What to Wear for Winter Exercise

by Suzy Stichbury July 22, 2016

Just because it’s cold outside, doesn’t mean your outdoor workout has to stop. Knowing what to wear for your workout in the dark, dreary days of winter will keep you going and is crucial to a cold weather workout. Next time temperatures drop to single digits or below, if you know the right things to wear, you’ll still be able to comfortably go outside and keep that body moving.

Layers are the most important thing to remember when it’s time to brave the cold and get your workout on. Forget about wearing one heavy outer layer. This will do nothing but make you sweat, get damp, and feel uncomfortable.

You’ll want to think first about your base layers. The material that goes closest to your skin is the most important. Avoid cotton at all costs because all it will do is make you sweat more and keep this sweat against your skin. This means you’ll end up being colder in the cold than you have to.

Polyester blend tights or leggings are your best bet, and base layers made out of silk or synthetics like polypropylene are awesome as well. You will really only need one bottom layer unless it’s extra cold, and in this case, just double up.

On your top half, make sure you choose thin layers that you can shed if you get too hot. Don’t forget to wear breathable material like spandex-polyester blends or merino wool to avoid excess sweating that will end up making you shiver.

For those of you that will get your workout on no matter what the conditions, you may want to think about investing in a protective outer layer like a windbreaker or jacket. This will come in handy when it is raining, snowing or really windy, and you’ll be happy to have the extra protection.

It is also really important to correctly cover up your head, hands, and feet when exercising in the cold. Most body heat (around 40 percent) escapes through your head, so be sure to wear a knit hat that can be pulled over your ears on really cold days. Cover up your hands with thin gloves or mittens made from synthetic fibers. If you get too hot with these on, simply pull them off and tuck them in the waistband of your pants while you continue exercising. Avoid thick socks and choose to wear a thin pair made of a wool blend instead.

When you know what to wear for your winter workout, keeping in shape will be a breeze. When the weather outside is frightful, knowing what to wear will make your workout that much more delightful.

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