Buzz
On paper, winter running sounds simple: it’s just your usual run with some extra layers. But choosing the right layers can sometimes be a challenge. Luckily, a group of cold-weather Redditors has shared their go-to gear to keep you warm all season long.
Before we dive into the gear specifics, let’s start with some basic winter running tips: Here’s a guide to what to wear at various temperatures, some advice for running in low light, and a quick reminder that if you find yourself wheezing while running in the cold, it could be a sign of asthma, which might mean you need an inhaler. Now, let’s move on to the gear.
Base Layers
You’ll need to layer up, but think beyond just throwing extra clothes over your usual running outfit. There’s a whole range of options when it comes to long underwear, typically labeled as “base layers” in most sporting goods stores.
Merino wool is a widely recommended option, and I fully support this suggestion. (Before my unfortunate wool allergy developed, I loved my L.L. Bean merino turtleneck base layer, and I was eyeing the Smartwool version. These days, I rely on a synthetic alternative.)
“I’m all about fleece-lined gear,” says u/magicbumblebee. “Fleece-lined running tights, fleece-lined tops, fleece-lined quarter zips.” (A quarter zip refers to a top with a zipper at the neck.) They’re especially fond of Under Armour, but have also had great luck with more affordable options from Amazon.
As you build your layers, u/AgentUpright suggests adding a windproof and waterproof vest on top of your other layers: “It’s a fantastic way to keep your core warm without the extra bulk or the sweat. I swear by the original version of this one from Mountain Hardwear.”
Shoes
In a pinch, your regular running shoes can work for winter running. But if you’re committed to running through ice and snow, having a dedicated pair with features like a grippy sole, waterproof upper, and extra room for thick wool socks is a game changer. Winter-specific shoes are usually pricier than summer ones, but if they keep your feet comfortable, they might be worth the investment.
In this thread, u/Silent_Finance recommends the Nike Wildhorse trail running shoes for running on pavement in winter, and Salomon Snowcross for actual snow running.
Icebug is another brand that frequently comes up in winter gear discussions, particularly their NewRun model. Saucony’s Peregrine Ice+ was also suggested multiple times.
Gloves and Mittens
The discussion thread started with a runner asking about heated gloves. Seasoned runners weren’t too keen on the idea, pointing out that their hands usually stay warm as long as they’re moving and their core is insulated. As u/812many wisely puts it: “If your hands are cold, put on a hat.”
Mittens are generally favored over gloves, as they allow your fingers to generate heat together within a single compartment. However, opinions vary on convertible mittens, which transform into fingerless gloves by folding back. Some users find them drafty, while others enjoy their versatility.
While warmth is important for hand coverings, the key feature to consider is windproofing. As u/AutomationBias puts it, "I’d rather run in lightly insulated windproof gloves than heavily insulated regular gloves." For additional warmth, glove liners can be used to boost the insulation of any gloves that fall short.
Recommendations for gloves and mittens vary, but some prominent brands include Primaloft mittens, Cannondale windproof gloves, and Montane mittens. Additionally, there's the Alaskan approach from u/AkHiker46, offering a practical and budget-conscious solution: they use "a pair of old school wool socks as gloves."
