Welcome to Another Mother Runner Gears Up: Our gear testing column! We are going to have #motherrunners put key running gear—capris, headlamps, socks, bras, etc.—to the test, and deliver the results to you so that you can grab the gear that works best for your running and body.
AMR Gears Up: Winter Running Accessories
To quote Olivia from author Ian Falconer, “You can always accessorize.” And, when it comes to cold weather running, accessories are critical to being comfortable on the run. From gloves, to hats, spikes, and a Buff that doesn’t freeze, we have the items you need to protect yourself from the elements, stay warm, and stay upright on the run. Read on and start shopping for yourself and your best running buddy.
Buff ThermoNet Multifunctional Headwear
Tester Rating: 5
Review: Made with breathable, wicking Primaloft yarn, this handy, multi-functional headwear (headband, hat, neck gaiter…. it has you covered!) provides lightweight, breathable warmth; dries quickly; and, best of all, doesn’t freeze. The seamless construction prevents hot spots, and the top and bottom fold over on themselves, providing welcome yet comfortable staying power when you pull the Buff over your mouth (incredibly useful during cold-weather runs).
Price: $27
Perfect for: adding extra warmth, protecting your chin from chafing, as a hat
Grab it here: buffusa.com
Brooks Ugly Sweater Beanie
Tester Rating: 5
Review: A tester who said a running hat is a part of her mandatory cold weather kit, was a fan of this hat because of the festive print, of course, and also because it was warm without being too hot, and wicking.
Price: $24
Perfect for: keeping your noggin warm
Grab it here: brooksrunning.com
Smartwool Merino 250 Cuffed Beanie
Tester Rating: 4.5
Review: Yes, this super soft and cozy beanie is made of wool, and it’s meant to get sweaty while still keeping you warm. A tester who said she can run in pretty much any temperature as long as her head and feet are warm, gave this two thumbs up.
Price: $28
Perfect for: staying toasty on chilly days
Grab it here: smartwool.com
The North Face ETip Gloves
Tester Rating: 5
Review: “These gloves are warm, toasty, and keep your fingers from going numb—which happens a lot during Canadian winters—but the best feature is that they work with your screens! No more risking frostbite to check a text from home or change my playlist.” They also wicked sweat “like a boss” without feeling heavy or wet.
Price: $45
Perfect for: warm hands on frigid days
Grab it here: thenorthface.com
Under Armour ColdGear Storm Liner Gloves
Tester Rating: 5
Review: Testers raved about how the silicone print on the palms made it easy to hold a slippery phone and how easy it was to use devices without removing gloves. On the design side, the tapered wrists and sleek fit meant no cold air got in, even when wearing a watch.
Price: $29.99
Perfect for: running, layering, keeping out chilly breezes, plus these pack a punch for the price
Grab it here: underarmour.com
Outdoor Research Backstop Sensor Gloves
Tester Rating: 5
Review: According to our tester who said gloves are her most important piece of cold weather gear, “These are the best cold weather running gloves I’ve ever tried!” They were breathable, wicking, toasty, blocked the wind, and easy to use with devices.
Price: $40
Perfect for: keeping cold hands at bay
Grab it here: outdoorresearch.com
Kahtoola Nanospikes
Tester Rating: 5
Review: “I did a hard run that included hill repeats followed by a tempo run in snowy and icy conditions and did not slip or lose my footing once!” This tester who said she’s tried lots of other spikes and cleats without being satisfied, appreciated how easy these were to put on and take off, and that she could wear them for a four-hour run and be completely comfortable. Nanospikes use small and durable tungsten carbide spikes for stability.
Price: $49.95
Perfect for: keeping your shoes tread side down on snow- and ice-covered sidewalks, streets, and urban trails
Grab it here: kahtoola.com
Yaktrax Run
Tester Rating: 4.5
Review: A combination of carbide spikes and steel coils make for confident striding in wintry weather. These are easy to put on and take off, with adjustable webbing over the forefoot for a truly secure fit.
Price: $40
Perfect for: no slip running on snow packed roads and sidewalks
Grab it here: yaktrax.implus.com
IllumiNITE 3-in-1 mittens are my favorite. They’re reflective on inner and outer mittens for visibility in winter. I mainly use just the outer mitten when I get too hot for both. I love having the option to reduce but still keep my hands covered.