How to Find the Perfect Running Shirt for Winter, Spring & Fall
2010 November 2
It’s been said that all you need in order to go for a run is a good pair of sneakers. I beg to differ.
The colder it gets outside the more stuff one needs to comfortably run outdoors.
With winter like temps in the air this week, I’ve been wearing more of my cold running weather gear. Workout clothes can be expensive but if you follow these tips you’ll only need one or two long-sleeved tops for Winter, Spring and Fall.
Here’s my check-list of features for finding the one perfect running top:
- Long-sleeves
- 3/4 Zipper
- Dri-fit
- Long enough to be tucked into tights (when worn under a jacket for extra warmth)
- Roomy enough to fit a base layer under
- Thumbholes for when it’s not cold enough for gloves and for extra warmth when tucked into gloves when it’s extra cold
- Sleeves that are loose enough to be pushed up once you get warmed up on the run.
Will you be running outdoors once winter hits this year?
Featured tops: Asics Thermopolis and a shirt similar to the Lucy’s Seamless Motion 1/2 Zip.
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wow were you reading my mind??? I was going to text message you and ask for advice on winter attire for running….
I love those sleeves for running outside! The thumb holes keep your hands warm enough that you do not need gloves or can be easily tucked in! Check out my give-away for Smartwool socks! Great addition to your oulfit! http://wp.me/p12fGr-7T
I love thumbhole sleeves since my wrists always get cold, but where to wear your watch? hehe. Also, a good headwarmer/hat is a must, I should’ve worn one this morning when it was in the mid-30′s! Headwarmer (or headband thing) is better for cool temps, hats when it’s REALLY cold. But never if it’s above 40 is my rule of thumb.
I’m so ready for winter running…Yay! I need to buy some new tights too. Can you suggest a good brand that’s not too expensive?
Nicci, my advice is to find a good quality pair made by craft or sugoi that are from last year’s collection. Which can end up being like an easter egg hunt, but it’s worth the time and money. Tights seem to last forever! Otherwise, if there are any marathons in your area hit up the expo. There are usually pretty good deals there.
great advice and YES to running outdoors this winter.
i also like
- a light enough zip up that i can remove it and carry it if it gets too hot
- those really cheap $5 gloves that the street guys sell. they are perfect to run in!
Those socks are so friggen cute!!!
Where are they from?
They are smart wool ski socks from a few years ago.
Thanks so much for this! I don’t love running when it’s cold out, and none of my summer running gear is quite right for the weather we’ve been having. Your buying guide is so helpful–I can’t wait to get to Paragon. Thanks so much!
Yup I definitely will be! I can’t imagine being stuck using the DREADmill for 4-5 months!!
Great tips, I always make sure to wear lots of layers so I can take stuff off if I get too hot. I also find a headband or toque (hat) of some sort is key or else my ears get really cold!
i love thumb hole gloves!!!
I’m a drifit fanatic all year round! And even though I’m not a runner I have become quite a fan of sweatshirts and tees with thumb holes…you runners have the coolest er, warmest, gear!
Love the new gear! I want to get one of those shirts with the hole for the thumb. I won’t be doing any running outside, but I do go on long walks (and SOMETIMES runs, I guess….) and I ride my bike to work. I need to find something to keep my face nice and warm!
Wow, never seen a thumb hole shirt! Love your list & yes, I will be running outside but I do live in southern CA. It does get to the low 40′s & high 30′s here during winter in the early morn when I go outside…
I love the Asics 3/4 zip you pictured. These are such great tips! Winter running can be a challenge but I do enjoy the chill. With that said it was only 31 degrees this morning on my run so I am already getting prepared for those winter mornings.
I haven’t run since my 5K (then I got a cold). I’m going shopping for cold weather running gear…I’m afraid the cold is gonna beat me and I won’t run
I really don’t want that to happen!
You can conquer the cold!!
Oh man, I was JUST thinking about this! Hi, new to the site… but thanks for the great advice!
You’re welcome! Thanks for stopping by!
Awesome tips! I kept them in mind while perusing Marshall’s on my lunch break. I found an Adidas jacket with thumb holes but it was a little too snug. I did score great deals on two long-sleeved Under Armor shirts and I’m super excited to bust them out on my runs this weekend.