Staying outdoors and embracing winter running is great for both body and mind. Fresh air and natural daylight during shorter winter days helps support better sleep and mood, while running in tougher conditions builds mental resilience and confidence. The right kit is what keeps it enjoyable, so here are our top picks to see you through the season.
The key to feeling both warm, comfortable, and unrestricted when you’re running in winter is layering properly. Here’s how:
When you head out for a run, try dressing as if it’s about 10°F (5°C) warmer than the actual temperature. You’ll warm up quickly once you start moving.
Base Layers
Your base layer sits closest to the skin and is all about moisture management.
Choose lightweight, breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics (like merino wool or technical synthetics).
Avoid cotton, which holds moisture.
Our top picks: Our Runna Long Sleeve Training Top is the perfect winter base layer. It's made from high-filament yarn that wicks away sweat to keep you dry once you start warming up and the breathable construction gives you the coverage you want without weighing you down.
If you like a tighter-fitting base layer, the Under Armour ColdGear long sleeve is very effective at keeping you warm in truly cold conditions. It has a mock neck design for added coverage and the fit is comfortable and streamlined.
Mid Layers
Mid layers provide extra warmth, insulation and help retain body heat.
Quarter zips and fleeces make great mid layers.
The thickness should match the conditions — lighter for milder winter days, warmer for very cold or windy runs
This layer should feel warm when you step outside, but not bulky or restrictive
Our top picks: The HOKA Basezip mid layer is very soft, breathable and thumbholes to keep your hands protected from the cold. It also has a clever elongated zip that you can adjust as you start to warm up during your run if needed.
The Runna Quarter Zip is also very effective at balancing advanced heat retention with moisture-wicking fabric, it will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. Pockets also store your essentials.
Outer Layers
Your outer layer protects you from the elements. Look for windproof or water-resistant jackets for wet and windy conditions
Running-specific gilets and windbreakers will protect you without restricting movement.
A packable jacket can be useful so you can stash it if you warm up mid-run.
Our top picks: The Nike Storm-FIT Swift really protects you from the elements whilst remaining lightweight and breathable. It fits slightly oversized to allow all you to layer efficiently underneath.You can also opt for a gilet like the adidas Essentials Windproof Gilet, which blocks out harsh winds and is a very versatile outer that can also be packed into a small pocket.
Gloves and Mittens
Your hands (and head) are some of the first places you lose heat when running in the cold. Cold hands often lead to tension through the arms and upper body, causing stiffness and discomfort that can affect your running form. A good pair of running gloves helps retain warmth, keep muscles relaxed, and make winter runs feel far more comfortable.
Our top picks:
The lululemon Fast and Free Fleece Running Gloves are ideal for early-morning winter runs. Lightweight, breathable and so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing them — with touchscreen compatibility for easy phone use.
The Montane Protium Stretch Fleece Gloves are a top pick from Team Runna's Emma who has completed the Arc 100, a relentless 100-mile ultra through the UK's harshest winter weather. They are very warm and moisture-wicking, but also breathable.
Socks
There's nothing worse than having wet and cold feet on a winter run so investing in proper waterproof, warm socks is a game-changer. Proper winter running socks will protect your feet even when water comes over the top of your shoes, something waterproof running shoes alone can’t always prevent.
Our top picks:
Look for socks made from merino wool. They naturally regulate temperature to keep feet warm in the cold and cool when you heat up, while their excellent moisture-wicking properties help keep feet dry and reduce the risk of blisters.
SealSkinz Waterproof Bircham Socks are a go-to for winter and trail running. These waterproof, breathable socks keep feet warm and dry in wet, muddy conditions, even when water comes over the top of your shoes.
Buffs and Neck Warmers
A buff is a simple but effective winter running essential that is easy to overlook. It helps trap warmth around the neck and face, reducing heat loss in cold conditions. It also offers flexible protection from wind, rain and frost, and can be adjusted easily as your body temperature changes during a run.
Our top picks:
You can get different designs of running neckwear from Buff. Their buffs and scarfs are made with fabric that is very effective at wicking away moisture quickly whilst keeping you warm and dry.
Hats and Headbands
A significant amount of body heat is lost through the head and ears. Keeping this area warm helps maintain overall body temperature, making runs feel more comfortable in cold conditions. A good running hat or headband also manages sweat and shields ears from wind and frost.
Our top picks:
The Team Runna Headband is designed with advanced moisture management and warmth retention in mind. The reflective logo also adds extra visibility in the dark.
The Salomon RS PRO Headband is made from technical materials to keep your head warm even whilst running into cold winds. The fit is comfortable and light.
The On Core Beanie is highly effective at locking in warmth, feels very soft and even has a ponytail opening.
Accessories
Running lights or head torches help you see and be seen on darker routes. You can get lights that easily strap on to your chest like this one from Kiprun (UK). Lots of running lights are also available on Amazon.
We hope this kit guide has given you some winter kit inspiration and makes winter running feel that little bit easier. Keep following your Runna plan to stay consistent all winter long.