Weather Wise: Winter Workout Gear That Actually Works

Photo courtesy of Mizuno USA/Tim DeFrisco

Figuring out how to dress for outdoor workouts this time of year can be an annoying exercise in trial and error. You need layers that aren’t too heavy but aren’t too light, pieces that both insulate and ventilate, and fabrics that evaporate moisture without letting cold air in. Talk about a tall bill.

Instead of hibernating on my couch until spring (hmm, tempting … ), I’m retooling my winter- workout wardrobe with essential high-tech pieces that actually work like they’re supposed to. (Trust me, I tried them.) Go ahead and call me Goldilocks: This stuff is just right.

Best Winter Workout Gear

Problem: I’m hot on top!


If you always feel hot, even when there’s snow on the ground, I have one word for you: ventilation. Lululemon’s Full Tilt Long Sleeve top has mesh panels along the back and under the arms to prevent you from overheating. Best part? The sleeves come with built-in thumbholes for easy layering. $88 at Lululemon, multiple locations.

Problem: I can’t run in wet weather, right?

Wrong. The comfortably light Gore Air GT AS Lady Jacket eliminates snowy-day excuses for good. Its totally waterproof yet miraculously breathable material stands up to the elements while keeping you warm. I know—it’s basically black magic. $269.95 at Philadelphia Runner.

Problem: I’ve got a whole new meaning for head cold.

It’s hard to focus on a workout when you can’t feel your ears. Keep your head fireside-warm with the buttery-soft Mythos Windstopper Hat by Gore, which insulates without trapping heat. Bonus: Reflective details make you visible at night. $39.99 at Running Companies of South Jersey, multiple locations.

Problem: I think my fingers have frostbite.

Bye-bye, crappy fleece gloves. This year, my digits will stay toasty thanks to Mizuno’s Breath Thermo Windshell Gloves, gust-repellant handgear that heats up by using your own sweat, for a self-propelled finger furnace. $25 at Philadelphia Runner, multiple locations.

Problem: My pants are so thick, I can barely move.

The key to comfortable winter running is a good pair of tights that provides warmth without preventing you from, well, moving. Sugoi’s MidZero running tights have a breathable soft-fleece lining for optimal coziness but are still thin enough to banish Tin Man stiffness. $70 for men’s and women’s at Indigo Schuy, Chestnut Hill.