One of the glorious things about running is how easy it is to get started. In the summer, all you need are shorts, shoes, and a breathable top. And you don鈥檛 need much more that that in the winter. Just make sure you cover all exposed skin with breathable, wicking layers. Here are my gear suggestions to keep you running outside all winter鈥攚ithout breaking the bank.
Yaktrax Pro ($30)
eliminates the need for winter-specific running shoes. The $30 insurance policy can also save you from a busted hip and potentially expensive trip to the hospital. The spikes let you run outside no matter how icy the trails are and can easily be stored once the snow melts.
Fits Socks Pro Trail Performance Quarter ($18)
Socks are the last line of defense for your feet, and it鈥檚 worth spending some extra money to get a warm, moisture-wicking pair. I prefer for their extremely deep heel cup designed to prevent bunching, which can restrict circulation and chill your feet. The merino wool has kept my feet warm in below-freezing temperatures.
Jacket ($20)
Most running jackets cost around $150, but you can get a second-hand one for much less. I suggest looking for both a fleece top and a windbreaker: a thick fleece will be enough for all but the windiest or rainiest days while an inexpensive windbreaker will protect you from the elements鈥攊t won鈥檛 matter that it鈥檚 not breathable if the temperatures are cold enough. While a local thrift store is usually a good place to find a fleece, you can also browse 鈥檚 Outlet for sales on everything from running jackets to shorts.
Tights ($30)
Embrace the tights. They will keep you warmer than pants, which let in more cold air. You can find a synthetic, moisture-wicking pair for about $30 at stores like .
Gloves ($10)
Hunt for the cheapest synthetic gloves (no cotton) you can find. (I鈥檝e often found ones as low as $5.) A $20 pair will be warmer and more windproof, but you can get away with inexpensive gloves鈥攋ust cutting the wind will make a big difference for your digits. usually has a range of options for $10 or less.
Fleece Hat ($10)
Cheap fleece beanies are easy to find. Because they鈥檙e made from a synthetic fabric, they move sweat away from your head, keeping you much warmer. Fleece doesn鈥檛 block wind well, but I have found it to protect my ears on snowy runs. If you strike out at your local clothing shop, check out where prices vary from about $2 to $40.
Mutt Mitts Dog Waste Cleaning Bags (Free)
Fancy running underwear is designed to keep the wind off your sensitive man parts. But there鈥檚 a (free!) hack that works just as well. Missoula, Montana-based pro ultrarunner Mike Foote, who鈥檚 lived in an off-the-grid yurt for years, uses the free doggie bags provided in most parks as a windshield. 鈥淪tuffed down the front of your pants or shorts, they create an impermeable layer in front in moments of extreme duress,鈥 he wrote.