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
⊕ĚýReliably warm in temps well below freezing
⊕ĚýOverheat 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. ScottĚýruns 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. ScottĚýruns 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,Ěý 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. ScottĚýruns 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 Hats, Gloves, and Mittens for Winter Running appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

The classic three-piece layering system consists of a baselayer to move moisture away from your skin, a shell to keep wind and water out, and an insulating layer to hold in warmth. That middle layer is where the magic is. It’s the one you swap out to match the conditions, and the one you rely on to keep you perfectly ventilated on warm spring days and toasty warm in deepest winter. Your midlayer can be anything from a thick down puffy to a stretchy synthetic piece designed to dump heat through special channels or pores. Some midlayers also do double-duty, sporting protective panels or water-resistant coatings so you can tag them in as outer layers in a pinch.

So, in finding the best insulation on the market for 2025 we looked at a full spectrum, including vests that save weight by targeting the core, and even hybrid pieces that strategically place insulation only where it’s needed. After a long season of testing everywhere from North Idaho to the mountains of New Hampshire, these are the midlayers that came out on top.

At a Glance

• Editor’s Choice:
• Best for Aerobic Pursuits:
• Most Packable:
• Best For Frigid Days:
• Most Stylish:
• Most Versatile:
• Best Fleece Midlayers
• How to Choose Midlayers
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Tester

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.

Editor’s Choice

Stio Fernos Insulated Jacket

Sizes: S-XXL
Weight: 17.8 oz
Warmth: 7
Breathability: 7
Durability: 10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Great stretch
⊕ Super durable
⊕ Balance of warmth and breathability
⊗ Moderate compressibility

The Fernos Insulated Jacket is the sort of workhorse synthetic midlayer everyone should own. It’s got the perfect amount of insulation to keep you warm whether you’re pushing hard up the skin track or standing around in the snow staring up at your route. The face fabric stood up to the notorious west wind on Teton Pass’s Glory bootpack, but was still breathable enough to keep our tester from having to swap his base layer at the summit. Thinner panels under the arms and along the sides helped with the breathability score by venting heat where testers needed it most. The Fernos is surprisingly stretchy and durable enough we never worried about tears whether wrestling with a toothsome pup tailgating in the parking lot or bundling firewood back to camp.

Best for Aerobic Pursuits

Smartwool Smartloft Hybrid Jacket

Sizes: S-XXL
Weight: 16 oz
Warmth: 6
Breathability: 10
Durability: 8

Pros and Cons
⊕ Exceptional stretch
⊕ Super breathable
⊕ Generous pockets
⊗ A little heavy

This mullet of a hybrid jacket is all business in the front and breathability in the back. The Smartloft Hybrid Jacket protects the chest with a panel of wind- and weather-resistant softshell and quilted insulation— 50 percent recycled/reprocessed wool, 38 percent virgin wool (including trimmings from Smartwool’s cutting room floor), and 12 percent polyester. Meanwhile, the back, sides, and sleeves are cut from a stretchy, fleece-weight blend of merino, polyester, and elastane, which afforded testers exceptional movement and breathability while moving fast through the cold. Our New Hampshire trail runner and resident science teacher raved about “achieving perfect thermal equilibrium.” In Wyoming, our Nordic skier used the thumb loops in lieu of gloves on a warm spring day. A DWR finish kept the wintry mix at bay and a trio of zippered pockets handily secured things like keys, phone, and snacks.

Most Packable

Patagonia Das Light Hoody

Sizes: XS-XXL
Weight: 12.2 oz
Warmth: 9
Breathability: 6
Durability: 7

Pros and Cons
⊕ Water- and wind-resistant
⊕ Excellent warmth-to-weight
⊕ Packs down well
⊗ Expensive

The Das Light Hoody is the ultimate puffy layer for cold and wet conditions. Patagonia’s years-long quest to build a synthetic alternative to the loftiest goose down (which loses its insulating properties when wet) resulted in its proprietary Plumafill insulation. Imagine hundreds of feather boa-like strands draped throughout the jacket, providing very nearly the same warmth-to-weight ratio as the finest goose down, but with a much faster drying time and warming capabilities when wet. Stuff 65-gram Plumafill inside an ultralight, 10-denier wind- and-water-resistant shell, and you’ve got a puffer that kept our testers toasty even while skiing in single digit temps in British Columbia’s Monashees, as well as on one unfortunately rainy ski tour in northern Idaho. It stuffs down to the size of grapefruit in the pack, and amenities like four pockets, a helmet-compatible hood, and a two-way zipper for use with a harness make this an expedition-ready piece.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY REI
Arc’teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie – Men’s ($300)

Alpine-proven as a mid layer or standalone jacket, the men’s Arc’teryx Atom insulated hoodie is your companion for backcountry skiing, climbing, snowshoeing or winter commuting. Insulation is synthetic. Weight for the product is 13.05 oz

Best For Frigid Days

Outdoor Vitals Nova Pro

Sizes: XS-XXL
Weight: 14.5 oz
Warmth: 10
Breathability: 7
Durability: 6

Pros and Cons
⊕ Great price
⊕ Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
⊕ Water resistant
⊗ Less compact than other down jackets

First and foremost, testers were wowed by the Nova Pro’s price tag. It’s remarkable to find an 850-fill down hoody for $250, much less one with such a full feature set. The bells and whistles on this jacket include three-point tensioning in the helmet-compatible hood and another drawstring at the waist to help keep out drafts, as well as thumb loops at the wrists. When those made the jacket too toasty, we used the pit zips to dump heat—a rare but welcome feature in a down puffy.

The Nova Pro’s real innovations come in the fill and fabric, though. Down offers two big advantages over other kinds of insulation: it’s remarkably warm for the weight and packs down very small. The disadvantage is that if it gets wet, the down clumps together, eliminating its insulating properties. To combat that, the Nova Pro employs a hybrid fill of water-repellent-treated down and synthetic fibers, which retains the majority of its loft when soaked.

Outdoor Vitals also applied a DWR coating to the jacket, making it water resistant; testers watched some unusual early-spring Wyoming rain bead up and roll off of the jacket’s fabric without soaking in. That made the Nova Pro great not only for marginal freezing temps but also in wet flurries or light drizzle. All that insulation is packed into baffles, which are woven instead of stitched into the jacket’s main fabric. That makes for fewer stitching holes through which the down can escape. The only downside to the Nova Pro is that all of those niceties add weight—making it less packable than you might expect from an 850-fill down.

Most Stylish

Oyuki TĹŤya Down Insulator Vest

Sizes: XS-XXL
Weight: 8.1 oz
Warmth: 5
Breathability: 9
Durability: 5

Pros and Cons
⊕ Unbeatable warmth-to-weight
⊕ Huge stash pockets
⊕ Exceptional breathability
⊗ Not much wind protection

It’s hard to beat the warmth-to-weight ratio of a down vest. It traps the bulk of your body heat by insulating your core and, without sleeves, vests are also exceptionally breathable. The Toya Insulator also employs Allied Down’s recycled, water-resistant 700-fill down, meaning it’s easier on the planet, more lofty when damp thanks to a hydrophobic coating, and quicker to dry. Testers loved this vest not just for all of that, but for its whimsical Japanese styling. There’s a plump, chin-height collar and a pair of massive drop pockets on the vest’s front. “I think the pockets are a style hit, but they worked great for stashing a couple of PB&Js,” commented one tester. There’s also a pair of zippered, fleece-lined hand pockets to warm up your digits or secure valuables.

Most Versatile

Mountain Hardwear Kor Airshell Warm Hoody

Sizes: S-XXL
Weight: 13.4 oz
Warmth: 6
Breathability: 7
Durability: 9

Pros and Cons
⊕ Four-season insulation
⊕ Terrific moisture management
⊕ Super packable
⊗ Insufficient insulation for colder days

“Packing for my next trip, it’s hard to imagine leaving this layer at home,” said our Boulder-based tester. The Kor Airshell Warm Hoody perfectly straddles the knife-edge between a superlight windbreaker and an insulated midlayer, making it an essential piece in the mountains in any season. The 20-Denier stretch ripstop outer fabric was tough enough to withstand 30-mph gusts and a season’s worth of abuse from pack straps, a climbing rack, and shouldered skis—all of which our tester employed during missions around the Front Range. The jacket’s eco-friendly main fabric is made of 59 percent recycled nylon and coated with a DWR that easily shed snow and drizzle. It’s insulated with a thin layer of AirMesh, a brushed-back mesh made with hollow core yarn that traps heat and provides exceptional warmth to weight. It was enough to keep us warm bootpacking and skinning in temps in the teens. In colder conditions, or at rest, we slapped a shell or puffy on top, and the supple mesh liner helped move moisture away from our base layers, keeping us dry and toasty. At 13 ounces, it’s super-light but still boasts four zippered pockets, an elastic drawcord at the hem, and a two-way zipper for compatibility with a harness and belay device.

How to Choose Midlayers

Insulated midlayers come in as wide a range as the activities you’ll use them for and the conditions you’ll use them in. The fabrics and insulation they use go a long way toward determining warmth, breathability, and weather protection. Here’s how to judge what will best serve your needs.

Water-Resistance

Down-filled layers offer the best warmth for their weight but can lose that advantage if the garment gets soaked from precipitation or an accidental dousing. Once wet, down clusters wilt and pack down—which means they lose all their insulating ability. If you expect especially wet conditions, a synthetic insulation (like in the ) or a bio-based fill (like in the ) will do better at retaining its loft and therefore keeping you warm when wet.

Warmth

The general rule of thumb is the thicker the layer, the warmer it is. That comes with trade offs like weight or packed size if you have limited space in your pack. If you know it’s gonna be frigid, by all means, go for a thick puffy like the . But that piece could be overkill if the day heats up. Consider layering more than one less warm piece, like the and the , to give you more options to mix and match amid changing conditions.

Weather Protection

If you plan to wear a wind- and waterproof shell over your midlayer, you won’t need to worry about your midlayer’s weather-blocking ability. If you don’t intend to carry a shell, however, look for a piece that sports wind-blocking panels and/or a DWR chemical treatment for more wind and weather resistance. The and the are both good examples.

Activity Level

If you are going to amp up the cardio for extended periods of time, look for a more breathable layer. The better your midlayer vents water vapor, the less sweat you’ll trap next to skin. That’s both a comfort advantage and a safety win: moisture can quickly sap your body heat if you stop moving or encounter strong winds. More porous fabrics, like on the or , will allow that perspiration to move away from your body, keeping you dry as well as warm.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 7
• Number of products tested: 50
• Mountain ranges represented: 14 (Whites, Greens, Front Range, Gore Range, Bitteroots, Selkirks, Monashees, Wasatch, Teton, Pioneers, Sawatch, Park, Mosquito, Gros Ventre)
• Toddlers towed in a chariot: 1

Last winter, we found that more than half of our test crew were teachers. You’d think we’d want a slightly more epic batch, but in reality these were our ideal evaluators. For one thing, their need to get out skiing, running, cycling, and climbing was uncompromising, if only to shake off the stress of teaching today’s youngsters. That meant that they went out no matter the conditions, pushing these garments to their limits. For another thing, they are used to grading stuff, and criticizing the fit of a hood or odor-fighting properties of a fabric was a welcome change from marking up another essay on Moby Dick.

For this test, we put insulated models of every stripe through the rigors of lift-accessed and backcountry skiing, climbing, snow biking, Nordic skiing, and tailgating. Conditions ranged from single digits in Wyoming to rain in North Idaho to 70-mph gusts on New Hampshire’s Mount Washington. Of the 50 layers we wore, there were shelled puffies, traditional down sweaters, synthetic hoodies, lightly-insulated windbreakers, and a couple of vests. Our testers graded warmth, breathability, fit, durability, sustainability, and price. Their verdicts led us to select only the best of the batch. Those are the reviews you’ll find here.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Frederick Reimers

Reimers was raised on a canoe-tripping summer camp in Ontario, Canada, and had completed a trio of 40-day expeditions before he even shipped off to college. When his parents sold the camp and moved to Jackson Hole in the 1990s, he followed. He has made a career from scribbling about outdoor culture and gear ever since. In addition to şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, his work has appeared in The New York Times, Smithsonian, Bloomberg Business, and Ski. While Wyoming’s long winter does feel a little long round about April, that makes it the perfect place to test layers. You’ll find Reimers testing them on ski slopes, Nordic tracks, and godforsaken pre-dawn dog walks.

The post The Best Men’s Insulated Midlayer Jackets of 2025 appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

A modern fleece jacket is essentially a better sweater. It performs the same role as those fisherman’s cable knit jobs of yore: you wear it over your baselayer to keep you warm when the elements turn nasty. But it is lighter and quicker drying, designed for backcountry travel when every ounce counts.

We tested thicker fleeces for colder temps, more breathable fleeces for high-intensity activities, wool-based fleeces that are naturally odor-fighting, and synthetic fleeces for better durability. Our test crew put these midlayers through the ringer while skiing, running, cycling, and climbing, wearing them with waterproof shells and without. We also kept an eye on the style, as, in our opinion, there’s truth to the notion that we perform better when we look and feel great.

At a Glance

• Editor’s Choice:
• Best for High-Intensity Exercise:
• Most Durable:
• Best for Frigid Temps:
• Most Breathable:
• Best for Spring Skiing:
• How to Choose a Fleece
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Tester

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.

Editor’s Choice

LĂ© Bent Sentinel Midweight Waffle Knit Zip Hoody

Weight: 14 oz
Sizes: S-XL
Warmth: 7/10
Breathability: 10/10
Durability: 7/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Super Stretchy
⊕ Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
⊕ Great breathability
⊕ Constructed out of natural fibers
⊗ No way to cinch the lower hem

For such a classy hoodie, the Sentinel has a lot going on. First and foremost, it’s knit using Nuyarn, a product from a New Zealand-based company that’s developed a way to spin merino wool fibers into a stretchier, loftier, and more durable, yarn. Nuyarn creates a custom yarn blend for each brand partner, and we love that Lé Bent chose to integrate natural bamboo fibers—rather than synthetic polyethylene—making for a more sustainable garment.

In our testing, no performance was sacrificed in the choice; the Sentinel was remarkably stretchy, tough, and warm for its weight. The Sentinel’s waffle knit structure adds further loft, and therefore warmth, and lends a chic texture that made the garment stand out from the rest of the fleeces we tested. Our test team agreed that it’s the quintessential four-season mountain layer: light, stretchy, and breathable enough for high-output activity in the cold, thin enough when temps are warmer, and roomy enough to layer under when temps turn brutal. Zip it on for a winter expedition, or for that first date at the bistro.

Best for High-Intensity Exercise

Rab Evolute Hoody

Weight: 12 oz.
Sizes: XS-XL
Warmth: 8/10
Breathability: 9/10
Durability: 7/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Exceptional warmth to weight ratio
⊕ Very quick drying
⊕ More than 50 percent recycled materials
⊗ May need to size up

The Evolute pulls off a pretty impressive trick: it was one of the most breathable fleeces we tested while also offering some of the best weather protection. The secret lies in the Primaloft Active Evolve fleece’s construction—silky polyester fibers woven to a mesh chassis with lots of space between them. That space makes for lots of trapped air for insulation, but it also provides room for breathability when things get too steamy. Because the fleece structure is too airy to stand alone, it’s paired with a thin outer fabric that brushes off wind and abrasion.

The Evolute became an everyday layer for one tester, our New Hampshire-based winter trail runner. “It was crazy warm, but I never felt clammy no matter how hard I went,” he said, “even if I was a little overdressed.” Rab kept it super-light with elastic at the hem, rather than a draw cord, and just a pair of zippered hand pockets.

Most Durable

Houdini Power Houdi

Weight: 1.05 lbs
Sizes: XS-XXL
Warmth: 9/10
Breathability: 7/10
Durability: 10/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Excellent warmth to weight ratio
⊕ Very soft and stretchy
⊕ Excellent durability
⊗ Expensive
⊗ Runs slim

The Power Houdi has been Houdini’s core product since 2003, with few changes. Customers report that the garment can last them up to 10 years, and many boast multiple, in different colors. When we got our hands on some, it became obvious why they are so beloved. One tester described the Power Houdi as “instant coziness,” and all remarked on how bombproof it is. One tester said it easily shrugged off friction from shouldered skis while heading up Jackson Hole’s notorious White Spider boot pack, and from the sandstone on Boulder’s Flatirons during a spring climbing mission, reported another. That Flatirons scrambler loved the Houdi’s two-way zipper that allowed him to more easily access his climbing harness as well as the sturdy thumb loops on the sleeves that kept his hands warm despite clinging to the cold rock.

The secret is the very thick Power Stretch Pro fuzzy fleece fabric, the elasticity of which helps it ward off puncture and retain its snug fit. The only drawback we saw was that the Power Houdi, despite very good breathability, was simply too warm on milder days. It’s worth noting that the European-style fit is long and narrow.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY PUBLIC LANDS
Patagonia Men’s Synchilla Fleece Jacket ($149)

For a cozy and classic fleece, look no further than the Patagonia Men’s Synchilla Fleece Jacket. Made of 100% recycled polyester and Fair Trade Certified sewn, this full-zip jacket features double-sided fleece and an anti-pilling finish to keep it looking like new. The stand-up collar is designed for warmth, while the rugged outer collar is trimmed with recycled nylon plain weave. The left-chest pocket and two welted front pockets, all with webbing zipper pulls, provide plenty of space to stash your essentials. Durable, set-in sleeves ensure comfort while wearing a pack, and recycled nylon helps this classic hold its shape and resist abrasion—making it a true essential for every cool-weather outing.

Best for Frigid Temps

Columbia Arctic Crest Sherpa Full Zip Fleece Jacket

Weight: 1.3 lbs
Sizes: XS-XXL; 1X-6X; LT-5XT
Warmth: 10/10
Breathability: 7/10
Durability: 9/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Abrasion and weather resistant patches
⊕ Great value
⊗ A little heavy
⊗ No recycled content

The heat-capturing Omni-Heat Arctic tech in Columbia’s Arctic Crest Sherpa fleece was inspired by polar bears. Turns out that the arctic ursine’s fur isn’t white just for camouflage to sneak up on seals, it’s actually translucent to allow the scant winter sunlight to pass through to the black skin beneath, which absorbs the heat like a black T-shirt on a hot summer day. The dense fur then helps trap that heat next to the skin in a micro-greenhouse effect.

Similarly, the Arctic Crest fleece uses this solar-capture insulation trap warmth from the inside. Worn by itself without a shell on top, the Arctic Crest was a furnace on the ski track, leading one tester to joke that he felt hot enough to “rip apart an igloo bare-handed.” Testers also loved the Arctic Crest’s full feature set—nylon DWR-treated panels on high-wear areas like the hood, shoulders, and forearms, three zippered pockets for secure storage, and hidden elastic drawstrings at the hem to seal in heat. The only downside? Those niceties add weight.

Most Breathable

Paka PAKACLOUD

Weight: 14.5 oz
Sizes: XS-XXL
Warmth: 7/10
Breathability: 10/10
Durability: 5/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Exceptionally soft
⊕ Odor-resistant
⊕ Super breathable
⊗ Not wind resistant
⊗ Very small hand pockets

The term “fleece” originally meant the pelt of a wooly animal. These days, it connotes a lightweight sweater made of petroleum-based yarn. Colorado-based B-corp Paka is bringing back fleece’s origin story with its PAKACLOUD midlayer. In Paka’s case, the pelt is that of the South American alpaca from whence it derives its name. Alpaca wool compares favorably to merino sheep’s wool in its warmth, wicking, and natural odor-fighting properties. It’s also lighter and softer, all while being arguably more sustainable—sheep can be hard on the land where they graze whereas the alpaca is a critical part of the Peruvian highlands ecosystem where the company sources its wool. (They also support their indigenous women contractors by paying them a livable wage.)

In order to make a garment that will stand up to the rigors of outdoor adventure, as well as ring in for under $175, Paka created a fabric that’s a blend of 42 percent alpaca (traceable to the source) and14 percent merino wool, with the remainder made of recycled polyester and nylon. The result is incredibly light, extremely warm, and, in the words of one tester, “the softest fleece I’ve ever worn.” It’s super breathable for high exertion—too breathable for one tester who’d left his shell at home on a fat bike ride when a sudden squall kicked up. Everyone loved the quarter zip for weight savings, but quibbled with the oddly small hand pockets and wished the hem drawcords were a little more tucked away. Style note: If you’re cheering the return of the boxy fit, this is your fleece.

Best for Spring Skiing

Flylow Lassen Fleece Lined Flannel

Weight: 1.39 lbs
Sizes: S-XXL
Warmth: 8/10
Breathability: 5/10
Durability: 8/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Street/slope crossover appeal
⊕ Good wind protection
⊗ On the heavier side
⊗ No recycled materials

Flannel button-downs never go out of style—especially not in ski country. If rocking a crinkly nylon shell at après or on the fat bike isn’t your jam, the Lassen Fleece Lined Flannel might be. Flylow clearly designed this shirt with outdoor rigors in mind. Along with a liner of fleece soft enough to wear next to skin, a zippered interior pocket can secure your RFID ski pass, car keys, or other valuables while the snug collar snaps extra high to seal in heat. The interior sleeves are lined with a slippery taffeta to ensure frictionless pole plants on the uphill skin track. With its double-layer construction, the Lassen provided our testers with enough wind protection to wear as an outer layer for sunny spring ski conditions, and garnered a few approving nods on the lodge deck after.

How to Choose a Fleece

Fleece jackets range in warmth, breathability, and weather protection. Here’s how to judge what will serve your needs.

Will You Pack It?

As a rule, fleece isn’t as compressible as, say, goose down. So it takes up considerable space in luggage or backpacks. If you need serious insulation but only occasionally, so that it remains packed most of the time, you might consider other, more space-saving insulated jackets. Amongst those we tested, the is the lightest and most compressible.

How Much Will You Sweat in This Fleece?

Some fleeces use a dense construction that traps in body heat but limits breathability. If you’re cross-country skiing, running, or logging outdoor workouts that involve constant exertion, look for lightweight fleeces or hybrid constructions that place breathable, less-insulated panels under the arms and in other hot spots. While all of these fleeces offered great breathability, was a bit of a unicorn, offering exceptional breathability with a decent dose of wind resistance for high aerobic output.

Will You Wear a Water- and Windproof Shell over This Fleece?

Most fleeces offer some water resistance, but that varies—and no fleece can be counted on to deliver complete waterproof protection against rain or sustained snow. Most fleeces are also porous enough to let breezes in, which is great for sweat mitigation but bad for comfort amidst 30-mph winds. Consider whether you’ll wear a shell sometimes, always, or never: Ski-tourers might choose a fleece with some weather-resistant panels, like Columbia’s , so they can skip a shell when it isn’t frigid. Resort skiers are better off with breathable fleece worn always under a shell jacket, like the .

Do You Run Cold?

If you’ll wear the fleece in 0-10 degree temperatures, or if you’re always chilly no matter the conditions, choose a thicker, high-pile fleece like the .

How We Test

• Number of testers: 7
• Number of products tested: 25
• Mountain ranges represented: 14 (Whites, Greens, Front Range, Gore Range, Bitteroots, Selkirks, Monashees, Wasatch, Teton, Pioneers, Sawatch, Park, Mosquito, Gros Ventre)
• Moose successfully dodged on-slope: 2

Last winter we found that more than half of our test crew were teachers, and it turned out that these were our ideal evaluators. For one thing, their need to get out skiing, running, cycling, and climbing was uncompromising, if only to recharge for another week in the classroom. That meant that they went out no matter the conditions, pushing these garments to their limits. For another, they are used to grading stuff, and welcomed the opportunity to evaluate the performance of a midlayer instead of another middling essay on Moby Dick.

For this test, we put as many fleece models as we could get our hands on through the rigors of skiing, climbing, running, and snow biking in cold and uncomfortably wet conditions across North America. Of the 25 we evaluated, we wore full-zip models and pullovers, wool and synthetic pieces, heavy and lightweight layers. Our testers graded warmth, breathability, fit, durability, sustainability, and price. Their verdicts led us to select only the best of the batch.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Frederick Reimers was raised at a canoe-tripping summer camp in Ontario, Canada and had completed a trio of 40-day expeditions before he even shipped off to college. When his parents sold the camp and moved to Jackson Hole in the 1990s, he followed. He has made a career of scribbling about outdoor culture and gear ever since. In addition to şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř, his work has appeared in The New York Times, Smithsonian, Bloomberg Business, and SKI. While Wyoming’s long winters do feel a little drawn-out come April, that makes it the perfect place to test layers. Find Reimers testing them on ski slopes, Nordic tracks, and bitterly cold predawn dog walks around town.

The post The Best Fleece Jackets for Men (2025) appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

Baselayers are the hidden workhorses of winter apparel. But out of sight doesn’t mean they should be out of mind—getting them right is important. A bad baselayer can ruin what would otherwise be a great adventure due to scratchy materials, a subpar fit, or an inability to dry out quickly. A perfect layer, meanwhile, can keep you warm, dry, and happy all day long. After copious testing, our team of testers has assembled a list of favorite men’s base layers for every winter condition and activity, from casual resort laps to frigid weeklong epics.

At a Glance

• Editor’s Choice: and
• Best for Winter Camping:
• Best Budget Merino: and
• Most Breathable:
• Best for Cold Hikes and Hunts:
• Most Versatile:
• Products to Avoid
• How to Choose Base Layers
• 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.

Editor’s Choice

Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Crew and Bottom

Sizes: S-XXL
Fit: Tight
Key Material: Merino wool/nylon Nuyarn blend
Breathability: 9/10
Warmth: 6/10
Wicking: 8/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Forget-you’re-wearing-it comfort
⊕ Excellent wicking and moisture control
⊕ Odor resistant
⊗ Not super warm

The true sign of a great baselayer is that you’re still wearing it on the car ride home. That means it’s breathable rather than clammy, snug instead of constricting, and comfy enough that you forget you’re even wearing it. According to our testers, one base layer set checked those boxes every time they wore it: the Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Top and Bottom. From powder days in Tahoe to damp training runs, the Woolies became “the baselayer against which all others will henceforth be judged,” one tester declared.

In western Canada, the Woolies survived a gauntlet of winter smokejumper firefighter training sessions (including rainy runs, weighted hikes, and infrequent launderings) with little fuss—or stink. That’s thanks to the Nuyarn construction, which wraps odor-repelling merino wool around a nylon core, creating a lofty yarn that resists the stretching and tearing that can plague 100 percent merino garments.

In terms of design, one tester summed it up well, as “simple and highly functional.” Raglan sleeves on the crew top meant no seams to interfere with pack straps. Flatlock stitching throughout the top and bottoms boosted comfort, and generously sized thumbholes played well with gloves and mittens.

Despite all that we loved about the Woolies, they weren’t ideal in every condition. As Ibex’s lightest set of baselayers, they are by definition not the warmest. Testers found the Woolies sufficient to about 15 degrees, but too airy to sit still in during really cold conditions.

Best for Winter Camping

Seirus Reflective Heatwave Top and Bottom

ĚýComing Soon

Sizes: XS – XXL
Fit: Snug but not skin-tight
Key Materials: Polyester with reflective coating
Breathability: 4/10
Warmth: 9/10
Wicking: 6/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Excellent comfort as a sleep layer
⊕ Affordable
⊕ Very warm
⊗ A bit restrictive for active use

Winter camping is all about overall warmth rather than the combination of warmth and breathability that we look for while skiing or snowshoeing. That’s why, even though they weren’t our favorites during active days, the Reflective Heatwave layers topped our list once the sun went down.

These layers from Seirus take a three-pronged approach to heat retention: a reassuringly thick polyester fabric, a shiny surface designed to reflect heat, and a soft fleece backing to trap that heat next to the skin. Combined, this equaled a top and bottom layer that were up to the coldest temperatures we experienced, which dropped into the negatives on one tester’s winter adventures in New Hampshire.

In frigid conditions like that, the Reflective Heatwave layers do serve as passable active layers as well. Still, other items we tested offered better stretch and comfort while in motion, and testers agreed that these very insulative layers are best reserved for campsite duty.

Best Budget Merino

Minus33 Ticonderoga Lightweight Crew and Saratoga Lightweight Bottom

Sizes: XS – XXXL, plus tall sizes
Fit: Snug, but not skin-tight
Key Material: 100 percent Merino
Breathability: 8/10
Warmth: 7/10
Wicking: 8/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Great value for merino
⊕ No-nonsense design
⊗ No thumb holes in sleeves
⊗ Runs small

In 2025, 100 percent merino wool garments are a dying breed, often replaced by wool/nylon blends that boost durability. But the lightweight base layers from Minus33 are proof that all-natural layers still deserve a place in your gear closet. The reasons why start with price. These layers aren’t exactly cheap compared to run-of-the-mill synthetics, but at $75, they won’t break the bank, either.

Then there’s odor control. Any merino blend helps keep clothing from getting stinky, but pure merino does the best job. One tester said he couldn’t determine how often to wash his layers, because they never developed that telltale smell. Finally, they’re versatile. The crew top’s snug fit and lightweight material allows it to serve double duty as a standalone layer in spring and fall, although testers found it a bit too warm for summer hiking. One ding: The top has no thumbholes, a feature we look for to keep sleeves pulled down around our wrists.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY ARMS OF ANDES
Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Base Layer: 300 Lightweight Half-Zip ($135)

Learn More

Everything you’ve heard is true: 100 percent Alpaca Wool outperforms Merino in all ways. And it’s essential your base layer, the foundation of your layering kit, is made from only the best material available. The lightweight, smooth, and highly-insulated fabric is perfect for any cold-weather adventure with moisture-wicking and oder resistant properties. The best part? Arms of Andes products, including the 300 Lightweight Half-Zip Base Layer, are made in Peru, right where the Alpaca Wool is sourced.

Most Breathable

FarPointe Alpha Cruiser Hoodie

Sizes: XS-XXL
Fit: Slim
Key Material: Polartec Alpha Direct
Breathability: 10/10
Warmth: 7/10
Wicking: 9/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Next-level breathability
⊕ Works as base layer or ultralight midlayer
⊗ Prone to snagging and pulling
⊗ No wind resistance

The Cruiser Hoodie’s breathability magic comes down to materials, namely, Polartec Alpha Direct, a wispy-thin fleece that offers an unexpected blend of warmth and air flow. In calm conditions, our testers marveled at how warm this fuzzy, nearly see-through fabric was. But it’s also very fragile, and more than one of our testers reported snagging and tearing the Cruiser (one on a brushy trail, the other thanks to a pet cat).

That fragility led to mixed reviews. Our Alaskan tester, whose winter trips inevitably involve bushwhacking, found it far too delicate. But on the well-manicured trails in the high desert of southern Idaho, I found a use for the multifunctional Cruiser on nearly every hiking and Nordic skiing trip I took: it served as a super-plush sleep layer year-’round, a cozy base layer in cold-weather, and a highly breathable midlayer in shoulder seasons, especially when paired with a thin windshirt. Best of all, it’s incredibly light: At 4.4 ounces, it weighs less than most sun hoodies.

Best for Cold Hikes and Hunts

Sitka Core Merino 330 Zip-Off Bottom

Sizes: M-XXL
Fit: Loose
Key Materials: Merino wool/nylon blend
Breathability: 5/10
Warmth: 10/10
Wicking: 6/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Easy on and off
⊕ Mid-calf length works well with boots
⊗ Pricey
⊗ Baggy on skinny frames

Zip-off long johns belong to an exclusive category of gear that we didn’t know we needed but can’t go without now that we’ve seen the light. The appeal is simple: you can remove your leggings without taking off your pants or boots. Does that sound like a small upgrade? Don’t tell our testers that. “On multi-day winter trips when it feels like your whole day is spent managing layers, these really are a game-changer,” one reported after a late fall hunting trip in Utah.

Rather than opting for a lightweight legging that’s too cold in camp and too warm while moving, the 330 bottoms (named for the 330 grams per square meter merino-and-nylon blend that Sitka uses) do away with trying for versatility. Instead, they’re properly warm and thick, and easy to strip off when you inevitably overheat. One ding: This set sports a looser fit, so those with slimmer builds might find them too baggy, especially at the leg opening.

Most Versatile

Rab Conduit Crew

Sizes: S-XXL
Fit: Tight
Key Material: Recycled polyester
Breathability: 8/10
Warmth: 7/10
Wicking: 8/10

Pros and Cons
⊕ Performs well in a range of temps and conditions
⊕ Great wicking capabilities
⊕ Soft and cozy
⊗ A little on the heavy side

Despite the widely different range of tester expectations, sports, and geography, the Conduit was a unanimous favorite thanks to its extreme comfort and versatility across a wide range of temperatures. After months spent skiing at Sugarbush and mountain biking around Burlington, Vt., one tester’s notes on the Conduit were simple: “Rab just seems to have the best materials.”

All agreed that there must be some form of alchemy in the 92-percent recycled polyester, eight-percent elastane weave that manifested in a lightly gridded fleece backer. Testers praised the comfort in a variety of conditions and uses: One wore it beneath a couple layers in temps around the tens during heavy sideways snow in central Oregon; another wore it alone during a 40-degree overcast run in the Ashland watershed. At 6.9 ounces, it was on the heavy side for the top end of our temperature range, but the micro-channeled gridded fleece moved excess heat with aplomb. “It was great at wicking moisture,” remarked a tester after taking it on a long run in 45-degree temps while wearing a pack. All agreed this top will serve as a reliable, go-to layer, all winter long.

Products to Avoid

It might be tempting to equate base layers with any long underwear, but steer clear of the inexpensive “waffle” thermals from brands like Hanes or Fruit of the Loom: these are generally cotton, which dries slowly and doesn’t retain heat when wet. In winter conditions, wet cotton is downright dangerous and can lead to hypothermia.

How to Choose Base Layers

Comfort is paramount when purchasing base layers. Every body and every skin type is different so dialing in the materials that feel the best on your skin is the most important part of the base layer buying journey. In general, quality baselayers will be constructed of either polyester or merino wool, with spandex, elastane, or nylon spun into the fabric to increase stretch or durability. Polyester layers are usually cheaper and quicker to dry, while merino is more expensive, dries slower (but retains heat while wet), and is more odor-resistant. Which is better comes down to personal preference: some love the soft hand of natural fibers, but even the most advanced, small-micron merino wool material can make someone with a wool intolerance miserable.

Once you have landed on a material that works for your skin, start looking into moisture movement. If you sweat a ton, as many of the testers for this category do, look into lightweight synthetic base layers, as they have an excellent track record for moving moisture efficiently. If you do not sweat much, then you can get away with thicker next-to-skin layers that will also be warmer when you’re not in motion.

In terms of design, base layers are pretty straightforward. To maximize comfort, look for upgrades like flatlock seams and raglan sleeves, which can prevent chafing, especially when wearing a pack.

How We Test

• Number of Products: 34
• Number of Testers: 11
• States Tested In: 10
• Temperature Range: -5 to 60 F

While the communication process varied from detailed descriptions on Google documents to handwritten notes over giggles and beers, the testing process itself was uniformly all business. Our team racked up hundreds of miles run, ridden, and skied in conditions ranging from sub-zero mid-mountain whiteouts to mild seaside runs.

Meet Our Testers

Category manager Nathan Pipenberg has been testing men’s apparel for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř for three years and also serves as µţ˛ął¦°ě±č˛ął¦°ě±đ°ů’s ultralight columnist. This year, he put gear to the test on winter hikes, resort laps, and late-season trail work missions.

Ultra Running Coach, Trails and Tarmac owner, running shoe reviewer, and podcaster Brett Hornig put down well over 100 running miles testing layers in wintry conditions.

Greg Durso, Program Director for The Kelly Brush Foundation, is one of the hardest charging, most prolific, adaptive ski and mountain bike athletes on the East Coast.

The post The Best Men’s Base Layers for Winter Activities (2025) appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

Summer running is challenging enough with the heat and humidity. The last thing you need is to be held back by underperforming running shorts. The perfect running shorts should be so comfortable that you hardly notice them—no bunching, chafing, or feeling restricted, all while looking good. We tested over 40 pairs in the most sweltering conditions to find the best running shorts for you, whether you prefer the freedom of 3-inch shorts, the standard 5-inch, or the extra coverage of 7-inch.

While you’re at it, be sure to check out our picks for the best running shirts for men and the best running shoes.

Updated August 2024: We’ve removed one item and added three new picks to our guide from Hoka, Adidas, and Under Armour.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around:
• Best Value:
• Best for High Heat:
• Best Splurge:
• Best Half Tight:Ěý
• Best Wear-Anywhere:
• What to Look For in Running Shorts
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. 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

Patagonia Strider Pro 5” Shorts

Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Comfortable fit and fabric
⊕ Breathability
⊕ Flattering understated style
⊗ Some prefer a shorter inseam in high heat and humidity

şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř’s testers have run in several dozen shorts over the past few years, yet they keep landing on this workhorse as one of the best (it made our list in 2023 as well). “The fabric and tailoring combine to make a short that is coolly comfortable in fit, performance, and style,” tester Jonathan Beverly said. “The waistband has the right thickness and amount of stretch to stay put but not squeeze, the fabric drapes and dries nicely, and the liner is soft and airy without any irritating seams.”

Its just-right qualities extend to the pocketing—with one central rear zip and a stealth slot on each back hip—and to moisture management: only when the dew point was above 70 Fahrenheit did the outer layer get saturated enough to cling. Environmental bonus: Recycled polyester makes up 90% of the garment. – Scott Douglas

Best Value

Under Armour Launch 5” Shorts

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Excellent value
⊕ Comfortable fit
⊗ No secure zippered pocket

Sometimes, simplicity is the best approach. Designed to provide exactly what you need to stay dry and comfortable and nothing more, the Under Armour Launch 5” Shorts deliver high performance without the high price tag. The shorts are made from a stretchy woven polyester fabric over a breathable mesh liner and have vented mesh side panels to allow excess heat to dissipate.

As you might expect from a budget-friendly pair of shorts, they don’t offer the most ergonomic fit designed specifically for runners, trending to the looser side. However, the relaxed fit through the legs with side notches does offer good mobility.

The shorts feature two side hand pockets, one of which includes an elastic mesh holder meant for your phone. We found, however, that It’s not the most secure spot while running and recommend finding a for carrying your phone. Beyond the competitive price point, one of the best features is the the wide choice of colors (seven options!). – Cory Smith

Best for High Heat

Hoka Glide 5” Short w/ Brief

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Extremely lightweight
⊕ Comfortable liner
⊗ Phone bounces in back mesh pocket

If you’re the kind of runner who trains no matter how hot and humid it gets, you need a pair of shorts that are lightweight, breathable, and won’t weigh you down when drenched in sweat. The Hoka Glide 5” short with brief fits this bill perfectly.

The thin stretch-woven polyester/spandex fabric with a DWR coat is incredibly airy and flexible. A mesh liner enhances the shorts’ breathability while offering a good amount of support. Even during my most humid runs, when I became soaked with sweat, the shorts remained unrestrictive, soft, and comfortable.

The shorts feature a small zippered pocket ideal for securing essentials like keys and money, and a spacious mesh rear pouch, open on both ends and large enough to hold a phone or soft flask. Items in the large mesh pocket, however, tend to bounce around while running. – CS

Best Splurge

Soar Run Shorts

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Good blend of comfort and performance
⊕ Suitable for most seasons
⊗ Pocket too small to hold a phone

These unassuming, light, ventilated offerings are a good option for your core shorts—that pair you grab throughout the year, for all kinds of runs, because you know they’ll be comfortable and functional. During our summer testing, they especially excelled on hard runs when sweat rates were higher, thanks to their polyamide/elastane blend. The slim, separate waistband keeps everything secure without causing lower-GI-tract distress, which is common when your body has shunted blood from internal organs to the skin to help with cooling.

The 5” inseam strikes a balance between modesty and uninhibited motion. The rear zip pocket is too small for a phone but can simultaneously hold a key, credit card, and gel. – SD

Best Half Tights

Adidas Control Running Shorts Tight

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Supportive fit
⊕ High-quality material
⊗ Thick material can run hot

There’s something uniquely satisfying about the feel of snug, supportive tights hugging your muscles. The Adidas Control Running Shorts Tight, crafted from a relatively thick blend of 83% polyester and 17% elastane, delivers mild compression to your quads, glutes, and hamstrings, ensuring they stay engaged and protected during even the most intense runs.

Flexible, rubber-like (TPE) strips stretch across the major muscles to add additional support. The result is a tighter, more supportive fit than any other tight we tested. Although you might expect tights to feel restrictive, the material is surprisingly stretchy and flexible, allowing full range of motion. The downside is that they can feel too warm in hot conditions.

Inside the tights, there’s a small fold-over pocket designed for essentials like keys or cards. While functional, the addition of a zippered pocket would have been ideal to ensure the secure storage of important items. -CS

Best Wear-Anywear

Flylow Hawk Shorts

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Pockets aplenty
⊕ Leisurewear styling
⊗ Bigger fit than some runners prefer

The Flylow Hawk are high-performing, well-pocketed shorts that won’t make you look like a running nerd. “These are officially my new favorite running shorts,” tester Nathan Brown said. “From the comfort of the brief liner to the aesthetics, these shorts ticked all the boxes.”

The polyester/spandex fabric is water-resistant and wicks massive amounts of sweat, provides UPF 40+ sun protection, and allows full range of motion. The back-hip pockets hold fobs and fuel without sagging. The zippered rear pocket accommodates a phone without excessive bouncing. At the same time, they look more like leisurewear shorts than high-performing running bottoms. Our tester often wore them for non-running activities, which isn’t something most of us like doing in most running shorts. – SD

What to Look For in Running Shorts

Running shorts vary in length, liners, pockets, fit, and fabric. You’ll want a length that is short enough for full, unimpeded motion (the faster the run, the shorter and more split the shorts tend to be), but long enough to feel decent on the trail, road, or post-run coffee shop.

Liners range from soft, loose briefs to compression-shorts-like stretchy boxers—or none at all for those who prefer to wear their own underwear. Choosing between liners is a matter of personal taste, balancing breathability and range of motion with level of coverage and control.

Pockets need to be big and secure enough for whatever you want to carry: phone, keys, cards, gels. Location is important to allow convenient access and avoid bouncing and chafing, as is the robustness of the waistband to prevent sagging when carrying anything heavy, like a phone.

When it comes to fit and fabric, as with all summer running gear, you want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, don’t stink, and don’t get in the way.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best summer gear without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer running’s high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.

• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Well-ventilated hats reduce squinting while shedding heat. Running tan lines aren’t something to be proud of.

• Check for chafing. If you’ve ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you won’t want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when you’re drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.

• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.

• Banish bacteria. Many high-quality summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.

• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, “Whatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so I’ll just buy the cheapest gear out there.” Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and don’t hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 10
• Number of shorts tested: 40+
• Number of miles run in testing: 4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 97 Fahrenheit

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.—from coastal Maine and western Maryland to central Wisconsin, the high plains of Nebraska, the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and out to Santa Barbara on the California coast, plus, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid 70s. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare today’s running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer.

We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, value, and looks to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř and Runner’s World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A cross-country race Cory Smith ran while testing running shorts:

(Gaia GPS is owned by şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Inc.)

Scott Douglas

I’ve run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and have always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of my life. As and a writer/editor about fitness, I’m fortunate to have my personal and professional lives mesh. I sweat like crazy despite living in Maine.

Here is a portion of the trails Scott Douglas ran on while testing running shorts:

(Gaia GPS is owned by şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Inc.)

Other testers included:

• , a Nebraska resident who is a senior running gear editor for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř and has also been running since the 1970s.
• , a doctor of physical therapy who founded the Pineries Running Lab in Wisconsin.

The post The Best Running Shorts for Men appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

Whether you embrace the heat and humidity of summer running or long for a return to cold, dark winter days, running during the summer can be both exhilarating (all that daylight!) and daunting (all that sweat!) at the same time.

Regardless of your preference, the right running top can keep you cooler and drier while making you feel fast and fashionable. To help you choose the best running tops, we tested over 50 short-sleeve t-shirts and tank tops to find the best moisture-wicking men’s running shirts.

While you’re at it, be sure to check out our picks for theĚýbest running shorts for men and the best running shoes.

Updated August 2024: We’ve added three new shirts to the guide, including a new best value pick from Under Armour. All links and picks are up to date.

At a Glance

• Singlets/Tank Tops
  • Best All-Around:
  • Best Value:
  • Best Airflow:
  • Best Splurge:Ěý
• T-Shirts
  • Best All-Around:
  • Best for Trail Running:
  • Softest Feel:
  • Best Value:
• What to Look For
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. 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.Ěý

SINGLETS/TANK TOPS

Best All-Around

Adidas Adizero Running Singlet

Ěý

Sizing: XL-2XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Silky smooth feeling
⊕ Superb mobility
⊗ Saturates with moisture easily

There’s something about a light, airy singlet that makes me feel fast. No other singlet captured this sensation better than the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet. Made from a thin, lightweight blend of 86% recycled polyester and 14% elastane, the texture feels phenomenal—smooth and silky, easily moving over the skin. Testers praised its soft touch and barely-there sensation, with one noting it as “the lightest and most comfortable singlet I’ve ever worn.”

The fit is slightly slim, but thanks to the stretchy fabric and side slits in the hem, the singlet offers exceptional mobility. I prefer a slightly looser fit, and my typical men’s medium fit that bill perfectly.

The entire singlet has tiny holes in the face to enhance breathability. Testers enjoyed its airy feel but noted that the fabric tends to stick to the skin when fully soaked through, a common issue among most super thin shirts tested. Despite this, this stylish, comfortable singlet stood out as one of the best we tested, one we reached for often. —Cory Smith

Best Value

Path Projects Andes AD Tank Top

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Highly breathable
⊕ Doesn’t cling
⊕ Good value
⊗ Some prefer wider armholes in hot weather

We valued this tank for its lightness and breathability. “The 90% polyester/10% spandex fabric is woven with an interior texture that reduces the amount of fibers touching the skin, and ventilating holes that let it breathe freely,” one tester said. “It never got soaked and clingy against my skin like most tech singlets. It’s slim-fitting without being tight, so it stays close to the body and out of the way. Plus, it falls just past the waistline, so it isn’t bunching over my shorts.” I also appreciated the wider shoulder straps on trail runs, as a little extra protection against brush snags and bug bites.

Bonus: The Andes costs no more than most run-of-the-mill clingy tops. —Scott Douglas

Best Airflow

Pressio Elite Singlet

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Good wicking and airflow
⊕ Doesn’t cling
⊗ Baggier fit than some prefer
⊗ Too see-through for casual wear

The first time my wife saw me in this piece, she said, “Singlets have really improved.” She’s right. This and many other tops I tested look and perform better than the sleeve-free tubes of cheap polyester I used to wear for summer running. The Elite rose above most because it didn’t cling, even on runs when I sweated so much my shoes squished with every footstep.

The 100% recycled polyester yarn has a micromesh construction in the front and a larger, stretchy (thanks to 9 percent elastane), nearly see-through mesh in the back to maximize airflow. The drape of the cut and lightness of the fabric make chafing more or less impossible. If you haven’t bought a singlet in many years, the Elite will catch you up on innovations. —Scott Douglas

Best Splurge

Tracksmith Strata Singlet

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Unbeatable heat and moisture management
⊕ Odor resistant
⊗ Costs twice as much as many other well-made singlets

This ultralight marvel is the best singlet I’ve run in during my 40+ years in the sport. The fit is slim but not restrictive, with plenty of stretch. The bluesign-certified nylon/elastane blend incorporates coldblack, a Schoeller Textil technology that reduces heat absorption like nothing else I’ve experienced. As someone who can lose 5 of his 130 pounds on an easy hour run in Maine, I’m used to wringing out gear post-run and leaving large puddles. This simply wasn’t possible when I wore the Strata; although my shorts and socks were drenched, little sweat had collected on the singlet.

And then there’s its odor resistance: I ran at least an hour in it every day without washing it during one of summer’s hottest, most humid weeks. It smelled the same on Day 7 as on Day 1. The Strata is expensive, but a good value, given that owning one eliminates the need for all but maybe one other singlet. —Scott Douglas

SHORT SLEEVE SHIRTS

Best All-Around

Walter Sky Merino Tee

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Wool softness and odor resistance
⊕ Breathable, non-clinging
⊕ Year-round versatility
⊗ Fabric elongates during longer runs

This shirt’s $75 price tag seems like a lot until you experience its comfort and versatility. “You can both run in it and wear it casually during all four seasons—on its own or as a base layer,” said tester Jonathan Beverly. Innovative Nuyarn construction (70% merino wool/30% nylon) means more merino fibers are exposed to air than in conventionally made merino tops, leading to less moisture buildup and more cooling.

At only 105 grams per square meter, or about two-thirds the heft of many running shirts, it “wicks and breathes excellently and stands away from my skin even when wet,” Jonathan said. It also feels softer than any other lightweight merino tees we have tried, and doesn’t smell even after daily wear for a week. We have made this shirt a mainstay in our year-round running and daily life wardrobes. —Scott Douglas

Best for Trail Running

Adidas Terrex Agravic Trail Running Tee

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Mesh-vented back panel
⊕ Superb moisture control
⊗ Short hem length

With all the gear required for trail running, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a trail-specific running shirt, especially when using a hydration vest. What sets this trail running top apart is the highly breathable mesh that covers the entire back—perfect for maintaining airflow while wearing a pack. Even without something on my shoulders, the airy mesh was a game changer, keeping my back dry, venting heat, and preventing the shirt from getting drenched in sweat.

Crafted from recycled ocean plastic, the front of the shirt is incredibly thin and also excels at moisture management. Even during a trail run in near 100-degree temperatures, the shirt barely became saturated. One tester said it kept him cool, dry and comfortable during the surging heat and moisture spikes of a warm-day fartlek workout, and it was the shirt he kept reaching for whenever the morning dawned steamy and sticky.

The fit is described as regular, and I’d concur. My usual men’s medium had ample room in the midsection, though the hem was slightly shorter than expected. —Cory Smith

Softest Feel

Paka Men’s Tee

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Versatility
⊕ Softness
⊕ Sustainability
⊗ Gets saturated in hot, humid weather

With the advent of technical fibers, most runners started shunning cotton apparel. This shirt, made of a blend of 85% organic pima cotton and 15% royal alpaca fiber, might make you reconsider. It’s pleasingly soft against the skin, which led Nathan and I to use it for both running and daily life. Moisture management is excellent on easy runs in non-oppressive weather. The shirt doesn’t hug even after sweat starts to collect.

Because of the shirt’s versatility and Paka’s sustainability efforts, Nathan picked this tee as the item he’s most likely to buy as a gift for other runners. —Scott Douglas

Best Value

Under Armour Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve

Sizing: XS-5XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Affordable price
⊕ Wide range of colors
⊕ Excellent moisture management
⊗ Loose fit can feel baggy

At less than half the cost of most running shirts, the Under Armour Tech 2.0 is an excellent option for budget-conscious runners seeking a lightweight, moisture-wicking top. Made from 100% polyester, this straightforward tee delivers exactly what you need in a breathable shirt with no extras, just reliable performance.

Though intended as a general-purpose workout tee, we found it perfectly suitable for running. The thin, partially transparent fabric provided excellent airflow and dried quickly when wet. The only drawback is that it fits a bit looser than typical running shirts, particularly in width.

The highlight? It comes in over 20 color options, including regular and tall sizes. While it may not be the most technical running shirt, with its simple polyester construction and lack of stretch, it’s budget-friendly enough to grab a few in different colors. —Cory Smith

What to Look for in Summer Running Apparel

Dressing for summer running is straightforward—you want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, don’t stink, and don’t get in the way. Shirt choices come down to how much skin coverage you prefer, fit, and material.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer running’s high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.

• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Well-ventilated hats reduce squinting while shedding heat. Running tan lines aren’t something to be proud of.

• Check for chafing. If you’ve ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you won’t want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when you’re drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.

• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.

• Banish bacteria. Many high-quality summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.

• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, “Whatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so I’ll just buy the cheapest gear out there.” Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and don’t hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers:Ěý10
• Number of products tested: 20+ singlets, 40+ short sleeve tees
• Number of brands tested: 45+
• Number of miles run in testing:Ěý4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 101 Fahrenheit

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.—from the California beach town of Santa Barbara to central Wisconsin and the high plains of Nebraska, to the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid-70s over both roads and trails. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare today’s running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer. We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, and value—and looked to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř and Runner’s World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A 13.25km trail race Cory Smith ran while testing the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet.

(Gaia GPS is owned by şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Inc.)

Scott Douglas

I’ve run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and have always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of my life. As and a writer/editor about fitness, I’m fortunate to have my personal and professional lives mesh. I sweat like crazy despite living in Maine. [Editor’s note: Scott managed testing and wrote the reviews for this guide through the spring of 2024]

A portion of the trails Scott Douglas ran on regularly while testing running shirts and singlets:

(Gaia GPS is owned by şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Inc.)

Other testers included:

• , a Nebraska resident who is a senior running gear editor for şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř and has also been running since the 1970s.
• , a doctor of physical therapy who founded the Pineries Running Lab in Wisconsin.

The post The Best Running Shirts for Men appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.

During the hottest summer on record we put dozens of pieces of workout clothes to the test to see if they could help keep us cool and motivated while doing everything from pickup soccer to a 23-mile hike. Some of what we tested was easy to forget, but the six pieces that emerged as the best made a significant difference in our comfort and performance.

At a Glance

• How to Choose Workout Gear
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Buff 5 Panel Air Cap

Sizing: One size fits all

Pros and Cons
⊕ Coolest, most breathable hat we tested
⊕ Easily packable
⊕ Convenient fit adjustment
⊗ Runs small: giant heads need not apply

Made almost entirely from recycled polyester mesh, the Air Cap is the most breathable hat we’ve ever tested. It was a tester favorite on 90-plus-degree days when we needed something to protect our faces from blazing sun during runs, hikes, and outdoor time with our kids. A sweat-wicking liner made mostly from recycled polyester absorbed and dumped sweat surprisingly fast, and lead tester Jakob Schiller liked the understated, sleek five-panel design. A bungee cord closure in the back cinched the fit down easily on windy days for most testers, but we found that the circumference of the hat was limited, meaning those with gargantuan heads should look elsewhere.

Buff says the cap is made with 100-percent renewable energy, earning a tip of the hat from us.

The North Face Lightrange Summer Short-Sleeve

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Highly versatile, multi-use shirt
⊕ Comfortable tailoring
⊕ UPF 40+ sun protection
⊗ TNF branding is too bold for some tastes

Tester Micah Newman is a busybody. If he’s not teaching high school kids he’s out riding his mountain bike, running, or coaching a local soccer team—and the Summer Lightrange shirt was his go-to top for all of these activities. “I liked the wide cut through the body with slits down along the hips for a flowy and comfortable feel and look,” he says.

Made from 89 percent recycled polyester, the shirt is coated with TNF’s new Lightrange finish that adds UPF protection and helps with wicking. After 30 miles of testing in later-summer New Mexico heat, Newman said the shirt dumped heat as well as anything he’d ever worn and only smelled bad after repeated uses. He also gave the shirt kudos for the slightly longer sleeves—similar to what you’d find on a mountain bike jersey—that kept sun off more of his arms on long days outside.

Mountain Hardwear Trail Sender Shorts

Sizing: 28-42; 7-, 9-, 11-inch inseam

Pros and Cons
⊕ Versatile comfort for a wide range of activities
⊕ Breathable and durable nylon fabric
⊕ Convenient, secure pockets
⊗ Some found the test pair’s nine-inch inseam too long

One of Steve Jobs’ minor, but still important, cultural contributions was to point out that if you wear the same thing every day you save brain power that can be applied elsewhere. Consider these shorts the black turtleneck of summer workout wear. Thanks mostly to the thin, breathable, stretchy-but-durable ultralight ripstop build, they were comfortable for hiking and backpacking, fit well over a bike chamois for mountain biking, were flexible enough for yoga and soccer, and still looked great for apres.

Mountain Hardwear also accessorized them nicely, with vented pockets deep enough to hold a phone, a zippered pocket to hold credit cards, and a drawstring to hold them up. Lead tester Jakob Schiller said the nine-inch length he tested never felt inhibitive, even on longer runs.

Le Bent Mickey Pro Model Sock

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ High-performing fabric blend
⊕ High cut adds protection and compression
⊕ Look good anywhere, any time
⊗ Only available in three-quarter crew height

Michele “Mickey” Graglia excels during ultra-distance runs in extreme conditions, and that experience shows in his eponymous do-it-all socks for summer workouts. Made from a mix of rayon (from bamboo), merino wool, nylon, and elastane, these socks kept even the sweatiest tester’s feet happy, dry, and blister free on trail runs and mountain hikes. Some people might shy away from the three-quarter crew height during summer workouts, but we loved how they kept out gravel, lightly compressed our calves, and looked great with their mountain graphics, whether during a workout or heading out to dinner.

Outdoor Research Shadow Wind Hoodie

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Lightweight warmth
⊕ Water resistant
⊕ Easily packs small into small pocket
⊗ Could use even more stretch

This was the layer we pulled out when we were adventuring up in the mountains and weather rolled in. At just five ounces, it was never a burden to haul around but easily cut the wind so it felt 10 degrees warmer than the windchill temps. Thanks to a non-fluorinated DWR coating, it also fought off light rain and kept us dry while we climbed down from an alpine lake.

Tester Andy Dean’s favorite part was the built-in stretch that allowed him to move his body however he wanted while running, climbing, or any other activity, without the jacket restricting his full range of motion. A tapered hood fit snug over our heads to keep our ears warm, and when not in use, the jacket packed away into its own chest pocket and disappeared into our packs.

Mystery Ranch Gallagator 10 Pack

Sizing: S/M and L/XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Goldilocks size for day hikes
⊕ Lightweight
⊕ Accessible, well-organized pockets
⊗ Too bouncy for running

Packing for an adventure is full of contradictions. You must bring everything you absolutely need but want to avoid overpacking because extra weight quickly becomes a burden and slows you down. We found that the Gallagator 10 had enough room for everything we needed for a day-long adventure—food, water, extra layers, first aid kit—but was small enough that it was impossible to load with unnecessary junk. Thoughtful pockets, including two on the shoulder straps for small items like a phone, made gear organization super easy.

Tester Zach Kline, who spent countless hours with the pack on, said it carried comfortably on long hikes and mountain bike rides, and everything was easily accessible thanks to the double zipper that splays open the top. He didn’t, however, love it for running because he said he was never able to cinch it down tight enough to prevent bounce.

How to Choose Workout Gear

If you’re just starting to work out regularly, first buy the simplest, most affordable workout gear you can find and build from there. One day you’ll be out running, hiking, or playing soccer and realize the shirt you’re wearing dumps sweat about as well as a wet rag. That’s when it’s time to upgrade to something like the TNF shirt described above. Another time you’ll realize you need to carry more than a phone and wallet while out adventuring and an accessory like the Mystery Ranch Gallagator 10 pack will come in handy. Experience is always the best kit builder.

Once you start collecting more expensive pieces, you’ll have some choices to make. Here are a few guidelines to help with your decisions:

Wool vs. Synthetic

You’re going to have to decide between wool or synthetic materials, especially when buying workout tops. Synthetic tops are usually more affordable, more durable, and better at wicking. Wool tops come in handy, however, when you’re on a multi-day adventure and don’t want to stink (or if you like to wear your clothes for weeks without washing).

Color

Call us vain, but you want to be thoughtful in your color choices when buying workout gear. It’s easy to dress yourself head to toe in clashing and bright colors so that you look like a bag of Skittles on the trail. Put a little thought into how all your color choices work together so you don’t draw unnecessary attention (unless you want attention, then go wild with Day-Glo).

Size

Workout gear is easy to find in stores, so try everything on. Sizes are fairly consistent among major brands, but some do run slightly smaller or larger. People who are on the line between sizes will also want to see which one fits best. There’s no rule of thumb in the workout world about whether you should go tighter or looser. It just depends on your preference and what feels most comfortable. But make sure you have full, unencumbered range of motion for all the activities you’ll be using the piece for.

Lined or Unlined

Workout shorts come with or without a liner. Sometimes the liner is great, sometimes it’s awful and immediately leads to chafing. If you have merino or synthetic underwear you already like to exercise in—like —we suggest buying unlined workout shorts so you always know you’ll be fine, no matter how far you’re running or how many hours of frisbee you’re playing. If you prefer to go as close to commando as possible, find a pair with a comfortable mesh liner.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 9
• Number of products tested: 59
• Number of miles: 425
• Hottest temp: 106
• Highest elevation reached: 10,500
• Favorite post-workout snack: Beer

Most of the testing for this category took place in New Mexico. Fortunately/unfortunately New Mexico had a brutal summer, with several weeks of temps over 100 degrees. In weather that hot, high-quality and thoughtfully designed gear made a big difference.

This year’s tester group ran the gamut, with a couple weekend warriors testing gear alongside a former soccer star and a guy who trains incoming special forces troops. The age range was anywhere from mid thirties to mid sixties, and interests ranged from ball sports to rock climbing.

Because there’s so much workout gear on the market, anything that made our final list had to stand out in more than one way. Breathability, for example, wasn’t enough. A shirt had to be breathable and fit well, or offer some other unique characteristic that made our testers want to wear it every time they headed out the door.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Lead tester Jakob Schiller was a gear editor at şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř and is now a columnist. One of his favorite memories from şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř was going down to the gear cage in the basement of the Santa Fe office and marveling at the mountains of outdoor gear that the staff tested for the twice-annual Buyer’s Guide. His personal garage is still packed with brand new stuff waiting to be tested, but it will never rival the infamous gear cage.

One of the routes Jakob used when testing workout gear:

Other testers in this cohort include Zach Kline, who trains elite search and rescue troops for the Air Force, and Micah Newman, who played Division 1 soccer and is now one of New Mexico’s most accomplished soccer coaches.

The post The Best Workout Gear for Men appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔąĎÍř Online.