Best winter workout gear: jackets, leggings, sunglasses, and more

Winter gear is all about layers; They are key to keeping you warm on cold days. The Ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Crew and Down Woolies Tech Baselayer is designed to be a mid-weight base layer for all your winter activities. The thermal materials consist of Merino Wool and Nylon “Core” Elastane Jersey, allowing you to move freely. Merino wool wicks away moisture, keeping you dry and odor-free during extreme outdoor activities. Reviewers say these thermals keep them warm while biking and running, and they’re not bulky, making them perfect for layering. Some loved these layers so much that they bought extra pairs year after year.

Swiftwick Pursuit Four Socks are designed to keep you cool in the summer and warm during the winter. The socks are made of Merino wool, which helps regulate body temperature and keeps your feet dry. Best of all, these socks can be worn comfortably whether you’re hiking, running, biking or trail running. One reviewer praised that the socks handled Portland’s rainy and cold climate well during his runs. Another person mentioned that they wear these socks all year round and it’s the only brand they wear.

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

These wraparound sunglasses are perfect for any of your favorite winter activities. Although the lenses are large, 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 during biking, hiking, and other winter sports. A few people mentioned that the sunglasses are also versatile enough to be used in the summer and can be used while playing sports like volleyball and baseball.

If you’re looking for classic sunglasses that will stay put while you run, Goodr’s OG A Ginger’s Soul sunglasses will fit your needs. Non-reflective glasses will not slip or bounce during the most rigorous activities. Lenses provide 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.

Well-fitting leggings can make your winter activities more enjoyable and eliminate the worry of freezing while spending hours outdoors. Title Nine’s Crash 2.0 Polartec Tight boot is made with Polartec fleece designed to keep you warm and chafe-free. You have the option of purchasing solid color or striped socks. Women who have reviewed these socks across the board agree that these socks keep them warm and dry during colder and more humid weather.

If you’re looking for a puffer jacket that’s not bulky but is still practical, Lululemon’s Another Mile jacket fits the bill. The stretchy jacket is designed to be worn during winter activities and is designed to move with you. The waterproof material also keeps you dry no matter the outside elements. Reviewers share that the jacket 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, so it’s best to size up.

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

Under Armor is known to have winter gear to keep you warm even during the harshest winter elements. The ColdGear Reactor Performance Hybrid will keep you insulated and ready for 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 when the temperature is below 30 degrees, and another said they liked that this product was a jacket-vest hybrid. Other satisfied reviewers said the jacket kept them warm during their winter rounds and golf games.

The Asics Lite-Show Winter Tight is a good choice if you want to stay warm and well-supported during cold winter days. The tights are form-fitting but have a waist band that allows you to adjust them to get your best fit. Reviewers who swear by these socks say they used them as a base layer for work, while others say they kept them warm on the coldest days of winter throughout their extended run. These socks also include Firefly technology that helps you stay visible even at night.

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