If you run, and you live in a place in the world that gets ccccccccold, you probably face the age old dilemma of ‘what do I need to wear to run when it’s freezing outside’?
It took us some trial and error, and some suggestions from friends and family to refine our list of essential cold weather running gear. But we’ve finally got it down to a science (thanks Canadian winter), so we’re sharing it with you!
So, here it is. Our list of must-have winter running gear:
- AfterShokz Bone Conduction Headphones – Before trying these, I was never a fan of running with headphones in. I hated the idea of not being able to hear cars/people around me, I liked the silence, and the cords always got tangled. But the AfterShokz Trekz Air are amazing.
They use bone conduction technology to play music through your cheek bones (I know… so cool!). Transducers guide mini vibrations through your cheekbones to your inner ear, delivering sound without plugging or covering your ears! So, the AfterShokz sit outside your ears which means you can hear everything around you. This was a huge deal for me – it just makes it so much safer when you’re running!
They also repel sweat (and moisture if you’re running in the snow), they’re super light, completely cordless, and let’s face it there are some cold dark winter runs where you just need some good jams to make it through. So, throw these bad boys on!
- A warm headband. I love having a headband as opposed to a toque/beanie. It keeps my ears warm, but also lets me throw my hair in a pony. And I find a hat makes my head too warm by mid-run, but a headband just keeps my ears toasty and lets the heat out!
- Long sleeve workout shirt(s). I layer two long sleeve workout shirts on top of each other for winter running. It keeps things breathable but also keeps my arms warm enough for the chilliest temps.
- Running tights. You’ll catch a little theme here – layering. I layer two pairs of tights fore winter runs. A light pair underneath a warmer pair. I find two layers work better than one pair of bulkier cold-weather pants. The flexibility is worth the extra laundry trade off.
- Wrist reflectors. Winter runs inevitably mean running in the dark. If you’re like me, most of your running gear is black, so reflectors are a safety essential.
- Fleece vest. This is a bonus layer for those extra cold days. A fleece vest breathes but keeps my body warm. It’s a better option than a full jacket that I end up having to take off mid-run.
- A pair of gloves that have a ‘mitten flap’ are ideal. The mitten cover keeps my fingers warm, but gives me the flexibility of pulling it down to use the gloves when I need to press buttons on my watch, or grab a zipper, etc.
- Neck warmer. This is one of those layers that’s essential when it’s windy or snowy. You’ll thank me when your face is cozy and warm and not being pelted by tiny ice chunks.
- GPS running watch. I got one of these for Christmas and it’s been a game changer. Having a watch that lets you plot your pace/distance/goals ahead of time and provides coaching/alerts while you run means you need to spend less time fiddling with a watch in cold weather with frozen fingers.
That’s it! So, bundle up, layer up and head out for a run! You’ll be glad you did.
Note: This post was written in partnership with Aftershokz and PTPA Media. We received product/compensation as part of this partnership, but as always, the opinions and list of must-haves are all us!
