6 Essential Winter Running Gear Picks in 2025
As winter sets in and drops the temperature, runners need to wear specialized gear to keep warm and mobile during their workouts. From gloves to coats and even hats, having the proper winter running gear is essential to staying on track with your running while staying safe. Keep reading to look at six great options for winter running gear, providing comfort, safety, and performance.
1. Ciele FSTCap SC – Performance Running Cap
Credit: Ciele Athletics
Starting our list of winter running gear is the Ciele FSTCap SC. A great choice for cooler temperatures, the cap is designed with a pre-curved brim and COOLmatic fabric with UPF protection, providing breathability while still protecting your face and head from wind and sun. Plus, the best part is the flexible ear covers, which can give you a little extra warmth without overheating.
2. Ciele IBT Hoody – High-Tech Layering Solution
Credit: Ciele Athletics
Truly cold winters need dependable layers, and a great option is the Ciele IBT Hoody. Second on our list of winter running gear, the hoodie is made from recycled polyester and carbon COOLmatic fabric for endless warmth. The best part? An integrated hood that doubles as a balaclava for full coverage, perfect for early morning or evening runs when the temperatures dip. Reflective highlights sewn into the fabric provide safety during those later runs.
3. Ciele FRD Wintertight – Warmth and Compression
Credit: Ciele Athletics
Next on our winter running gear list is the Ciele FRD Wintertight. Keep your legs as toasty as your top with these compression and weather-resistant leggings. Each pair is made from COOLmatic PLUS interlock knit fabric, securing your legs while also providing sleet and snow protection through wind-resistant panels. Side mesh pockets and a zippered phone pocket round out the leggings, and for those who run with less light, there are reflective accents for visibility.
4. Smartloft Gloves by Smartwool – Lightweight Warmth
Credit: Smartwool
Fourth on our list of winter running gear is the Smartloft Gloves. The gloves provide the perfect balance of lightweight warmth, breathability, and moisture resistance, keeping your fingers warm even when wet. Plus, if you need to change up your playlist while on the trail, the gloves are great with touchscreen devices or grabbing energy gels for a boost of energy.
5. Smartwool Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip – Insulating Mid-Layer
Credit: Smartwool
Next on the winter running gear list is the Smartwool Active Fleece Wind 1/2 Zip. Everyone needs an outer layer when running in the cold, and this jacket is flexible and insulated to keep you moving down the road. It features four-way stretch-knit fabric and soft-brushed merino wool to keep you comfortable for every run. Synthetic materials protect against the wind and cold, increasing the jacket’s appeal for dedicated runners.
6. Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Socks – Warm Feet
Credit: Amazon
Last but not least on our list of winter running gear, you have to keep those feet nice and toasty with a pair of Cold Weather Targeted Cushion Crew Socks by Smartwool. The crew-length design covers the ankle so no skin is exposed during your run, and the merino wool keeps them warm with every step. Another plus is the performance fit, which helps prevent chafing and blisters during longer training sessions.
Final Thoughts
Credit: Oleksandr Zbanduto
This selection of winter running gear combines warmth, breathability, utility, and durability. Embrace the winter running season with confidence and comfort with these great options, and don’t worry about getting a chill while on the trail. So, what are you waiting for? Grab some of this gear for you or a loved one who enjoys running, and make the cold season a little more enjoyable.