Trail Running Gear List 2024
What to pack and wear trail running
March 20th, 2024
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Trail running is a sport that doesn’t require much equipment — you can get by with just a pair of shoes. However, as you find yourself more invested in the sport, you’ll quickly find having more gear than just a pair of shoes will improve your experience on the trails. If you want to take your trail running to the next level, you’ll need to be prepared.
Having the right trail running gear can make a big difference in your comfort, safety, and performance. Nice running socks make for happy, healthy feet. Clothing made from breathable, sweat-wicking materials will help you regulate your body temperature. Items like a GPS watch, sport sunscreen, running sunglasses, and a hydration pack will help you stay safe and comfortable as you venture further into the wild.
In short, while trail running comes with a simple starter kit, your trail adventure becomes more fun with certain gear items. To help you keep it simple while also keeping it safe and enjoyable, here’s a guide to the best trail running gear you should have in your kit.
See my Best Women's Trail Running Shoes guide or our Best Men's Trail Running Shoes guide for our recommendations.
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Trail running gear checklist
| GEAR ITEM | PRODUCTS WE LIKE |
|---|---|
| Trail Running Shoes | |
| Hoka Speedgoat 5 (men's) | |
| Hoka Speedgoat 5 (women's) | |
| Trail running socks | |
| Darn Tough Run Ultra Lightweight (Men's) |
The author (left) and three friends running in a wash in Utah. While each runner has their own style and preferences, there are certain items they all wear including sun protection, socks designed to reduce blisters, and trail running shoes that can handle the uneven terrain. Photo by Craig Lloyd.
What to wear trail running
TRAIL RUNNING SHOES
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Trail running shoes are a must for quality traction, support, and stability to tackle the technical terrain you'll encounter. Trail shoes should be your first investment in trail running because no matter how good your other gear is, your run will be only as comfortable as your shoes. Take the time to find the right shoes for you. See my Best Trail Running Shoes guide for our recommendations.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Fit is the most important thing to look for. Keep in mind that your friends may rave about a shoe, and you could find that shoe just does not work-especially their feet. Tread and lugs are one of the major differences between trail running shoes and road running shoes. Aggressive lugs may even help in some icy conditions, but a hindrance in certain situations like running on flatter trails or over very rocky terrain.
The men's and women's Hoka Speedgoat 5 is known for its superior, thick cushioning and the support and protection it gives your feet. The sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole and 5mm lugs mean excellent traction on technical trails. Most times, we get home from a run and can’t wait to get our shoes off our feet. NoNone of our testers feel this way about the Speedgoats. That's why we dedicated an in-depth single product review to why we like the Speedgoat 5 running shoes so much.
What we liked: Very cushioned, Great fit, Comes in standard and wide sizing, Fantastic grip
What we didn't like: high stack can feel unstable at first run and takes some getting used to
COMPARE PRICES OF THE HOKA SPEEDGOAT 5
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Trail running socks
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Aside from a good pair of shoes, the gear that can make or break your run are your socks. It takes trial and error to learn what is comfortable for you when it comes to socks. I’d suggest trying several different styles and brands of running socks until you find a height and fabric that works for you.
If you're on a long run and your feet sweat a lot, you may want to consider bringing an extra pair of socks to change into halfway through your run.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Avoid cotton socks, as these can bunch up, retain sweat, and blister your poor feet. Stick to wool or synthetic blended socks made for running. They will offer compression and cushion in all the right places. A tighter-fitting sock is better than a loose-fitting sock.
Many runners are shorty sock people. If that’s you, get shorty socks with ankle tabs. The tabs can prevent the sock from falling into your shoe, getting kinked, and causing unwanted rubbing or blistering.
I am a die-hard Darn Tough fan from my thru-hiking days and may be known for running in hiking socks. That’s one reason I prefer taller socks (keeps less dirt and other nature crap from getting into my feet).
Most trail runners like a running-specific sock, like those we cover in our Best Running Socks guide for recommendations on shorty and medium-height socks for trail runs. I like these shorty socks from Swiftwick, and our other trail running testers think it's the best trail running sock for hot weather! If you're running in cooler conditions and want a taller sock like me, I'll steer you towards Darn Tough's own running sock line, the Darn Tough Run Ultra Lightweight.
What we liked: No bunch, breathable, reduced odor, lots of options (men’s/women’s, height, cushioning), Darn Tough warranty
What we didn't like: could last longer (but comes with a lifetime warranty)
COMPARE PRICES OF THE DARN TOUGH RUN ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Depending on where you trail run, you may encounter debris and loose rocks. Here, the author is running on an off-trail scramble. Even well-defined trails may have loose sand or rocks that can end up in your shoes if you are out for a long run.
LIGHTWEIGHT GAITERS
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Trail runners know the value of a good gaiter – especially on longer runs. No one likes to stop and empty their shoes of dirt and rocks.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Lightweight, secure, and able to protect your feet from debris and mud, gaiters are the protection you didn’t even know you needed. In fact, gaiters have become so popular that many trail running shoe manufacturers now include a hook on the top and velcro on the heel to secure the gaiters.
OUR CHOICE: Kahtoola INSTAgaiters
We like the Kahtoola INSTAgaiters low gaiters with a zipper for easy on and easy off, which are especially handy while running in mixed conditions, such as when having to take on-and-off a winter traction device like the Kahtoola microspikes or in muddy conditions during spring running.
Our favorites for summer are the Dirty Girl Gaiters, which come with attachments that work on any trail running shoe.
What we liked: speedy on-and-off for mixed condition running in spring, fall, and high altitude summer runs
What we didn't like: heavier than summer gaiters, doesn't have a stash pocket
VIEW THE KAHTOOLA INSTAGAITERS
GPS WATCH
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Heart rate monitoring, distance, vertical gain, pace, and the ability to load routes (so you don’t get lost) are fantastic for learning about your current skill set and training for races. See our Best GPS and Altitude, Barometer, and Compass Watches story for our recommendations.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
We've upgraded to the newer Garmin Instinct 2 Solar or the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar for runners with smaller wrists. I also upload all my runs to the social app Strava. Like other social media, you can follow and be followed by other running friends and connect with new friends. The feature I enjoy the most on Strava is their option to track what shoes you run in and how many miles you put on them. For more details on its capabilities, read our in-depth review on the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar watch.
OUR CHOICE: GARMIN INSTINCT 2 SOLAR
What we liked: ability to track and record routes, heart rate monitoring, distance, vertical gain, plugs in with Strava, as an older model, it has a great price
What we didn't like: older model doesn't have all the features of new models
VIEW THE GARMIN INSTINCT 2 SOLAR
2 SOLAR
2S SOLAR
RUNNING SHIRT
WHY YOU NEED IT:
When you're out trail running, you'll get exposed to a lot of sun, especially in the mountains at altitude. A lot of runners will use a moisture-wicking quick dry running shirt (see our guides to the best women’s running shirts and best men’s running shirts out there).
I live in Utah and run at altitude, so I generally want a little more sun protection. That's why I opt for a long sleeve with UPF rating. Check out our Best Sun Shirts guide for recommendations or check out our whole section on Sun Protection for the Outdoors.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Look for a lightweight breathable fabric that won't feel too hot, preferably with some UPF protection. Your running shirt doesn't have to keep you warm. Instead, rely on a running jacket for layering on cool mornings. Choose something moisture wicking and quick dry, so the sweat you generate while running won't make you feel cold and clammy. Look for flatlock seams to avoid chafing and a good range of motion, especially if you like to add some scrambling into your runs. I prefer running in tank tops in the heat but generally, you'll get more sun protection with a long sleeve.
Whatever you do, lather up with sunscreen! Sunscreen for your face and sunscreen for your body are essential, even if you wear a sunshirt.
What we liked: lightweight, soft fabric, hood, thumbholes, plus size availability, most breathable sun shirt on hot days
What we didn't like: drawstring on bottom
COMPARE PRICES OF THE MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR CRATER LAKE HOODY
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
TRAIL RUNNING SHORTS
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Breathable, sweat-wicking, lightweight running shorts go a long way to make you feel more comfortable on a trail run. Waistbands that stay up and good pockets are essential.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
There are several factors to consider when purchasing a pair of shorts: the style of trail running you’ll be doing, inseam length, waist, and thigh fit, hand pockets, your history with chafing, and other running gear you’ll want to bring along. See our Best Women's Trail Running Shorts guide and Best Men's Trail Running shorts guide.
What we liked: generous pockets, well ventilated, quick-drying, bulk-free waistband, minimal design, fabric feel and (non)smell
What we didn't like: durability for price, where it rides may not work for every body
COMPARE PRICES OF THE PATAGONIA STRIDER PRO
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
RUNNING HAT
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Same as with running shirts, when you're out trail running, you'll get exposed to a lot of sun, especially in the mountains at altitude. Don’t forget to wear a breathable running sun hat for sun and rain protection.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Find a running hat that is so comfortable, that you have to periodically check if it’s still on your head. It should keep salty sweat out of your eyes, dry quickly, and be easily adjustable on the fly.
OUR CHOICE: CieleGO Cap
What we liked: Luxury feel, optimal fit for most, breathability, structure, packability, and aesthetic
What we didn't like: Price runs higher than most, but has a lifetime warranty, and is a premium hat.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE CIELEGO CAP
SUNGLASSES
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Protecting your eyes from the sun is an important part of sun protection. Though sunglasses are essential in all climates and geographic regions, trail runners are likely to experience time above treeline at altitude.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
A good pair of sports sunglasses is a pair that’s comfortable and secure on my face and has good UV protection. Good running sunglasses will improve my vision by muting glare or enhancing the contrast of colors on the road or trail to help me stay on my feet rather than tripping over obstacles. A bonus is that they’re flattering on my face! See our running sunglasses guide for models we tested that don’t fall off your face.
OUR CHOICE: TIFOSI SWANK POLARIZED
What we liked: lightweight durable frame, stayed put on our sweaty face on hot climbs and rolling trails, good value for the price
What we didn't like: Not the fanciest lenses or frames, branding on lens
COMPARE PRICES OF THE TIFOSI SWANK POLARIZED
SUNSCREEN
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Whether you're outdoors hiking a trail or walking the dog around the city, the sun can cause some major harm to your body. UVA and UVB rays cause skin cancer, sun spots, wrinkles, leathery skin, etc.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
OUR CHOICE: Supergoop Play Everyday
What we liked: not greasy, no white cast on skin, one bottle can be used on face and body, works well for body and face, comes in a giant pump tub
What we didn't like: pricey for body sunscreen but worth it
VIEW THE SUPERGOOP PLAY EVERYDAY
SPORTS BRA
WHY YOU NEED IT:
For the boob-owners in the audience, you'll want a great sports bra that can handle some bounce.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
A quality sports bra can be as important as comfortable running shoes for many runners. See our Best Sports Bras for A to D cups or Best Sports Bras for D+ Cups for bras we tested that held up during trail runs.
OUR CHOICE: OISELLE FLYOUT BRA
What we liked: excellent support, comfort, sweat wicking, best pocket of any bra we tested, wider straps protect shoulders when using a running vest or pack, snug in all the right places and tight in none of the wrong places, flattering fit, mitigates bounce
What we didn't like: not as much shape as encapsulation bras, D cups will want more support, more fabric in the back means can more fabric to accumulate back sweat
VIEW THE OISELLE FLYOUT BRA
A trail running hydration pack should provide almost all the volume you need for a trail run. Unlike a hiking backpack, a vest is designed to fit your body while running to minimize bounce and discomfort as you move. Photo by Chelsea Woodbury.
What to pack for trail running
HYDRATION PACK
WHY YOU NEED IT:
For longer distances, or if you are going to be out for more than an hour, hydration packs or waist packs are not only useful for carrying water or electrolyte drinks but are also perfect for carrying snacks, your phone, keys, headlamp, first aid, and an extra layer as well.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
I look for a vest that is incredibly soft and does not chafe around my collarbone (a problem I have experienced with other vests). This is nice moving into the warmer weather when temperatures insist I wear the least amount of clothing possible. Be prepared to spend some money, or try to find one second-hand, because vests and running packs are an expensive (but worthy) investment. If you aren’t sure, it’s worth checking REI’s Used Gear section for running vests. For tips on buying used gear, see our guide on Buying Used Outdoor Gear.
See our guide to the Best Hydration Running Vests for recommendations on models, including the Salomon Adv Skin 12, which we recommend. We like it so much we wrote an in-depth long-term review on that Salomon running vest.
OUR CHOICE: Salomon Adv Skin 12 running vest
(MEN'S AND WOMEN'S)
What we liked: Performs equally as well empty as full. Dialed fitting system
What we didn't like: Some small plastic pieces that can break
COMPARE PRICES OF THE SALOMON ADV SKIN 12
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
WAIST PACK
WHY YOU NEED IT:
If you're on a shorter run or have shoulder issues, many runners find a running-specific waist pack or hip belt can carry water, snacks, and a layer more comfortably than a running pack or hydration vest.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Compared to an urban fanny pack, running waist packs tend to have easy-to-reach water and bounce around less during your run. See our Best Fanny Packs, Hip Belts, and Waist Packs guide for our recommendations.
OUR CHOICE: Camelbak Podium Flow Belt
What we liked: snug pocket, secure water bottle pocket is easy to access, freestanding water bottle, relatively no bounce during runs
What we didn't like: small pack, shorter waist strap
COMPARE PRICES OF THE CAMELBAK PODIUM FLOW BELT
Many places you may reach on your trail run will be quite remote and will not have cell service in case of an emergency. A lightweight messenger that allows you to text with others via satellite can provide comfort and peace of mind when on trips in the backcountry. Photo by Chelsea Woodbury.
SATELLITE MESSENGER
WHY YOU NEED IT:
If you run alone a lot, especially in areas with little to no cellular service, a personal location device — which works by satellite — like the inReach Mini 2, is a good investment. Satellite messengers allow you to send text messages – and an SOS alert to local search and rescue teams if needed. See our Best Personal Locator Devices and Satellite Messengers for our recommendations and detailed reviews of the top models.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
For an SOS device, you want something with reliable service, that is lightweight and small enough to fit into a running vest so you'll actually take it with you. Find something easy to use that pairs with Apple or Android.
OUR CHOICE: inReach Mini 2
What we liked: weight, ease of use, two way texting
What we didn't like: price, requires subscription
COMPARE PRICES OF THE INREACH MINI 2
Chafe is a normal part of trail running and is especially common on warm days when your body starts sweating. Luckily, there are many products that make it more comfortable to run and your body will adapt. Photo by Craig Lloyd.
ANTI-CHAFING CREAM
WHY YOU NEED IT:
When you're trail running, chafe WILL happen.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Look for something that can prevent chafing on the body
OUR CHOICE: BodyGlide
What we liked: reduces friction in painful areas, available in smaller containers, not too greasy feeling, doesn't require getting hands greasy, lightweight small volume packaging
What we didn't like: can't be used on toes for blisters
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BODYGLIDE
HEADLAMP
WHY YOU NEED IT:
If you're on longer runs or run during the shorter days of winter, spring, or fall, a headlamp is essential to see your way on the trail and alert vehicles or mountain bikes that are you there. If a run were to take longer than you expected, a headlamp could be a lifesaver, especially if you're venturing into remote dark places. Headlamps are common on trail runs, and many trail running races happen at night.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
We recommend a high lumen headlamp with minimal bounce, so it will stay on your head without giving you a headache. Some runners find it easier to wear a headlamp on their waist to prevent shadows from blocking their view of the trail. See our Best Headlamps guide recommendation. Still, other runners prefer a small handheld lightweight flashlight to prevent shadow. For more wearables and options, check out our guide to Best Running Lights.
Whatever illumination option you choose, just be sure to pack it.
OUR CHOICE: Biolite 800 Pro
What we liked: Comfort, fit, no bounce, incredible brightness lights up the whole trail, battery life
What we didn't like: price, weight
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BIOLITE 800 PRO
ELECTROLYTES
WHY YOU NEED IT:
We recommend including electrolytes or salt pills in your running nutrition. Running, especially at altitude or dry climates, can cause you to sweat. Electrolytes are a way to prevent runners from "bonking" due to mineral imbalance.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Not all electrolytes are equal. At a minimum, an electrolyte powder should have the following five essential electrolyte components: Sodium (Na+), Chloride (Cl-), Potassium (K+), Calcium (Ca++), and Magnesium (Mg+). See our Best Electrolytes guide for recommendations.
OUR CHOICE: NUUN HYDRATION SPORT
What we liked: packaging, creates bubbly drinks almost like having a La Croix with you in the backcountry, variety of good flavors
What we didn't like: can be heavy, has sugar, price
COMPARE PRICES OF THE NUUN HYDRATION SPORT
WATER FILTER
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Running takes energy. Plus, you'll likely be at altitude and exposed to the sun, so hydration is even more key. If you're going on a long run, you may want to bring a water filter so that you don't have to carry all of your water from home.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
I like the Katadyn BeFree because it's lightweight and packs down small. It's also easy to clean. See our Best Water Filters guide for more recommendations. Our winning filter, the Katadyn Be Free, also comes with a collapsible silicone water bottle and is a winner in our Best Water Bottle for Hiking guide.
OUR CHOICE: Katadyn BeFree
What we liked: lightweight, packs down small, easy to clean, filters fast
What we didn't like: filter needs replacing, flow slows down over time, filter can only be used with the bottle it comes with
COMPARE PRICES OF THE KATADYN BEFREE
FIRST AID KIT
It's always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit. Once you pull this together, put it in a small, sturdy, waterproof plastic bag (such as a LokSak) and then just leave it in a small pocket in your hydration vest or waist pack so it's always there. I usually include:
A small amount of Leukotape (for hot spots and blisters)
Pain reliever
Lip balm
A few sterile skin closures
Bandages
Antibiotic ointment single-use packets
Hand sanitizer
The author and her husband at an aid station during a race. During organized events, aid stations can provide you with hydration and fuel. When you’re training, you’ll often have to plan ahead and carry it yourself.
WATER AND SNACKS
Running takes energy. Be sure to bring plenty of hydration and lots of delicious snacks! Fortunately, there is a seemingly endless variety of energy bars and performance gels specifically designed for endurance sports.
The author and her husband on a winter trail run. Although some of how you dress may be the same in winter (for example, our author is wearing running shorts during the middle of the day) other layers and even the shoes you wear may be different.
Winter trail running gear
I run a lot in the winter. If you also plan to run in cold weather, you'll want to carry some additional equipment. Here are some things to consider for a winter run. See our How to Run in the Winter guide and our Cold Weather Running Gear List.
If you're headed out for a run in the early morning or evening, see our Reflective Running Gear List.
Although dressing for running in winter is different from dressing for hiking, there’s a lot of overlaps—specifically when it comes to safety while trail running. I recommend reading Arlette “Apple Pie” Laan’s article on How to Dress for Winter Hiking, which talks about what to do for more extreme conditions.
WINTER TRACTION DEVICES
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Slipping on mud, snow, and ice can ruin your run and even cause injury.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Look for shoes that either give you good traction in their tread or look for added traction. See our Best Ice Traction Devices story for our recommendations on traction for mud, snow, and ice.
OUR CHOICE: Kahtoola Microspikes
What we liked: lightweight, balance for mixed terrain performance, better price
What we didn't like: needs minor adjustments to work with certain shoes, elastic bands can break
COMPARE PRICES OF THE KAHTOOLA MICROSPIKES
WATERPROOF TRAIL RUNNING SHOES
WHY YOU NEED IT:
If you'll be running in wet or snowy conditions, you should consider switching to a waterproof trail running shoe. Many manufacturers make a waterproof version of their running shoes, so you (hopefully) won't have to find an entirely new model.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Trail running shoes that have the same comfortable fit and traction as your summer trail shoes, but with added weatherproofing. Look for something waterproof and breathable that will prevent your feet from sweating and getting your feet almost as wet as if you had just used your summer shoes. Expect to drop some money on these as the technology for waterproof breathable material can be expensive. Still, if you're out in winter, it is worth it.
What we liked: same excellent fit, comfort, and traction as the non-Gore Tex version, breathable and waterproof
What we didn't like: price
COMPARE PRICES OF THE HOKA SPEEDGOAT GTX
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
WATERPROOF GAITERS
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Waterproof gaiters can be a great addition if you’re running in snowy, wet conditions. They keep snow from packing in around your ankles and keep your feet dry.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Like all running apparel, you want to find something that won't impact your stride or change the way you run. Height, bulk, weight, and inconvenient zippers can all cause you to run differently than if you weren't wearing gaiters.
OUR CHOICE: Kahtoola LEVAgaiters Mid GTX
What we liked: Not too tall so don't get in the way, zippers are easy on, easy off, secure fit that doesn't mess with your gait, lightweight, waterproof without causing overheating
What we didn't like: price
VIEW THE KAHTOOLA LEVAGAITERS MID GTX
BASELAYER
WHY YOU NEED IT:
As the temperature outside drops, you should dress in layers. Generally speaking, when you get going, your body will run about 10-15 degrees warmer than the actual temperature outside. In addition, as the terrain changes from uphill to downhill, you'll need to peel off or add layers accordingly. Depending on weather conditions, you may want to consider additional running clothes, such as a running jacket (see our guide to the best men's running jackets and women's running jackets).
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
I like a lightweight base layer that vents and dries quickly See my Best Base Layers guide for recommendations
What we liked: warmth, wicks well, dries very quickly, made of recycled materials,
What we didn’t like: we wish more sizes were available, can be too warm in some conditions
COMPARE PRICES OF THE patagonia capilene midlayer
MEN'S
MEN'S
FLEECE JACKET
WHY YOU NEED IT:
A lightweight fleece adds warmth and layering versatility in a lightweight package.
During cold weather, a good fleece is the ever-important mid-layer in your three-part layering system.
Sandwich a high-quality fleece jacket between a base layer and shell jacket, and you’re ready for whatever weather comes your way.
What we liked: lightweight, venting, no odor, doesn't feel too hot while keeping the chill off, works well with other layers
What we didn't like: price
COMPARE PRICES OF THE patagonia r1 fleece
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Fleece jacket
WHY YOU NEED IT:
When running in winter conditions, you need a layer to insulate you that isn't bulky and won't impact mobility.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Running generates a lot of heat, which can be a challenge when looking for a fleece to cut the chill. Look for something with a lot of breathability and that is quick drying and wicking to take sweat away from your body. As with any outdoor clothing, fit, comfort, and style are important, too. We like the R1 Air Full-Zip Hoody so much, we dedicated an entire in-depth review to just this jacket. See our Best Fleece jacket guide for our recommendations.
What we liked: Breathability, quick drying, softness, comfort, fit, heat vents out
What we didn't like: needs more pockets
COMPARE PRICES OF THE PATAGONIA R1 AIR ZIP HOODY
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
RUNNING TIGHTS
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Running tights are ideal because they offer warmth and protection without causing chafing or sacrificing range of motion. We like leggings that are versatile enough to be worn mid-winter and during the shoulder seasons.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Not all tights and leggings are alike — look for leggings made of good wicking fabrics (not cotton) and a comfortable waistband that doesn’t slide down. Running tights can be worn either alone or under your running shorts. See our Best Women's Winter Running Tights or Best Men's Running Tights guides for ones that stay up.
What we liked:
Excellent fit and functional features make these tights one of our go-to’s for winter running.
What we didn't like:
There’s no added insulation in these tights, like a fleece lining. They’re great for most winter and shoulder season runs, but something thicker (like the Patagonia Wind Shield running pants) is better if you're running on a particularly cold day.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE JANJI TIGHTS
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Lightweight Rain jacket
WHY YOU NEED IT:
With winter running, layering appropriately is especially important.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
A good winter running jacket should be made of a waterproof-breathable material while being comfortable and lightweight to maintain a good freedom of movement. See our best Lightweight rain jacket guide for more recommendations
When running in the winter elements, you need protection that won’t weigh you down. For this, we love the men's The North Face Flight Lightriser FUTURELIGHT and women's Janji Rain Runner 2.0 jacket.
Both are designed as minimal, lightweight, weatherproof layer that maintains breathability and comfort.
Neither are quite as packable as other thin running shells, but you get excellent weatherproofing in exchange.
The North Face Flight Lightriser is not available in a women’s model, which is why we recommend the Janji jacket. The Janji is also $100 less expensive than The North Face jacket, so is a good option for anyone looking for a less expensive technical running rain jacket.
What we liked:
The Lightriser with FUTURELIGHT is incredibly light, comfortable, and breathable for a weatherproof outer layer.
The Janji Rain Runner II is waterproof with taped seams and has good ventilation and a 5-year warranty–all for a reasonable price for a waterproof running jacket.
What we didn't like:
The Lightriser jacket isn’t cheap for a lightweight layer and is becoming harder to find. It’s no longer available in women’s.
The Rain Runner isn't the most breathable waterproof running jacket, although it does a great job for the price.
compare prices on waterproof running jackets
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Running balaclava
WHY YOU NEED IT:
A balaclava or neck warmer is one of the most versatile and functional pieces of winter running gear. In fact, we find it useful for just about any winter outdoor activity.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Look for merino wool or a blend of merino and synthetic fabrics, since the wool will stay warm when wet and is less prone to freezing up than other materials.
OUR CHOICE: Buff Merino Lightweight Neckwear
This small piece of gear makes a big difference for winter running (and most any high-output activity in cold weather). A lightweight neck gaiter is essential for winter running to protect your face and neck from harsh cold, wind, and precipitation. We prefer Buff’s Merino Lightweight Neckwear, primarily for the material. Synthetic materials freeze up in the cold, and wool is an excellent thermo-regulator. That means it will help keep you warm while wicking sweat and moisture when necessary.
What we liked:
The merino wool fabric is ideal for high-output winter activities.
What we didn't like:
It’s thin, so when the temps dip low, it’s necessary to pair it with a headband or hat to keep your ears warm.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE BUFF MERINO LIGHTWEIGHT NECKWEAR
Winter running hat
WHY YOU NEED IT:
Even when your body is generating heat, sensitive thin skinned parts of your body like your ears and neck can still get cold.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Consider a lightweight material here as opposed to something thick. Something sleek and minimal also keeps your gear streamlined for efficient running.
OUR CHOICE: Skida Nordic Hat
You need warmth and protection on your head when you’re running in cold and freezing temperatures, but more often than not, you’re working too hard to warrant a full-on beanie. The Skida Nordic Hat is designed for cross-country skiing and other high-output winter activities, and we think that makes it the perfect winter running hat, too. The thin synthetic fabric wicks sweat and moisture while offering just enough barrier from the elements without causing you to overheat.
What we liked:
The thin fabric and design of this hat balances warmth and breathability. Plus, Skida has a gold mine of fun prints.
What we didn't like:
This hat is a bit thin for extreme cold. If you need something a bit warmer, try the Alpine Hat, which is lined with Polartec fleece.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE SKIDA NORDIC HAT
Gloves or mittens
WHY YOU NEED THEM:
You’ve got to keep your fingers warm, too, on winter runs, but a bulky mitten will almost always be overkill. Running gloves are designed to provide just enough warmth without overheating.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Look for gloves that offer both insulation and breathability with a bit of weather protection, like a wind- and water-resistant fabric, too. It’s also worth finding a pair that has touch screen compatibility on the fingertips, so you can cue up a playlist or make a phone call if needed. See The Best Winter Gloves guide for more recommendations.
OUR CHOICE: The North Face Denali Etip Gloves
What we liked:
These fleece gloves have a great balance of warmth and breathability for winter running. Comfortable flexibility and touch-screen tips on all fingers make for a practical glove.
What we didn't like:
Paneling on the back of the hand helps a bit with wind resistance, but these gloves are not fully windproof or waterproof.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE THE NORTH FACE DENALI ETIP GLOVES
The author, Katie Brown, is a trail runner, ultramarathoner, and long distance hiker. Photo by Craig Lloyd.
Why you should trust us
After completing a Mexico-to-Canada thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail in 2016, Katie Brown decided to sign up for her first ultra-distance race: the Antelope Island Fall Classic 50k. She knew as she ran that race that she was hooked.
Since that race in 2016, she has run over 13 ultra-marathons and endurance races, including two 100-mile finishes: the Bighorn 100 and the Bear 100. She also holds the unverified women's self-supported Fastest Known Time on the 800-mile long Arizona Trail.
Her proudest trail running achievements are taking 3rd in the 2018 Tushar Mountains 100k (a race often described as being harder than most 100-mile races), and 1st in the Running Up For Air 24-hour Grandeur Peak Challenge (runners see how many times they can summit in 24 hours, held in snowy February, to raise awareness and money for healthy air advocacy in Salt Lake City, UT). Although racing is fun, her biggest joys are long days in the mountains with friends.
You can see all my articles on my author page.
