While winter feels like it is losing it’s grip here in New England, I’m sure more flakes willy fly before spring really sets in. The end of the season is the perfect chance to snag gear on sale, which is exactly why I wanted to highlight some of my favorite gear choices from the winter season. There really is no weather that you can’t run through if you have the proper gear-yes, even black ice. If you’re outfitted properly there’s not much that can get in the way of your training during the winter months. Here’s a list of the items I’ve used most this winter season:
Footwear
STABILicers
I figured out that I haven’t been on a treadmill in eight months, with the exception of one run on a hotel treadmill at Thanksgiving. Which means that all my runs have been outside throughout the winter. There’s been some really terrible conditions and I’ve been able to run through it thanks to my STABILicers Run. These slip on over my shoes and have kept me from falling when the footing has been less than idea. I’ve certainly gotten my money’s worth on these. They aren’t currently on sale, but I think they are worth every penny. They are $49.95 at stabilgear.com.
Topo Athletic Hydroventure
My Topo Athletic Hydroventures have been my go-to shoe this winter. They are waterproof, which makes them the perfect cold weather shoe, not just for staying dry but for the temperature regulation as well. The waterproof layer does a fantastic job keeping warm air around the toes, which means your feet stay warm throughout the entire run. If you want to snag a pair for yourself for next winter or for spring trails use the code RUNFARINTOPO at TopoAthletic.com to get 20% off your Topo order (coupon code valid until 12/31/17).
Available at TopoAthletic.com on sale for $104.00 (if you use the code).
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Headware
Smartwool NTS Mid 250 Reversible Pattern Headband
There are two hats I always reach for: if it’s in the 20’s or below I almost always wear my Bula hat that I’ve had for years and if it’s warmer I grab my Smartwool headband, which I just got this year. I’ve never really worn headbands before because I don’t really like the way they look, but I really like this one. It’s wide, super soft and comfortable.
Available at smartwool.com or EMS.com for $22.oo
Tops
Oiselle Tripoli Top
I bought this in the fall and new right when I opened the box that I was really going to like it. It has been another one of my go-to tops. It’s super soft and has a nice drape to it as well, plus I really like the design. You can get it on sale for $52.00 at oiselle.com.
EMS Women’s Techwick Transition Hoodie
I reached for this top more often than any other top this winter. The hood and built in face mask/mock neck made it perfect for those really cold days. I could pull the hood on at the beginning of my run and then take it off as I warmed up. And the extra long sleeves and thumb holes kept me covered and warm. It’s on sale right now at EMS.com for $29.50!
Winter Tights
Warm tights are essential for staying comfortable on the run, if you’re tights aren’t warm enough it is pretty much guaranteed that you’ll be miserable.
Smartwool PhD Running Printed Tight
Smartwool sent me a pair of these and then I purchased an additional pair myself. They are the warmest winter tight I’ve run in so far and they stay dry despite kicking up a lot of powder while snowshoe running. They have a side pocket, plus a pocket on the back that is large enough for my iPhone 6 in it’s case (bonus!). Right now you can find these tights on sale at 6pm.com for a total steal: $48.00!
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Here are a few favorite tights from some of my favorite bloggers…
Athleta Polartec Power Stretch Tights-Colleen D. from livefreeandrun.net
Athleta Polartec Tight. Photo Credit: Athleta.com
I love that they come in reg, tall and petite! (I need petite!) They are fuzzy on the inside and smooth on the outside. Flattering. They have a lower back pocket that can hold my phone. They are so warm that I have worn them when the actual temp is 12 degrees and felt fine!
Available at athleta.com for $89.00
Spandits Icelandic Tights-Carly from finefitday.com
Spandits Icelandic Tight. Photo Credit: Spandits.com
Skirt Sports Toasty Tight. Photo Credit: SkirtSports.com
What are your go-to items for winter running? Do you snag sales in the off season?
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Heather McClellan says
I have that smartwool headband, too (except mine doesn’t have the cute pattern) and I LOVE it! While it doesn’t get as cold here in the PNW as it does in the NE, I hate having my ears be cold, and wool hats are just too warm.