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JOIN NOWThe Best Thermal Running Gear: 2024
As a runner, what do you do when it gets very cold? There are many factors to consider, but one thing is certain: a good thermal layer is an absolute must-have for any outdoor activity. Forget about the weather and focus on your running.
A thermal top can be worn on its own or layered with a lightweight long-sleeve. To get the most out of the thermal properties, consider a running jacket to block the wind. Unless it's really cold or windy though, you will probably be fine just with the one top on.
4 reasons why a thermal layer will be your best ally this season:
- EXCEPTIONAL INSULATION
Constructed from warmer fabrics to keep in heat, these pieces are still very breathable and moisture-wicking. Excellent performace when layering up with plenty of options of lightness and warmth. - BODY TEMPERATURE REGULATION
Thanks to their intelligent ventilation zones and quick-drying technology, they protect you both from overheating and from cold weather. Can be used as a mid-layer or top-layer. Some tops also have mitts built in to the sleeves. - HIGH QUALITY FABRICS
Yarns such as merino wool manage moisture and keep you dry. They are designed to be form-fitting and stretchy, giving you the freedom to move comfortably. They also have natural odour-protection, so you can wear them for longer if you need to! - GREAT DURABILITY AND USABILITY
Good quality thermal gear should definitely long outlive your running shoes. As it wicks the moisture away quickly it also dries really fast so you can wear it, wash it and it will be dry to wear the next day.
Thermal Base-Layers / Thermal Tops / Thermal Leggings / Jackets / Thermal Hats & Gloves
Thermal Base-Layers
Worn as the very first layer against your skin, a base layer has great moisture-wicking properties. The worst thing is when it's cold and windy outside and your top is soaked in sweat… a good base layer prevents that from happening. It also regulates the temperature – keeps you warm but without overheating. The base layers below have thermal properties – scroll down further for naturally-thermal wool options too...
Wool Base-Layers
There are many base layers made with wool – very effective on colder days or nights when you're preparing for your run. Sometimes the top combines wool with another more technical fabric, for more technical moisture-management.
A good quality wool base-layer is thin, light, and with quick-dry properties. Wool is a great fabric for rainy and cold days, because even if it gets wet, you can stay active with comfort and stay warm. It also has natural odour-control – nice! It should also last a few seasons, so it's a good investment for the future.
Thermal Running Tops
How much warmth you need from a top of course depends on how much you feel the cold, but it will also be influenced by what time of day you are going for your run and where you are running.
If you run in the early morning or late evening you will obviously need to wear thermals more than if you always run at midday. Likewise if you are running in the hills you will also need a warmer top. Thermal fabrics have become lighter and lighter while still retaining that all important warmth factor so it doesn't and shouldn't feel bulky.
Wool Thermal Tops
Extra Features
Many of the tops now come with flat-locked seams to add extra comfort and prevent chafing. There are now a number of thermal tops with pockets. The other great thing is having a thermal top that has 'mitts' or some sort of cover for your hands. Most running jackets will have some reflective on them, but some of the thermal tops have this as well, so if you are running without your jacket you will still be seen.
Thermal Tights & Trousers
It is of course very important to make sure your legs stay warm. I generally find I need a thermal top before I need to start wearing thermal tights, but again if you are in the hills or when it gets colder you will definitely need warm legs. Here are some of this year's newest thermal tights. They all have a pocket with a zip for keys or a gel. They also have at least some reflective on for better visibility in those dark evenings or early mornings.
Shop All Running Leggings & Tights / Shop All Running Trousers
Running Jackets
Always remember the wind-chill factor. Even if it's not raining, a suitable jacket or a gilet can help to keep in the warmth of your thermal top. Jackets are divided into windproof and waterproof. The ones featured below are windproof with built-in thermal properties.
Thermal Accessories
Hats and gloves are of course also essential for running in the cold. Every year more and more companies use recycled material in their products. Some of the hats and gloves feature a percentage of wool. If you don't like wearing a hat, how about a merino buff to keep you warm? Or a thermal headband to keep your ears warm and toasty? Check out the Merino wool socks too. Remember, there's no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing!
So if you usually just go to the gym in the winter because you really feel the cold, why not get a couple of thermal pieces of clothing? Try running outside on those clear, crisp autumn and winter days – soon you'll wonder why you even bothered with your gym membership!
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Richard TaefuFebruary 8, 2020 at 1:30am
Hi I would like to say thanks for the info on the different types of water proof jackets & also the info on the thermal wear, very easy read, and wasn’t in such way as to say just to sell the product, as it wasn’t to daunting & made it a bit easier on what would work depending on the weather & environment & if you were training day or night. Baby steps as I used to run in my teens., it’s also most like having your own personal running coach as everyone is different. Thanks heaps & keep doing what YOU’’S and the STAFF ARE DOING.. ReplyGoska DuzykFebruary 18, 2020 at 6:03pm
Hi Richard,
Thank you for such lovely comment! That's true – we're runners as well and we test all of our products. We want to stock things we truly love and believe in, so we can personally sign under each of them. Proudly, we're a part of an independent family business with more than 35 years of experience, so it's great to know that our customers can feel our personal touch! :)
Wishing you lots of amazing runs; safe, hi-viz and dry!
Kind regards, Goska
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