The temps are dipping and the days are shortening, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor workouts need to take a sabbatical until spring. Nope, we’re here to tell you that the opposite is true — your al fresco calorie-torching sessions aren’t going anywhere, as long as you have the right gear to keep you warm and protected.
Whether you’re opting for a predawn run, a rigorous hike or a training session in your driveway, the key to withstanding the cold and achieving your fitness goals is wearing lightweight, sweat-wicking materials that are simultaneously breathable and insulating.
We scoured the internet for the latest and greatest gear — from reflective leggings and water-repellent running jackets to light-as-a-feather puffers and high-tech gloves — that will keep you comfortable outside.
Winter workout tops
Lululemon Women’s Runderful Long Sleeve ($88; lululemon.com
The old adage “you get what you pay for” has never been truer than when it comes to Lululemon gear. Case in point: This long-sleeved running top will be your go-to base layer on chilly mornings, thanks to the thick Luxtreme fabric that keeps you warm while simultaneously wicking away sweat. Designed specifically for running, the shirt has thumbholes, zippered pockets and reflective details, and it comes in five spiffy colorways.
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Adidas Men’s Cold.Rdy Training Hoodie ($100; adidas.com
This winter, Adidas launched its Cold.Rdy collection, designed specifically to tackle the harshest weather, and as is standard for the brand, the pieces are oozing with street style too. This men’s training hoodie is proof you can look crazy cool while training outside. The soft fabric traps heat, making you feel ultra-warm, while simultaneously blocking wind. We love that the hood stays put during rigorous workouts, and that three zippered pockets are available to hold all the things you like to lug around.
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All in Motion Women’s Long Sleeve Seamless Top ($19.20, originally $24; target.com
This just might be the best deal on our list. Thick and warm, but breathable and super-cute with its ribbed detailing, this stretchy workout shirt from Target line All in Motion is a steal.
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Uniqlo Women’s Women Heattech Extra Warm Crew Neck T-Shirt ($19.90, originally $24.90; uniqlo.com
Uniqlo’s Heattech self-heating fabrics — they’re made from a proprietary material that actually converts your body’s moisture and turns it into heat — are a must for winter layering. That includes this fitted, long-sleeve T-shirt that is a perfect base layer under a sweatshirt or puffer. More to know: It’s also a great casual option with jeans or sweats for chill time.
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Reebok Men’s Thermowarm Deltapeak Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt ($85; reebok.com
This we know: Reebok didn’t come to play when it came to designing its Thermowarm gear. Our favorite piece is this water-resistant sweatshirt made of a layered fabric that insulates the wearer — but not overly so. The chic texture and icy white colorway only add to the Deltapeak’s ultra-cool look.
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UA Women’s IntelliKnit Phantom 2.0 Crew ($100; underarmour.com
As pretty as it is highly functional, this Intelliknit long sleeve from Under Armour is a must-have for long runs this winter. Incredibly lightweight, the sweater is breathable and fast-drying, making it possible to wear one layer instead of several. More to know: It’s chic enough to pair with jeans and heels on a night out, too.
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Brooks Men’s Notch Thermal Long Sleeve ($80; brooksrunning.com
If you’re looking for a premium-quality base layer, this men’s thermal from luxe running gear brand Brooks is it. Ultra-lightweight, the soft, notched fabric of the long sleeve is thin and warm, but doesn’t overheat, making it perfect for cold-weather runs. Available in four colors, the top has a genius hidden shoulder pocket for small valuables, and it’s odor-resistant, too. ____________________________________________________________________________
All in Motion Men’s Long Sleeve Performance T-Shirt ($16; target.com
When you’re looking to stock up on performance base layer shirts without breaking the bank, Target’s your answer. This long-sleeve from All in Motion is currently available in four basic colors and sizes XS to XXXL. ____________________________________________________________________________
Offline Women’s Thumbs Up T-Shirt ($24.46, originally $34.95; ae.com
This summer Aerie launched a sub brand of activewear dubbed Offline, and to say we’re obsessed is an understatement. Chock full of affordable options — from leggings and shorts to sports bras and puffers — in playful hues and patterns, the line is a great option for those looking to stock up on workout gear without spending a fortune. For example, this paper-thin jersey long sleeve is perfect for layering as you head out on a run or a hike. Available in 10 colors and sizes XXS to XXL, the shirt is currently majorly on sale — and worth the investment.
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Lululemon Men’s Surge Warm Half Zip ($108; lululemon.com
In case you missed it: Lululemon is also the purveyor of some seriously cool men’s workout gear, like this half zip that is an ideal middle or base layer. Created expressly for cold-weather running, the ultra-light pullover has stretch and is breathable, while also wicking away sweat — did we mention it’s buttery soft and has two discrete pockets (with zippers!) too? And it’s got reflective details for those evening sweat sessions.
Winter workout bottoms
Adidas Men’s Favorites Winterized Track Pants ($50; adidas.com)
We’re not mad at these winterized track pants, and you won’t be either. With the same cut and fit as Adidas’ classic track pants, this fleece version is thicker and warmer, but still slim enough to get your outdoor workout — whether it’s a game of hoops, a hike or training session — done in comfort.
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Vuori Men’s Sunday Performance Jogger ($89; vuori.com or nordstrom.com
Nearly 1,700 reviewers have made the laid-back, uber-cozy Ponto Performance Pant a bestseller for Vuori, but we’re here to say the brand has channeled that same comfort into a streamlined, lightweight workout pant with the Sunday Performance Jogger. Made with performance stretch knit jersey, the moisture-wicking pants have three zippered pockets and a relaxed fit that ensure you’ll be looking cool as a cucumber during warmups and cooldowns.
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Lululemon Women’s Keep The Heat Thermal Tight ($128; lululemon.com
Designed with Lululemon’s new SenseKnit technology, these seamless tights feature a wool/nylon/stretch combo that dries quickly, regulates temperature, wicks away sweat and helps keep you uber-warm, even on the chilliest days. More to know: The ribbed-texture leggings are extra-long, at 27 inches, and come in sizes S through XL (a departure for the brand, which usually offers leggings in sizes 0 to 20).
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Brooks Women’s Momentum Thermal Tight ($95; brooksrunning.com
If you’re looking for a thicker thermal tight for running on freezing days, this is it. Brooks’ second-skin fabric is slinky on the outside, fleecy warm on the inside and breathable overall, making for an ultra-warm workout. We love the multiple pockets, the supportive fit and the full-coverage length. This is a running tight that delivers on its promise.
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Spanx Women’s Every.Wear Reflective Leggings ($128; spanx.com or nordstrom.com) & Crop Top ($68; spanx.com or nordstrom.com)
Every woman’s favorite shapewear brand has some serious street cred when it comes to activewear, and we’re currently obsessed with the winter options. This lightweight set features a waistband-free design, and it keeps you ultra-visible during dark workouts with a reflective print that runs from top to bottom.
Breathable, sweat-wicking and quick-drying, the leggings and the coordinating crop top (which will come in handy once it’s warm again, also sold at Nordstrom) also have anti-odor technology.
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UA Men’s Recover Fleece Pants ($100; underarmour.com
Under Armour launched its Recover collection this winter, which includes pieces featuring a mineral-infused fabric that responds to the energy you give off and reflects it back into your muscles, helping you to recover from tough workouts faster and feel less fatigued. These thick and warm fleece pants, available in sizes small to 4XL, will do just that, and their ultra-comfortable fit, thick elastic waist band and zippered pockets will help seal the deal that they’re your favorite sweats ever.
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UA Women’s Rush ColdGear Jacquard Leggings ($75; underarmour.com) & Mock ($75; underarmour.com)
Also part of the Recover collection is this Rush Cold Gear set for women. Super sleek in design — we’re big fans of the moody baroque green hue — the leggings and coordinating mock feature a thick, incredibly soft material that stretches and moves with you, while also keeping you warm. This we know: You’re guaranteed to look profesh while training in this gear. ____________________________________________________________________________
Nike Women’s Pro Luxe Ankle Tights ($90; nordstrom.com
You can never go wrong with a pair of Nike tights, and that includes this Pro Luxe set, which uses the brand’s Dri-Fit technology to keep you dry and cool.
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Adidas Men’s Cold.Rdy Training Pants ($95; adidas.com
Insulating and ultra-soft, these high-tech training pants are designed to help you achieve top performance during the harshest of winter climes. Wicking away sweat and keeping you warm (and dry!), the pants have the perfect fit, offering a hard-to-achieve combination of snug but loose.
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Sweaty Betty Women’s Peak Thermal Leggings ($148; sweatybetty.com
Sweaty Betty is one of our favorite leggings purveyors, and the brand does not disappoint when it comes to winter-ready options. These thermal leggings, for instance, are a must for anyone planning on pounding the pavement this winter (or hitting the slopes — they make for a great layering pant). Ultra-soft and stretchy, the thermal fabric also regulates temperature, keeping you nice and warm on even the coldest of days. We love the pockets and the cute, contrasting drawstring. ____________________________________________________________________________
Baleaf Women’s Fleece Lined Winter Leggings (starting at $26.99; amazon.com
Nearly 4,000 Amazon customers report that these fleece-lined running leggings are worth the (minimal) investment. Available in 17 colors, the high-waisted pants boast not one but two pockets for all your storage needs.
According to one reviewer, “I’m 6’ and most of that is in my legs so finding anything long enough is basically impossible. These not only reach about an inch above my ankle, but the waist actually comes up to my belly button, which is incredibly important in workout gear.”
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Summersalt Women’s Do-It-All High Rise 7/8 Leggings ($95; summersalt.com)
One of our go-to swimwear brands has diversified in a big way, and we’re here for their new activewear collection. The Do It All Hi-Rise Leggings are form and function personified — the super-soft pants actually wick away sweat and are chock full of stretch, making them perfect for outdoor workouts, while the slew of adorable patterns ensures you’ll be looking cute.
Winter workout outerwear
Old Navy Women’s Packable Narrow Channel Puffer Vest ($25.99, originally $39.99; oldnavy.com
Of all the layers out there, a puffy vest just might be our favorite, and this one from Old Navy gets the job done. Lightweight but warm, the vest has a standing mock collar, pockets and a silky taffeta lining. It comes in five colors and patterns, folds up into its own pocket and is a bargain at this price. Fear not, dudes, a men’s version is available too. ____________________________________________________________________________
The North Face Women’s Flight Futurelight Jacket ($280; thenorthface.com
Perfect for trail running in wet weather, the Flight Futurelight jacket from The North Face is chock full of cool technology — an ultrathin nanomembrane, for example, allows airflow while still keeping you high and dry during your run. Soft and movable, the jacket is thin, lightweight and packable, and its hood and hem are adjustable. ____________________________________________________________________________
Old Navy Women’s Micro Performance Fleece Zip-Front Jacket ($29.99; oldnavy.com
A fleece layer is always a good idea, and we love this thin yet warm option from Old Navy. Boasting a full zip-front, the jacket has a standing mock collar and banded hems that make it look and feel more expensive than it is. The hardest part will be choosing which of the seven colors you need most. More to know: A quarter-zip version is also available.
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Lululemon Women’s Navigation Stretch Down Jacket ($228; lululemon.com
If you’re looking for a lightweight down jacket with some serious style, look no further than this jacket from Lululemon. Windproof, water-repellent and boasting 700-fill-power goose down, the Navigation is also full of stretch, making it the ultimate top layer for a cold-weather workout. Equally able to handle your long-distance run and the walk to your favorite yoga studio, this jacket will be your go-to all winter (and spring!).
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Uniqlo Women’s Ultra Light Down Parka (starting at $49.90, originally $69.90; uniqlo.com
The name of this jacket is highly accurate: It’s very, very lightweight. But fear not, it’s also very warm. Available in eight cute colors (from fuchsia and yellow to sage green and navy) and sizes XXS to XXL, the parka is water-repellent too, making it a great top layer for workouts on snowy days.
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Adidas Women’s Cold.Rdy Down Jacket ($400; adidas.com
We know, there might be a bit of sticker shock here, but trust us when we say this is an investment item you’ll turn to on frigid days for years to come. Arguably the warmest piece in Adidas’ Cold.Rdy collection, this versatile, two-in-one puffer comes with a removable jacket overlay (with pockets) that can be added for extra insulation. Chock full of high-loft down, the jacket itself has a full zip, is water-repellent and features two zipped pockets. It’s sure to keep you toasty during your warmup, recovery or simply as you commute to your next location this winter. A men’s version is also available.
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The North Face Men’s Venture 2 Jacket ($99; thenorthface.com
Nearly 2,000 North Face customers agree that this waterproof, windproof jacket is a must-have for outdoor training (or hiking, or camping, or whatever adventure you find yourself on). Ultra-breathable with pit-zip venting for extra ventilation, the unlined jacket also has an adjustable hood and is roomy enough for a layer or three underneath. More to know: It packs into its own pocket. ____________________________________________________________________________
Athleta Women’s Whisper Featherless Jacket ($199; athleta.com
Proving you can ditch the bulk and keep the warmth, Athleta’s Whisper Featherless Jacket is a sleek puffer to layer on as you head out the door. We love the high-low hem (with an adjustable bungee cord), the three secure stash pockets, and the five chic hues you can choose from.
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Offline Women’s Packable Puffer Jacket ($67.46, originally $89.95; ae.com
One can never have too many puffers, and this lightweight, packable option from Offline is another great, affordable choice. Available in four cute colors (we’re partial to the sunny yellow) and sizes XXS to XXL, the jacket is the perfect top layer when your workout is taking you outside this winter.
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All in Motion Men’s Packable Down Puffer Jacket ($60; target.com
Guys need puffers too, and this option from Target’s activewear line All in Motion doesn’t break the bank. Available in six colors in sizes small to 3XB, the jacket is moisture-wicking and both water- and wind-resistant.
Winter workout accessories
UA Men’s Convertible Run Gloves ($40; underarmour.com
Water-repellent and lightweight, these soft-knit gloves have a mitten cover that can be tucked away into the gloves when not in use. We love the Tech Touch print on the thumb and index fingers, ensuring you can easily use your touch screen devices, and the extra-long ribbed cuffs that will keep your wrists nice and warm during an early morning run.
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Tough Headware Ear Warming Headband ($7.95; amazon.com
The price is right on this fleece ear-warming headband that has amassed more than 1,500 positive Amazon reviews. Perfect for those days when a hat isn’t necessary, but you need a little something to keep your ears warm, this headband will keep you moving and grooving on your run.
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The North Face Women’s Cable Minna Beanie ($36; thenorthface.com or starting at $24.80; amazon.com
This hat is essential for winter in general, but even more so if you’re taking your workouts outdoors in the upcoming months. Crafted from ultra-warm yarn, the roomy beanie has a super soft, plush interior lining creating a thick, wind-repelling shield for your head.
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Athleta Made to Move Mask, 3-Pack ($25; athleta.gap.com
People everywhere are raving about Athleta’s face masks and we understand why — they’re ultra-lightweight and allow air to move in and out with ease. Great for working out, the polyester/spandex fabric stretches and moves with your face, while the soft elastic bindings on the ear straps are great for adjusting tension, and they don’t get tangled in your hair. ____________________________________________________________________________
Offline Sherpa Snood ($17.46, originally $24.95; ae.com
A snood might sound like something Dr. Seuss imagined, but we’ve tried them and, um, they’re amazing. Especially this sherpa version from Offline, which is buttery soft and ensures your neck will be warm as can be from the moment you step outside.
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Ticonn Neck Gaiter, 2-Pack ($11.99; amazon.com
Boasting more than 6,700 Amazon reviews, this set of moisture-wicking breathable gaiter face coverings is a favorite on the site. Available in 17 colors and patterns, the gaiters are soft, breathable and stretchy.