Best Winter Workout Gear: Must-Have Jackets, Leggings, Sunglasses and More

Winter gear is all about layers; they’re key to keeping you warm on frigid days. The Ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Crew and the Woolies Tech Base Layer Bottoms are intended to be a midweight base layer for all your winter activities. The thermals are made up of merino wool and nylon “Core” Elastane Jersey, allowing you to move freely. The merino wool is moisture-wicking, keeping you dry and odor-free during your most extreme outdoor activities. Reviewers say that these thermals keep them warm during bike rides and runs, and they’re anything but bulky, making them ideal for layering. Some loved these layers so much that they bought extra pairs year after year.

The Swiftwick Pursuit Four socks are designed to keep you cool in the summer and warm during the winter. The socks are made out of merino wool, which helps regulate body temperature and keeps your feet dry. The best part is these socks can be worn comfortably whether you’re going on a hike, run, bike ride or trail run. One reviewer raved that the socks even handled Portland’s rainy and cold climate well during his runs. Another person mentioned that they wear these socks year-round and it’s the only brand they wear. 

Keeping your ears and head covered is important when being active in the cold outdoors. Smartwool’s Merino 250 Reversible Headband offers proper coverage of the ears and head and is designed for all genders. It is made up of merino wool and is double-layered, making it ideal for being active during low temperatures. Some reviewers say they use this headband during skiing and snowboarding, while others have worn it while hiking and running. One person said they turned to outdoor running during the pandemic and this headband withstood the cold winters of Chicago. 

These wraparound sunglasses are ideal for any of your favorite winter activities. Although the lenses are big, the glasses are lightweight and have a nose pad so they sit comfortably on your nose. These glasses look best on oval, heart-shaped and round faces. Reviewers share that these stay put while cycling, hiking and other winter sports. A few people mentioned that the sunglasses are also versatile enough to use in the summer and can be used while playing sports such as volleyball and baseball. 

If you’re looking for classic sunglasses that will stay on during your run, Goodr’s OG A Ginger’s Soul sunglasses will fit your needs. The non-reflective glasses won’t slip or bounce during your most rigorous activities. The lenses offer 100% UV400 protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Reviews show that the majority of buyers are satisfied with this classic set of sunglasses that are ideal for all forms of outdoor activities, especially running. Some reviewers say they loved their first pair enough that they bought more Goodr styles. 

The right leggings can make your winter activities more enjoyable and remove the worry of freezing while spending hours outdoors. Title Nine’s Crash 2.0 Polartec Tight is made with Polartec fleece designed to keep you warm and chafe-free. You have the choice to purchase the tights in a solid or striated color. Women who reviewed these tights across the board agree these tights keep them warm and dry during the coldest and wettest weather. 

If you’re looking for a puffer vest that isn’t bulky yet is still functional, Lululemon’s Another Mile vest fits the bill. The stretchy vest is intended to be worn during winter activities and is designed to move with you. The water-repellent material also keeps you dry no matter the elements outside. Reviewers share that the vest is the perfect layer to keep them warm even when wearing a sweatshirt. One reviewer said it kept her warm when she wore it while playing tennis and cycling. One thing to keep in mind is that it runs small, therefore it’s best to size up. 

When you’re planning on going winter camping or hiking and need a reliable base layer, the IcebreakerBodyFit 200 Oasis leggings are a great choice. They are made up of merino wool to keep you dry during your long winter excursions. It’s soft, comfortable and was designed to move with you and the slim fit makes it easy to layer. Reviews across the board say that these thermals are the best all-around for activities such as hiking, mountain biking, skiing and running, and even those frigid days when you just need an extra layer. 

Under Armour is known to have winter gear to keep you warm during even the harshest of wintry elements. Its ColdGear Reactor Performance Hybrid will keep you insulated and prepared for those early morning runs, hikes, cycling sessions and more. The jacket is breathable and lightweight so it doesn’t feel bulky. One reviewer recommended wearing thermals under this layer on days that are below 30 degrees, and another said they liked that this item is a hybrid between a hoodie and a jacket. Other satisfied reviewers said the jacket kept them warm during their winter runs and golf games. 

The Asics Lite-Show Winter Tight is a good choice if you want to stay warm and well-supported during those cold winter days. The tights are form-fitting yet include a drawcord waist tie to let you adjust it for your best fit. Reviewers who swear by these tights say they’ve used it as a base layer for work, while others say it kept them warm on the coldest winter days for the duration of their long runs. These tights also include Firefly technology which helps you remain visible even at nighttime. 

If you don’t let the elements of winter, including snow, stop you from being active, then you need the right footwear. The Brooks Cascadia 15 GTX is a good choice for men and women who want a shoe with the right amount of stability and grip for exploring the most uneven terrains. Reviewers call it the perfect trail running or hiking shoe because it is waterproof, well-cushioned, has a firm sole and supports even high-arched feet.