Photo:Courtesy of Brand

a collage featuring some of the best cold weather clothing

Courtesy of Brand

The weather outside? Frightful. But that won’t keep the true runners among us off the road. Studies show running for only 10 minutes a day can be a mood-booster.And staying active, even during the coldest months of the year, is one of the best ways to stave off pesky viruses like the flu. Whether you’retraining for a half-marathonor just trying to keep up a baseline fitness level, there is a lot of value in hitting the trails this winter.When running or walking in cold weather, however, the required gear level may send you into a tailspin. What do you need? What can you live without? What is the best of the best? Our running experts spent over 1,800 hours testing 61 cold-weather products to find gear for every type of cold-weather runner and walker. Read on for our picks for the eight best pieces of cold-weather gear for both men and women.

The weather outside? Frightful. But that won’t keep the true runners among us off the road. Studies show running for only 10 minutes a day can be a mood-booster.And staying active, even during the coldest months of the year, is one of the best ways to stave off pesky viruses like the flu. Whether you’retraining for a half-marathonor just trying to keep up a baseline fitness level, there is a lot of value in hitting the trails this winter.

When running or walking in cold weather, however, the required gear level may send you into a tailspin. What do you need? What can you live without? What is the best of the best? Our running experts spent over 1,800 hours testing 61 cold-weather products to find gear for every type of cold-weather runner and walker. Read on for our picks for the eight best pieces of cold-weather gear for both men and women.

Best Cold Weather Pants, Menlululemon Cold Weather Running Pant 28"PHOTO: lululemon$148 at LululemonWhat we like:These sweat-wicking pants are quick-drying and warm.What to know:These come at a higher price than some of the other pants we tested.The Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant ranked at the top of cold weather running pants during our testing for both warmth and comfort. These pants have a tapered, body-hugging fit that allows for freedom of movement, though these are less form-fitting than traditional running tights. Two large zippered pockets on the sides are sturdy enough to accommodate a cell phone, and the pants also feature two smaller pockets for energy gels, ideal for distance runners who require storage space for fueling on the go.The details set the Fast and Frees apart from the rest during testing. Reflective detailing helps with low-light running situations, and cuff zippers at the ankles make the pants easy to put on and take off, even while wearing shoes. We found the fabric of the pants effectively wicked moisture away, which is essential in cold weather, and the fabric stayed dry and warm on longer runs. The fabric at the hips and thighs is water-repellent, and zippers allow for ventilation if you get too warm during your run.With the ability to handle even the coldest temps while keeping us dry and warm, we feel these earned their spot as our favorite men’s cold-weather running pants.Key Features:Zippered pockets, reflective detailing, cuff zippers.PHOTO: EatingWell / Ryan SissonPHOTO: EatingWell / Ryan SissonPHOTO: EatingWell / Ryan Sisson

Best Cold Weather Pants, Menlululemon Cold Weather Running Pant 28"PHOTO: lululemon$148 at Lululemon

Best Cold Weather Pants, Menlululemon Cold Weather Running Pant 28"

Best Cold Weather Pants, Men

lululemon Cold Weather Running Pant 28"

PHOTO: lululemon

lululemon Fast and Free Men’s Cold Weather Running Pant 28"

$148 at Lululemon

What we like:These sweat-wicking pants are quick-drying and warm.

What to know:These come at a higher price than some of the other pants we tested.

The Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant ranked at the top of cold weather running pants during our testing for both warmth and comfort. These pants have a tapered, body-hugging fit that allows for freedom of movement, though these are less form-fitting than traditional running tights. Two large zippered pockets on the sides are sturdy enough to accommodate a cell phone, and the pants also feature two smaller pockets for energy gels, ideal for distance runners who require storage space for fueling on the go.

The details set the Fast and Frees apart from the rest during testing. Reflective detailing helps with low-light running situations, and cuff zippers at the ankles make the pants easy to put on and take off, even while wearing shoes. We found the fabric of the pants effectively wicked moisture away, which is essential in cold weather, and the fabric stayed dry and warm on longer runs. The fabric at the hips and thighs is water-repellent, and zippers allow for ventilation if you get too warm during your run.

With the ability to handle even the coldest temps while keeping us dry and warm, we feel these earned their spot as our favorite men’s cold-weather running pants.

Key Features:Zippered pockets, reflective detailing, cuff zippers.

PHOTO: EatingWell / Ryan SissonPHOTO: EatingWell / Ryan SissonPHOTO: EatingWell / Ryan Sisson

A person wears the Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant outside.

Waistband of the Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant.

Person showing the zipper on a lululemon Fast and Free Men’s Cold Weather Running Pant 28"

A person wears the Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant outside.

Waistband of the Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant.

Person showing the zipper on a lululemon Fast and Free Men’s Cold Weather Running Pant 28"

Best Cold Weather Tights/Pants, WomenAthleta Rainier TightPHOTO: AthletaView on Gap.comWhat we like:The soft, brushed interior adds extra warmth without bulk.What to know:The back pocket isn’t big enough to hold a phone.Athleta makes an incredibly inclusive running tight, with sizes ranging from XXS to 3X. The so-called SuperSonic interior material is brushed and soft, and we liked how effectively these tights wick away moisture during high-impact runs and workouts. The fitted tight sits at the natural waist and features zip pockets and a rear drop pocket that’s supposed to be for your cell phone (though we found it better suited for smaller items like keys). The side pockets also have reflective details on the zipper strips for added visibility, and the waist has a hidden drawstring so you can adjust the fit as needed.These Rainier tights were warm without feeling cumbersome, even when temperatures dipped into the teens. While they can handle some pretty frigid temperatures, these tights could be layered under another pair of pants or leggings if needed. They maintained their shape and compression through multiple washes while avoiding the dreaded perma-stink some workout gear can acquire. Their warmth and durability make these tights a winning combination for dedicated cold-weather runners.Key Features:Multiple zip pockets, moisture-wicking material, reflective detailing, multiple colorwaysPHOTO: EatingWell / Kristen GeilPHOTO: EatingWell / Kristen GeilPHOTO: EatingWell / Kristen Geil

Best Cold Weather Tights/Pants, WomenAthleta Rainier TightPHOTO: AthletaView on Gap.com

Best Cold Weather Tights/Pants, WomenAthleta Rainier Tight

Best Cold Weather Tights/Pants, Women

Athleta Rainier Tight

PHOTO: Athleta

Athleta Rainier Tight

View on Gap.com

What we like:The soft, brushed interior adds extra warmth without bulk.

What to know:The back pocket isn’t big enough to hold a phone.

Athleta makes an incredibly inclusive running tight, with sizes ranging from XXS to 3X. The so-called SuperSonic interior material is brushed and soft, and we liked how effectively these tights wick away moisture during high-impact runs and workouts. The fitted tight sits at the natural waist and features zip pockets and a rear drop pocket that’s supposed to be for your cell phone (though we found it better suited for smaller items like keys). The side pockets also have reflective details on the zipper strips for added visibility, and the waist has a hidden drawstring so you can adjust the fit as needed.

These Rainier tights were warm without feeling cumbersome, even when temperatures dipped into the teens. While they can handle some pretty frigid temperatures, these tights could be layered under another pair of pants or leggings if needed. They maintained their shape and compression through multiple washes while avoiding the dreaded perma-stink some workout gear can acquire. Their warmth and durability make these tights a winning combination for dedicated cold-weather runners.

Key Features:Multiple zip pockets, moisture-wicking material, reflective detailing, multiple colorways

PHOTO: EatingWell / Kristen GeilPHOTO: EatingWell / Kristen GeilPHOTO: EatingWell / Kristen Geil

Person stretching wearing Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors

Athleta Rainer Tight

Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight on white sheet

Person stretching wearing Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight outdoors

Athleta Rainer Tight

Athleta Women’s Rainier Tight on white sheet

Best Top for Mild Climates, MenBaleaf Sustainable Long-Sleeve BaselayerPHOTO: BaleafView on Baleaf.comWhat we like:Lightweight, soft and moisture-wicking, this shirt is great for layering on cold days and works well on its own when the temperatures are mild.What to know:This shirt might be too toasty once temperatures exceed 45 degrees.Butter-soft and moisture-wicking, this Baleaf long-sleeve shirt is a good fit for those in need of a base layer or for those running in milder winter climates. This long-sleeved crew neck shirt features flat seams and a tagless design that prevents chafing—an especially nice feature on longer runs.When we gave this shirt a test run, we found that it held its shape after multiple washes, and we were especially impressed with how the crew neck didn’t get stretched out even after steady use. We also love that it wicks away sweat, an essential function of a good base layer.The shirt offers inclusive sizing, running from a men’s small up to 3XL, although some might find the fit a little restrictive. But overall, if you’re looking for an affordable basic layer to add to your cold-weather running attire, Baleaf provides excellent performance and value for the price.Key Features:Inclusive sizing, soft, moisture-wicking, flat seamsPHOTO: Health / Soren ClevelandPHOTO: Verywell Fit / Soren ClevelandPHOTO: Health / Soren Cleveland

Best Top for Mild Climates, MenBaleaf Sustainable Long-Sleeve BaselayerPHOTO: BaleafView on Baleaf.com

Best Top for Mild Climates, MenBaleaf Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer

Best Top for Mild Climates, Men

Baleaf Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer

PHOTO: Baleaf

Baleaf Men’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer Shirt

View on Baleaf.com

What we like:Lightweight, soft and moisture-wicking, this shirt is great for layering on cold days and works well on its own when the temperatures are mild.

What to know:This shirt might be too toasty once temperatures exceed 45 degrees.

Butter-soft and moisture-wicking, this Baleaf long-sleeve shirt is a good fit for those in need of a base layer or for those running in milder winter climates. This long-sleeved crew neck shirt features flat seams and a tagless design that prevents chafing—an especially nice feature on longer runs.

When we gave this shirt a test run, we found that it held its shape after multiple washes, and we were especially impressed with how the crew neck didn’t get stretched out even after steady use. We also love that it wicks away sweat, an essential function of a good base layer.

The shirt offers inclusive sizing, running from a men’s small up to 3XL, although some might find the fit a little restrictive. But overall, if you’re looking for an affordable basic layer to add to your cold-weather running attire, Baleaf provides excellent performance and value for the price.

Key Features:Inclusive sizing, soft, moisture-wicking, flat seams

PHOTO: Health / Soren ClevelandPHOTO: Verywell Fit / Soren ClevelandPHOTO: Health / Soren Cleveland

Person wearing a Baleaf Men’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer Shirt

Person outside wearing a Baleaf Men’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer Shirt

Person showing the sleeve to a Baleaf Men’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer Shirt

Person wearing a Baleaf Men’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer Shirt

Person outside wearing a Baleaf Men’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer Shirt

Person showing the sleeve to a Baleaf Men’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer Shirt

Best Top for Mild Climates, Women32 Degrees Lightweight Base Layer Mock TopPHOTO: Amazon$20 at Amazon

Best Top for Mild Climates, Women32 Degrees Lightweight Base Layer Mock Top

Best Top for Mild Climates, Women

32 Degrees Lightweight Base Layer Mock Top

PHOTO: Amazon

Amazon 32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Base Layer Mock Top

$20 at Amazon

What we like:This affordable base layer draws away moisture and stays put during your run.

What to know:Sizing only goes up to XXL.

The shirt is form-fitting and stretchy, yet it didn’t ride up awkwardly during testing. The seams are flat, and the shirt features a tagless design, eliminating the potential for chafing.

We did find that sizing was not as inclusive as some of the other tested brands—the largest size available is an XXL. While the top has a lot of stretch, we would have liked to see more sizing options. But for those on a budget looking for a slim and affordable moisture-wicking base layer, this shirt has everything you need to brave the winter chill.

Key Features:Moisture-wicking, anti-static, anti-odor, tag-free label

PHOTO: EatingWell / Sarah SorensenPHOTO: EatingWell / Sarah Sorensen

A person stands outside wearing the 32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Base Layer Mock Top.

Person outside wearing 32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Base Layer Mock Top

A person stands outside wearing the 32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Base Layer Mock Top.

Person outside wearing 32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Base Layer Mock Top

Best Top for Cold Weather, MenBrooks High Point Long Sleeve ShirtPHOTO: Brooks$84 at Amazon$66 at Brooks RunningWhat we like:Made from a merino wool blend, this long-sleeve shirt is perfect for extra-cold days.What to know:The slim fit may not work for all body types.With thumb slots in the sleeves, a close fit and a merino wool blend that traps body heat, this Brooks long-sleeved shirt has everything a cold weather runner needs on the most frigid days of the year.During our tests, the shirt did not ride up or chafe, and it stayed dry and warm despite frigid outdoor temperatures. We especially liked the wicking capacity of this shirt, which helps provide extra warmth in wintry conditions.Some might feel that the shirt’s slim fit was a little confining and that the wool blend lacked the softness of other running shirts we tested. Overall, however, we were pleased with the shirt’s performance on both long and short runs in adverse conditions.Key Features:Merino wool blend, moisture-wicking, thumb slots

Best Top for Cold Weather, MenBrooks High Point Long Sleeve ShirtPHOTO: Brooks$84 at Amazon$66 at Brooks Running

Best Top for Cold Weather, MenBrooks High Point Long Sleeve Shirt

Best Top for Cold Weather, Men

Brooks High Point Long Sleeve Shirt

PHOTO: Brooks

Brooks Men’s High Point Long Sleeve Shirt

$84 at Amazon$66 at Brooks Running

What we like:Made from a merino wool blend, this long-sleeve shirt is perfect for extra-cold days.

What to know:The slim fit may not work for all body types.

With thumb slots in the sleeves, a close fit and a merino wool blend that traps body heat, this Brooks long-sleeved shirt has everything a cold weather runner needs on the most frigid days of the year.

During our tests, the shirt did not ride up or chafe, and it stayed dry and warm despite frigid outdoor temperatures. We especially liked the wicking capacity of this shirt, which helps provide extra warmth in wintry conditions.

Some might feel that the shirt’s slim fit was a little confining and that the wool blend lacked the softness of other running shirts we tested. Overall, however, we were pleased with the shirt’s performance on both long and short runs in adverse conditions.

Key Features:Merino wool blend, moisture-wicking, thumb slots

Best Top for Cold Weather, WomenAlo Yoga Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve$98 at Aloyoga.comWhat we like:This shirt is soft, warm and moisture-wicking—and it includes thumb slots.What to know:Shirts are only available up to a size large, and we found the sizing ran on the small side.Made from Alo’s signature Airbrush fabric—the company describes it as “wearing a hug”—the Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturne Long Sleeve is our pick for the best women’s top for cold weather. It’s a soft, warm, moisture-wicking shirt with thumb slots, and we appreciated the longer length.The fabric has a buttery feel, pulls sweat away from the body and dries quickly. The compression fabric did not ride up during test runs, though we found you can get warm pretty quickly wearing this top, hence our recommendation to use it on especially wintry days.The sizing of the Nocturne tends to run small, and the shirt only runs up to a size large, which suits sizes 12 to 14. The arms also have a slim fit that might be restrictive for those with bigger biceps. But overall, we loved the feel and performance of this shirt and how well it guarded against the elements.Key Features:Thumb slots, moisture-wicking, brushed interior, fitted sizing, compression fabricPHOTO: EatingWell / Krisha JoshiPHOTO: EatingWell / Krisha JoshiPHOTO: EatingWell / Krisha Joshi

Best Top for Cold Weather, WomenAlo Yoga Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve$98 at Aloyoga.com

Best Top for Cold Weather, WomenAlo Yoga Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve

Best Top for Cold Weather, Women

Alo Yoga Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve

$98 at Aloyoga.com

What we like:This shirt is soft, warm and moisture-wicking—and it includes thumb slots.

What to know:Shirts are only available up to a size large, and we found the sizing ran on the small side.

Made from Alo’s signature Airbrush fabric—the company describes it as “wearing a hug”—the Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturne Long Sleeve is our pick for the best women’s top for cold weather. It’s a soft, warm, moisture-wicking shirt with thumb slots, and we appreciated the longer length.

The fabric has a buttery feel, pulls sweat away from the body and dries quickly. The compression fabric did not ride up during test runs, though we found you can get warm pretty quickly wearing this top, hence our recommendation to use it on especially wintry days.

The sizing of the Nocturne tends to run small, and the shirt only runs up to a size large, which suits sizes 12 to 14. The arms also have a slim fit that might be restrictive for those with bigger biceps. But overall, we loved the feel and performance of this shirt and how well it guarded against the elements.

Key Features:Thumb slots, moisture-wicking, brushed interior, fitted sizing, compression fabric

PHOTO: EatingWell / Krisha JoshiPHOTO: EatingWell / Krisha JoshiPHOTO: EatingWell / Krisha Joshi

The front of an Alo Yoga Women’s Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve

Close up of the inside material on an Alo Yoga Women’s Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve

A black Alo Yoga Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturne Long Sleeve.

The front of an Alo Yoga Women’s Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve

Close up of the inside material on an Alo Yoga Women’s Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturnal Long Sleeve

A black Alo Yoga Airbrush Winter Warm Nocturne Long Sleeve.

Best Ear WarmerSmartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece HeadbandPHOTO: Amazon$39 at AmazonView on Smartwool.com

Best Ear WarmerSmartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece Headband

Best Ear Warmer

Smartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece Headband

Amazon Smartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece Headband

$39 at AmazonView on Smartwool.com

What we like:This wide, stretchy headband is the perfect compromise for when you need to protect your ears but don’t need the warmth of a hat.

What to know:The stretchy fit may be too loose for some, especially if your nighttime runs require a headlamp.

Runners who prefer to ditch the hat can rely on this warm, well-ventilated merino fleece headband from Smartwool. Narrow at the top and wider toward the ears, this headband fits securely and is an excellent alternative for when a hat would be too warm.

The blend of merino wool, elastane, nylon and polyester wicks away sweat while still staying in place even through ceaseless jostling. We also felt comfortable tucking earbuds beneath the band, though some runners who used a headlamp found it interfered with the fit.

Key Features:Ventilation, ample stretch, merino wool blend, machine-washable

PHOTO: EatingWell / Henry YungPHOTO: EatingWell / Henry Yung

A person wears the Smartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece Headband outside.

Smartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece Headband

A person wears the Smartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece Headband outside.

Smartwool Intraknit Merino Fleece Headband

Also GreatTrailHeads Ponytail HeadbandPHOTO: Amazon$22$18 at AmazonView on Trailheads.comWhat we like:A ponytail-compatible headband that wicks moisture away while you run.What to know:The slippery material can move around while running.Finding a headband that accommodates a ponytail can be challenging for runners with longer hair. EnterTrailHeads Ponytail Headband, an affordable headpiece made from polyester and spandex with a slot in the back that is wide enough to fit a ponytail. We found the soft material both comfortable and moisture-wicking. The wide band also functions as an ear warmer, and a reflective logo helps with low-light running.During testing, we found that the band tended to slip around some, and we sometimes needed to adjust it mid-run. Ultimately, though, we liked this wallet-friendly option, which allowed us to keep our hair back, our ears warm and our attention focused on the sidewalk or trail.Key features:Moisture-wicking, reflective detailing, ponytail slotPHOTO: EatingWell / Rachel MarekPHOTO: EatingWell / Rachel MarekPHOTO: EatingWell / Rachel Marek

Also GreatTrailHeads Ponytail HeadbandPHOTO: Amazon$22$18 at AmazonView on Trailheads.com

Also GreatTrailHeads Ponytail Headband

Also Great

TrailHeads Ponytail Headband

Amazon TrailHeads Ponytail Headband - Adrenaline Series

$22$18 at AmazonView on Trailheads.com

What we like:A ponytail-compatible headband that wicks moisture away while you run.

What to know:The slippery material can move around while running.

Finding a headband that accommodates a ponytail can be challenging for runners with longer hair. EnterTrailHeads Ponytail Headband, an affordable headpiece made from polyester and spandex with a slot in the back that is wide enough to fit a ponytail. We found the soft material both comfortable and moisture-wicking. The wide band also functions as an ear warmer, and a reflective logo helps with low-light running.

During testing, we found that the band tended to slip around some, and we sometimes needed to adjust it mid-run. Ultimately, though, we liked this wallet-friendly option, which allowed us to keep our hair back, our ears warm and our attention focused on the sidewalk or trail.

Key features:Moisture-wicking, reflective detailing, ponytail slot

PHOTO: EatingWell / Rachel MarekPHOTO: EatingWell / Rachel MarekPHOTO: EatingWell / Rachel Marek

The back of a person’s head showing the TrailHeads Ponytail Headband.

Person wearing a TrailHeads Adrenaline Series Women’s Ponytail Headband outside

TrailHeads Adrenaline Series Women’s Ponytail Headband in its original packaging

The back of a person’s head showing the TrailHeads Ponytail Headband.

Person wearing a TrailHeads Adrenaline Series Women’s Ponytail Headband outside

TrailHeads Adrenaline Series Women’s Ponytail Headband in its original packaging

The Bottom Line: The Best Cold Weather Gear for Running and Walking

When it comes to great cold-weather gear, it’s hard to beat theLululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant 28"(view at Lululemon). This is a high-performing men’s pant that wicks sweat away and dries quickly on the road. For women, we loved theAthleta Rainier Tight(view at Athleta), a sturdy, warm and size-inclusive tight that is available in a wide range of colors.  We also foundBaleaf’s Sustainable Long-Sleeve Baselayer(view at Baleaf) and32 Degrees' mock neck top(view at Amazon) excellent as both standalone options (in milder climates) and as a base layer for when the temps really drop.

Choosing Cold Weather Running and Walking Gear

Layer up for better protection from the cold

Runners should opt for multiple layers in cold weather, including moisture-wicking base layers like long-sleeved shirts; windbreakers that you can unzip when the body warms up; and sturdy running pants or thick and breathable tights. Despite the cold weather, the body temperature will rise about 20 degrees throughout the course of a medium to long run, so expect to warm up quickly while you’re moving.

Your footwear should have excellent traction and keep your feet dry

If conditions outside are snowy or icy, consider investing in ice cleats or spikes, which are essential in combating treacherous conditions. Otherwise, a high-quality pair ofrunning sneakersorwalking shoeswill start you on the road to success in cold weather.

Use hats, headbands and gloves to keep your extremities warm

Treat cold weather walking and running as you would any cold weather situation. A head covering and gloves are necessary, and if you can find moisture-wicking gear, all the better. Most heat is lost through the top of the head, so particularly brutal days may require a hat. If you opt to go without, consider ear coverings instead, like a runner’s headband or ear muffs.

Our Cold Weather Gear Tests

We based these rankings on a thorough analysis and test of 61 articles of cold weather running gear from prominent brands. We enlisted a team of seasoned runners to see how each piece of gear held up. We underwent 1,891 total hours of testing and assessed the fit, durability, comfort, warmth, performance and value of each product under various conditions. After reviewing the results of our testing, we chose the top-performing gear across multiple categories to complete our list of recommendations.

We Also Considered

In addition to the cold weather running and walking gear included in this roundup, we tested some other gear that didn’t quite make the cut. Here are some that we considered:

On Running Performance Men’s Winter Tights Lumos($150 at On Running):Although we liked the feel and thickness of these high-performance tights, we did not feel that the Lumos tights outperformed our top pick, the Lululemon Fast and Free Cold Weather Running Pant.

Under Armour ColdGear Authentics Mock Neck($55 at Under Armour):Ultimately, we noticed little difference between this technical shirt and the much more affordable 32 Degrees mock top. While it’s a close runner-up, it didn’t make our final list.

Asics Men’s Winter Run Tights($85 at Zappos):These tights scored very high in testing, but the Asics tights were more suited to the coldest running conditions. We ultimately favored the Lululemon tights as an all-season running pant.

Outdoor Voices FrostKnit Longsleeve($78 at Outdoor Voices):This sweat-wicking shirt ultimately had an odd fit that restricted our movements, and the bulky seams were a big turnoff. Ultimately, we felt the 32 Degrees top was more comfortable and affordable.

Common Questions

What should I wear for running in cold weather?

Cold weather running can differ from mildly cold to extremely bitter and windy. Runners should take specific conditions into consideration when they dress for the day. Wear moisture-wicking base layers that you can remove or unzip as you become warmer, as well as shoes with traction or ice cleats when running in snowy and icy conditions. Head coverings, neck warmers and gloves are also crucial for retaining body heat. It’s important to remember that you will still sweat, even in colder temperatures, and that this sweat can freeze. All layers, including layers on outer extremities, should be moisture-wicking to guard against hypothermia.

Is it dangerous to run in cold weather?

It is safe to run in cold weather–up to a point. The American College of Sports Medicine does not recommend running in temperatures below -7 degrees Fahrenheit,as such temperatures can put you at high risk for frostbite and hypothermia. In temperatures above this, however, the body generates enough heat to perform routine functions—assuming you are appropriately dressed.

Does cold weather affect running performance?

In colder weather, muscles can become constricted, and some runners may be more prone to injury. It is essential to warm up slowly and cautiously and to allow muscles to slowly loosen up in cold air.

Some runners also may experience more difficulty breathing in the cold, dry air. It’s best to breathe through your nose whenever possible, as your nose is better at warming incoming air than your mouth. However, this isn’t always possible, so a protective layer like a neck gaiter or scarf over your nose and mouth can provide warmth and humidity and lessen irritation.

Our Trusted Expertise

For this article, we based our rankings on a thorough analysis and testing of some of the market’s most popular and well-reviewed running gear. We enlisted a team of runners to test this gear in extreme conditions to see how it held up in the cold. Our writer,Hannah Selinger, is an eight-time marathoner with a personal best of 3:36:14. She is also a Trained Level 1 Track and Field Coach and a member of the USATF.

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SourcesEatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Damrongthai, C., Kuwamizu, R., Suwabe, K.et al.Benefit of human moderate running boosting mood and executive function coinciding with bilateral prefrontal activation.Sci Rep11, 22657 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-01654-zhttps://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/exercising-hot-cold-environments.pdf?sfvrsn=1b06c972_4

Sources

EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.Damrongthai, C., Kuwamizu, R., Suwabe, K.et al.Benefit of human moderate running boosting mood and executive function coinciding with bilateral prefrontal activation.Sci Rep11, 22657 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-01654-zhttps://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/exercising-hot-cold-environments.pdf?sfvrsn=1b06c972_4

EatingWell uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.

Damrongthai, C., Kuwamizu, R., Suwabe, K.et al.Benefit of human moderate running boosting mood and executive function coinciding with bilateral prefrontal activation.Sci Rep11, 22657 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-01654-zhttps://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/exercising-hot-cold-environments.pdf?sfvrsn=1b06c972_4

Damrongthai, C., Kuwamizu, R., Suwabe, K.et al.Benefit of human moderate running boosting mood and executive function coinciding with bilateral prefrontal activation.Sci Rep11, 22657 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-01654-z

https://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/files-for-resource-library/exercising-hot-cold-environments.pdf?sfvrsn=1b06c972_4