High Tones | Winter Running Highlights

The cold and snow are finally here for many parts of the running world. Winter running provides a whole new element to the kit, with many different options to keep yourself warm. We’ll highlight some of our favorites from each category of your warm running fits.

Socks:

Smartwool Cold Weather Crew – One of the OG Merino brands. You absolutely can’t go wrong with these. Every runner should have at least one pair in their arsenal.

Headwear:

Arc’Teryx Rho Toque – A subtle, warm, and easy-to-rock piece to keep your head warm. No beanie roll means easy compatibility with your headlamp.

 



 

On Winter Run Balaclava – A full head-to-neck merino cover. For the extra, extra cold mornings.

Gloves:

Montbell Dry Tec Rain Gloves – A weatherproof option for the cold and wet days when you want to keep your hands dry.

Portal Drift Merino Glove – A nice wool pair that can be your only layer or used as a liner in a warmer glove. Clean with Portal’s signature logo.

Mountain Hardwear Kor Stasis Glove – For the dry, extra cold days. These are an insulated glove that extends slightly up the wrist to tuck into or over a layer. No heat escaping.

Bottoms:

Hoka Novafly Tight – Not a super heavy-duty tight, but adds some warm for the low 40-degree range, with accessible pockets and storage.

Soar Wooltech Tight – Wool-lined and warm, these tights will add extra insulation and protection from the elements. Equipped with a rear pocket and ankle zips for ease of wear.

Klattermusen Bysen Pant – Ultralight, wind-resistant and packable. A nice baggier cut here to allow for ease of movement. I also find baggier fits to be a bit warmer as it decreases moisture build-up on the pant.

Baselayers:

Patagonia Capilene Thermal – Really reliable and warm. Pairs well with many layers. Tried and tested.

Tiempos Merino Wool Spotted LS – Could also be a midlayer or layer on it’s own, technically, but love the color on this and the wool will keep you wicked and warm.

Fleece/Midlayers:

Gnuhr Shag Sweater – If you’re not familiar with Gnuhr yet, you should be. Their Shag range is impressive, versatile, and looks really good. Pair this with a warmer baselayer for a breathable but insulating system.

Pa’lante Grid Fleece Hoody – I love this layer from Pa’lante. Slightly cropped, super warm, and very versatile. Provides a ton of warmth but breathes better than most. ¼ zip to vent when it gets too hot.

Jackets:

Portal Code Wind Jacket – A super clean and lightweight wind layer from a favorite, Portal. Pair this with a nice baselayer and it will retain a lot of heat. Also provides some very light rain/water protection.

Soar Lined Bomber – Yes, it’s expensive. But boy does it look good. Fleece lined, dual zip, and front pockets. This is a super warm layer that can layer well with anything. The cropped fit is especially helpful when paired with a belt.

Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Jacket – This is a great layer for the cold and wet days. Waterproof with a minimal liner, stretches as you move, and packs down surprisingly small for a layer with this much protection.

Post-run:

Hoka Ora Primo EXT – Very cozy. Very warm. Grippy outsole so you won’t slip. This is an easy option for anyone who wants the real deal post run.

 

Written by

Sam Lohse runs and writes about all things at the intersection of fashion, premium performance, and running for High Tones.