The Coolest Gear for Cold Weather Running

It’s official: Cold weather is a’coming. (Snow flurries on Halloween in Atlanta? I was drunk but apparently it happened.)

But I do love to run with a chill in the air, provided the wind isn’t 4,000 MPH and I have the right gear. Here are some of the best items to keep you warm while you sweat. Well, you know what I mean.

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Outerwear: I got the Nike Tech Hoodie ($90) last year and it became a winter staple whether I was working out or not. It gives you lightweight warmth, has a hood and thumbholes (girls love ’em and we don’t know why), and the fit is ultra flattering. The front zip pocket is great for phone/iPod, key, etc. When you need another layer, Patagonia’s Houdini jacket ($99) has a cult-like following for its ability to block the elements and trap heat while weighing next to nothing.

Gloves: Protect your mitts with Brooks’ cute, comfy, moisture-wicking Pulse Lite gloves ($12-$25) with touchscreen compatibility–a must for perusing songs on your Spotify playlist or Snapchatting whilst sprinting (what?). Target also sells a decent version for $16.

Leggings: Saucony’s Omni LX tight ($70) made of stretch thermal fabric keeps you warm but not sweaty when icy temps strike. On the pricier scale is Lululemon’s cozy Turn Around Tight ($88), and for a little less dough, I adore MPG leggings (the $54 Avert has served me well over the years).

Headwarmers: You know that feeling when you think your ears might actually freeze and snap off? Let’s try to avoid that at all costs. I’ve always been a fan of The North Face’s Boreas Wind Band ($25) and I’m digging Nike’s Run CW reversible knit hat ($22). When you need full head and face coverage, you’ll love Smartwool’s NTS Mid 250 Balaclava ($40); just don’t walk into a bank with it on.

Socks: When searching for socks to keep your toes toasty, look for the magical ingredient: Merino wool. Feetures has a great collection of Merino blend options (available at most specialty running shops) and Smartwool is the authority on the matter.

And of course, when it’s really freezing, you can stick Hot Hands warmers (available at Target) in your gloves, sneakers, or sports bra (I’ve never done that, but let me know how it goes).

LYLAS,
Ashley