If you're looking to add some outdoor winter runs [1] to your exercise routine, your workout wardrobe will need some adjusting to suit the unpredictable British weather. No matter what weather reports say, you never know when a shower will hit, and you don't want to be soaked whilst running outside during the autumn and winter months. Whether you're a road, trail, or track runner [2], you need to be braced with layers that are breathable and warm without causing you to break out in a sweat as soon as you complete your warm-up sequence.
"As the nights get longer and our half of the planet cools, so do your muscles when outside," Tim Blakey, a physio, personal trainer, and creator of the online training platform PRIMEBODY [3] told POPSUGAR. "Think of your muscles as chewing gum: stressed while cold and static, it'll break when pulled. Once chewing gum is warmed up it becomes pliable and more accommodating to stretch. Spend a bit longer on your warm-ups in the winter months and also switch out your wardrobe to your winter active kit such as under-layer compression garments to reduce the chance of muscle strains."
"What's the right balance to strike?" I hear you ask. Read on to find your new activewear pieces that combine impressive form and functionality, making them perfect options for your next outdoor run [4]. From Instagram-friendly running hats to a sweat-wicking sports bra that tracks your heartbeat, not to mention all the breathable leggings and long-sleeve tops to keep you warm yet able to move easily, whatever your run throws at you. On your marks, get set, go.
Sweaty Betty Thermodynamic Reflective Half Zip Running Top
Don't underestimate the power of a good running top, especially one that looks chic and keeps you warm at the same time. Not only is this Thermodynamic Reflective Half Zip Running Top [5] (£95) cut in Sweaty Betty's super soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric for any unexpected downpours, but it also features an added thermal layer with temperature regulating fabric that was specifically made for cold outdoor training.
We've put it to the test on a damp Monday morning run and can confidently say that it delivers on performance as well as staying nice and snug to the skin. You can be rest assured it won't be riding up and down as you're pounding the pavements.
Lacoste Run Spin Ultra Ladies Performance Running Trainers
Mud and puddles are never a good combo for outdoor running, as they can cause the ground to be more slippery than usual (not to dirty up your trainers if they're a light colour.) The new all-weather Lacoste Run Spin Ultra Ladies Performance Running Trainers [6] (£150), however, tick all the boxes for style and water-resistance whilst offering comfort, spectacular performance, and reflective accents for nighttime runs. The all-black colour is also a major selling point.
Varley Aubrey Beanie
On the hunt for the ultimate running hat that will keep you warm and looking stylish at the same time? Let us introduce you to Varley's Aubrey Beanie [7] (£35), which protects your head and ears when the temperature drops. Made in a super-soft (non-itchy) knit with a fold-over cuff for added cosiness on those extra frosty mornings, we love the fact that this beanie is decorated in Varley's signature bold logo, too.
MyZone MZ-Switch Sports Bra
You might not have thought that you needed to invest in a new sports bra come the winter season, but wait until you hear about the MyZone MZ-Switch Sports Bra [8] (£50). Made from 92% polyamide and 8% elastane, the longline bra's sweat-wicking fabric removes humidity to help keep your body dry, whilst also providing you with an extra layer. Plus, this is the world's first sports bra to be able to track your heart rate. Featuring a built-in sensor strap that you can clip onto your Myzone MZ-Switch heart rate tracker (sold separately), this directly measures heart rate and calorie burn performance.
Lululemon Run For It All Gloves
Lululemon Run For It All Gloves [9] (£38) are specifically designed for running (hence the name). Made from water-repellent fleece fabric that helps keep you dry and warm in the rain or snow, the fabric is also a clever four-way stretch that makes pulling them on and off a breeze. Thing is, thanks to silicone finger tips, you won't really need to take these mid-run, whether you're trying to snap a selfie or change a song on your playlist.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2MO Headphones
When it comes to running outdoors in the winter, over-ear headphones are a must-have to prevent your ears from getting cold — and the launch of Audio-Technica's new critically acclaimed ATH-M50xBT2MO headphones [10] (£180) are sure to get you through the toughest runs come rain, hail, or snow. They feature an enhanced battery life of 50 hours, clear, sonic sound with a wide-frequency range, as well as a built-in Amazon Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant so you can map your run if you're venturing somewhere new, without even having to look down at your phone.
Nailah Black Embossed Crocodile Print Running Leggings
A fresh pair of Nailah leggings gets us very excited about going out for a morning run, especially when the Selling Sunset [11] crew and the Beverly Hills Housewives have been spotted wearing them. These Nailah Embossed Crocodile Print Running Leggings [12] (£49) are 100% squat proof and feature 4-way stretch, highlighting and defining you in all the right places. Plus the leggings are breathable for ultimate comfort, so if you're doing sprint training you won't want to head home to change after a couple of rounds.
Nike Women’s Packable Pullover Running Jacket
Whether you're going out for a leisurely Sunday run, training for a marathon, or just starting your "Couch to 5K" journey, this Nike Women's Packable Pullover Running Jacket [13] (£85) is sure to keep you moving freely. Made from Nike's renowned Dri-FIT fabric, this jacket both drives sweat away from your skin on the inside and repels rain on the outside to combat any chills. The added air vent at the back and reflective accents are a great touch, but what we also appreciate about this jacket is the fact that womens' safety has really been considered (although we would love for a world where this didn't have to be a thing). The jacket features an added safety whistle attached at the collar to give you an extra sense of security now the days are getting shorter.
Anine Bing Jeremy Baseball Cap
When Anine Bing launched a sportswear range last year we knew it would be an instant hit. If the sell-out tiger T-shirt is anything to go by, you have to be fast when it comes to snagging an item from this label. The latest must-have piece for workout enthusiasts and runners alike is Anine Bing's new Jeremy Baseball cap [14] (£42). If you can't quite deal with the warmth of a beanie hat while out running, a baseball cap will provide protection from a multitude of weather conditions and is more breathable, too.
Lululemon Down For It Vest
When Lululemon comes out with a new running vest, it's time to start saving up. For everyday jogs, training, and racing this Down For It Vest [15] (£148) will be your new workout partner in the winter. Developed with the cold outdoor runner in mind, the vest features Lululemon's special water-resistant Glyde fabric to keep you warm and dry whatever the weather throws at you. The stretchy fleece fabric keeps you feeling snug and because it's water-repellent, you won't get hot and sticky when you hit your run pace.
Varley Kearney Top
For those who like a loose-fitting training top, Varley's Kearney Top [16] (£62) makes the perfect addition to your autumn/winter running wardrobe. This classic crew neck is made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that's perfect for layering. We also love the fact it has added thumb holes at the cuff that are ideal for keeping your wrists and knuckles warm on those milder mornings when gloves make you feel a tad overdressed.
Smartwool Run Cold Weather Mid Crew Socks
In addition to being seriously comfortable, very durable, and designed so they won't slip inside your trainers, the Smartwool Run Cold Weather Mid Crew Socks [17] (£20) will keep you your feet warm and dry even on the longest winter run.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti Shine SPF 50+
Thought SPF was just for the summer? Think again. Protecting your skin from the winter sun is just as important as it is during the warmer months. What you want is an SPF that won't melt down your face from the first sign of sweat. Enter La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti Shine SPF 50+ [18] (£18). Broad spectrum (so it protects against UVA and UVB rays), the waterproof formula can handle rain, snow, and all the sweat you can throw at it.
Just Strong Lippy Boyfriend Hoodie
For versatile, quality apparel we look to Just Strong. This super soft Lippy Boyfriend Hoodie [19] (£50) is perfect to take you from a casual jog in the park to brunch, and it instantly brightens up a grey day with a dose of colour. We also love the fact that Just Strong's emphasis is on creating a community of strong women and caters for all shapes and sizes, with the Lippy hoodie available in nine sizes.
Sweaty Betty Power High-Waisted Reflective Gym Leggings
Now that the days are getting shorter, you might find yourself running outdoors in the dark. One thing to remember is to always invest in a good pair of reflective leggings, so you can be spotted by any on-coming traffic. Sweaty Betty's Power High-Waisted Reflective Gym Leggings [20] (£75) are what we will be pulling on for those early morning and late evening outdoor runs. Expect the usual high-waisted, supportive, and flattering design, rendered in a sweat-wicking, quick-drying fabric that draws moisture away from the body to minimise temperature fluctuations so you don't feel the cold as much - but now with an added reflective print.
Nike Lean Arm Band
Free your pockets from a bulky smartphone with the Lean Arm Band [21] (£18), which holds your phone securely in an easy-to-reach place and comes with the added benefit of touchscreen access to fast-forward any songs without interrupting your run pace. Unlike some arm bands we've tested out, this one is easy to pull your phone in and out of (making it perfect for selfie snapping), and the neon yellow colourway makes it ideal for after-dark running.
Tala Dusk Joggers
We've found the ultimate pair of joggers to fight off the cold right here. These Dusk Joggers [22] (£40) feature the signature Tala logo and are sustainably crafted using 34% recycled cotton and 18% recycled breathable polyester, enabling a relaxed fit. They're also lightweight, comfortable to wear, and will take you from chilly outdoor runs to lounging on the sofa with a dose of Netflix.
Lululemon Micropillow Compression High Running Socks
If you're a long-distance runner, now is the time to ditch your trusty old ankle socks in favour of a pair of compression socks. A study by the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research [23] explains the importance of wearing compression socks on a long-distance run because they prove an effective way to reduce running-induced intestinal damage. These Lululemon Micropillow Compression High Running Socks [24] (£28) will feel light on your feet, as anything too thick has a tendency to cause unnecessary sweating. They will also keep your ankles and feet well protected, offering a light compression hug, while being breathable and featuring all-important reflective accents.