We’re currently training for another half marathon, so have been running 4-5 times/week, and unfortunately it’s mostly been in below-freezing temperatures. Consequently I’ve started to amass quite the collection of cold-weather running gear, and thought I would share a few of my favorites here, in case you’re in the market for anything yourself. Happy running!

shirt | GapFit Breathe long-sleeve tee

These shirts are really soft (like, I’ve worn it as pajamas) and relatively expensive, and bonus: usually on sale online. I think they’re perfect for days where it’s not cold enough for a jacket but you still want a long-sleeve layer, and the thumb holes are another of my favorite features. These tops also work great as a base layer under jackets, etc.

vest | Athleta Stripe Jammin’ Run Vest

I recently got this vest less for an extra layer of warmth and more as something semi-reflective to wear during morning runs in the winter months when it’s pitch black outside. It’s a great top layer and also functions as a light windbreaker because of the material it’s made out of. The side pockets are perfect for my phone, too. And as an added bonus, it’s cute enough to wear around running errands after a workout (or you know, after not working out).

tights | Under Armour ColdGear Qualifier Run Tight

There are a million different kinds of tights out there, ranging from super lightweight to super thermal. I like having something in between that keeps me warm on single-digit runs but that I don’t get super hot in once I’ve warmed up. I have about 5 different pairs and so far, these UA ones are my favorite. They have a light thermal layer inside but still feel really breathable and don’t get too warm. Women’s tights tend to not have pockets so I love that these have one in the back, perfect for carrying a debit card, a few dollars, or some GU.

shoes | Brooks Glycerin 12

Shoes are hard to recommend because the type you buy should be dependent on your gait, pronation, arches, etc. If you’re in the market for new running shoes, as tempting as it can be to buy the $40 pair at DSW (been there), you really should visit a local running store (here in Omaha we love Peak Performance) for a gait analysis and invest in a quality pair of shoes. Your feet will thank you. My last two pairs of shoes have been Brooks Glycerin 12s, so if you’re a neutral pronator with medium-to-high arches then I can’t recommend these enough. Plus they come in obnoxious/amazing colors, like highlighter yellow.

pocket | Roo Sport Magnetic Pocket

I almost always run with my phone, whether for music and/or as a safety precaution, so I usually try to wear something with a pocket that can hold it. That doesn’t always work out, though, so in those times I’m without a pocket, I use the Roo Sport. It’s the perfect size for a phone and has a CRAZY STRONG magnet. That thing isn’t going anywhere once it’s clipped on. It also works well for carrying cash, car/house key, etc. There are a few different sizes available based on what you plan to carry in it.

gloves | Target C9 by Champion Gloves

If you’re running in single digit or below-zero temps, you’ll definitely need some serious gloves. I’ve gotten by with Target ones for a long time, and in really cold temps will usually layer them over a cheap cotton pair for extra warmth. I’m still on the hunt for a really good cold weather pair that doesn’t cost a small fortune, but for now, this works, and it’s almost spring anyways, right?

headband | Target C9 by Champion Striped Twist Headband

I’m sure there are better headbands out there but I have several different versions of these C9 ones from Target, and they’ve served me well. I apparently have a giant head because beanies don’t ever seem to fit over my ears, so I usually opt for headbands. These C9 ones are warm, cover my ears (most importantly), and stay on pretty well. They also usually have a ponytail hole which is nice.

socks | Target C9 by Champion Heel Tab Socks

I’m willing to spend a lot of money on many other running attire components, but socks do not tend to be one of them. Target never seems to have the exact same socks, so I have many different versions of these C9 ones – I look for the ones that are ankle-cut but cover my heel, and that are made of “athletic” material rather than just cotton, but otherwise, they’re a go! Socks, like shoes, are a super important component, so make sure you find something that works for you, and then stock up and be consistent.

fuel | GU Nutrition Energy Gel, Salted Caramel

For long runs (5 miles +) we usually bring some sort of fuel to have during or sometimes right afterwards. We’ve tried lots of different brands and products but our favorite right now is the Salted Caramel GU. Before I tried it, it sounded like the last thing I’d want to eat in the middle of working out, but it’s actually totally delicious and pretty refreshing. I’d legit put this stuff over ice cream. It’s the perfect sugar boost to get you through those last few miles, and super easy to use since you can just rip off the tab, hold in your hand, and squeeze (it’s basically adult Go-Gurt). As with all electrolyte replacement fuels, make sure you wash it down with some water.