Best Winter Running Gear and Clothes 2024

Buyers Guide | Fleet Feet

By Tom Rivett, Mandy Wahl, Evan Matsumoto Updated on

Whether this is your first winter running or you're a long-time friend of the cold weather running, our Winter Running Buyers Guide has something for you. Choose from our selection of the newest and best-selling apparel, accessories and equipment to keep you safe and warm on your runs:

Wondering how to tackle those low temperatures? Check out our Layering Tips for those delightfully cold winter runs.

[This article is part of the Best Running Clothes 2024 Buyer’s Guide.]

Best Winter Running Jackets & Outer Layers

Two runners high five wearing the Altra Via Olympus

Your winter running jacket is your protection from rain, wind and snow during the winter. They keep you dry so your other layers work functionally.

Most outer layers are wind resistant, water resistant and coated with a durable water-repellant (DWR) finish, while others use a waterproof membrane that breathes while keeping water out. When deciding what running jacket to wear when you're running in the cold, check the weather—consistently wet weather calls for a waterproof jacket, while dry conditions offer the opportunity to wear a softer, water-resistant jacket.

Whether you're running in consistently wet weather or dry conditions, our best Winter Running Jacket picks have got you covered:

Best Winter Jackets
Women's On Weather Jacket 2023 Thumbnail

On Weather Jacket

$240

Constructed with 100 percent nylon fabric, the On Weather Jacket combines lightweight breathability and durability for the ultimate outer layer.

The Weather Jacket provides all-weather protection with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish and tear-proof fabric. The cap-fitted hood will stay secure in place during your run and the short bill protects your head from the rain and wind without blocking your view.

Lightweight construction offers ventilation and breathability for ultimate comfort in all weather conditions. Plus, reflective elements placed on the zippers, chest and wrists help you stay visible during low-light workouts.

Best Winter Jackets
Men's Brooks Shield Hybrid Jacket 2.0 Thumbnail

Brooks Shield Hybrid Jacket 2.0

$170
Warm like a puffy coat, but without the bulk, we love breaking out the Brooks Shield Hybrid Jacket when the temperature drops. Its Thermolite insulation is warm and lightweight, while plenty of pockets let us take our essentials like a phone, lip balm and tissues with us on the run. Plus, it is weather-resistant against rain, wind and snow.
Best Winter Jackets
Women's Craft ADV SubZ Jacket 3 Thumbnail

Craft ADV Subz Running Jacket 3

$155

Craft used a VentairÂŽ bonded three-layer design on the front of this jacket to protect you from the wind, while the brushed recycled polyester and elastane jersey at the sleeves and backs add comfort and warmth.

This athletic cut jacket has a taped bottom hem to stay put and thumbholes at the ends of the sleeves for more protection. With reflective details and concealed zip pockets this stylish jacket looks good while running, sledding or enjoying hot cocoa with friends.

Best Winter Jackets
Women's rabbit Swish Jacket 2.0 Thumbnail

rabbit Swish Jacket 2.0

$125
The rabbit Swish Jacket 2.0 combines style and performance for a great running jacket in the wind, rain and cold. This is a lightweight jacket that is wind and water resistant, so it will keep the elements out. The new fit makes it easy to dress in layers, and it packs into its own chest pocket for easy storage.
Best Winter Jackets
Women's New Balance Heatloft Athletic Jacket Thumbnail

New Balance Heatloft Athletic Jacket

$120
The New Balance HeatLoft Jacket combines comfort, warmth and fashion for a cute jacket you can wear while running around town or walking the dog. It features New Balance’s NB HEAT technology that keeps you nice and warm while wicking away moisture to keep you dry. Plus, it has thumbholes to keep your hands warm when you forget your gloves and lofted quilting to give it texture and style.

Best Winter Mid-Layers

A woman and man running on a sidewalk, the picture is from behind and they are wearing rabbit EZ long sleeve shirts for their midlayers

Your middle layer helps retain the heat that is naturally generated from the body. The more efficient your middle layer is at trapping heat, the warmer you'll be while running in the cold.

Mid-layers offer a broad range of synthetic and natural options. In general, thicker (or puffier) equals warmer since it can trap air. Winter running clothes designed with natural down feathers or synthetic fill create loft, which translates into more warm air—read: heat—next to your body.

These are some of our favorite mid-layers for winter running.

Best Mid-Layers
Men's New Balance Heat Grid Half Zip Thumbnail

New Balance Heat Grid Half Zip

$90

This half zip is a favorite in our cold-weather running kit. We wear it for everything from winter runs and ski days to fireside hangouts and coffee dates with friends.

It uses New Balance's NB HEAT grid technology that does an excellent job at wicking away moisture and keeping you warm. The athletic silhouette is perfect for active movement and makes it easy to layer without feeling too bulky.

Best Mid-Layers
Men's On Climate Shirt Thumbnail

On Climate Shirt

$120

The On Climate Shirt is a go-to mid-layer for us. It's cut from a special waffle fabric that adapts to your body temperature by insulating your skin when it is chilly out, and airing it out when it heats up so you will always be at the perfect temperature. It also absorbs sweat faster than most running shirts so you won't get that uncomfortable damp feeling once you're warmed up.

We love its subtle details like thumb holes at the cuffs and a watch window in the wrist set this shirt apart from other running layers.

Best Mid-Layers
Women's Craft Core Gain Midlayer Thumbnail

Craft Core Gain Midlayer

$50

Craft makes excellent apparel for cold-weather adventures, and this mid-layer half zip is no exception. We love its soft feel against the skin that doesn't irritate you once you start to sweat.

Having this in our wardrobe provides endless versatility whether we're wearing it on its own or as an extra layer during the winter months.

Best Mid-Layers
Women's Cotopaxi Amado Fleece Thumbnail

Cotopaxi Amado Fleece

$75

Every runner needs a reliable fleece in their cold-weather quiver. The Cotopaxi Amado Fleece looks downright good and is made with 100% recycled fleece so you can feel good about wearing it.

Wear it over your favorite running shirt or under a jacket for even more warmth. We often reach for this cozy fleece for early-morning warm-ups and post-run hangouts with our training groups.

Best Mid-Layers
Women's Brooks Run Visible Half Zip Thumbnail

Brooks Run Visible Long Sleeve and Half Zip

$100
The Brooks Run Visible Long Sleeve and Half-Zip are a great midlayer top because they provide both warmth and visibility. Made with high contrast colors, 3M reflectivity and fluorescent hues, these tops are made so you can be seen when running in the morning, an overcast afternoon or when the sun has gone down. Plus, you can throw a vest over it for cold days, and it will still provide visibility. Check out our guide on the best reflective running clothes for more options to stay visible this winter.

Best Winter Base Layers

A man doing high knees in a Craft baselayer top

The Base Layer is the first layer to touch the skin, so its purpose is to manage moisture, wick away sweat and regulate your body temperature. This is essential. If your skin stays moist in freezing temperatures, you won't be able to warm up completely and you put yourself at risk for becoming hypothermic.

Pro Tip: Try to stay away from cotton as a base layer in cold weather. Cotton soaks up moisture and dries slowly instead of evaporating or wicking it away, which can make you even colder. Clothes made of merino wool and polyester are ideal to wear when running in cold weather, or look for synthetic blends that promise to mop up sweat and dry quickly.

Best Base Layers
Men's Craft Core Dry Active Comfort Baselayer Thumbnail

Craft Core Dry Active Comfort Baselayer

$65
The Craft Core Dry Active Comfort Baselayer has flatlocked seams to allow your body to move freely. The fabric wicks away moisture and dries quickly thanks to the bodymapped structure of the top. It is designed to retain heat in certain areas of the body, while being breathable in others to keep you at the optimal temperature while training. Perfect to wear by itself on those chilly days or as a bottom layer when the temperatures really drop, this shirt will keep you cozy outdoors during the winter months.
Best Base Layers
Men's rabbit EZ Tee Long Sleeve Thumbnail

rabbit EZ Long Sleeve

$55
The rabbit EZ Long sleeve shirt is so buttery soft that you will never want to take it off. It is moisture wicking and lightweight, making it the perfect shirt to wear either over a tank top to take off when it heats up or under a jacket for added warmth since it feels so amazing against your skin.
Best Base Layers
Women's Brooks Notch Thermal Long Sleeve 2.0 Thumbnail

Brooks Notch Thermal Long Sleeve 2.0

$90

The Brooks Notch is heavy on warmth and light on weight, which is why we love it as a base layer or mid-layer for cold to mild temperatures.

Thumbholes at the sleeves keep your hands warm and make it easy to layer. Plus, it's super breathable which is key for cold-weather workouts.

Best Base Layers
Men's Mizuno Breath ThermoÂŽ Long Sleeve Top Thumbnail

Mizuno Breath ThermoÂŽ Long Sleeve Top

$85

This long sleeve base layer consistently shocks us at how warm it gets. Mizuno’s signature Breath Thermo fabric uses your own body heat and sweat to generate and retain warmth, which makes it perfect to wear when the temperature drops.

And if you wear it as your outer layer, 360-degree reflectivity helps you to be seen in low visibility conditions.

Best Winter Running Pants & Tights

Two people walking together through a park

Give your legs all the warmth and breathing room they need, no matter the elements. Winter running tights and winter running pants will give you coverage on chilly days without restricting your movement. Shop our top picks for winter running bottoms:

Best Winter Bottoms
Women's Craft ADV SubZ Warm Running Tight 2 Thumbnail

Craft ADV Subz Running Tights 2

$120
These warm running tights and pants are perfect for cold weather running. The front of the tights have multiple layers of Ventair Wind Fabric to make them wind and waterproof, so you can run in all weather conditions. The brushed jersey in the back and lower legs will keep you comfortable for your next long run.
Best Winter Bottoms
Women's On Running Pant Thumbnail

On Running Pants

$170
On Running Pants are Swiss engineered to protect you from the elements. The woven fabric in the front of the pants are water repellant to prevent rain and snow from seeping through, and it also has UV protection for those sunny days. Plus, these pants have unique knees to allow for freedom of movement and breathability. Stylish and comfortable, these pants work both for your long run as well as traveling in the airport.
Best Winter Bottoms
Men's Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger Thumbnail

Vuori Performance Joggers

$98
The Vuori Joggers are a favorite among the staff at Fleet Feet, and for good reason. They look great on the run or running errands, and their soft fabric feels great during working out or hanging out. Elastic cuffs at the ankle maintain the style you're looking for, while a drop-in pocket on each hip gives you plenty of storage space to bring your phone, wallet and keys with you.
Best Winter Bottoms
Women's Brooks Momentum Thermal Tight Thumbnail

Brooks Momentum Thermal Tight

$98

Don’t let the cold keep you inside. With the Brooks Momentum Thermal Tight, you can run comfortably in cold temperatures.

Featuring patented DriLayer thermal fabric technology, the Momentum Tight keeps warm air in while wicking away sweat to deliver ultimate comfort and insulation. A stretch polyester blend fabric provides a lightly compressive fit for added support.

Pockets on the legs and on the back let you carry all your essentials with you on your run. A reflective Brooks logo on the back of the waist helps you be seen by drivers and other pedestrians as you train in low-light winter conditions.

Best Winter Bottoms
Men's Mizuno Breath ThermoÂŽ Tights Thumbnail

Mizuno Breath ThermoÂŽ Tights

$90

It should be no surprise that Mizuno's Breath Thermo line continues to make this list of the best cold-weather running apparel. The warmth generated from these tights lets you take on the cold with ease.

They have 360-degree reflectivity so others can see you when you’re running in the dark, and a side zipper pocket lets you stash away some tissues or keys. The Mizuno Breath Thermo Tight is an essential addition to your winter running kit.

Best Winter Bottoms
Men's New Balance Impact Run Heat Tight Thumbnail

New Balance Impact Run Heat Tight

$90

These streamlined tights keep us comfortable during our cold winter runs thanks to New Balance’s technology that wicks sweat away from the body.

Plus, the drop-in pocket is a must-have if you're carrying a phone on the run.

Best Winter Running Accessories

Runner putting a hat on.

No cold weather outfit is complete without winter running accessories. High performance fabric comes together with comfortable, functional design to provide added protection from the elements. Find gloves, socks, hats and more to add some extra cozy warmth to your winter run:

  • Headwear
  • Gloves
  • Socks
  • Visibility
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Buff Original Thumbnail

Buff Original

$20

Fold it, flip it, turtle-neck it: No matter how you wear it, the Buff Original is sure to keep your noggin warm.

Made with 100 percent recycled Repreve Performance microfiber, the Buff Original can go with you anywhere, from workouts to days out with friends. The four-way, ultra-stretch fabric is super-breathable while providing moisture-wicking, quick drying comfort.

Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation, the Buff Original offers 50 UPF sun protection, making the completely seamless, multifunctional piece an essential for all seasons.

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Brooks Carbonite Notch Thermal Beanie Thumbnail

Brooks Carbonite Notch Thermal Beanie

$30
Keep your head warm during your run with the Brooks Carbonite Notch Thermal Beanie. The notched fleece interior holds in warmth, while the secure fit makes it perfect for working out. To keep you smelling fresh, Brooks added an odor resistant finish that fights off any funkiness.
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CEP Cold Weather Headband Thumbnail

CEP Winter Headband

$20
Protect your head and ears from the cold with the CEP Winter Headband. It is made with heat-retaining materials that are breathable, quick drying and moisture-wicking, so it is perfect for running in the cold. The adaptive fabric is stretchy to accommodate almost all head shapes perfectly, and the headband style means you can wear it easily with a ponytail or bun.
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Craft Hybrid Weather Glove Thumbnail

Craft Hybrid Weather Glove

$40
These 2-in-1 gloves give you both a glove and a mitten for chilly days. The wind and waterproof cover transforms the gloves into mittens for those freezing cold and snowy weather. After you warm up a bit during your run, tuck in the cover to transform these into a great pair of gloves. The gloves are also touchscreen compatible so you don’t have to worry about chilly hands as you upload your run to Strava or answer a text.
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Mizuno Breath ThermoÂŽ Knit Glove Thumbnail

Mizuno Breath Thermo Knit Glove

$25

This lightweight Mizuno Breath Thermo Knit glove will keep your hands warm on even the coldest runs.

Designed with Mizuno’s Breath Thermo technology, the polyester blend fabric converts body vapors into heat. The Thermo Knit glove breathes easily and wicks away moisture to keep your hands dry and comfortable during your run. Added reflective bands and logo on the wrist provides extra visibility.

The Thermo Knit Glove will quickly become an essential part of your winter running kit.

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Balega Blister Resist No Show Socks Thumbnail

Balega Blister Resist Socks

$20

These Balega Blister Resist socks will keep your feet toasty warm when the weather cools down. Balega’s blend of mohair wool and Drynamix® moisture wicking fibers will keep your feet dry and warm by wicking sweat and moisture away from the feet. The additional mohair also provides extra cushioning to your ride.

These socks come in no show and quarter although we recommend the quarter length for the winter so there is no possibility of a small gap of skin between the end of your tights and the socks. The extra material around the ankle will help you stay protected from the cold, wind and snow. The deep heel, hand-linked seamless toe and wide arch support band make sure that these socks stay in place and provide comfort, mile after mile.

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Feetures Merino 10 Cushion Quarter Sock Thumbnail

Feetures Merino 10 Socks

$20
Feetures Merino 10 socks are great for running in wet or snowy conditions. The Merino 10 wool blend insulates when wet, keeping you warm even in messy weather. These Feetures socks have a targeted compression and anatomical design to provide comfort and prevent blisters. With two types of cushioning (ultra light and light) and three different lengths (no show, quarter, and crew), you can find your perfect sock for running in a winter wonderland.
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Women's Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Mid Crew Socks Thumbnail

Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Mid Crew Socks

$23

Go on an adventure in the Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Mid Crew Socks.

These running socks are new and improved, offering a women’s-specific fit that hugs the foot to maximize your comfort. Smartwool’s 4 Degree™ Elite Fit System provides a perfect fit that eliminates sock slippage, bunching and prevents blisters. A Virtually Seamless™ toe and enhanced mesh zones give you more comfort and breathability every step of the way.

Made with Indestructawool™ and Shred Shield™ technologies, these socks are built to last. Smartwool even extended the durability zones to cover even more of the sock, giving you the same comfort with more strength. With a height of 5.5”, these socks come up above the ankle to give you extra protection from dirt and bugs.

The Smartwool Hike Light cushion Mid Crew Socks are as tough and durable as you.

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Amphipod Versa-Light Mini™ Thumbnail

Amphipod Versa-Light Mini

$15

The Amphipod Versa-Light Mini provides minimalist visibility to any outdoor adventure.

This lightweight light attaches to just about anything: belts, straps, bags and packs. With two bright white and red LED lights offering 30 lumen brightness, choose between three modes of light to illuminate your path.

The weatherproof casing includes a reflective front panel for heightened visibility in the darkest conditions. The Versa-Light Mini has a 14 hour run time and will recharge in 1.5 hours with USB rechargeability.

Light the way to any hike, bike or run this winter with the Amphipod Versa-Light Mini.

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Nathan Vibe Reflective Vest Thumbnail

Nathan Vibe Reflective Vest

$25

All-around reflectivity meets all-around comfort with the Nathan Vibe Reflective Vest.

The minimalist design and body-hugging elastic keeps your Reflective Vest snug without limiting your range of motion. With easy-to-adjust shoulder straps and waist belt, the one-size-fits-most sizing allows for a customizable fit for a variety of body types.

With front straps that provide a bright V-shape reflection when light hits it, the Vibe Reflective Vest makes you visible to drivers, dog walkers and other runners on your low-light outings. Check out our guide to the best reflective vests for running for more options.

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Nathan Terra Fire Hand Torch 400R Thumbnail

Nathan Terra Fire Hand Torch 400R

$60
Cold weather means less light, so it's time to grab one of the best running flashlights with the Nathan Terra Fire Hand Torch 400R. This flashlight produces 400 lumens of crisp, white light, has a 45 degree angle so it's easier to see what’s on the ground when you run, rear red flashing light to help with visibility and a siren to help alert people if you need it. Check out our guides to the best running lights and best running headlamps for more options to light the way.

How We Picked the Best Clothes and Gear for Running in the Cold

To curate this list of the best running clothes for winter runs, Tom Rivett, in collaboration with our Fleet Feet gear testers and contributors, tested multiple products first-hand, considered details like real-world performance, materials, comfort, style, and price, and also looked at best-seller lists and customer reviews.

The gear on this cold-weather buyer’s guide have been updated to show only the newest products that we would not only highly recommend, but actually wear for our own winter runs, walks, hikes and other cold-weather adventures.

Standing Behind Our Picks

We picked the best products based on what we think will work for the most people in the most situations. If you buy a product from us and you don’t love the way it looks, fits or performs, bring them back within 60 days for a full refund.

Plus, we offer free shipping on all orders over $99 on fleetfeet.com, and we’ll match a lower price from a qualifying retailer. That’s our Happy Fit Guarantee.