swaddling your hands in absolute comfort.
Nike Phenom Dri-FIT Knit Running Pants
If you’d prefer something looser than leggings, Nike’s running pants come with a lightweight material made from 75% recycled polyester that’ll move with you without weighing you down. It also features zippable pocket to secure your belongings.
All in Motion Hydration Running Belt
Keep your hands free with a running belt that comes with two water bottles, so you can hydrate as you go. The belt features two pockets to keep the water bottles in place and has an adjustable belt to customize to your liking.
Athleta Altitude Polartec Jacket
Stay warm in style with Athleta’s splurge-worthy jacket. It’s made from a soft yet sweat-repelling material that consists of nylon, polyester and spandex. There are also finger holes to keep your sleeves in place as you jog or run to the grocery store.
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best men’s sneaker deals, shoes for travel and earmuffs and ear warmers.