Beat the cold with these winter running essentials
Running in the UK during winter can be a real mixed bag. From November through to March, you might have to contend with anything from rain to gale-force winds, freezing cold temperatures, snow or ice (and sometimes a combination of all five).
Having a range of winter running gear in your wardrobe is therefore crucial, and can make the difference between an enjoyable training session and cutting your run short to retreat to the warmth of your home.
What gear do you need to run in winter?
When it’s looking freezing outside, it can be tempting to reach for your thickest pair of winter running tights, some thermal gloves and a warm jacket. But the conditions are probably not as cold as they seem from the comfort of your centrally heated home.
'I have a saying, which is "Be bold, start cold"', says UKA running coach Michelle Mortimer, who has been coaching since 2009. 'You're going out to exercise so you will sweat. You don't want to be starting your activity too warm because you'll need to be taking layers off.'
First, check the air temperature, as well as the 'feels like' temperature, which takes into account humidity and the strength of the wind. The next thing to consider is the type of run you’re doing.
'How many layers you need will depend on if you're doing a short, faster session or a longer, slower run,' says running coach Michelle Mortimer. 'If you're moving slower, you're not generating a lot of heat, and if the temperature is cold, you need to be factoring in risks like hypothermia. I always recommend carrying layers if you're out for a slightly longer run.'
If it's 10°C or more
For a slow run: A pair of lightweight running tights or running shorts will be fine on the bottom half. A short-sleeve running t-shirt should still be enough but you can wear a long-sleeve base layer if your arms tend to get cold. Take a waterproof or windproof layer with you if the weather is looking changeable.
For a fast run: The same as a slow run, but you can leave the additional layer at home unless it's torrential rain.
If it's between 5°C and 10°C
For a slow run: It's all down to personal preference, but this is where some make the switch from shorts to tights. A gilet on top of a technical base layer will help provided added warmth if it's dry or you might want to leave the house in a lightweight waterproof running jacket if it's not. This might also be when you introduce a lightweight glove to your running attire.
For a fast run: You might want to cover those bare legs with lightweight tights as the temperature drops below 10°C. On your top half, a long-sleeve technical base layer will provide enough protection, but you should take an additional water- and windproof layer just in case.
If it's between 0°C and 5°C
For a slow run: Winter running tights, a long-sleeve technical base layer and a windproof jacket will keep the worst of the elements at bay. Now's also the time to accessorise your appendages – gloves and a circular scarf are a must and a hat is a great way of keeping the chill off if you're short of hair up top.
For a fast run: A lightweight tight will still offer enough warmth if you're running hard, and a long-sleeve technical base layer and gilet will tread the fine line between being too cold and too hot. Gloves will come in handy regardless of efforts.
If it's 0°C or below
For a slow run: The thermals (tights, jacket) will remain as your final barrier, but it might be time to add an additional long-sleeve top over a base layer. Gloves and a circular scarf are also a must. When running in these temperatures, you're more likely to encounter slippery terrain, too, so opt for shoes with good grip like trail running shoes.
For a fast run: Thermal tights, a long-sleeve technical base layer and a thick winter-specific jacket. Gloves go without saying and a circular scarf can be adapted mid-run to cover any parts of your head or neck that get chilly.
Finally, there’s a good chance that you’ll be running after dark during the winter months, so making sure you’re visible is key. Choose reflective clothing and pop on a head torch if you're running in a poorly lit area. And make sure you run towards traffic so that you can see oncoming traffic.
Is it okay to jog in cold weather?
If there's snow on the ground, you're generally okay to run. But there are a number of things to be aware of. Soft, fresh snow is a lot safer to run on than snow that has been compacted down, and you should keep an eye out for patches of ice – particularly black ice. The safest way of running on snow is to take it slow and take extra care of where you're putting your feet.
However, if conditions are icy, Mortimer urges caution, although adds that trail shoes and ice grips can provide some extra grip if you must run during a whiteout: 'I do a lot of trail running, so if I'm somewhere rocky, I will put ice grips on because I'm moving slowly but I would never attempt a road run on an icy pavement.'
She adds that while winter running is great, if the weather's dangerous you don't need to be a hero. 'Make sure you're staying local if the weather's bad so that if you slip over and hurt yourself, you know you can get home if you need to. Alternatively, a running partner or running with a club means that if something does happen, you know that you're safe and you can get home okay.'
What is the best winter running gear?
We've been busy testing the latest and greatest cold weather kit – including both men's and women's winter running gear – and, below, we've rounded up our favourite pieces of kit.
Jackets
When to layer up with a jacket is something of a delicate balance – wear a jacket that's too thick and you may find yourself feeling sweaty and claustrophobic a few miles in, but where one that's too thin and you may struggle to warm up at all – especially if you're out for an easy run. Lululemon's Down For It All Jacket is one for when it's really cold – think 0°C or below. Made from 85% White Goose Down and 15% White Goose Feather, we found the zoned insulation kept us exceptionally warm on snowy runs, while the exterior DWR-treated tech fleece fabric is water-resistant and windproof, providing reliable protection from the elements. It's also a good option to have in your hydration pack to throw on at the end of a long run in the colder months.
Conquering tarmac or trails, this jacket has your back – and keeps it dry. Another great lightweight waterproof layer, the Gore-Tex Infinium infused fabric fights off wind and water, while a brimmed hood provides full coverage from the elements. It also comes with a detachable balaclava to keep your face warm.
When you want a winter-busting triple whammy of staying warm, dry and visible, this 250g jacket’s 15,000mm waterproofing, windproofing and 360-degree reflectivity literally covers it all. It's flexible and snug where you want it to be, with ventilation points under the arms and on the back to improve breathability. Oh and there's a front zipped chest pocket and a wide zipped back pocket for your belongings.
A new drop from outdoor specialists Inov-8, the Performance Hybrid Jacket is a winter running staple. The soft-feel Primaloft Evolve Active insulation feels luxuriously soft against the skin and brings amazing warmth. We tested this jacket during a particularly cold long, slow run, where temperatures sat around 0-2°C, and it kept us lovely and toasty but we didn't overheat or feel in any way claustrophobic wearing it. The fabric is lightweight and stretchy, doesn't cling and offers great freedom of movement. Although the fabric is water resistant, it's not fully waterproof, so you'll need an additional waterproof layer if heading out in the wet. For dry and crisp winter days out, though, it's spot on.
Tights
If there’s one item that screams winter running gear, it’s a pair of cosy running tights – and these are just the ticket. Inside, a brushed fabric remains comfortable against your skin and keeps you warm while wicking away sweat. On the outside, you’ll find two external drop pockets big enough for even the largest smartphone, and a centre-back zipper pocket. The fabric is reflective all over, too, so you'll be sure to be seen by cars and other pedestrians.
Built for braving wilder weather on road and trail, the Gore-Tex softshell barrier on the front offers protection from cold, wind, showers and even light snow, while the brushed stretch knit on the back circulates the warm air.
Following similar principles to the infrared saunas you find at fancy boutique gyms, these tights have a thermo-conductive infrared coating that returns body heat deeper into your muscles.
Rather pricey, but when temperatures plummet closer to freezing, these luxury run tights repay your investment. Four-way stretchy soft nylon ensures snug-fit support. But it’s the naturally thermo-regulating merino fleece lining that wows with amazing comfort and well-balanced warmth.
Base layers, tops and gilets
Soft, stretchy, breathable and incredibly warm, this base layer comes up fitted and fairly thick, so it’s best for running in much colder conditions or stashed in a bag for pre- and post-run comfort.
While it might be tempting to reach for a jacket as the final layer above a long-sleeve top, on milder mornings, there’s one garment that has an advantage up its sleeves (or rather, lack of them). An insulated vest or gilet helps to keep your core warm but keeps breathability high with nothing smothering your arms. This On running vest protects you from the elements without weighing you down. A shield from the wind and rain, lightweight and extremely packable, like all of On’s products, this has really been built with the runner in mind.
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This water-resistant running gilet packs Prima loft-zoned insulation for excellent lightweight warmth. If, like us, you’re obsessed with pockets, there are two zippered pockets with hidden phone sleeves, too.
Pre- and post-run
A cosy blend of recycled wool, cotton and nylon makes a perfect pre- and post-workout layer. There’s a bit of stretch for extra freedom of movement in case you want to start your warm-up in it and the classic overshirt styling – along with the odour-resisting properties of the wool – mean you can transition straight to the pub/café/office or pull it out for non-run days, too.
A go-to for cold-run days and all-day comfort, using a beautifully soft, insulating Italian fleece material, and cut loose to slip over the top of your kit and allow free movement. The curved hem adds extra coverage for a flattering and draft-free fit, with thumb-holes turning the cuffs into handwarmers.
A tailored, ergonomic fit with a brushed interior for next-to-skin comfort and excellent insulation thanks to the thermal properties of the merino fleece. As well as being ultra-soft, the fabric offers 4-way way stretch and wicks sweat so it’ll suit if you want to keep it on when you start moving. Zipped torso pockets keep valuables secure and the full-length zip allows easy on and off.
It’s all about maximising comfort with the extra roomy fit, warming funnel neck and super-soft, naturally breathable cotton-blend fleece fabric which feels luxurious against the skin. Attention to detail is admirable, including a Kangaroo pocket with hidden phone sleeve at the front and an elastic zipper pull designed to double-up as an emergency hair tie.
Packing high-performance tech developed for the mountains, this protective, durable, thermal layer will keep you well protected from the harshest pre- and post-run conditions. The HyperDRY 750+ fill power Duck down with PFC-Free DWR keeps your core toasty warm, even in wetter conditions, and with a stretch fleece giving a precision fit that also allows freedom of movement, you can leave it on for your warm ups and cools downs.
The Icelandic outdoor brand have serious pedigree when it comes to keeping you warm in Arctic conditions. The Tindur’s synthetic shearling fleece provides a dynamic warming layer, while the stretchy ‘articulations’ at the shoulder and elbow allow freer movement. It’s cut slim with seamless shoulders, elastic drawcords at the collar and good storage options courtesy of two zipped side pockets and one chest pocket.
Accessories
Running in icy conditions isn’t advised for safety reasons, but if you want to charge around on compact snow, or your trails resemble a mud bath, then a running-specific set of crampons can be handy for the most committed runners. These micro crampons from Nortec were a cinch to fit, transformed the grip of any running shoe used during testing and held their own on a range of terrain – from churned-up muddy trails to rock-solid frozen ground.
If you’ve ever gone out underdressed for a winter run, the first part of your body that is likely to get cold is your hands. But that doesn’t mean you need to reach for the ski gloves. Despite being lightweight and minimalistic in design, we found these gloves from Ronhill kept the chill out even on frosty starts. Available in black or fluro yellow, they can also help add some visibility on early morning or evening runs.
These lightweight running gloves are designed to take care of two classic winter-runner’s problems – swiping and wiping. The touchscreen-friendly finger tips actually work, while a couple of soft fabric panels on the thumb and forefinger mean less skin irritation when you’re clearing away those cold-induced nose drips.
The Icelandic brand specialises in kit that can cope in extreme cold, so your digits are in good hands with these simple but effective Polartec Power Stretch Pro gloves. Delightfully cosy, soft fleece inners are perfect for keeping fingers functionally warm before, during and after inclement runs.
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A winter-specific version of the eponymous multifunctional neck and head gear, this seamless, versatile Buff is made from a mix of 58% recycled polyester and gold-standard insulation PrimaLoft woven fibres, to keep your neck, ears and head nice and toasty.
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While a pair of waterproof trainers can keep your feet dry and comfortable, you can ensure your toes stay toasty by upgrading your sock game. Although not to everyone’s taste, toe socks not only prevent blisters by encasing each digit in its own glove-like compartment but keep each little piggy warm by wrapping them in their own separate blankets, too. Our tester’s favourites were these Ultra Run Crew socks from Injinji, and their crew length bridged the gap between their shoes and tights.
Sunglasses in winter might sound like an oxymoron, but there are occasionally days when the sky is clear and the low lying sun’s rays can be completely blinding. Our tester found that Oakley’s Radar EV Path specs sat securely while remaining comfortable during multiple long runs. Their Prizm grey lenses were ideal for bright light and continued to enhance surroundings even in overcast conditions and sheltered woodland. Plus the new Sanctuary Swirl colourway just looks super sleek.
Unless you’ve got flexible working hours, training in the week during winter will involve running after dark. Those who live in towns or cities can probably get away with reflective clothing and rely on streetlights to guide the way, but what if you live somewhere more remote? This head torch might seem like a belt and braces approach, but its 500 lumens maximum setting was fantastic at illuminating paths in remote parts. And, when they were back in familiar, well-lit surroundings, it could easily be changed to a less powerful setting to improve their own visibility.
With a powerful 425-lumens beam, four hours runtime on full blast and a sweat-wicking anti-bounce headband, this lightweight, 78g headtorch cuts a safe path through dark winter nights. Great for road and trail, it’s also USB-C rechargeable, so no scrabbling in the odds and sods drawer for spare AAAs when it’s time to run.
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