My Complete List of Winter Running Gear (2021)
Photographer: Gophrette (2021)
Winters in Montreal are harsh, with lots of snow and temperatures that drop below -40°C (that’s -40°F) at times with the wind-chill. From November through March, we have to make a choice every day: do I run today or do I stay home?
Thankfully, with the proper gear it is possible to run through these kinds of conditions comfortably. Since there is such variety in the type of winter weather we experience, I’ve listed here my go-to pieces for different conditions.
First, some general concepts:
Wind resistance: The wind in winter will cut through your clothing and will have you shivering even during the hardest workouts. A wind-resistant jacket and even wind-resistant pants will change your life in the cold.
Water resistance: Emphasis on water resistant not waterproof. You want to make sure that your gear has breathability when you’re running. A waterproof jacket will keep moisture from coming in, but will also keep it from escaping. When you’re sweating during a run, the last thing you want is to have that sweat stick to your body and freeze.
Layering: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different pieces. If it is really windy, you will need to wear warmer gear than if it is sunny out.
Now, for the actual gear!
Shoes
The most common question people have about winter running is which shoes to wear. The answer is less complicated than you would thing! When there is lots of snow, regular trail shoes will save your life since the tread will keep you from sliding around. That’s it! No winter-specific bells and whistles necessary.
Some brands market special shoes for winter running that are insulated and waterproof. These kinds of shoes tend to be stiffer and heavier. I personally just stick with regular trail shoes (the same ones I wear in the summer), but you may prefer these for wet conditions. If you live somewhere without snow, you should be a-okay with the shoes you wear the rest of the year. I try to stay away from very light mesh shoes, since the breathability we love in the summer months may be too breezy in the winter.
When it comes to icy conditions, you have to be very careful. Some shoes claim to have technology that grips ice, but the truth is that there is no foolproof option out there. Watch where you step, avoid ice patches, and if there is freezing rain I would recommend you wait it out (perfect time for a recovery yoga session). Some people swear by metal crampons, but I haven’t used them so I can’t recommend any myself!
On Cloudventure Peak (US$ 149,99)
Lightweight trail shoe with a more direct feel (not too cushioned) and a low 4mm heel drop. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. True to size.
On Cloudventure (US$ 149.99)
Slightly wider base than the Peak, these shoes feel stable and have excellent grip on wet/slippery surfaces. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. True to size.
Pants
Full-length leggings or pants are essential for running in the cold. Make sure you go for something with stretchy and breathable fabric so that you don’t feel restricted in your movement. Winter leggings are usually a bit thicker than your usual day-to-day leggings, and may have a soft brushed fabric for added warmth. This will get you through most weather, but I would recommend also having a pair with some wind-resistance for those really cold days or when it’s particularly windy. I size up my pants so that I can wear another layer on them, if needed.
On Tights Long (US$ 119.99)
My favourite tights! I wear these most of the winter. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. True to size, or size up if between sizes.
On Running Pants (US$ 169.99)
These pants have a wind-resistant layer on the thighs, so they work well when it is colder or windy. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. True to size, or size down if between sizes.
Lululemon Fast and Free Brushed Fabric High-Rise Tight (US$ 128)
Nice soft fabric, with spacious pockets on both sides. Available in women’s sizing. True to size.
Long Socks
No bare ankles in the winter, please! For most of the winter I wear regular weight socks since I am just looking to protect my bare skin from the cold. On very cold days, I will reach for a pair with merino wool (these are great especially if your feet get cold). Keep in mind that if you opt for thick socks, you may need shoes in a 1/2 size bigger to accommodate them!
On High Socks (US$ 21.99)
Regular weight socks that are nice and long to keep your ankles covered. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. True to size.
Icebreaker Merino Hike+ Light Crew Socks (US$ 22)
A lightweight sock with merino wool for added insulation. Women’s version shown, but there is also a men’s version available. True to size.
Icebreaker Merino Hike+ Medium Crew Socks (US$ 24)
A midweight sock with merino wool for colder days. Women’s version shown, but there is also a men’s version available. True to size.
Long Sleeve Shirt
A good insulating top layer will keep your body heat close to your core while you're moving. I love merino wool base layers in the winter because they’re breathable but warm. I have two weights in my closet (200 and 260) that I can choose depending on how cold it is outside. I don’t reach for the heavier one very often, but I am happy to have it when I need it. These are great for layering!
On warmer days, or if I’m wearing a heavier jacket, I will opt for a lightweight long sleeve like the On Performance Long-T. This is very breathable and perfect for fall and spring runs when it’s not too chilly out.
Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top (US$ 95)
Merino base layer that I wear on most of my winter runs. Women’s version shown, but there is also a men’s version available. Fits snug, but is true to size.
Icebreaker Merino 260 Tech Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top (US$ 115)
A heavier merino base layer for very cold days. Women’s version shown, but there is also a men’s version available. Fits snug, but is true to size.
On Performance Long-T (US$ 79.99)
Lightweight long-sleeve great for warmer winter runs. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. Looser fit, but true to size.
Jacket
If there is any piece that is worth investing it, it is a wind / water resistant running jacket. Cutting the wind is the best way to stay warm in the winter. I like a thin jacket that I can layer over warmer shirts. You will be surprised how much heat your trunk produces, so I would not recommend anything too heavy (except maybe on those -40° days!). Plus, layering allows for more versatility compared to a heavier jacket. I would not recommend a waterproof jacket, since they tend to be less breathable.
On Weather Jacket (US$ 239.99)
The most versatile running jacket in my closet, and the one I wear 90% of the time. It is light weight, and can be worn in fall/spring or winter with the right base layer. It does a great job against wind and precipitation. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. True to size, or size up if between sizes.
On Trail Breaker (US$ 199.99)
This is technically not a jacket, but I wear it as one. It has a water-repellant fabric that does well against rain, snow, and wind. Available in men’s and women’s sizing. Looser fit, I recommend sizing down.
On Insulator Jacket (US$ 299.99)
A warmer option that is great for cold days or very long, slow runs in the winter. I wear this on runs that are stop-and-go otherwise I find I’m too warm. Roomy zip pockets in the front. Great jacket for dat-to-day in the fall and spring, as well! Available in men’s and women’s sizing. Looser fit, but true to size.
Gloves
I always wear thin gloves in the winter, especially at the start of a run. I find my hands warm up in 5-10 minutes, and often I end up taking them off if my hands start to sweat. On really cold days I may wear thick gloves to start, and then switch to thinner ones once I'm warm. It is sometimes annoying to carry two pairs, but I find the temperature of my hands fluctuates more than any other body part! Gloves will also keep your skin from drying out.
Icebreaker Unisex Merino Quantum Gloves (US$ 45)
I wear these lightweight merino gloves all the time, both while running and while out doing errands. They have touchscreen-compatible fingertips, so no need to take them off when taking your running selfies. Unisex sizing.
Craft Hybrid Weather Gloves (US$ 34.99)
These are two-in-one gloves with a waterproof mitt cover which are great on windy days. They have touchscreen-compatible fingertips, so no need to take them off when taking your running selfies. Unisex sizing. (Link for Canada)
Outdoor Research Transcendent Down Mitten (US$ 60)
These mitts are overkill for most runs, but if you’re like me and have cold hands at the beginning of these runs it may be worth it to have a toasty option, then switch to thinner gloves once your body has had the chance to warm up. (Link for Canada)
Hat
Keeping your head and ears warm will play a big role in keeping you comfortable while running in the winter. Striking that balance between warm enough but overheating can be difficult, so you may find you have to try a couple options before finding your perfect match. I find I get sweaty with a thick hat, so opt for more lightweight options. I will also utilize the hood of my jacket if it is windy.
Icebreaker Merino Headband (US$ 20)
This lightweight headband keeps your ears covered during the run. I like that I can also slip it on over a running cap if I feel so inclined. Unisex sizing.
Icebreaker Merino Chute (US$ 30)
I know, it doesn’t look like a hat! But trust me — It’s technically a neck-warmer, but I double it up and wear it as a toque to get a double-layer of warmth. I love that versatility! Unisex sizing.
On Merino Beanie (US$ 49.99)
A warmer option, this is a classic merino wool beanie. A bit too warm for me when running, but it’s great to pop on during the cool down. Unisex sizing.
Conclusion
I know it can be a bit stressful to step outside when you’re not 100% certain of what you should wear (will I be too cold? too hot?), but I assure you that you just need to try and you’ll figure it out quickly. Don’t let the weather stop you from running!
This is not a sponsored post! As always, I provide my real opinion on the products being reviewed. This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase I will make a small commission at no cost to you.
