As we start looking over our shoulder on this extraordinary year, the experts from Ronhill, Hilly, and Altra are here to give us their top tips on continuing to run through the winter.

With the cold-snap of winter fast approaching and the threat of snow, rain, and misty mornings more present than ever - your desire to get outside and get running can be tested to the limit. At Runners Need, we work hard to help you stay motivated for the many miles ahead. We know a positive uplift in your regular running routine can enable you to continue your progress towards a healthy body and mind - crucial as the temperature plummets.

That's why with the help of Ronhill, Hilly, and Altra, we’ve put together a list of winter top tips to help you keep up the pace this winter, from keeping warm in sub-zero temperatures to staying seen on dark city streets - discover all you need to smash that New Year PB this winter with Runners Need.

Here’s our list of top winter running tips to consider:

As the nights draw in venturing outside for your evening run in the dark can seem daunting. Ensure you’re seen, secure, and safe with a hi-visibility running vest or reflective jacket – giving you the reassurance you need that you're visible to cars on the road and other pedestrians on the trails and tracks.

In the cooler winter temperatures, your body might take longer to spring to life than usual. Why not try spending 5 or 10 mins lightly stretching and mobilising the lower back, hips, and hamstrings before heading out the door, especially if you’ve been sitting at your home desk all day. This small change can help prepare your body for your running routine and get the blood pumping to help warm you up faster.

A good quality waterproof jacket with a hood makes all the difference when you're in the rain. Keeping dry and protected will prevent you from getting wet and stops your core body temperature from dropping. Check the weather before you go out so you have the best chance of getting your layering right and preventing being too hot or cold. 

For those looking to make a positive change in their winter running wardrobe – why not start from the feet up with our incredible range of Hilly socks? Made for races, roads, and trails – our fantastic running sock range from Hilly ensures you put your best foot forward this winter.

Running the same routes can become over-familiar and boring. Spice up your running routine by exploring new locations and building up a mix of distances and terrains to keep it interesting!

The winter can seem drawn out at times. Why not challenge yourself to do something different by signing up for a racing challenge? Whether it’s the Couch-to-5k, a parkrun, or the Ronhill #runeverday challenge in October – grab this New Year by the horns and sign up for something daring!

Winter presents new challenges with terrain and conditions underfoot. This winter, why not invest in a comfortable pair of running shoes that provide the guidance and support you need and then, when they have managed all the mileage they can, recycle them with the Runners Need Recycle My Run scheme and replace them with a new working pair.

If you're looking for a new pair of winter race, road, or trail running shoes, why not check out our incredible collection of Altra Shoes? Whether you’re a beginner runner or an experienced athlete, Altra has a pair of running shoes to suit every need.