Shopping·11 min read

Winter Workout Clothes and Accessories That’ll Keep You Warm

the best winter workout clothes and accessories
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Free People, Parks Project
October 17, 2023

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Working out on a warm, sunny day? Doable. Exercising outside come wintertime? It has the potential to be completely miserable, unless your closet is stocked appropriately. To set you up for success, we’ve found workout clothes and accessories you’ll need to make your winter fitness routine actually enjoyable. 

We’re talking items that are warm, fleece-lined, and easily layered, plus a few helpful extras (hello, headbands that keep your ears warm). Whether you’re hiking, running, or taking your dog for a walk, here’s how to stay toasty.

long-sleeve-top
Free People

A long-sleeve top that also looks great with jeans…

One thing about us? We love everything from Free People Movement, and this top is no exception. It’s a light, long-sleeve layer that will keep you warm but won’t constrict your movement in any way. The front ruching and cropped fit pair perfectly with high-waisted leggings or sweats, and the thumb holes will keep your hands warm and cozy. Wear this one straight from Pilates class to brunch. ($68, Free People)

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fleece
Parks Project

A fleece pullover that helps you give back…

Each purchase from Parks Project provides funding to state park conservation efforts across the country. Not only will you look good and stay warm in this fuzzy fleece, but also you’ll feel good knowing you’re helping to care for the planet. This fleece is super thick and has fleece-lined pockets and a mock neck, perfect for winter hikes. We love the groovy print on this one, but it comes in other patterns, too. ($140, Parks Project)

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half-zip
Saks OFF 5TH

A half-zip in an on-trend shade…

Okay, we’re obsessed. This EleVen By Venus Williams half-zip jacket in fiery red features the brand's logo on the back. It has a stand-up collar to keep your neck warm if you’re playing tennis or pickleball when it’s chilly. Plus, it has a hint of stretch, so you can dive for the ball to your heart’s content. ($69.99, Saks OFF 5TH)

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jumpsuit
437

A full-body jumpsuit for a one-and-done outfit…

When you’re gearing up for your daily walk and it’s chilly outside, this onesie is a no-brainer. It’s incredibly soft, moisture-wicking, and moves with you, making it a great choice for Pilates and yoga classes, too. Plus, it’s sleek and looks great under a jacket and with the matching headband. ($115, 437)

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compression-hoodie
Revolve

A compression hoodie that makes a statement…

If typical workout gear just won’t do, may we suggest Stella McCartney’s line with Adidas? The pieces are incredibly functional — this hoodie is made of a stretchy compression fabric to keep your muscles warm — but don’t skimp on style. Grab the matching leggings for a full workout ’fit. ($150, Revolve)

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sweatpants
Lululemon

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

You’ll never have to layer another pair of leggings underneath. These high-rise, full-length cargo joggers are designed to be worn outdoors. They’re made of a soft fleece with pockets on the outside. With a bit of stretch to the fabric, your range of motion will be seamless. ($168, Lululemon)

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TomboyX Hooded Sweatshirt
TomboyX

A hooded sweatshirt with zippered pockets…

When you’re venturing outside for a morning run or a late-night dog walk, you’re likely going to need a second layer to keep you from freezing. This zip-up 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. Zippered pockets keep your keys, phone, or dog treats secure. ($79, TomboyX)

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Zippered Half Zip
Amazon

A fleece half-zip with a streamlined fit…

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. It’s easily layered under a thicker jacket, thanks to the slim fit, and comes in sizes XS–3X. ($36.99, Amazon)

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handwarmers
Amazon

Single-use hand warmers to pop in your jacket…

These disposable hand warmers will keep your hands from getting cold up to 30 minutes after you activate them. 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 them in the car for any chilly outdoor outings. ($11.99, Amazon)

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beyond-yoga-shirt
Beyond Yoga

A moisture-wicking shirt 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. The fan-favorite Spacedye fabric is super-soft and wicks away sweat, so you’ll remain perfectly comfortable in that weird dichotomy of sweating in freezing-cold weather. ($68, Beyond Yoga)

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All Birds Running Shoe
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 naturally moisture-wicking and staves off odors. ($98, Allbirds)

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heattech
Uniqlo

A simple turtleneck you can’t go wrong with…

There’s a reason everyone wears Uniqlo HeatTech during the winter. The fabric is soft, stretchy, insulating, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying. It’s more fitted throughout the body, but the sleeves and turtleneck have extra room for added comfort. It looks just as good with athleisure as it does with your favorite pair of jeans. ($19.90, Uniqlo)

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Ear Headbands for Warm Running
Amazon

Sporty ear-warmer headbands for those chilly park jogs…

These fleece headbands are strategically designed to cover your full ears, and they won’t slide around while you’re moving. They have high elasticity, too, so they’ll stretch around your head and sit perfectly around your ponytail. No head or ear aches here, thank you very much. ($9.99/3-pack Amazon)

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Workout Fanny Pack
Lululemon

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

No one could have predicted the triumphant return of the fanny pack. This cult-favorite Lululemon 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. ($38, Lululemon)

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Fleece lined leggings
Amazon

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

These are high-waisted, have two side pockets, and have a hidden waistband pocket for a key. The fleece lining can keep you warm in the coldest weather, without adding any bulk to the silhouette. Customers love them, raving about their thickness and warmth. They’re an Amazon best-seller for a reason. ($29.99+, Amazon)

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Sports Bra With Underwire
Wacoal

​​An underwire sports bra for maximum support...

This bra combines everyday comfort with maximum coverage. The underwire sits on the outside and helps to reduce any extra bouncing, and its moisture-wicking fabric and mesh back will keep you dry during your sweat session. 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. ($40.80+, Wacoal)

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lightweight puffer vest
Lululemon

A vest that’s warm without the extra bulk…

This piece may be ultra-lightweight, but the down filling provides plenty of insulation for cool-weather jogs. It’s also water-resistant, windproof, and has 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. ($168, Lululemon)

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Grey Thermal Wool Socks
Amazon

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 — aka the ideal material for cold-weather workout gear, since the material is naturally insulating yet breathable and moisture-wicking. A reinforced heel and toe offers more durability. ($13.99+/3-pack, Amazon)

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