I know it seems silly as a Florida resident, but I’d much rather work out in cold weather than warm weather. Why? S-W-E-A-T. I hate it. And, sure, you can call it “glistening” or “shining” or whatever other “empowering” word you want, but at the end of the day, it’s still gross and smelly. That’s not to say you’re not going to sweat when the temperature is lower but somehow, it’s not quite as oppressive.
If you’re a cold-weather worker-outer, this is the list for you. Whether you’re looking for a warmer option for your traditional yoga pants (peep the fleece-lined leggings at No. 13) or the best way to keep your hair out of your face without your ears freezing off (check out No. 11), there’s sure to be something in this assortment for you. And, hey, if you decide to wear some of these in warmer weather, I’ll never tell.
You will love our editor’s curated product picks! FYI: We are an Amazon affiliate partner and may get a share of the sale of your purchase (at no cost to you).
Get A Legging Up
If it can’t be done in leggings, I don’t want to do it — and that includes exercising (especially exercising, if I’m being honest). These are simple and high-waisted for squats with modesty and come in a bajillion colors in both full-length and capri versions. If you like low-maintenance, you’ll love these because you can throw them in the washing machine. Some versions even have pockets.
Do You Ear What I Ear?
Someone finally debunked that whole, “You lose half your body heat from your head” mumbo-jumbo, but that doesn’t mean that sensitive areas like your ears don’t get extra cold. This ear warmer headband will be your new cold-weather BFF, thanks to plush polar fleece and behind-the-head design. These won’t slip while wearing, are machine washable, and work for both guys and gals.
Jog My Memory
Are they joggers? Are they hiking pants? Are they workout attire? How about “yes” to all three? These quick-dry pants will take you from the grocery store to the CrossFit gym without a wardrobe change. Made from lightweight material that’s been treated with SPF 50+, these offer good sun protection which, yes, is still necessary even when the temperature drops. You can even lounge around in these bad boys.
Make It A Mock Neck
When I started on this cold-weather workout gear theme, I found a plethora of shirt options. This one is a fleece thermal running shirt with long sleeves and a mock neck. (Anything higher than a mock neck is a no-go for me.) This option gets high reviews from Amazon buyers including one who said, “better than Under Armour ColdGear!”
Let There Be Fleece On Earth
There are few things more comfortable and luxurious to me than fleece anything when it’s cold outside. This fleece half-zip pullover screams “warmth” with an interior that wicks away moisture, a deep zippered front for ventilation, and a kangaroo pocket for your hands, earbuds, or smartphone. These are available in sizes up to 3x and colors ranging from white to wine red.
Glove Love
Gloves are a no-brainer when the temperature drops, including when you’re getting your workout on. These take it a step further with touchscreen-ready material on the fingers and palms. Don’t doubt their warming power, either. These stay snug and flexible and add a layer of warmth without the bulk of traditional gloves. The grippy silicone dots add an extra dose of helpfulness, too, by making it easier to grip anything from bike handles to barbells.
Do Your Very Vest
Most of the time, when I see people with puffer vests on, they’re usually shuffling kids to the dentist or running out of Walmart. Guess what? You could totally throw one of these on over your workout clothes for an added layer of warmth when it’s chilly. These are a great buy at less than $30 and come with their own carrying bag with drawstring closure. On my list? Olive and charcoal gray.
Cuff Me
I’m pretty tall, but I still enjoy a good pair of cuffed sweatpants, particularly if I’m going to be outdoors. Why? Because who wants leaves, debris, and potentially wet sidewalks and roads creeping up the cuff of your pants? These sit right at your ankle bone (for most of us), keeping them from coming in contact with the elements. They’re made by Hanes, which has been atop the sweatpants game for a long time.
Make An Impression With Compression
Compression garments are more than just an additional layer; they are actually designed to increase oxygen to the body. (The more you know!) These long-sleeved compression shirts come in a three-pack, offering super-soft comfort, moisture-wicking fabric, and stretchiness for a natural range of motion. Designed to fit tightly against the body, order a half-size up for a regular fit.
A Hole Workout Option
I know people who are just as excited about thumb holes as they are about pockets. (It’s not me. Pockets > thumb holes, always.) This long-sleeved quarter-zip pullover has thumb holes and a lot more including a rounded neck, UV protection, and a loose-fitting hem. Step away from the expensive, name-brand workout gear and get into $28 pullovers. Did I mention they have thumb holes?
Pony Up For This Winter Hat
This is probably the most genius cold-weather option on this list because it’s a ponytail hat with built-in warmers that flip down to keep your ears and neck warm. (Allowing you a moment to process that information.) You can still wear your hair up for your workout while staying warm outdoors simultaneously. An interior elastic band stretches to accommodate most head sizes.
Hoodie Heaven
Remember when I said earlier that anything more than a mock neck gives me the heebie-jeebies? This hooded shirt with a built-in gaiter looks like the thing my nightmares are made of but, hey, it has thumb holes. All kidding aside, this might be the perfect all-in-one top option if you’re after complete coverage from the tip of your head to the tips of your fingers.
Leggings With A Hidden Helper
We’ve already discussed the glorious-ness (is that a word?) of leggings but I’m about to blow your mind with these because they are fleece-lined leggings. You read that right; not only do these offer the comfort and convenience of regular leggings, but they boast extra warming power inside. The best part is that they still keep their streamlined design so the only bulk you’ll experience is in your muscles.
A Champion Layer
Today’s generation will never understand that Champion apparel used to be sold at places like Kmart and JCPenney and wasn’t the hot commodity it’s grown into. This Champion sports bra is not intended to be worn solo (at least not in the cooler months), but makes a great supportive layer among the layers you’ll throw on to work out outdoors.
Match Set
If you’re the kind of person who gets jealous of others for their cute, coordinated workout apparel, first, you need to check yourself. Second, just make it easy on yourself with this three-piece workout set that includes pants, a top, and a jacket. Wear them together for a completely matched look or pair each piece with existing items from your workout wardrobe.
Sock It To Me
Not much in life is as important in your wardrobe as socks. And, yes, I know you’re probably saying, “Nobody can even see those,” but try walking, running, or working out without them, it’s a mandatory 10 days off with the worst blisters of your life. (Ask me how I know.) These merino wool socks offer compression support, mesh ventilation, and targeted padding.
Full Workout Jacket
I enjoy a good workout jacket … even if I’m not working out. There’s just something about the silky-smooth material, full zip, zippered pockets, and (you guessed it) thumb holes that make it all-day wearable. These come in a variety of blend-in-with-it-all colors like black and gray or stand-out-from-it-all colors like pink and purple. This jacket is designed for sizes from 1x to 5x.
Helmet Head
How do you keep warm when your workout routine requires a helmet of some type? This skull cap helmet liner adds warmth to activities like cycling, motorcycling, skiing, running, and hiking. The smart design of this liner offers full coverage from your forehead to your ears. This cap even has practical glasses holes to accommodate your prescription glasses or even sunglasses.
Nothing But Neck
An exposed neck is one of the quickest ways for me to get cold … quickly. These fleece-lined thermal neck warmers have all the warmth of a scarf with a stay-in-place design that you can use just for your neck or pull it up to cover your nose and mouth. These come in a two-pack so you can keep one and gift one.
Pull One Over On You
I’d literally never heard of “funnel-neck” design until I stumbled upon this dry-fit running pullover but I think it’s a neckline I could handle. Designed to fit loosely around the neck with thumbholes that prevent the sleeves from riding up, this fleece sweater jacket is packed with other great features including zippered pockets and a drawstring neck.
Under It All
Sometimes you need an entire extra layer, from shoulders to ankles. This thermal underwear is a great base layer that’s lined with fleece and offers sweat-wicking properties. A perfect blend of comfort, warmth, elasticity, and moisture protection, this set incorporates Spandex, which gives it additional stretch while also hugging your body tightly so you can add extra layers without the bulk.
ColdGear For Cold Weather
Alright, yes, one reviewer did like that one option above better than Under Armour’s ColdGear, so I felt it only appropriate to give ColdGear an opportunity to speak on its own behalf. These compression leggings have a dual-layer fabric with an ultra-warm, brushed interior and a smooth, fast-drying exterior. And, because it’s compression gear, it offers an ultra-tight, second-skin fit.
Throw On A Jacket
I can’t imagine working out in a jacket, but I’m not judging you if you do. I’m sure there are plenty of cold-weather locales where a jacket is a good idea. This one, an insulated running jacket, is loaded with cool features like hidden pockets, water resistance, and hybrid stretch fabric. It’s also fleece-lined and serves as a great mid-layer under a hardshell jacket.
Snow Pants, Snow Problems
These are serious snow pants, O.K.? Like, up-on-a-lift-going-skiing-sliding-down-a-mountain-on-your-boot snow pants. And, I suppose you could use them for snowball fights, hiking, or hunting. These have two waterproof zippered pockets on the front and one on the back, housed in a quick-dry, water-repellent surface. I love the variety of color options here with contrasting zippers and details that set these apart from more industrial-looking pants.
Give Yourself A Hand
If you’re on the hunt for lightweight tech running gloves, Nike has you covered with these, which I love in the gunsmoke and pink pictured above. These have a fitted cuff for warmth; a key pocket inside for stashing, well, a key; and, Nike’s patented Dri-FIT technology to wick away sweat and moisture. Flexible, articulated fingers keep your natural range of motion.
Cream Of The Crop
I know there’s a contingent of people who work out who still prefer lighter, looser-fighting clothing. This long-sleeved crop top shows just the faintest hint of skin while still things movable and free. Thumbholes (there they are again!) keep your sleeves down and the fabric dries quickly and is nice and stretchy. I love the crossover hem, which adds visual interest to the hem.
Pull The Wool
Old-timers will tell you that wool is the way to go when the weather is cold outside so there must be something to it, right? These warm wool ski socks offer a seamless design with no irritating toe seam and an extra-thick terry loop that acts as a buffer to protect your shins, calves, insteps, and heels. What’s great news about these socks is that they’re made from 100 percent recycled materials. Peep those cool colors, too!
Reflect On Your Workout
I’m back with yet another pair of yoga pants, this time with night-reflective spots on the sides that make you more visible for early-morning and late-night runs. These also have two inner pockets, one on the front waist for your keys or cards and another on the back waist to stash your cell phone. I think the unusual color choices here, like misty merlot, blackish green, and the blue ink block pictured.
Belt It Out
Whether you opt for this under your clothes or over them, this running belt is a necessity with spaces for your cell phone, money, keys, and more. These are adjustable with the attached belt strap and also have a dedicated, sealed headphone hole. Think beyond its exercise uses, too, such as while traveling, walking through the zoo, and attending concerts and festivals.
Be In-Vested
Throw another layer on with this Columbia-branded Benton Springs vest, made of plush filament fleece and outfitted with a zippered closure. Soft and warm, these vests are the perfect outer or mid-layer for any winter activity, even running errands. These come in rich colors, too, like spruce, dark nocturnal, malbec, and black cherry. One reviewer said, “I love this vest. It’s super warm and cozy and fits me perfectly.”
Don’t Be Afraid To Break Wind
Windbreakers are so 1980s … except it’s the 21st century and guess what? They’re baaaack. This windbreaker has a half-zip design and a drawcord hood so you can dial in your fit. The lightweight fabric has a water-repellent finish and underarm zippers add ventilation. Flap side pockets provide quick, secure storage for your personal items. And, while these don’t come in retro 80’s colors, they’re still versatile enough to go with a lot.
Beanie Wienie
I’ve heard knit beanies called a lot of things in my life, like knit caps (lookin’ at you, Ohio) and toboggans (shout-out to my native West Virginia). I just call them simple and easy since they slide down easily over your head and come in a variety of solid colors. Whether you’re doing box jumps or chopping wood, this is an always-appropriate option.
Boot-Scootin’ Workout
Ordinarily, I wouldn’t recommend wearing snow boots to get your work out on the outside, but these are the exception to the rule thanks to their anti-skid sole, water-resistant upper, and warm and comfortable styling. These get great reviews from Amazon shoppers, too: “They’re nice and warm and very lightweight. The fit is perfect for me.”
Don’t Be Blue-tooth
I love products that do double-duty like this headband that has built-in Bluetooth. Because of its ultra-thin design, it works equally well for fitness as it does for sleeping. But, we’re talking about fitness so I’m going to stay focused. These are compatible with both Android and Apple devices and have a built-in microphone so you can pick up your calls, even if you’re in the middle of a set.
The Heat Is On
I’ve heard of adding heat to a lot of places on your body, but this thermal plush warmer that goes around your waist is a new one for me. Made of premium plush and bamboo charcoal fiber, it is skin-friendly, breathable, flexible, stretchy, thin, cozy, warm, and keeps your waist, abdomen, and back warm and comfortable in all seasons.
Be Reflective, B-E Reflective
Give yourself 360 degrees of visibility with this LED reflective belt. Fully adjustable and lightweight, this is complete visibility in low-light conditions, unlike some gear that has one small strip of reflective material. Change the light between “flash” and “glow” with just one click. Complete with a USB-rechargeable battery, one charge will give you up to 20 hours of illumination in flashing mode.
Did You Goggle It?
Do you even know how many times I typed “Google” as a part of this description when I should have been typing goggles? These lightweight goggles are ideal for a variety of outdoor activities while being lightweight, vented, and comfortable. Made with scratch-resistant coating, they’ll also work wonders at keeping snow and rain out of your line of vision.