Friday, January 3, 2014

Favorite Cold Weather Running Gear

Brrrr. It's officially winter, both on the calendar and on the thermostat. The past few weeks have given me plenty of opportunity to figure out my favorite running gear pieces, and since the Northeast is in the middle of a blizzard right now (at least according to the news), I figured it was a good time to share!

Note -- I was not given any of these items. I purchased them and would do so again. I just love them a lot and wanted to share!

(1) Brooks Women's Nightlife LSD Lite Jacket III - $85
(2) Oiselle Lesley Running Tights - $79
(3) Oiselle Lux Layer - $76
(4) C9 by Champion Women's Quilted Puffer Vest - $23.99
I wore this outfit for the Midnight Run on New Year's Eve, when it was "feels like 15 degrees" (I doubled up on running tights). The lux layer with a windproof jacket and vest on top kept me surprisingly warm, though, considering I wasn't wearing an actual jacket. I didn't feel like my range of motion was compromised, which is how I feel with some winter outfits.


Brooks Nightlife LSD Lite Jacket - This jacket is a great wind blocker. I haven't worn it in the rain yet, so can only attest to its strength as a wind jacket. Layered over a long sleeve top, it creates a pretty cozy set-up. When it's warmer but rainy, it would be great over a tee or tank top.

Funny story -- this jacket was ruined when I threw it in my parents' laundry, which has a cylinder in the middle. Somehow, one of the pulleys on this shell got stuck in the cylinder and the jacket was ruined. I liked this jacket so much that I decided to bite the bullet and repurchase it. It makes all my winter clothing that much warmer by keeping the bitter NYC winds out. (By the way, that purchase was the first non-essential I've bought for myself since starting my "don't buy shit" challenge. It's working! Woo!)

Stats from Brooks:

  • Windproof and water-resistant shell
  • Weighs just 4.3 ounces (medium)
  • Packs into its own pocket
  • Double back vents
  • Easy-cinch hood
  • Inner storm guard with zipper garage
  • 360° of 3M™ Scotchlite™ retroreflectivity


Oiselle Lesley Running Tights - These tights are comfy and warm. They're also tight and thick enough to be flattering. I wore them alone in high 30s and low 40s in Washington over Christmas and was totally comfortable. I think if you were wearing them for below freezing temperatures, though, you'd want to layer up.

Stats from Oiselle:

  • Smooth compression + new! light fleece interior
  • 88% supplex nylon / 12% spandex
  • Same fit and flattering lines as Lesley Knicker
  • Ankle length with zip storage pocket
  • Mesh behind knees
  • Draw cord

Oiselle Lux Layer - I'm pretty sure I've raved about this before. It's my favorite long sleeve top of all time. Or at least up until 2014. The lux layer is warmer than your average long sleeved top, and it's also extremely soft. I love wearing it as normal clothing in addition to wearing it on cold runs (don't worry, I wash it!).

Stats from Oiselle:

  • 89% brushed polyester/11% spandex
  • Contrast flatlock stitching 
  • Scoop neck, thumbholes
  • Fitted but not tight


C9 by Champion Women's Quilted Puffer Vest - This is the best value item on the list. If it only lasts one season, at $30, it's still a great price. I wear it over a long sleeve top for 30 and 40 degree weather. I'll add the windbreaker if it's windy, or a second long sleeve if it's extra cold.

The vest has roomy pockets where I can comfortably stash gloves and my iPhone, with zippers so they won't fall out. I love the collar, which is high enough that I can keep part of my face covered. I've also worn it with a sweatshirt for chilly days when I'm running errands. It really does keep you warm!

Stats from Target:
  • Water repellent construction
  • Weave Type -- Ripstop
  • 100% Polyester
  • Poplin lining
  • Midweight Fabric Construction
  • Front full length zipper with front zippered pockets


What are your favorite winter running items? 

4 comments:

  1. Thank you!!! I've been lookin' for an affordable puffer vest to use solely for running, and that Target one looks PERFECT!

    Also, another option for super cold weather tights: http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/pants-run/Speed-Tight-Tech?cc=0001&skuId=3525437&catId=pants-run

    I kind of hate Lululemon for their crazy prices, but these are awesome. They're brushed with fleece on the inside, and when I took them out for a 13-miler in 10-20 degree weather, they were SO warm.

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    1. Lululemon has some sucking up to do before I buy their stuff again :(

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  2. My favorite winter running items, hands down are Mizuno's Breath Thermo tights - they are literally the only pair that you can do in nasty nasty cold weather, and they come with a little zipper, so the warmer you get, the more you can sort of cool yourself, Nike's Thermal Tech running gloves, and the Nike Element half zip because it comes in amazing colors and it's so tasty to wear!

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  3. Glahhh, winter is here! I'm obsessed with Sugoi running tights and Craft baselayers. And Smartwool socks. :)

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