Summer & Winter Running Gear for Every Adventure
(3 min. read)
Running outdoors has many benefits. Getting fresh air into your heart and lungs can help your physical health and build strength. It’s also a moment to connect with nature, which can be helpful for your mental health.
Sometimes the weather may hold you back from even stepping outside—we’ve all been there. If you’re wondering how to run comfortably in cold weather, in the rain or in the heat, our running clothes temperature guide can help. We’ve got recommendations for the right gear for different conditions so you can feel ready to run outdoors—no matter the season.
Heat & Humidity Running Clothes & Gear
Outdoor runners are at a higher risk for skin damage because they spend so much time in direct and indirect sunlight. Running in extreme heat can also be very dangerous if you don’t have the right preparation. It's essential to have the right gear to protect you from the heat and sun.
Wear a hat, like the HOKA All-Day Hat to keep the sun off your face and neck. For your body, some of the best protection comes from clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). This number indicates how much UVB and UVA radiation the fabric allows to reach your skin. One of the best benefits of this skin protection is that it won’t sweat off like sunscreen.
Moisture management is another big concern in the heat. Look for lightweight mesh for breathability and sweat-wicking properties. Cooling and synthetic fabrics are ideal—but stay away from cotton. It absorbs moisture, trapping it against your skin, making you feel damp and even hotter when you’re already sweating. Antibacterial fabrics can also help protect your skin from sweat.
Looser-fitting clothing tends to be much more comfortable in the heat. For maximum airflow, try wearing a short-sleeve or sleeveless top. After your run, slip on sandals or flip-flops to cool off your feet. If you’re on the trail, opt for hiking shoes to give you both support and breathability.
Winter Running Clothes & Gear: Running in the Rain
You can still run on rainy days—just be prepared with the right gear. Water and moisture protection are major concerns, so make sure you have the right rain jacket. Remember: not all rain jackets are made the same. Water-resistant means the jacket can resist water penetration to a certain degree but not entirely. Water-repellent jackets also resist water penetration, with the added benefit of a surface coating. Waterproof jackets are impervious to water, so if you’re planning a long run or it’s raining heavily, go for a waterproof membrane.
A strong drawcord is helpful to pull in your rain-ready outerwear to keep water from getting inside. Try to find a wind-resistant jacket as well, as they tend to be more fitted so that you don’t incur extra wind resistance. A waterproof hat can add even more protection—plus, it will keep your head dry!
Above all else, safety is the key concern when running in rain and wind. Visibility could be low, so reflective elements on your outerwear are critical to keep you visible to cars. A jacket hood with a visor can improve your own ability to see.
Your footwear should stand up to wet, possibly slippery conditions. Look for shoes with GORE-TEX technology, water-resistant mesh, or rubber outsoles that can grip in wet weather.
Winter Running Essentials: Running in the Cold
For running in the cold snow, layering is the key. You’ll need a base, mid and outer layer. Insulated jackets can keep you warm when the temperatures drop. Look for one with front zip pockets for easy access to your winter running accessories when not in use.
Pair your jacket with a mock neck top to give you extra warmth and coverage. Merino blend long-sleeve tops and midlayers are great because they trap heat but vent moisture away from your body. Tights are also designed for breathability and provide moisture-wicking warmth.
A neck gaiter with a waterproof panel can keep your neck warm and keep snow out. Ear bands, beanies and running gloves made of merino blends are also warm options. Run with traction-focused footwear, like the Challenger 7 GORE-TEX, when there’s ice and snow on the road or trail.
Unpredictable Weather Running Clothes & Gear
Sometimes you don’t know what weather you’ll face when you step outside for your run. In that case, look for apparel that can be worn from cool to warm and vice-versa. Three-quarter-length sleeves are a great way to balance coverage and exposure. Prioritise lightweight outerwear layers that you can easily carry or store when you’re not wearing them. Our short sleeve wind shell is one option that can pack down easily.
Apparel accessories for mixed climates can also help you adjust to changing conditions. Running arm sleeves are useful for extra warmth when the temperature suddenly drops. All-terrain running shoes will help you prepare for variations in terrain. Our Women’s and Men’s Challenger 7 GORE-TEX are up for the challenge.
Ultimately, try to prepare a combination of apparel from the other specific sections of our running weather guide. Base your outfit on how you expect the weather to shift throughout the day.
Whether running in hot weather, snow, sleet or rain, make sure you stay safe. Plan ahead and be prepared with the right gear and apparel for your specific weather conditions. Then you can enjoy your outdoor run, no matter the weather.
Shop Warm Weather and Cold Weather Running Gear
On the hunt for the best winter running gear? From winter running tops and winter running coats, to warm weather running essentials, explore our apparel and try our shoe finder to get your personalised shoe recommendations. Also, with our 30-Day Guarantee, you can also take a test any of our winter running shoes for up to 30 days - if they don't work for you then you can return them for a full refund, no questions asked.
