Working out in the winter is not easy, but it can be done. With the right winter workout gear, you can still exercise in icy weather. You should wear clothes that regulate and retain your body heat. Unless you’re taking a hot yoga class, a tank and shorts won’t cut it for a winter workout

What Do People Wear to Workout in Winter?

By layering your winter workout gear, you’ll be able to add or take away pieces depending on your body temperature. Founder and lead trainer of Gym Near Me Vivian Yu suggests building your winter workout gear in three parts. The personal trainer said each outfit should consist of a base layer, insulation and a weather-resistant outer layer. 

Your base layer should help manage moisture and retain body heat. The insulation should help keep you warm. Yu recommends wearing a fleece sweater. The outer layer should be something waterproof and windproof, like a parka or jacket. The outer layer keeps you protected from the elements and strong gusts of ice-cold wind.

Best Base Layer

Lululemon’s Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt

Lululemon’s Swiftly Tech Long-Sleeve Shirt is a body-hugging top that is breathable with thumbholes. This top features a seamless fabric that has technology woven to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing. Shop this piece of winter workout gear in sizes 0 to 20.  

Best Cold-weather Running Shoe

Hoka’s Clifton 9 GTX

$160
Photo Courtesy of Hoka

Hoka’s Clifton 9 GTX are a pair of winter running shoes. It’s a weatherproof sneaker with a traction-enhanced outsole. For winter workouts, these sneakers give you stability. They stop you from falling on icy wet surfaces. Shop this all gender black and blue sneaker in women’s sizes 5 to 15. 

Best Cold-weather Training Sock

LEAKDRY’s Breathable Waterproof Socks

LEAKDRY’s Breathable Waterproof Socks have three performance-ready layers. There’s the merino wool outer, along with a waterproof layer and a breathable membrane. These layers keep dirt, rocks and water out, while keeping your sweat under control. A pair of waterproof socks are one of the most important pieces for winter workout gear.

Best Glove

Brooks Fusion Midweight Glove

$38
Photo Courtesy of Brooks

You should add gloves to the winter workout gear list. Brooks’ Fusion Midweight Glove is designed for working out. Each glove features magnetized cuffs, tech-compatibility and mesh ventilation. Shop this piece in two colors and sizes XS to XL. 

Best Headlamp

LHKNL Waterproof Headlamp Flashlight Duo

Grab a headlamp for your cold-weather runs. “While reflective gear can be included in your clothing… [a headlamp] is essential for ensuring visibility to others,” Yu said. LHKNL’s Waterproof Headlamp Flashlight Duo is a set of two rechargeable headlamps.

Best Neck Gaiter

Buff Original Multifunctional Headwear

Buff’s Original Multifunctional Headwear serves as a neck gaiter, headband or head covering. Since it’s an adjustable piece, you can cover what you need to when you need to as you workout. Shop two colors in a universal size. 

Best Water Bottle

Owala FreeSip 24oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Water in the cold turns into ice. That’s why Yu recommended grabbing an insulated water bottle that will keep your water a liquid. Owala’s FreeSip 24oz Stainless Steel Water Bottle is a BPA-free insulated stainless steel water bottle that comes with a built-in straw. In the warm months, it will keep your water cold for up to 24 hours. Shop your favorite of the 13 color options.

Best Weatherproof Jacket

The North Face Antora Triclimate

$260
Photo Courtesy of The North Face

The North Face Antora Triclimate jacket is actually two pieces in one. The base layer is a fleece jacket with a front zip and zip pockets. The waterproof outer layer features an adjustable three-piece hood, draft flap over the front zip and an internal elastic draw cord at the hem. Together, these pieces stack to create a weatherproof lightweight jacket that you can workout in. 

Best Winter Running Tight

Athleta Rainier Tight

$109
Photo Courtesy of Athleta

Athleta’s Rainier Tight is a high-rise high-compression legging that will keep you warm during a winter workout. This sweat-wicking cold-weather tight features reflective details, a side pocket and brushed interior for added warmth. Shop 11 colors in regular sizes XXS to 3X and petite sizes XXS to L.

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