ADIDAS – SEQUENCIALS CLIMAHEAT HOODIE

Design-driven running gear is like an all-access pass. It makes you feel good and gives you confidence on or off the trails. But sometimes, it falls short in performance. The adidas Sequencials Climaheat Hoodie compromises neither form or function. Winter runners have apparently vetted this stylish pullover. From its snug thumb holes to its contrast hood with adjustable face mask, this hoodie looks to solve the little nuisances that make winter running a hassle.

The Good:
Built in face mask is one of the greatest winter running innovations ever. No more struggling with bulky scarves or neckwarmers.
Easy to slip on and off, with no zippers to get in the way.
Climaheat™ insulation keeps you warm and dries fast.
It’s so, so soft. Ridiculously soft.
Coolest looking piece of running gear I’ve come across.

The Bad:
Hood isn’t secure and falls off while running.
Not a fan of the pocket placement. Anything in your pocket rubs up against you while you run.
Lack of zippers prohibits good ventilation. If you start to overheat while running, there’s no easy way to cool down.
The fabric chafes on bare skin, so wear a shirt underneath.

The Verdict:
Whether you’re running errands or training for a half-marathon, the adidas Sequencials Climaheat Hoodie is the right fit. If you’re a beginner, it’ll solve problems you didn’t even know you had and if you’re more seasoned, you get what I’m talking about.

Rating: 4/5

BROOKS – LSD THERMAL RUNNING VEST

Juggling gear as the temperature drops is one of the hardest challenges when approaching winter running. The Brooks LSD Thermal Vest is a great addition as a layering piece to help you solve your winter apparel puzzle.

The Good:
Keeps your core warm in front with the Polyfill insulation and lets your back breathe, keeping you dry.
Very little bulk makes for easy layering under a shell.
Fast drying.

The Bad:
This vest has a collar, adding some unnecessary bulk around the neck when layered under jackets or other pieces.

The Verdict:
Great piece to add to your collection, especially if you live somewhere with big swings in weather. On top of a base layer or under a shell, this vest will see more miles than you might have expected.

Rating: 4/5

BROOKS – RUSH PANT

If you’re not into looking like you’ve joined a running cult, or simply not yet ready to make the jump into a pair of leggings, the Brooks Rush Pant may be your next purchase. Earning the title of ‘Dad Pants’ the straight leg fit slide over your running shorts and replace the need for lightweight leggings on cooler days.

The Good:
Lightweight, the sweat-wicking fabric won’t feel thick or cold like those old cotton sweatpants.
Easy to slip on and off, even with shoes on.
Zippered rear pocket for small valuables.
Lightweight and easily packable.

The Bad:
Not designed for sub-zero weather. When temperatures drop below 0˚C, you’ll need to add more layers.
The straight leg cut looks more like something your dad would wear.

The Verdict:
The function simply doesn’t have enough features to offset the lack of style in this item to be in regular rotation. However, if you’re not a fan of leggings then these pants will see daily use between 0-10˚C

Rating: 3/5

LULULEMON – METAL VENT TECH HOODIE

The Metal Vent Tech Hoodie from lululemon is designed for activity and movement. Stylish and comfortable, you’ll want to wear it even when you aren’t running. The classic silhouette hugs you in all the right places.

The Good:
4-way stretch that gives you freedom of movement.
Keeps you warm, and dries quickly.
Silverscent® technology prevents odor-causing bacteria.
Fitted hood stays on your head providing extra warmth.
Reflective details keep you visible at night.

The Bad:
No pockets, which means whatever else you’re wearing better have more than one.

The Verdict:
The lululemon Metal Vent Tech Hoodie is what you get when simple design meets high-end performance. Lightweight and comfortable, you’ll find yourself making excuses just to put it on.

Rating: 4/5

LULULEMON – REST LESS PULLOVER

The lululemon Rest Less Pullover is a mid layer designed for outdoor activity. I ran with this on its own, as well as layered under a jacket during my runs. The slim fit of this mid layer makes it perfect for layering. It’s warm, but not bulky enabling you to add more layers to adjust for colder conditions. Because it sits so close to your skin, it helps keep your natural body heat in for added warmth. The thumb holes on this top help keep your hands warm on days that aren’t quite cold enough to add gloves. They also keep your sleeves in place under a jacket so they never ride up your forearms and get lost! An added practical feature is that you can throw this top in the dryer on a low setting. That makes this top easy to care for and use again and again.

The Good:
Warm enough and sleek enough to wear on its own in moderate temperatures.
Seamless construction and slim fit make it ultra comfortable.
Great layering option in colder weather.

The Bad:
More warmth than you expect from a mid layer, so you might end up overdressing unintentionally.

The Verdict:
From A to Z, this mid layer is a winner. The slim and sleek design makes it easy to layer, and the fabric keeps you warm enough to wear it as a stand-alone. Expect to go through a transition phase in the beginning as you figure out just how much you need to add overtop for optimal temperature.

Rating: 5/5

NIKE – THERMA SPHERE ELEMENT

Nike’s Therma Sphere Element packs a one-two punch. It’s Nike Sphere fabric is unmatched by any other piece in its category when it comes to the warmth: weight ratio. This thin mid layer is also highly breathable allowing you to wear it on its own as long as the weather is above -10℃, after that, layer up.

The Good:
Toasty, this mid layer will keep you warm all season long.
It’s lightweight and therefore carries easily.
Its breathability means you can wear it without a first layer until the weather drops below zero.
Washes very well, very very well.

The Bad:
Other versions of this midlayer have fold over mittens integrated on the sleeves, which are dearly missed on this piece.
Its neckline doesn’t lend to its warmth factor; you’ll need a scarf or neckwarmer if you’re taking it out on colder runs.

The Verdict:
The Therma Sphere Element is a solid piece to add to your collection, if not solely for the fact that it’s is so lightweight and incredibly warm. If you want to protect your neck and fingers, try out its cousin the Nike Sphere Element.

Rating: 3/5

NIKE FLEX RUNNING SHORTS

Not everyone feels comfortable running in just tights. Adding a pair of running shorts to your wardrobe can give you another layer of protection against the winter elements. Even when pushing through blizzards, runners deserve to look and feel good doing it. Nike Flex Running Short can add a small layer of comfort and style to your winter runs. Although they do not retain a lot of heat, they do act as a sort of windbreaker. The zipper pocket is a nice touch if you are often running with keys or small object. This is a detail that is often overlooked in running shorts. I didn’t notice anything stunning about the flex, but they were comfortable and snug. There was no need to use the provided drawstring to tie them; they fit perfectly without any adjustment.

The Good:
Lightweight.
Zippered pocket can hold an iPhone 5 and equivalent size smartphones.
They look great.

The Bad:
Does not retain heat.
Not essential for winter running.

The Verdict:
Although not a necessary piece for winter running, these short do add a small layer of protection against the elements. They are a stylish and comfortable addition to your wardrobe but not an essential. If you already own a pair from your summer gear, it makes a nice addition to your outfit but don’t go out and buy a pair for added warmth. Your money will be better spent elsewhere.

Rating: 3/5

TRACKSMITH – SIGNATURE TECH TOP

The Tracksmith Signature Tech Tee is a lightweight mesh top layer with a clean minimal design featuring thumbholes. I found it very comfortable to run in and great for anyone that has a tendency to overheat when running; however, it is not ideal for anyone that gets cold easily. I found it effective with a base layer and jacket when temperatures dipped to -6°C or below.

The Good:
Very breathable.
No tags that irritate skin.
Nice perforation throughout body making it lightweight and cooling.
Long arms and torso (perfect for tall people or those looking for longer styles).
Slim fit that still looked great paired with a base layer.
Loved the pink/red colour combo in addition to the antique white.

The Bad:
Not anti-bacterial, odor remains after washing.
The elastic of the thumb holes can irritate the skin..
Provides very little warmth, therefore must be paired with a good base layer and jacket on cold workouts.
Unfortunately, no safety features such as reflective strips.

The Verdict:
I really like the look and feel of this piece. I wouldn’t consider this a go-to winter style (better for fall/spring) but when paired appropriately it can work on cold days.

Rating: 3.5/5

LULULEMON READY TO RULU HOODIE

The Rulu hoodie is technically a to-and-from sweater, meant more as a lifestyle piece than a technical running piece. I found that the sweat wicking, four-way stretch and breathability of the super soft Rulu™ fabric lent itself well to being the perfect mid layer in my winter gear lineup. I really love the texture of the fabric, it’s incredibly soft and comfortable. The pronounced neckline eliminates the need for a neck warmer and you can even tighten it with the drawstring. The kangaroo pockets have zipper detailing which is appreciated, so you don’t have to worry about your belongings flying out as you run. This sweater scored a lot of points for comfort not only because of the fabric, but the fit was perfect, it stayed in place and didn’t ride up. It also held up nicely in the wash.

The Good:
Super comfortable hood.
Great hood, easy to throw on or take off while running.
Highly effective for temperature regulation.
Thumb hole and zipper pockets were details that made this hoodie stand out.

The Bad:
It’s categorized as a lifestyle piece but performs great minus any reflective properties.

The Verdict:
If you are looking to train for races or push yourself, this piece might not be the one you want to reach for as it’s not technically a running garment. As a beginner, this piece was perfect for me to break into winter running and winter post-run cocktails. Also, I can’t say enough about the fabric, I wish they would make this piece in a full onesie.

Rating: 4.5/5

SMARTWOOL – CORBET 120 VEST

Temperature regulating is crucial in winter running. With temperatures that fluctuate severely, especially in the northeast, it’s important to own a piece that can fill the gap between it’s warm, and it’s freezing. The Smartwool Corbet 120 Vest fits snuggly, looks stylish and creates warmth where you want it the most, your core. What stands out most about this piece is the fact that the vest is coated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish, which means not only does it keep you warm but it’ll keep you dry when the weather decides to start precipitating.

The Good:
SmartLoft wool insulation means warmth even when you stop moving.
Waterproof and windproof.
Perfect early season to mid-season layering piece.
Easy to wash.

The Bad:
A vest is only good as a layering piece, ie. your arms might be cold if the weather drops.
Low reflectivity.

The Verdict:
When it comes to winter running vests, this might be one of my favorites because of the fully waterproof and windproof shell in front and the knit fabric back panel which reliably allows you to temperature regulate on your longer runs. The Corbet 120 Vest is a great addition to your winter running gear line up, especially if you live in a warmer climate where the temperature won’t drop too far below 0℃.

Rating: 4.5/5