The Winter Running Gear That Will Make You Forget It's Cold

This half-zip from Under Armour has been a staple in our running wardrobe for years now! We think they really nailed it with the fit — it's next-to-skin without the compression, and the material is super stretchy, so you'll be warm and protected from the elements without feeling restricted or squeezed. 

It's super versatile, too — wear it alone over a sports bra, as a thin jacket with a light layer underneath, or under a heavier coat when the winds are really whipping. 

More: Never Go for a Winter Run Without a Pair of Gloves

If you're someone who doesn't like it when your neck feels suffocated by a half-zip, the mock neck is the way to go. It keeps the cold air from seeping down your chest, but still gives you room to breathe. 

This pick from Under Armour has dual-layer fabric — the inside layer is built for warmth and the outside layer is built to dry quickly. Plus, it also has anti-odor technology, making it that much easier to go from winter run to winter beer.

Built with Columbia's signature Omni-Heat technology, this vest was made for winter running. Not only will these bright colors help you stand out on the road, but it also contains reflective fabric, too. Stash your keys or phone in the interior pocket, and you'll be ready to hit the pavement.

$70.99

Also a favorite winter running vest at Runner's World, the Cascadia vest from Brooks has everything you could want. It's weather-resistant, reflective, and has a stretchy fabric, light insulation, and several zippered pockets for storing your belongings. Reviewers say it's a bit snug, so you might want to go up a size.

These are some of the best running tights around. Notable features include a super stretchy construction that moves with you like a second skin, a brushed fleece lining that's extremely warm and comfortable, and ample pocket space for essentials — like gels, keys, and credit cards — and a flattering fit. What more do you need for winter runs?

For guys who aren't too keen on wearing tights, Lululemon's Surge joggers are the perfect alternative. These have a streamlined fit at the waist and through the upper legs, with a narrower fit below the knee, for a look and feel you'll adore. 

You can store essentials in the back zipper pocket, rather than having your phone and keys bounce around with every stride. We love the zippers at the cuffs, making these easy to take off if you heat up midrun (but only if you have shorts underneath).

These fleece-lined leggings from Gap are our editor's favorite pair for winter running. The fleece is stretchy, so you're able to move freely in them and not feel like you're constantly pulling them up every half-mile. They also come with a reflective stripe, so you can feel safe running on the roads.

These fleece-lined leggings for men are perfect for wearing under your favorite pair of running shorts. They give you that extra warmth without constricting your stride. These tights come with leg zippers so you can easily get them on and off, plus a zipper in the back that's perfect for storing keys or a credit card. Check out the matching base layer, too.

The Guide series from Saucony has been a best-seller for ages and truly delivers a — in their words — "plush and supportive" ride. It features their proprietary technology, EVERUN, which offers a more lively cushion that'll last you longer. Our editors have run 16 half-marathons in these, so, yes, you can take our word for it. If you need one running shoe for all seasons, let the Guide be it.

New Balance is right at the forefront of running shoe innovation with so many of the other brands offering a plush foam sole. With the 1080v7, they've combined a mesh, breathable upper with quite possibly the most foam support in any of their shoes yet, making it easier than ever for you to log big miles. The indents in the foam are actually purposeful, providing you with more flexibility for each and every step.

Slipping on a pair of slick new running shoes without the proper socks is such a disservice to your feet! It doesn't get much more comfortable and high-performance for winter runs than these cable-knit crew socks from Smartwool. 

The merino-wool blend means they're warm, breathable, and quick-drying, and they feature the company's Light Elite cushioning for the just-right fit in your fresh new kicks. Check out our favorite Smartwool socks for men here.

More: Keep Your Feet Warm With These Wool Socks

The inner lining of these gloves wicks sweat quickly, so even once things heat up midway through a longer run, your hands won't feel clammy. Don't let cold fingers be the reason you stop a run early — keep them toasty with these liners that fit like a second skin.  

Your ears are two places on your body where you'll feel the cold hit first, so keep the chill at bay by sporting this fleece-lined headband. More than just an ear cover, this headband is wind-resistant and quick-drying, so it'll keep cold air off your skin and expel moisture as you sweat.

More: These Sweatbands Keep Perspiration Out of Your Eyes

Not just for running, this beanie can be a staple for any outdoor winter activity. The fabric is super breathable, yet it also retains heat as well. The ear flap addition is something we never knew we needed until we put this on our heads. It makes all the difference during windy days on a winter run.