Best Winter Workout Gear: Must-Have Jackets, Leggings, Sunglasses and More

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Giselle Castro-Sloboda

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement
Headshot of Giselle Castro-Sloboda

Giselle Castro-Sloboda Fitness and Nutrition Writer

I’m a Fitness & Nutrition writer for CNET who enjoys reviewing the latest fitness gadgets, testing out activewear and sneakers, as well as debunking wellness myths. On my spare time I enjoy cooking new recipes, going for a scenic run, hitting the weight room, or binge-watching many TV shows at once. I am a former personal trainer and still enjoy learning and brushing up on my training knowledge from time to time. I’ve had my wellness and lifestyle content published in various online publications such as: Women’s Health, Shape, Healthline, Popsugar and more.

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Working out outdoors is a unique experience that just can’t be replicated inside. When the temperatures drop, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to bring all the moves inside; you just need the proper insulation. We’ve found the best picks for winter workout clothes like insulated vests, fleece-lined leggings and more to keep that chill off your back.

Workout clothes made from breathable fabrics will help you get your sweat on while keeping you warm enough to withstand the dropping temperatures. And whether you’re running, walking or biking, keeping warm is vital. That means wearing the proper layers for those 20°F days and the right attire that stays put during any activity. You’ll also want footwear that can handle all of Mother Nature’s elements. But with all the options out there, knowing which gear is worth buying can be overwhelming.

After researching the most highly recommended winter attire, I narrowed down my favorite pieces based on brand reliability and customer reviews. 

If you are looking for unisex gloves, the Saucony Fortify Convertible Gloves are a good choice. These are convertible, which means you can wear them as a five-fingered glove or a mitten. The wind mitt is tucked into the backhand pocket and can be worn as an option for especially cold weather. These gloves are midweight, plus wind and water-resistant. Reviewers say that it’s easy to use a smartphone even with the mitten in place. Other reviewers say that if your hands tend to run hot, these gloves are a good option for winter activities because they’re not overly warming. One buyer pointed out that these gloves may not be the best option for days that are colder than 30 degrees. 

Winter gear is all about layers; they’re key to keeping you warm on frigid days. The Ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve Crew and the Woolies Tech Base Layer Bottoms are intended to be a midweight base layer for all your winter activities. The thermals are made up of merino wool and nylon “Core” Elastane Jersey, allowing you to move freely. The merino wool is moisture-wicking, keeping you dry and odor-free during your most extreme outdoor activities. Reviewers say that these thermals keep them warm during bike rides and runs, and they’re anything but bulky, making them ideal for layering. Some loved these layers so much that they bought extra pairs year after year.

The Swiftwick Pursuit Four socks are designed to keep you cool in the summer and warm during the winter. The socks are made out of merino wool, which helps regulate body temperature and keeps your feet dry. The best part is these socks can be worn comfortably whether you’re going on a hike, run, bike ride or trail run. One reviewer raved that the socks even handled Portland’s rainy and cold climate well during his runs. Another person mentioned that they wear these socks year-round and it’s the only brand they wear. 

Keeping your ears and head covered is important when being active in the cold outdoors. Smartwool’s Merino 250 Reversible Headband offers proper coverage of the ears and head and is designed for all genders. It is made up of merino wool and is double-layered, making it ideal for being active during low temperatures. Some reviewers say they use this headband during skiing and snowboarding, while others have worn it while hiking and running. One person said they turned to outdoor running during the pandemic and this headband withstood the cold winters of Chicago. 

These wraparound sunglasses are ideal for any of your favorite winter activities. Although the lenses are big, the glasses are lightweight and have a nose pad so they sit comfortably on your nose. These glasses look best on oval, heart-shaped and round faces. Reviewers share that these stay put while cycling, hiking and other winter sports. A few people mentioned that the sunglasses are also versatile enough to use in the summer and can be used while playing sports such as volleyball and baseball. 

If you’re looking for classic sunglasses that will stay on during your run, Goodr’s OG A Ginger’s Soul sunglasses will fit your needs. The non-reflective glasses won’t slip or bounce during your most rigorous activities. The lenses offer 100% UV400 protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Reviews show that the majority of buyers are satisfied with this classic set of sunglasses that are ideal for all forms of outdoor activities, especially running. Some reviewers say they loved their first pair enough that they bought more Goodr styles.