Winter isn’t just icy gales and driving snow—it typically offers some invigorating bluebird days to offset the oppressive ones. Accordingly, we tested a varied collection of men’s long-sleeved running shirts, optimized to perform in conditions ranging from New England’s wet, warmish shoulder season to frigid midwinter mountain adventures in Colorado’s high peaks. All of them worked well when worn on their own, as well as when paired with a technical T-shirt underneath or a jacket on top to achieve the right level of insulation.

At a Glance

• Best All-around:
• Best for Long Runs:
• Best for Cold and Dry Conditions:
• Best for Cold and Wet Conditions:
• Best for High-output Efforts:
• Best Men’s Running Jackets
• How to Choose Long-Sleeved Running Shirts
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around

Tracksmith Downeaster Hoodie

Currently Unavailable: Expected restock in January 2025

Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Breathable wool/polypropylene blend
⊕ Superior insulation without bulk
⊗ No pockets

The double-knit fabric throughout this handsome piece blends 60 percent Merino wool with 40 percent soft polypropylene, resulting in excellent wicking, soft against-skin feel, and hard-wearing durability. Unlike the many running tops that tack on a floppy hood as an afterthought, the Tracksmith model offers a well-designed scuba-style hood that protects from cold when pulled up and stays in place when worn down. The arm cuffs and waist are neatly hemmed, with subtle touches like a fabric hang loop on the back and a tastefully small logo patch on the waist. This medium-weight top provided enough insulation on its own for running well below the freezing mark, and the tailored fit allowed for layering under a shell or light jacket in colder conditions.

Best for Long Runs

Saucony Triumph 1/2-Zip

Sizing: S-3XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Deep zipper for versatile venting
⊕ Excellent wicking
⊗ Just one small pocket

This lightweight piece was a tester favorite for extended runs. The soft interior jacquard knit effectively wicked sweat, even on damp late winter/early spring days. The deep zipper allowed us to dump excess body heat easily, and pulled back up with snag-free ease. Worn up or down, the collar didn’t bounce, and a fabric guard at the top of the zipper added a welcome measure of comfort. The single waist pocket only holds a key and a credit card, but the streamlined fit made it a good choice for wearing as a base layer.

Best for Cold and Dry Conditions

REI Co-op Swiftland Thermal Running Crew Pullover

Sizing: S-3XL (some sizes are also available in Tall lengths)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Cozy fabric
⊕ Built-in hand covers
⊗ Floppy fit

This top’s soft, grid-back recycled polyester and spandex fleece interior provides solid insulation for freezing-point weather, even when worn alone. Paired with a shell jacket or a lightweight vest, the REI top kept testers warm well into the single digits. The unobtrusive crewneck makes it a good choice for layering, with a generous cut that comfortably accommodates base layers but may be too roomy for some runners’ tastes. Testers appreciated the wrist cuffs, with thumb holes and thick fold-over hand covers built into the sleeves that kept hands nicely protected even without gloves. A reflective chest logo and small panels on the sleeves provided safety in low-light conditions.

Best for Cold and Wet Conditions

Artilect Systems Boulder 125

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Impressive warmth-to-weight ratio
⊕ Breathable, quick-drying, and odor-resistant
⊗ Close fit that borders on clingy

This thin, long-sleeved merino shirt fended off a freezing mist that rolled across a Colorado lake during a 45-minute workout, keeping our tester warm and dry. The Nuyarn fabric combines merino wool and nylon in an innovative, durable weave that wicks moisture while providing an enjoyably soft and stretchy feel. The fit is decidedly snug and performance-oriented; we appreciated the comfortable flat seams and cozy against-skin feel. This garment can be tossed into a machine wash (use cold water) without other special care. But you won’t need to wash it often: One tester reported he wore it on runs every day for a week without washing and it never got skanky.

Best for High-Output Efforts

Le Bent Ultralight Long-Sleeve Tee

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Lightweight and breathable
⊕ Natural fiber softness and odor resistance
⊗ Loose fit somewhat floppy when running

The lightweight blend of Merino wool (37 percent), Nylon (10 percent), and bamboo rayon (53 percent) felt smoothly soft and, when worn over a technical T-shirt, provided effective insulation for running in temperatures from slightly above freezing up to the high 40s and low 50s Fahrenheit. It’s also a solid choice for wearing alone in warmer temps, with an SPF rating of 20 and enough breathability to push the pace without fear of overheating. It’s cut long and loose, making it a favorite for warming up on mild days or hitting the gym for strength or flexibility work. Plus, testers found the relaxed fit and clean design made them feel stylishly comfortable just about everywhere when worn casually.

How to Choose Men’s Long-Sleeved Running Shirts

Most runners have a go-to top for winter running. Sadly, all good things come to an end—if your favorite piece has become too threadbare, pilled, or stinky (it happens to the best of us) to endure for another season, take stock of its best qualities before ditching it. When replacing a warmth-oriented fleece, do not expect a lightweight top, no matter how highly rated it might be, to feel exactly like your old standby, but you should be able to find one that matches, or improves upon its performance. Be open to new fabrics and styles.

Also, consider your tendencies when it comes to heat regulation. Some runners hate pausing in the middle of workouts to add or remove a layer, so tops with deep zippers, arm vents, or other mechanisms for reducing heat on the fly are valued features on a men’s long-sleeved running shirt. If you don’t mind stopping to tie a shirt around your waist, however, a couple of lightweight or midweight tops might work better in combination than a single heavyweight top.

How We Test

Mark Eller led the test crew for this review. Based in Boulder, Colorado, he pursues running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities that keep him away from treadmills when the snow flies. He coordinated getting dozens of winter running items to additional testers in New England, the high plains, and the Rocky Mountains who wore the men’s long-sleeved running shirts in this review in a variety of cold conditions for many months before making their picks and writing their comments.

Meet Our Testers

Lead reviewer Mark Eller trains through the winter on the roads and trails near his hometown of Boulder, Colorado. He’s a three-time Boston Marathon veteran, a hack nordic skier, and a competitive racer in on-water racer rowing events.

Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Michael Rorick has run and raced in New England since his middle school track team days in Connecticut. He’s completed many editions of Boston, New York, and other major marathons.

Brian Metzler is the editor in chief of RUN and the founding editor of Trail Runner. A former walk-on Division I track athlete, he mostly runs on mountainous trails nowadays in Boulder and Leadville, Colorado.

Scott Douglas has run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen. He has held senior editorial positions at running publications and is the author or co-author of several well-known running books, including Advanced Marathoning, Meb for Mortals, and Running Is My Therapy. Scott runs every day unless injured, and always runs outside, either despite of or because of living in North Yarmouth, Maine.

Jonathan Beverly is no stranger to winter weather. He began running in high school on the Maine coast, trained for marathons for years in New York, and now can be found chasing windmills in the western Nebraska Sandhills, accompanied by his two dogs. He is the senior running gear editor for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř.

The post Winter-Tested Layers: The Best Men’s Long-Sleeved Running Shirts for Cold Weather appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

Even when the roads are iced over, the trails are covered in snow, and the wind is ripping, runners still ask themselves the question, “Can I get away with shorts today?” But there’s no need to sprint through your first mile in survival mode and finish your run with wind-burned thighs and a frozen grimace. The free-flowing, breathable materials, subtle muscle support, and well-tailored construction of men’s running pants and tights today make moving so comfortable they might convince you to wear them even on mild days.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around:
• Best for Winter Trail Running:
• Best Value:
• Best for Low-light Conditions:
• Most Versatile:
• Best for Coldest Days:
• Other Products We Tested
• How to Choose Winter Running Tights or Pants
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around

On Running Performance Winter Tights

Sizes: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Unmatched fabric comfort
⊕ Snug, supportive fit
⊗ High compression feel is not for everyone

Unlike other tights that get pulled off seconds after returning from a run, these On Running models were comfortable for extended post-workout stretching or even just lounging. The 74 percent recycled polyester, 26 percent elastane fabric is buttery smooth, with reassuring muscle support that was especially noticeable when descending steep terrain. The fit is close, bordering on too tight for some testers’ liking, but there was so much stretch that everyone ended up giving them high marks. The brushed fleece interior effectively wicks away moisture, and details like a comfortable flat drawstring, reflective patches, and abundant pockets also earned praise.

Best for Winter Trail Running

Nike AeroSwift DriFit Advantage

Sizes: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Best-in-class range of motion and support
⊕ Highly breathable
⊗ Lacks insulation for frigid days

These tights’ flex patterns and stretchy polyester/spandex fabric let us move so well that one tester actually wondered if they helped lengthen his stride. They proved well suited to charging hard on hilly trails, as the fabric breathed enough to prevent overheating during climbs while still shielding us from the cold on descents. We found them most comfortable in temperatures at or just below freezing, but they were a little too thin for colder weather.

Best Value

Adidas COLD.RDY Techfit Training Long Tights

Sizes: 2XS-4XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Similar features as premium-priced tights
⊕ Warmer than most tights
⊗ Heavier feel; bulky ankle zippers

While they weren’t as feather-light or soft against the skin as other styles in our test, these 93 percent recycled polyester, 7 percent elastane Adidas tights performed well in temperatures down to zero degrees Fahrenheit and provided a full array of features for a remarkably low price. The generous thigh pockets accommodated larger cell phones and held them securely without bouncing, and an interior fabric panel on the front added a welcome measure of extra warmth and support. The fit is close but not suffocating; however, the ankle zippers were somewhat bulky and obtrusive.

Best for Low-light Conditions

Brooks Run Visible Tight 2.0

Pros and Cons
⊕ Comfortable light compression
⊕ Color panels provide night visibility
⊗ But the neon is garish during the day

Reduced daylight in the winter months means more time running in dark and semi-dark conditions—the day-glow orange color panel and abundant reflective features on these tights added reassuring visibility. With dark comes cold, and the soft, medium-weight fabric was up to the task, even in damp New England conditions. The smooth waistband and flat drawstring were always comfortable and a small zippered pocket, plus another for larger items, carried our keys and phones securely.

Most Versatile

REI Co-op Swiftland Thermal Running Pants

Sizes: Short, Medium, and Tall lengths, XS-XXXL waist

Pros and Cons
⊕ Many sizes and lengths
⊕ Effective wind protection without sacrificing breathability
⊗ Built for comfort, not for speed

Available in an impressive range of sizes and lengths—and featuring a fit that’s distinctly more relaxed than the other leggings in this review—the Swiftland Thermal Running Pants are a great choice if you’re not interested in shiny fabrics or crotch-hugging closeness. The waffle-like inner fabric was plenty warm in conditions down to about zero degrees Fahrenheit, and the insulation was bolstered by front-facing wind-block panels. The zippered side pockets were roomy and secure, plus there’s a small additional back pocket (but no zipper, so we didn’t keep our keys back there). On really cold days you can easily fit a baselayer or close-fitting tights under these pants for a super warm ensemble. A bonus: 28 percent of the polyester in these pants’ main fabric is made from .

Best for Coldest Days

Craft ADV SubZ Running Wind Pants 2

Sizes: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Reliably warm in temps well below freezing
⊕ Overheat quickly in moderate conditions
⊗ Heavy, with small pocket openings

These winter pants proved their worth on a freezing-cold, overcast day in the Colorado mountains when a runnable trail disappeared into a snow drift, leading to an extended post-holing session. But even when plunged knee-deep in pow-pow, the thick, waterproof, double-layer polyester/polyurethane front and stretchy, brushed recycled polyester/elastane back fabric stayed warm and shielded out the elements. The soft, fleecy waistband, wind panels, and stretchy ankle cuffs upped the insulation factor. The pockets, however, were a little tight for stashing bulky gloves or mittens. There’s plenty of room in the cut for an additional layer of insulation underneath, but we honestly never resorted to that, as the Craft pants were a match for even the coldest weather.

Other Men’s Running Pants and Tights We Tested

• : Fabric was heavy, almost restrictive. High waisted. Best for below-zero temps.
• : Comfortably relaxed fit and good weather protection, but the fabric was slightly abrasive.
• : Testers didn’t love the contrast fabric look, or compressive feeling around the waist (not as stretchy as some) but liked the soft brushed interior.

How to Choose Men’s Running Pants or Tights

Consider the relative advantages of close-fitting tights and looser-fitting running pants. Stretchy tights do more than just insulate—they also provide muscle support and can help improve circulation. In moderate temperatures, typically down to the low 20s Fahrenheit, tights work fine on their own. When temperatures dip below that, they’re easily combined with wind pants or a heavier outer layer, creating a highly protective combination.

On the other hand (leg?), a pair of lightweight or midweight running pants offers improved modesty, comfort, ease of getting on and off, and freedom of motion. A downside is that the extra bulk means pants do not work as well for use as base layers. Running pants often provide roomier pockets, but what you place in them will bounce around more than whatever you can wedge into the pockets of tights. Pants also have the edge for non-running versatility—unless you’re cool with hanging it all out in the post-run coffee shop.

Once you know your style, fit and heat regulation top the list of priorities. Make sure the pants or tights neither constrict anywhere nor are too loose so that they get in the way or fail to stay up. How much insulation you need differs significantly per individual. Consider the conditions you’ll be running in most often and whether you tend to run hot or cold. The best pieces keep you from freezing while you’re warming up then breathe and vent well enough that you don’t overheat when you’re working hard.

How We Test

Mark Eller led the test crew for this review. Based in Boulder, Colorado, he pursues running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities that keep him away from treadmills when the snow flies. He coordinated getting dozens of winter running items to additional testers in New England, the high plains, and the Rocky Mountains who wore the gear in this review in a variety of cold conditions for many months before making their picks and writing their comments.

Meet Our Testers

Lead reviewer Mark Eller trains through the winter on the roads and trails near his hometown of Boulder, Colorado. He’s a three-time Boston Marathon veteran, a hack Nordic skier, and a competitive racer in on-water racer rowing events.

Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Michael Rorick has run and raced in New England since his middle school track team days in Connecticut. He’s completed many editions of Boston, New York, and other major marathons.

Brian Metzler is the Editor in Chief of RUN and the founding editor of Trail Runner. A former walk-on Division I track athlete, he mostly runs on mountainous trails nowadays in Boulder and Leadville, Colorado.

Scott Douglas has run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen. He has held senior editorial positions at running publications and is the author or co-author of several well-known running books, including Advanced Marathoning, Meb for Mortals, and Running is My Therapy. Scott runs every day unless injured, and always runs outside, either despite of or because of living in North Yarmouth, Maine.

Jonathan Beverly is no stranger to winter weather. He began running in high school on the Maine coast, trained for marathons for years in New York, and now can be found chasing windmills in the western Nebraska Sandhills, accompanied by his two dogs. He is the senior running gear editor for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř.

The post Never Miss a Day to Winter Weather with These Men’s Running Pants and Tights appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

In Buddhism, suffering is known as dukkha and is considered a fundamental characteristic of existence. It’s caused by ignorance but can be overcome. In that sense, the jackets in this collection offer a pathway to enlightenment: They relieve suffering by providing reliable warmth in conditions ranging from merely chilly to threateningly cold. Do not be afraid to experience winter, grasshoppers—no dukkha required.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around:
• Most Versatile:
• Best for Mild Temperatures:
• Best for Cold Temperatures:
• Best for Frigid Temperatures:
• Best for Wet Conditions:
• How to Choose a Winter Running Jacket
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around

Gorewear Concurve Gore-Tex Jacket

Weatherproofing: Gore-Tex fabric, leak-proof taped seams
Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Reliable warmth in wet and windy conditions
⊕ Full-length zipper allows for quick heat dumping
⊗ Tight fit in the arms is not suitable for everyone

This lightweight jacket kept us dry and comfortable, no matter what turns the conditions took. At the outset of a windy mountain run, the streamlined hood added welcome protection, and the nylon liner was warm and didn’t stick to our skin even when paired with only a synthetic T-shirt. Deeper into our workouts, opening the full-length zipper allowed us to dump excess heat quickly, and the breathable fabric performed flawlessly. Taped seams and a reliable Gore-Tex membrane prevented any hint of water penetration, even in a heavy spring Colorado snowstorm. The fabric moved moisture so well one tester reported his base layer shirt wasn’t soaked after a run during an early winter storm that changed from 30-something degrees with snow to high-40s and rain over the course of 4 miles. Our only quibbles were that the forearms were a tad restrictive for some testers, the fabric sounded a bit crinkly, and the lining behind the zipper sometimes caused jams.

Most Versatile

Goldwin Pertex Shieldair A/L Jacket

Weatherproofing: Pertex waterproof fabric, some taped seams (not shoulders)
Sizing: 2–5 proprietary sizes

Pros and Cons
⊕ Breathable, lightweight construction
⊕ Roomy cut allows layers underneath
⊗ Shoulder seams are not sealed

Whisper-light and eminently race-ready, this versatile shell shielded us from wind, rain, and cold without a hint of clamminess, even when running flat-out and uphill. The waterproof Pertex fabric is surprisingly soft and offers a welcome amount of stretch. Decidedly no-frills, the Shieldair lacks pockets, wrist closures, or anything that could add a hint of extra weight. Forgoing these features leaves a stripped-down but fully functional jacket that kept us warm and dry in all but the harshest conditions, especially when paired with a suitable mid-layer. While the shoulder seams are not fully sealed, we never noticed any leaking. It packs down to the size of a pop can and easily fits into waist-mounted packs, offering substantial, at-the-ready protection at a minimal weight cost.

Best for Mild Temperatures

Norrøna Senja Alpha90 Hooded Fleece

Weatherproofing: Recycled nylon face fabric provides partial wind protection
Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Loads of features combined in a lightweight package
⊕ Breathable fabric wicks away moisture
⊗ Minimal insulation for use as a mid-layer on frigid days

We wore this comfortable, lightly insulated top well into the fall and spring shoulder seasons—it proved just right, worn by itself or with a light baselayer, for days that started near the freezing mark and warmed into the 40s or low 50s. The stretchy, breathable Polartec grid fabric effectively carried sweat away, and when the temperature climbed, the deep, full-length zipper allowed for quick regulation. There’s no lack of features, including thumb loops, a roomy chest pocket, and a nicely tailored stretch hood. Some testers thought the Senja was a tad over-engineered for a lightweight piece and some deemed its temperature sweet spot too narrow, reducing its versatility.

Best for Cold Temperatures

Craft Adv SubZ Running Sweater 3

Weatherproofing: Wind-resistant front panel
Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Insulated front panel adds warmth and blocks wind
⊕ Zipper at the waist allows quick venting without a flopping collar
⊗ Slim cut limits layering options

The thick and cozy brushed recycled polyester and elastane fleece fabric on the sleeves and back made this jacket plenty warm for running in sub-freezing conditions, even during hour-long winter outings on damp New England trails. When the wind picked up, the three-layer, lightly insulated, wind-resistant chest panel offered solid protection without overheating—and if we needed to ventilate, a zipper that rises from the side of the waist meant that the collar didn’t bounce around annoyingly. This piece functions like a sweater/jacket hybrid—we often wore it paired with a wool T-shirt or long sleeve baselayer, a combination that worked well down to single digits or a few notches below zero degrees Fahrenheit. In extreme cold, you might need to add an outer shell, especially given the thinner, more breathable fabric on the sleeves and back.

Best for Frigid Temperatures

Ciele Athletics VLVInsulator

Weatherproofing: Water-repellant shell, wool/silk insulation, fleece lining
Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Warm liner combined with effective silk/wool insulation
⊕ Drawcord hem and hood closures seal out cold
⊗ High-crop waist leaves the midriff vulnerable

This jacket’s stand-out features—a hearty hood, wool/silk insulation, and fleece lining—are reminiscent of a winter parka, making it warm enough for runs down deep in the negative temps. But it’s also light and breathable enough for running in temperatures from the low-20s Fahrenheit. The two-way zipper is key for handling variable conditions; it allows cooling air in when needed, then easily seals shut again. We found the thick hood too warm for anything but genuinely frigid conditions, and the high crop at the waist sometimes let in drafts. If an exclusively black and gray running wardrobe is getting you down, check out the cheerful “Nelson” lavender color option.

Best for Wet Conditions

Arc’teryx Norvan Shell Jacket

Weatherproofing: Gore-Tex shell
Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Reliable protection in the heaviest storm conditions
⊕ Outstanding breathability
⊗ No tighteners for arm cuffs

This immaculately constructed jacket inspired our confidence in wet, stormy conditions. The highly breathable Norvan never wetted out, even during hard efforts in cold, snow, and rain. Lacking pit zips, pockets, or insulation, this shell is lightweight, packable, and highly mobile—a minimalist’s dream. Given that approach, it’s unsurprising that the wrist cuff closures are limited to a pinch of elastic, which sometimes allowed drips into the sleeves while we were fiddling with the hood adjuster tab. But these knocks didn’t diminish the jacket’s appeal as an almost magical, unnoticeable shield against nasty weather.

How to Choose a Winter Running Jacket

Choosing a winter running jacket is primarily about the kinds of winter conditions you face where you live, travel, and run. Consider if you need a waterproof layer, or can get by with water resistance—waterproof jackets are more costly, don’t breathe quite as well, and tend to be somewhat stiffer and noisier, but are worth it when you’re out in a downpour or blizzard.

Then think about if you want your running jacket to be insulated and provide warmth on its own, or work as a thin, exterior shell. Insulated jackets can make heading out in frigid temps less daunting, especially if you tend to run cold, but can get hot during high-intensity exercise or if the temps rise. Shell jackets allow you to layer underneath to adjust for a range of conditions. Also consider if you want a fitted jacket that stays close to the body for streamlined mobility, or a looser fit that affords flexibility with layering underneath.

How We Test

Mark Eller led the test crew for this review. Based in Boulder, Colorado, he pursues running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities that keep him away from treadmills when the snow flies. He coordinated getting dozens of winter running items to additional testers in New England, the high plains, and the Rocky Mountains who wore the gear in this review in a variety of cold conditions for many months before making their picks and writing their comments.

Meet Our Testers

Lead reviewer Mark Eller trains through the winter on the roads and trails near his hometown of Boulder, Colorado. He’s a three-time Boston Marathon veteran, a hack Nordic skier, and a competitive racer in on-water racer rowing events.

Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Michael Rorick has run and raced in New England since his middle school track team days in Connecticut. He’s completed many editions of Boston, New York, and other major marathons.

Brian Metzler is the Editor in Chief of RUN and the founding editor of Trail Runner. A former walk-on Division I track athlete, he mostly runs on mountainous trails nowadays in Boulder and Leadville, Colorado.

Scott Douglas has run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen. He has held senior editorial positions at running publications and is the author or co-author of several well-known running books, including Advanced Marathoning, Meb for Mortals, and Running is My Therapy. Scott runs every day unless injured, and always runs outside, either despite of or because of living in North Yarmouth, Maine.

Jonathan Beverly is no stranger to winter weather. He began running in high school on the Maine coast, trained for marathons for years in New York, and now can be found chasing windmills in the western Nebraska Sandhills, accompanied by his two dogs. He is the senior running gear editor for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř.

The post The Best Men’s Jackets for Winter Running (2025) appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

Some are born to run in cold weather, while others have it thrust upon them. Take heart if you are in the latter category, one of those who hesitates to venture into frigid conditions. The men’s winter running hats, gloves, and mittens in this review proved remarkably effective in a wide range of winter outings, from damp, near-freezing fog to single-digit cold. For a relatively small investment, these items can add significant comfort and enjoyment to your winter running.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around Hat:
• Best All-Around Gloves:
• Best Value:
• Most Versatile:
• Best Gloves for Snow and Cold:
• Best Hat for Snow and Cold:
• Best for High Output Running:
• How to Choose Winter Running Hats, Gloves, or Mittens
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around Hat

Pinebury Redington Merino Wool Cap

Materials: Nuyarn Performance Wool blend 90% Merino wool / 10% nylon
Sizing: S/M and L/XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Surprising warmth in a lightweight build
⊕ Soft touch
⊗ Not wind resistant but can be layered under a hood

Thin but incredibly warm, the Redington Merino Wool cap is constructed with Nuyarn performance wool, a wool/nylon blend that delivers significantly more insulation and durability than wool alone or other blended weaves. The fabric is blanket-soft and thin, but it proved more than capable for running in snow and freezing fog. The close fit allowed us to wear the cap under a weatherproof jacket hood when the conditions got nasty, but we only felt the need for extra protection when the wind was howling. The cap also retained its stretch and fit even after getting tossed into the laundry, which you’ll likely need to do after donning it run after run.

Best All-Around Gloves

Arc’teryx Venta Glove

Materials: Gore-Tex Infinium exterior, lightweight polyester fleece lining
Sizing: łÝł§â€“XłÝł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Warm and breathable
⊕ Low-bulk fit provides finger mobility
⊗ Too warm for mild temperatures

When cold, wet weather threatens to force you indoors, these gloves offer the assurance of comfort and warmth to help brave the storm. The water- and wind-resistant, breathable softshell exterior feels similar to other lightweight glove fabrics but did a better job warding off wet snow and freezing temps. The snug fit, combined with grip-enhancing TPU reinforcements on the palm, let us securely grab a water bottle or a smartphone on the move. We used these gloves for 90-minute trail running adventures above 10,000 feet in the Colorado mountains and found that our hands stayed warm without overheating from the cool to frigid conditions. Despite their relatively thin profile, however, the Venta gloves were too hot for runs in mild temps above 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Value

The North Face Base Neck Gaiter

Materials: 88% recycled polyester, 12% elastane
Sizing: One size

Pros and Cons
⊕ Inexpensive
⊕ Versatile design and adaptable, stretchy fabric
⊗ Thin fabric provided fairly minimal insulation

This lightweight face and neck covering takes the sting out of cold weather while offering UPF 40+ sun protection. We took advantage of the stretchy fabric by pulling the neck covering up and over the mouth and ears, where it channeled body heat upwards in frigid conditions, and scrunching it low on the neck in warm temps. Using it as a face shield in super dry mountain air also helped prevent lung scorch. For the cost of a bottle of wine, you get comfort and protection across a broad range of temperatures.

Most Versatile

REI Co-op Flash Power Stretch Glove

Materials: Power Stretch fleece: 53% polyester, 38% nylon, 9% spandex
Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Lightweight fabric works on its own in mild weather or as a liner glove in colder temps
⊕ Highly breathable plus durable
⊗ Too thin for frigid conditions on their own

The REI Co-op Flash Power Stretch gloves proved popular among testers for most outings, from road running to on-trail adventures, providing the light insulation needed to keep fingers toasty during high-intensity activity—as long as the temperatures stayed above or near freezing. And in extreme cold, these versatile gloves performed nicely as liners inside a heavier mitt or weatherproof shell. We appreciated the soft fabric, stretchy fit, and the small clips that kept them paired between runs (and in the wash). Conductive palm-side material that enabled dexterous phone use, plus a durable, abrasion-resistant exterior, and bluesign approval added to the glove’s appeal.

Best Gloves for Snow and Cold

CEP Cold Weather Merino Gloves

Materials: 61% Merino wool,  39% polyester/spandex blend
Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Warmth for sub-zero temps, even when wet
⊕ Grip-enhancing overlays
⊗ Lacks venting options for warmer temperatures

Despite lacking an outer hardshell, these hearty Merino gloves kept our hands warm in the coldest weather. Even accidentally dunking a hand into a puddle (hey, it gets slippery out there) didn’t result in frozen digits—the warm-when-wet quality of wool offered reliable protection. Plus, overlay texture bands on the palm and fingers significantly enhanced our grip, while a small touchscreen-friendly fingertip element allowed for operating a smartphone without removing a glove. Unobtrusive wrist cuff clips were a nice touch, helping keep them matched and ready for the next outing.

Best Hat for Snow and Cold

GoreWear Gore-Tex Cap

Materials: 80% polyester, 20% nylon with a Gore-Tex membrane
Sizing: One Size (Adjustable)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Traditional ball cap visor wards off snow and rain
⊕ Effective waterproofing
⊗ No ear coverage or insulation layer for extreme cold conditions

Sometimes, it’s better to keep things simple. A traditional ball cap style, combined with fully waterproof and windproof Gore-Tex fabric, proved effective for adventuring in all sorts of wet winter weather. Our testers stayed warm, and their heads dry, even in high winds and single-digit temps. The brim shielded precipitation from our faces, including protecting our eyes even when heavy snowflakes dumped on us. Fully taped seams meant that the waterproofing never faltered and the hat never wetted out or got heavy and soggy. We also appreciated the reflective panels, securely comfortable size-adjusting buckle, and the option of high-visibility yellow.

Best for High Output Running

Fjällräven Expedition Fleece Headband

Materials: Stretch fleece: 75% recycled polyester, 18% polyester, 7% elastane
Sizing: S/M and L/XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Insulates the ears and forehead while allowing heat to escape
⊕ Soft and stretchy comfort
⊗ Not adjustable: slips around on smaller heads

This soft fleece headband proved perfect for intense workout efforts, wicking moisture from the skin, routing sweat away from the eyes, and allowing excess heat to escape off the scalp. The combination worked perfectly to keep us warm but not sweaty, even during repeated intervals on a frozen track. The subtly stretchy fabric had the right amount of flexible elastane to achieve a close fit that never felt constricting (but was too loose on a tester with a small head). Since looking fast is just as important as being fast, the headband sports solid colors, subtle contrast stitching, and a low-key embroidered logo for a clean, speed-inspiring demeanor.

How To Choose Winter Running Hats, Gloves, or Mittens

When shopping for items to keep your hands and head comfortable—not too hot, not too cold—during the winter months, first consider the conditions you’re most likely to face. Do temperatures drop below zero? Does it snow, rain, or sleet where you live? (And if so, do you enjoy running in those conditions?) From there, consider if you generally run hot or cold. And from there, peruse our guide to find options that might work best for your needs.

Also consider if packability is important to you; if you travel often during the winter months to other cold climates, or want the ability to stash your hat or gloves once you warm up during your run, choose items that compress easily. And remember that what feels cozy at the start can quickly turn clammy, so look for breathability to let out internal heat in addition to protection from external elements.

How We Test

Mark Eller led the test crew for this review. Based in Boulder, Colorado, he pursues running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities that keep him away from treadmills when the snow flies. He coordinated getting dozens of winter running items to additional testers in New England, the high plains, and the Rocky Mountains who wore the gear in this review in a variety of cold conditions for many months before making their picks and writing their comments.

Meet Our Testers

Lead reviewer Mark Eller trains through the winter on the roads and trails near his hometown of Boulder, Colorado. He’s a three-time Boston Marathon veteran, a hack Nordic skier, and a competitive racer in on-water racer rowing events.

Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Michael Rorick has run and raced in New England since his middle school track team days in Connecticut. He’s completed many editions of Boston, New York, and other major marathons.

Brian Metzler is the Editor in Chief of RUN and the founding editor of Trail Runner. A former walk-on Division I track athlete, he mostly runs on mountainous trails nowadays in Boulder and Leadville, Colorado.

Scott Douglas has run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen. He has held senior editorial positions at running publications and is the author or co-author of several well-known running books, including Advanced Marathoning, Meb for Mortals, and Running is My Therapy. Scott runs every day unless injured, and always runs outside, either despite of or because of living in North Yarmouth, Maine.

Jonathan Beverly is no stranger to winter weather. He began running in high school on the Maine coast, trained for marathons for years in New York, and now can be found chasing windmills in the western Nebraska Sandhills, accompanied by his two dogs. He is the senior running gear editor for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř.

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