The Best Gear for Winter Running

I have to confess, I once was a seasonal runner.

Yep, that’s right. I avoided running outside from December through April.

Let me tell you how completely miserable I was back then during those months of the year. I’m the type of person who thrives in spending time outdoors and because I didn’t know how to dress myself for winter running, I simply just didn’t run in the winter.

Silly, right?

One day, several years ago when I was suffering from a bad case of winter blues, my husband pleaded with me to go outside for a run. He knew I really needed to just get out of the house and out of my head. Begrudgingly, I went out into the cold.

And it backfired.

I came back from that run even more miserable than I started because I didn’t have the right running gear. Even though I was angry about the situation, I knew deep down he was right. I needed to get outside and run! I just needed to invest in the right gear so that I could run outdoors and do what I love best.

I’ve been running outside during the winters ever since! I do hit up the treadmill from time to time, but I get outside at least once a week.

Here’s a list of gear that can help keep you running outside all winter long!

1. Asics Storm Shelter Jacket: adds a layer of protection from all the elements (rain, snow, wind) and keep is warmer than it looks! Runs true to size.
2. Athleta Windy Peak Tight: I have a different version of these pants than the one list here, but these are a lifesaver! The front wind resistant panel keeps my thighs from going numb. Sizing can be a bit tricky with these, so be sure to try them on in the store!
3. Lululemon Run Fast Neck Warmer: This is a piece of gear, I never knew I needed. It keeps my face warm on those blistery cold winter days.
4. Sweaty Betty High Intensity Run Bra: Okay, so maybe this isn’t an absolute necessity since your regular sports bra functions just fine, but I love the high neck on this bra and feel it adds a little extra warmth. Every layer counts when the wind chill is 9.
5. Hybrid Running Gloves: These are the best style of gloves for people who have exceptionally cold hands. The two-layer system keeps your hands dry. I have this brand, but I’m not sure how easy they are to find since I bought them a few seasons ago.
6. Thermal Run Top: Bonus points if this layer has a high neck, thumbholes and a 3/4 zip. All of my thermal tops are from several seasons ago. Winter gear might be expensive, but it lasts for a really long time! This one from New Balance looks great!
7. Features Merino Wool Socks: A quarter length sock can make all the difference in the winter. These wool socks are simply amazing. I was sent these to try out and they’ve quickly become my go-to winter sock.*
8. Lululemon Run With Me Ear Warmer: This is the perfect layer to where under the hood of a weather resistant jacket.

Are you running outside this winter? Tag your winter run photos on instagram with #racepacerunner. We’re all in this together.

This is not a sponsored post. I did receive samples of some of the items mentioned in this post.