My Winter Running Gear - 2021

Most of my winter running miles are spent traversing pavement and gravel, although I enjoy getting out on the trails if they are not too muddy. To me, nothing can save a run if you are ankle-deep in mud and slop, but I digress. Although running in crazy weather can be exhilarating, it can go south quickly if you don’t have the right equipment. Here is a list of my gear that I use to keep my runs exciting all winter long.

Winter Gear

Luna Sandals Origins

The foundation to every runner's kit is a good set of shoes. I have a few shoes that I rotate through, but my daily drivers are the Luna Sandals Origins. These sandals are tough, durable, and ready for any terrain you throw at it. They are constructed from recycled car tires, which provide great traction, and they last forever - I have over 500 running miles on mine, and they are still holding strong. Although it may seem unusual to run in sandals, in the winter, if you have a solid sock, it’s magical. 

Injinji Toe Socks

Socks are vital to any winter running kit, especially in sandals. I use the Injinji toe socks whenever I use my Lunas in the cold. These socks are a wool blend, which keeps my feet nice and toasty, even when they get wet [which happens a lot in the Northwest.] The only time I use heavy-duty socks is when I'm in snowy conditions [which doesn't happen very often in my neck of the woods].

Buff Headwear - Original

I use my Buff all year round, but it pulls triple-duty in the winter as either a beanie, neck warmer, or face covering. The ability to transform itself depending on the use case is why I love the Buff so much. It's a great piece of gear.

Giro Base Layer Tank

This piece of kit is a carryover from my cycling gear. A base layer something I don’t run with all winter, but when the temp dips really low, it's very nice to have.

Salomon Soft Shell Jacket

I have a few different running jackets for different temps, but my Salomon Softshell jacket is my go-to for when it's cold. My criteria for a good winter jacket is that it needs to be warm, water-resistant, and have ample ventilation. The Salomon soft shell does all three very well. My favorite part of this jacket is the large rear pocket on the back that can hold snacks or gloves. It also doubles as a vent if I get too warm.

Running Gloves by Head

I like keeping my hands warm while I run, which is why I always carry a pair of gloves with me during the fall and winter months, even if they go unused. My current gloves are nothing fancy - gloves are gloves. I do like that they are smartphone compatible. I didn’t think that feature would be necessary, but it is nowadays.

Apple Watch Series 5 Nike + Edition

A newer edition to my kit, the Apple Watch S5 is a marvelous piece of tech for running. Although I usually carry a phone with me on runs, I like using the watch to record my activity and heart rate. It’s so convenient having your stats right on your wrist, which is handy when doing HR based runs. I know other smartwatch brands have some great offerings, but the Apple Watch does everything I need it to do and integrates into my life better than any other watch I’ve tried.

Night Gear

Darkness is another element to contend with when running in the winter. I try to be as visible as I can at night, especially on the road. The fight to be seen is not one I plan on losing. Here are a couple of things I never leave the house without on a night run.

Noxgear Tracer 360

The Noxgear Tracer 360 is a literal lifesaver on dark streets. A safety vest on steroids, it has six different colored modes and five multi-colored modes for max visibility. The vest is very comfortable, lightweight, water-resistant, and has excellent battery life. I absolutely love this vest and refuse to go on night runs without it now.

Petzl Tikka R+ Reactive Headlamp

Headlamps are super handy for so many activities, and for me, this includes running. Although most of my night runs are on the street, streetlights can be hit or miss. As some gear is designed to be seen, I use a headlamp to see. Petzl's reactive tech is impressive, allowing it to adjust the brightness based on how dark it is. This provides better battery life and doesn't blind others. My headlamp is getting pretty old in electronic years, but it’s still running strong. Once it finally bites the dust, though, I’m getting another Petzl.

Disclaimer ~ I have no affiliation with any of these companies, nor am I using affiliate links. I just like these products and wanted to share my personal experience with them. All thoughts are my own.