Mastering the layering system

While your core running clothing can stay the same year round, winter calls for some additional accessories. There’s no point purchasing a thick or heavy coat. Running calls for a system of thin, breathable layers.

A base layer on top is a must. Never wear cotton; instead opt for synthetic materials or merino wool to pull moisture away from the skin. Bonus points if the long sleeves extend over the wrists with thumb holes to keep hands warm.

Temperatures below freezing call usually for running tights and multiple layers up top. A wind-resistant vest protects your core – and often provides a handy pocket or two. On very cold, wet, or windy days, don a rain-resistant jacket. Skip the 100% waterproof coats and opt for breathability, otherwise you’ll be drenched from the inside out.

Keep an eye out for bright colours and reflective features. These will help keep you safe whether you’re alone on the fells or traversing city streets.

Protecting your extremities

Your body always prioritises your core temperature. This means your extremities are the first to get cold – and the most likely to stay that way, even as your body warms.

Neck protection

The neck is one of the body parts most sensitive to temperature changes (particularly to cold). Major blood vessels near the skin’s surface deserve protecting; many runners opt for a buff. 

This tube-like scarf can also double up as a mask to warm air, or a beanie-style hat. Merino is again a popular choice: warmth with permeability.

Headwear

Head gear is a very personal choice. Whether you opt for a lined headband, hat, or pull your buff up and over is up to you (and often your hairstyle!)

A cap may be most useful if conditions are wet or sunny, protecting your eyes from all the elements.

Gloves

Look for breathable material, with a soft shell backing for wind protection. If you’re looking to level up a basic pair of gloves, higher-end pairs often feature extra comforts like touchscreen-friendly fingers, or a dedicated nose-wipe section!

Winter running socks

While it’s tempting to grab the thickest pair available, instead choose a “mid-weight” winter running sock to balance cushioning, insulation, and fit.

Socks made for winter usually feature a higher density of loops in the knit. These insulate but also wick sweat away, preventing that horrible cold sweaty feeling.

Again, avoid socks that market themselves as waterproof. It’s astonishing how quickly rained-on feet can dry out with the right breathable gear.

Visibility: be seen, stay safe

Lighting is key for any runs outside of core daylight hours, including dusk. If you need extra visibility of the ground – perhaps you’re running trails, or an unknown route – a headlamp is helpful.

However, a chest lamp or LED harness is better for being seen by others. These create silhouettes which are more easily recognisable to people. If you’re opting for particularly dark or hazardous routes, such as country lanes after sunset, small lights on fast moving parts of your body (ankles, wrists) boost safety.

Reflective strips are found on most winter running accessories. Consider these your backups: not your only way of being seen by drivers.

Extra accessories to boost winter running

We’ve got a quick run down of some extra accessories you might want to invest in depending on your running style:

Hydration pack for long runs – don’t be fooled by the cold; you still lose significant water through respiration

Safety tech – GPS tracking is becoming more standard, but remote trail runners should consider SatComms devices

Running app for accountability – it can be tricky to keep motivated through winter, but there are a range of apps to help

Gym membership – when the roads are sheets of ice, a treadmill might be the smartest choice (here are five features to look for in your next gym)

Final verdict: gear versus gimmick

Keep things simple and safe to stay on your feet this winter. As our run down shows, avoid anything too heavy, thick, complicated, or waterproof. The best winter kit stays out of your way and enables a refreshing workout.

Invest in the essentials, leave the hype at the store, and remember: if you’re a little chilly as you step out of the door, you’ve layered perfectly.