1 yr. ago • 100%

Recommendations for beginner winter running clothes?

2 1/2 weeks ago, I started going for short (25-40 minutes) daily morning runs. Right now the temperature is mostly 10C or higher, so I can just wear shorts and a t-shirt. One day it was below 8, felt a bit cold, and so I got a functional (=plastic) sport long sleeve. That works well, and I can even wear a t-shirt under it if it gets colder (tested it, currently too warm, but I'll probably do that for 6c and lower). Cleaning is easy, I just take it in the shower with me.

But now I'm worried about it getting colder, not running, getting out of the routine and not starting again.

What does one get for temperatures around 0 or slightly below, that's also cleanable and dryable for the next day, that preferably also doesn't break the bank?

Edit: just to clarify, mainly looking for pants, but will happily take top recommendations as well.

edit2: Just wanted to say thank you to everyone here :) I got a merino beanie and a running windbreaker with a neck-protection. I’ll get running tights if I start feeling the need for them.

17 comments

If you're talking 0c then really any normal running gear should be good still. Some of those stretchy calf length pants work relatively well. It might be a bit brisk to start off but if I've learned one thing after a few frozen runs it's dress for the finish not the start. It gets really obnoxious to have a bulky coat on half way through, particularly when there's no need to wait around at the start where it might keep you warm.

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- So currently, I'm just wearing my normal cargo pants, you think I could probably just keep going with those? Or are stretchy plastic pants something I would need?
  
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  So long as it's comfortable. Somewhat counterintuitively it seems like tighter is better in cold in my experience. Less space for sweat and air to move around and cool things off as you run.
  
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One thing to keep in mind is that when you start your running, you might be a bit cold, but you'll warm up fast. So dress for the end of the run, the warm-down walk.

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I've liked my thermal tights from 2XU. Had them since 2014, and used in negative Cs (maybe down to -5C?). Feels very chilly when you first go out, but then gets quite comfortable once you get running.

I can't run outside myself until Spring now myself - suffering from runner's knee now and slowly recovering, but it can still start hurting in the middle of a run. Having to stop to walk back in the middle of a run is not ideal when it's cold outside and you are dressed for running and not walking.

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I am not shure if it's professional attire, but I work well with Thermoleggings worn under my short trousers. They normally dry pretty fast. Also essential: One buff for the neck, one for ears. Maybe you could get a functional Softshell Jacket? I like the ones with a lot of zippers for additional Air If needed

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- Aren't thermoleggings usually wooly? How would they dry within a day?
  
  What's a buff? Googling it suggests a brand, so are they just kinda neckerchiefs for wind protection?
  
  The part about zippers for extra air is a great tip, never would have though of that.
  
  Thank you :)
  
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  The ones I have aren't, but all I can say about them is that they are no name ones from Aldi. I guess a thicker leggings does the job, too.
  
  Yes, that sums it up very good!
  
  No prob:)
  
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Ski underwear and socks made from wool / merino / synthetic, and top layer wind resisting running set. Plus something to keep hands and head warm. If too cold add additional layers of t-shirts in beetween. For night runs a headlight is a life saver.

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- With Ski underwear, I’d worry about not being able to clean & dry them within a day?
  
  For night runs a headlight is a life saver.
  
  Heh, first run at 4:40 am or so. Wanted to run along the water. "Fuck, I literally can’t see the road". I ran laps through two 1-block parks which are not lit, but are bright enough from the nearby streetlights. Kinda liked that I can easily count how much I ran (both parks together are 250 meters), so I kept running there even for days when I ran later, and it started getting brighter.
  
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  Merino ski underwear is dry in no time 🙂
  
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A water wicking under layer will keep you pretty toasty. Get yourself some marino wool socks too. You want your feet dry and warm.

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- What water wicking under layer can I wash and dry within a day, though?
  
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  You can wash and dry any clothes within a day?
  
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Mittens are often warmer than gloves, if you don't need your fingers. A headband will let excess heat dissipate, whereas a hat will keep it in.

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