You should definitely not neglect the choice of running socks, adapted to winter in order to keep your feet warm and dry! Merino wool socks, which effectively wick away moisture while maintaining the warmth of the feet, are an excellent choice to face the winter. As a bonus, they do not retain odors.

In short, choosing shoes for winter running will depend on where you plan to run and the local weather conditions. The main goal is to keep your feet safe, comfortable, and warm, no matter what terrain you’re going to face. So, keep these considerations in mind when making your choice and prepare yourself for the challenge of winter running.

The golden rule for staying warm in winter is to layer your clothes. Start with a breathable base layer that wicks sweat away from your skin. Then, add an insulating mid-layer to retain warmth. Finally, finish with a windproof jacket to protect you from the elements.

You can choose to opt for a base layer made of merino wool, synthetic fibers, or a blend of natural and synthetic fibers. Merino wool stands out for its thermoregulating abilities, keeping you warm and dry throughout your outing, as well as its antimicrobial capacity and odor resistance. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, are not very absorbent and have the particularity of drying very quickly. Synthetic fiber base layers are generally less expensive and accessible to all types of budgets!

For the mid-layer, opt for breathable technical materials that wick away moisture from sweat such as polyester, nylon, or a blend of synthetic fibers. Avoid cotton as it tends to absorb moisture and cool you down. The mid-layer should be snug but not too tight. It should allow you to layer more if needed.

Finally, when it comes to windproof jackets, opt for a coat that has wind protection at the front and ventilation panels at the back and under the arms. This combination allows heat and moisture to escape while protecting you from the cold and icy wind, a perfect balance between warmth and breathability!

It’s important to note that everyone has their own tolerance for cold. Some people may be comfortable wearing a lightweight windbreaker jacket even in very cold weather, while others may prefer thicker insulation to stay warm. If you run at a high pace and produce a lot of body heat, you may be able to afford a thinner jacket. On the other hand, if you run at a more moderate pace, a warmer jacket may be necessary to maintain a comfortable body temperature.

Mid-layers, as mentioned above, can allow you to adjust your outfit to the current weather conditions. Having a thinner jacket paired with a thermal mid-layer can provide versatility to adapt your outfit to changing temperatures. Listen to your body and choose based on your own tolerance to cold! It often takes some experimentation to find the perfect combination for you! If you wear clothing that is too warm, you risk getting wet quickly, which will actually cool you down. Our little expert tip: anticipate a slight discomfort from the cold when you start your outing. Then after about five minutes, you should feel perfectly comfortable!

For your legs, opt for thermal pants that are windproof at the front and have ventilation panels at the back. They are designed to keep your legs warm while still allowing freedom of movement. You can decide to go for a slim fit, legging style, or a more classic trouser cut. It is important that you are comfortable and that the pants do not restrict your mobility. As with choosing a coat, your choice of pants will depend on your personal preference and your own tolerance for the cold!

For colder days, you may decide to wear a base layer under your pants, as discussed earlier. If you are considering wearing a base layer under your pants, consider how easy it is to put on your thermal pants when making your choice.

You should also not neglect the choice of suitable underwear to stay warm. For men, thermal boxers, especially made of merino wool, are an interesting option to ensure warmth and comfort. Some boxers are also designed with a windproof layer at the front to protect you know what from the cold. This feature is particularly appreciated during winter races where the wind can be freezing. For women, it is rather the buttocks that tend to freeze, so opt for merino underwear to keep them warm!

Finally, don't underestimate the importance of accessories, such as gloves, mittens, hats and neck warmers! Although sunglasses are generally associated with summer, they are also an important accessory in winter. Reflective elements are also crucial in order to increase your visibility with the reduced hours of sunlight.

When temperatures drop, hands are among the most vulnerable parts of the body to the cold. Proper gloves or mittens are therefore essential. Opt for gloves if you need dexterity and are looking for a versatile accessory for all your activities! Opt for mittens if you run in very cold weather and if warmth is your priority. You can also choose gloves with a flap to combine the benefits of both options. It is also possible to put on a merino liner under your gloves or mittens, a bit like a first layer, to keep your hands warm on the coldest days.

Also note that a large part of your body heat escapes through your head, which makes wearing a hat or headband essential. Opt for a thin, lightweight and breathable hat to keep your head warm. The headband, on the other hand, keeps your ears warm while allowing the top of your head to breathe. It can also be practical when you wear your hair in a ponytail. Finally, don't forget to wear a neck warmer to protect your neck from the wind!

In winter, the reflection of light on snow and ice can be intense, causing a sensation of glare and tiring your eyes, so sunglasses are essential! They can also protect your eyes from the cold and wind. Models with a photochromic lens, which adapts to light, are particularly interesting for winter since they will be just as useful in bright sunlight as during your night outings.

Reflective elements, such as reflective strips, armbands and visibility jackets, help enhance your winter running experience by reducing the risk of accidents in low light conditions and providing you with a sense of confidence and safety.

Finally, keep in mind that it is just as important to hydrate in the winter as it is in the summer! Hydration accessories, such as water bottles, running belts and hydration vests, remain just as relevant when it is time to equip yourself for winter running. In the winter, opt for insulated water bottles to keep your water or sports drink at an ideal temperature.

Accessories play a vital role in optimizing your winter running experience. Whether you’re looking to stay warm, protect yourself from the wind, improve your visibility or stay properly hydrated, choosing the right accessories can make a huge difference in your comfort, safety and performance. With the right accessories, you can brave the cold and the elements with confidence, enjoying every stride, no matter the season!