Winter running gear: our top training essentials to help you conquer the cold
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Bundle up and break a sweat with these winter running accessories, from base layers and gloves to waterproof jackets. The best running shoes to take you from trail to road to marathon. The Guardian’s journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more.
![[Arc’Teryx Norvan balaclava]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/c37da0229175a41a0c05187d39415e10825dd947/1000_0_3000_3000/master/3000.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
If you’re tempted to stop running in the winter or retreat to the gym, think again. Whether it’s getting out for fresh air and daylight on crisp, blue-sky days, or blowing away the cobwebs in the dark and rain after work, running outdoors can make winter more bearable.
![[Buff Reflective DryFlx beanie]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/470dcc928c290422197699008c07a82cd0f4634f/1000_0_3000_3000/master/3000.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
With a few changes to your attire and some nifty accessories, you can stay warm and dry and be safer. You won’t need all of the below – it depends on where you run, how far and what time of day you get out. Everything featured is either unisex or available in women’s and men’s versions.
![[Proviz running chest light]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/cef4047de6605788387da5eea24b66094cf9de77/951_0_3000_3000/master/3000.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
Arc’teryx Norvan balaclava. £65 at Arc’teryx. Buff Reflective DryFlx beanie. £21.07 at Amazon. £21.95 at Buff. The right headgear can save a run when the wind is blowing hard or temperatures are very low. The Arc’teryx merino balaclava can be worn as a buff around your neck, pulled up over your mouth, or as a balaclava that wraps around your ears and forehead – the top is open for ventilation. If you like your head completely covered, bung on a Buff beanie as well. Both are reflective, breathable and quick drying.
![[Shokz OpenRun Pro 2]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/f6130df0cef0d87a0268b4e75f8504e8f6bddcbc/486_0_3994_3000/master/3994.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
Proviz chest light. £29.99 at Proviz. £34.99 at Amazon. Wearing a chest light gives bikes, cars and people the chance to see you in the dark long before they reach you, especially important in areas where there’s no street lighting. This has front and back lights (full-, half- or low-beam white on the front; slow-flashing red on the back) at a super-bright 500 lumens, and the USB rechargeable battery lasts for three hours. The stretchy, adjustable straps also have Proviz 360 reflectivity, which is dazzling when a light is shone on it.
![[Proviz reflective reversible waterproof backpack cover]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/fb4f79a277b137a01af8793fd710e2a6e50863f7/1000_0_3000_3000/master/3000.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
