For many, the idea of a winter run is daunting, but for one dedicated athlete, it's a source of invigoration and a preferable alternative to summer's stifling humidity. This runner, who logs over 20 miles each week and is training for a half marathon, has perfected the art of cold-weather running through years of experience, including enduring frigid Illinois winters. The secret? The right gear, meticulously layered and chosen for performance.
The Art of Layering for Winter Runs
The cornerstone of cold-weather running is a solid base layer. For this, the runner swears by the Lululemon Swiftly Tech long sleeve top. Purchased years ago, it remains in excellent condition thanks to its stretchy elastane material and Silverescent technology, which wicks sweat and reduces odour. Practical thumb holes provide extra warmth for the hands.
When style is also a priority, the FP Movement Cut It Out long-sleeve running top is the preferred choice. Its tighter, cropped fit makes it an ideal base for speed workouts, and it also features handy thumb holes.
For the lower body, the switch from shorts to leggings is a seasonal necessity. The runner's trusted choice is the Nike One leggings with pockets. These offer a mid-weight, breathable fabric with three secure pockets—two on the legs for keys and one at the back for a phone—and a mesh-lined waistband to prevent slipping.
Over the base layer, a second insulating layer is key. The Patagonia Synchilla fleece pullover is a favourite, layered over the Lululemon top. Its double-sided fleece traps heat, while the fabric wicks moisture and dries quickly. Features like a high collar and elasticated cuffs help seal out the cold, and it is made in a fair-trade-certified factory.
Essential Winter Running Accessories
Accessories are not an afterthought but a critical part of the winter running wardrobe. Hanes cushioned crew socks, made from a cotton blend, are an affordable and effective choice. They provide crucial ankle coverage and cushioning to prevent blisters without slipping during a run.
Protecting the extremities is paramount. The Athleta softshell gloves are a vital piece of kit, shielding fingers from the cold without bulk. They feature touchscreen-enabled fingertips and gripping dots, making them versatile for other activities.
To protect the head and ears from wind and snow, a beanie is essential. The runner uses a FP Movement beanie with a soft ribbed knit, which stays securely in place. A similar embroidered style is currently available from the brand.
Year-Round Running Staples
Beyond seasonal layers, the right foundational gear makes all the difference. The runner's shoe of choice has recently been dethroned: the Asics Novablast 5 has surpassed the beloved Hoka Cliftons. This shoe is supportive yet lightweight, with a trampoline-inspired outsole for bounce. It is versatile for both long runs and speed work and has proven resilient even in wet conditions.
Finally, a smartwatch is a worthwhile investment for the serious runner. The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music, purchased in a Black Friday sale, is now a constant companion. It provides extensive running metrics like heart rate, pace, and power, suggests tailored workouts, and tracks wellness data including sleep and stress. With up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and offline music capabilities, it is considered an invaluable tool for training.
Armed with this carefully curated selection of seven core items—from base layers and insulation to accessories and tech—running through the British winter becomes not just manageable, but a genuinely refreshing and rewarding pursuit.
