Life·11 min read

Winter Workout Clothes and Accessories That’ll Keep You Warm

the best winter workout clothes and accessories
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Uniqlo, Fourlaps
Dec 5, 2022

This post was originally published in February 2022 and has been updated.

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

Working out on a warm, sunny day? Doable. Exercising outside come wintertime? Completely miserable — unless your closet’s stocked up appropriately. To set you up for success, we rounded up workout clothes and accessories you’ll need to make your winter fitness routine doable and enjoyable. 

We’re talking items that are warm, fleece-lined, and easily layered. Plus a few helpful extras (hello, touchscreen gloves). Whether you’re hiking, running, or going for a dog walk, we’ve gotchu.

A long-sleeve top that’ll act as your base layer…

This buttery-soft shirt isn’t too tight or too loose. It’s more fitted through the chest, but opens up near the waist so you’ll have room to twist and turn. Plus, the sleeves have thumbholes, so you won’t have to deal with ‘em riding up underneath a heavier second layer. We’ve worn it through full strength workouts and have to say — it’s the softest workout shirt we’ve ever tested, and comfortable enough to lounge in. ($49, Goal Five)

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A pair of sweats that’ll actually keep your legs warm…

So you’ll never have to layer another pair of leggings underneath. These high-rise, full-length joggers are designed to be worn outdoors. They’re made of a merino wool blend and have a 3D texture for added warmth. And with a four-way stretch your range of motion will be seamless. Throw ’em on and go. ($168, Lululemon)

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A hooded sweatshirt with zippered pockets…

When you’re venturing outside for a morning run or late-night dog walk, you’re likely gonna need a second layer to keep you from freezing. This hoodie is made from organic cotton and recycled polyester. Plus, it’s available in a range of sizes, from XS–6X. It’s got thumbholes, a mock neck, and a reflective bungee cord at the hood so you can adjust accordingly. So if you wanna keep cold air out, you can tighten the cord for a snug fit. ($79, TomboyX)

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A fleece half-zip that’s streamlined to the body…

This one has reflective details, which help with visibility when it's dark out. The brushed fleece interior will provide warmth, so whether you’re going for a longer hike or running sprints across a field, you’ll be shielded from the elements. Customers rave about weight and fit, saying it’s comfortable and snug. Heads-up, though — the neck doesn’t extend very high, so if you don’t want cold air slipping in, we suggest adding a gaiter (see our rec below). ($36.99, Amazon)

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A neck gaiter that’ll add breathable warmth…

If you’re new to the gaiter game, let us explain: It’s essentially a cozy tube of fabric that covers your neck up to your ears. This one from Smartwool is made of 100% merino wool and has a double-layer knit. It’s perfect for those extra-cold days and is so compact that it’ll fit easily in your bag. Baby, it’s cold outside. ($32, REI)

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Odorless, natural hand warmers for tailgates and dog walks…

These disposable, TSA-approved lil’ guys will warm up 5-30 minutes after you activate it. This pack comes with a variety of warmers you can use on your hands, feet, and toes. Just throw them in your bag or keep ‘em in the car for any chilly outdoor workouts. No frostbite here, thank you very much. ($11.99, Amazon)

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A moisture-wicking shirt that’s insanely soft…

For days when you want some extra coverage. This long sleeve tee has a fitted body and thumbholes to keep the sleeves in place. You can move freely without any rubbing or irritation (which is especially helpful while layering) thanks to the smooth seaming. Once you try Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye fabric…you won’t wanna wear anything else. Trust us. ($66, Beyond Yoga)

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Allbirds running shoes that are thermoregulating…

These cozy, merino wool sneakers have serious support and cushioning that's ideal for walks, everyday wear, and low impact workouts. The midsole is made from sugarcane, while the body of the sneaker is made from merino wool, which is moisture wicking and odor reducing. One pair of comfy clouds for your feet coming right up. ($89, Allbirds)

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A reversible sherpa jacket that’ll cover your behind…

Winter workouts are all about layers. This option’s outer layer is water repellent, while its inner layer features a super-soft sherpa material. You can wear the sherpa lining on the inside if there’s a chill in the air, or reverse it and keep it on the outside if the temps aren’t too brutal. It’s available in three colors and six sizes and will look fire in OOTD pics on the gram. ($198, Fourlaps)

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A simple turtleneck you can’t go wrong with…

Once you wear Uniqlo HeatTech during the winter, you’ll never wanna stop. This long sleeve top comes in seven colors. The fabric is soft, stretchy, bio-warming, insulating, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. Whoa. It’s more fitted throughout the body, but the sleeves and turtleneck have extra room for added comfort. And the price? Too good. Need it ASAP. ($19.90, Uniqlo)

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High-quality tech gloves so your fingers don’t go numb…

These are touch-sensitive all over — not just at the fingertips — and come with an anti-slip palm grip so your device won’t fall into a pile of slush. Whether you need to control your playlist or just need to update the group chat, these are reliable gloves to have in your pocket. They also have an inner lining so your fingers will be warm while on the go. ($16.99, Amazon)

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Sporty ear-warmer headbands for those chilly park jogs…

No more ‘I can’t feel my ears when I’m with you’ moments after coming home from a run. These fleece headbands get bigger around the ear area so they’ll actually cover ’em and won’t accidentally slide around while you’re moving. They have high elasticity too so will stretch to fit your head comfortably and sit perfectly around your ponytail. No headaches or earaches here, thank you very much. ($13.99/3 pack Amazon)

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An elevated fanny pack that’ll hold all your essentials...

No one could have predicted the return of the fanny pack would be so strong. But here we are, with so many stylish options. This Athleta version is not only great to use while exercising but is also sleek enough to wear out to brunch after. You can easily wipe it clean, so your stuff will be safe no matter what the elements (or a spilled mimosa) bring. ($55, Athleta)

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Fleece-lined leggings to wear on hikes or while skiing…

These are high-waisted, have two side pockets, and a hidden waistband pocket for a key. Customers love them, raving about their thickness and warmth. Your legs will be insulated so you can enjoy your time spent outside despite a chill in the air. ($25.99+, Amazon)

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An underwire sports bra for maximum support...

Raise your hand if you’ve shied away from high-impact activities because of your boobs. Try this one, then give us a call. It combines everyday comfort with maximum coverage. The underwire sits on the outside of your bra and helps to reduce movement. And its moisture-wicking fabric and mesh back will keep you dry during your sweat sesh. It ranges from C through I cups and sizes 32–42, plus its G- and H-cup sizes come with extra support in the cups. Winner, winner, chicken dinner. ($40.80+, Wacoal)

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A vest that’s warm without the extra bulk…

This piece looks very light, but looks can be deceiving — it’s designed for cold weather. And it’s great for running since it’s not particularly weighty. It’s water-resistant, windproof, and has a four-way stretch. You’ll still have full range of motion in your arms, so it’s ideal if you’re picking up dumbbells too. Plus, there are zippered hand pockets with a hidden phone sleeve. Since it is pretty slim, we suggest sizing up if you want a looser fit. ($148, Lululemon)

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Thermal wool socks to keep your toes toasty…

There are a few things you need to pay special attention to when exercising outside, one of the most important being your toes. If they’re icy, you’ll be distracted the entire time. These socks are 80% merino wool, with a reinforced heel and toe for increased durability. Translation: no annoying holes. ($17.99+/3 pack, Amazon)

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A double-layered cotton face mask so you can stay protected…

This non-medical mask has adjustable ear loops and is pretty lightweight. Since it’s reusable, you can pop it in the wash after you get a bit sweaty. It’s always a good idea to keep a face mask on you, especially if you’re moving through a crowded outdoor area. If you need to pop into your corner store, you’ll have one at the ready too. ($10.99, Blue Bear Protection)

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