6 Running Essentials To Add To Your Winter Wardrobe

By Katherine Brook

Jacket on, jacket off, leggings or shorts, gloves, no gloves, hat? Getting ready for your run during winter can be a tough decision - it can be easy to over-dress (or under-dress). Luckily, activewear has come a long way in recent years, designed in performance-enhancing material that’s both lightweight and insulating, meaning you only need a few essential items to keep you warm and run-ready.

I never wear more than 2-3 layers on my upper body: a long-sleeved lightweight tee and/or a slightly thicker top, and a jacket. On my legs, I often wear shorts throughout most of the year but when the temperature really drops I will switch to leggings and most recently, even running trousers - yes, there really is a trouser you can enjoy running in. Depending on the chill factor, I’ll top the outfit off with a pair of gloves and a buff, for a little extra warmth.

PERFORMANCE LONG-T

This lightweight long-sleeved T is my go-to when the temperature drops. Blending breathability with warmth, it helps to regulate body temperature, so whether you wear it alone or layer it with a thicker jumper, its adaptive quality means you’ll never get too hot - or cold. Its sleek design makes it ideal for everyday use too.

RUNNING TIGHTS

Finding a pair of leggings, you can trust to stay up, have secure pockets and are compressive without being restrictive is no easy feat. That’s why I like the long running tights from On - they’ve got a pocket for my keys or phone, a pull cord waist, and even reflective details to help you stay seen in the dark.

RUNNING TROUSERS

If you hadn’t noticed, I like to keep things as lightweight as possible when I run, so I never would have thought that I’d be adding a pair of trousers to my running wardrobe. But trust me, the running trousers will soon be a staple in yours too. The knees have an open mesh panel, for added breathability, and the zip side pocket is secure enough that I can run with my phone in it without causing any discomfort or pull on the trousers.

WEATHER JACKET

I often like to hit the trails for my runs, head along coastal paths or into the mountains, and the weather jacket has saved me from many a windy day. It also has DWR - a durable water repellent coating - to protect you from light showers, and adjustable hood. Don’t worry about overheating either, made from a highly stretchable fabric that features a micro-ventilation-pattern, it’s incredibly breathable - it also folds up neat and small if you want to take it in your running pack.

CLOUDFLYER WATERPROOF

There’s nothing worse than getting caught in a downpour and then having to trudge along with soggy feet for the rest of your run. Luckily, On has taken one of their best running shoes and made it both waterproof and windproof. The Cloudflyer waterproof is the next-gen edition of the Cloudflyer has Helion™ superfoam for cushioning, a bespoke Speedboard™ and a new and improved membrane that’s 100% windproof and waterproof. You’ll be wearing these throughout winter and beyond.