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Those summer days of running in your shorts and t-shirt are long gone. However, that doesn’t have to mean the end of your running days, all you need is the right winter running kit.
As the famous Ranulph Fiennes saying goes, ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing’. So, as the winter rolls on in for the umpteenth time, the time has come to layer up and jog on. We’re on hand to deck you out from head to toe in all the essential winter gear from our favourite brands.
Headtorch: for when it is dark
No matter what time of day you are embarking on your runs we would recommend bringing a headtorch. As soon as the clocks go back in Autumn our headtorch doesn’t leave our winter running kit bag. Not all headtorches are created equal, however.
When it comes to buying a new headtorch we would consider the following main factors. How bright is it? What is the run time on the battery? What is the form factor? The brand-new Ledlenser HFR range scores very highly on all of these criteria.
The entry-level HF4R would be a perfect beginner head torch (300 lumens for 2.5 hours).
The HF6R is the next step up in the range and offers an impressive bump to the specs (500 lumens for 3 hours).
The top of the HFR range is the HF8R. This impressive torch comes with Adaptive Light Beam technology and boasts a max power of 1600 lumens (900 lumens for 3.5 hours). The HF8R is one of the most advanced torches we have had the joy of testing and has deservedly found its way into our nighttime and winter running kit bags.
Available at Outdoor Stores Nationwide
Runners: for slippy ground
Wet, icy and muddy, even if you plan on doing most of your running on the road this winter it would be worth investing in a pair of versatile trail running shoes. Trail running shoes are sturdier, and have better grip than your usual road running shoes. They’re built to survive the harder conditions and terrain that you’ll be dealing with in winter. If you do intend on taking to the trails this winter, having a good pair of trail shoes is even more vital. There are a wide range of trail shoes on the market. They range from cushioned to minimal, grippy to slippy, and specific to multi-use. Here are a few of our favourites to help you.
Hoka Speedgoat 5: A popular shoe for good reason. If you attend any mountain or trail running race in Ireland you are bound to see a few pairs of Speedgoat 5s. The Speedgoat line is a staple in Hoka’s trail shoes and the 5 is the latest iteration. It is a comfortable, soft, grippy shoe that is totally at home on Irish trails.
Hoka Challenger 7: The ultimate road-to-trail shoe. This is a shoe that feels as good on the road as it does on some easy trails. This would be a perfect shoe for someone who lives a mile or two from a trail and wants to enjoy a multi-surface run. A cushioned, comfortable shoe, the Challenger 7 would feel very familiar to someone who has run in Hoka road running shoes in the past.
Hat: for your head
A running cap is a year-round investment. Keeping the sun out of your eyes in summer and the rain out of your eyes in winter they are worth having. Våga makes some excellent, lightweight running caps that we enjoy using. They are comfortable and look great. They even have a waterproof version.
Any beanie will do to keep those ears of yours toasty warm on your winter runs, but the Dynafit Performance beanie is a firm favourite of ours. This super light beanie is the perfect blend of windproof and warm while still being very lightweight.
Ultra-Runner Paddy O’Leary on Running, Racing, and Refueling
Buff: for so many reasons
One can never have too many Buffs thanks to the sheer versatility of this valuable piece of kit. After all, it can be worn as a neckerchief, headband, wristband, mask, hairband, balaclava, scarf, scrunchie, pirate cap, beanie or bandana. We love them!
Baselayer: for wicking
The layer next to the skin is the most important. Having tested a wide range of breathable baselayers, we have come across a few firm favourites.
Merino Wool: This natural fabric is cosy and breathable, and, most importantly, it doesn’t get cold when wet. It’s also naturally anti-bacterial, so it resists odours – even if you wear it for multiple days in a row.
Synthetic: Base layers made from synthetic materials are generally cheaper and more stretchy than their natural woollen counterparts.
Wind Layer: for chilly winds
A lightweight wind-resistant layer is perhaps one of the most useful items of winter running kit for trail running in Ireland. Almost all year round it is a good idea to have a lightweight windproof layer to take the bite out of the wind. It is always colder on the summit of the hill than in the car park so we rarely go for a run without one. We love the Patagonia Houdini Air.
Outer layer: for when it is cold
For an added extra layer if there is a bite in the air, the Patagonia Micro Puff is a synthetic option offering one of the best weight-to-warmth ratios on the market. At just 252g for the men’s size medium, it’s feather-light, making it seriously appealing for multi-day hikers or endurance racers. The major advantage of synthetic over down is that it retains heat when wet. Plus you can’t beat the packability of this jacket. The Micro Puff fits into its own pocket with ease. If all of that hasn’t won you over, then the hand warmer pockets definitely will!
Rainjacket: for when it is wet
A jacket that is both windproof and waterproof is essential for your winter running kit in Ireland. Most reputable running brands sell a good quality and lightweight waterproof jacket but we love the Dynafit Ultra 3L. This jacket uses Dynafit’s own waterproof technology and is incredibly lightweight. We have taken it out in some torrential rain and it has stood up to the test. This jacket also has an expander zip on the back which allows you to wear it over a running backpack.
It is worth mentioning that no waterproof jacket will be so breathable that you do not notice it. The best way of managing your perspiration when running is to have a good quality wicking layer against your skin underneath the waterproof jacket. We would also advise you that if it is warmer than 15 degrees celsius, which is unlikely in winter, avoid wearing a waterproof jacket even if it is raining. You will sweat a lot and potentially damage the jacket.
Backpack: for your gear
With the limited daylight in the winter, you may need to become creative with your training. One of our favourite ways to do that is by running to and from work. Having a good quality running vest or running bag will help with this. They are also brilliant if you plan on spending a few hours in the hills on the weekend. Tracking down a bag that has enough capacity to store all your essentials while being comfortable and lightweight is a tall order. The Salomon Adv Skin 12 is a comfortable, multi-tasking hydration hero. With plenty of storage for long ultra races or running errands during your training, it is a best seller. The Dynafit Ultra 15 has more capacity making it excellent for run commuting in the winter.
Gloves: for your hands
Cold fingers can be the difference between an enjoyable winter run and one to forget! Getting the right pair of gloves on your hands this winter is super important and worth getting right. There are a huge amount of gloves on the market but for running specifically, we would advise getting a pair that is lightweight, wind-resistant and touch screen compatible.
Running tights: for your legs
A pair of running leggings is a winter running kit essential. On particularly cold days you’ll be glad of the extra insulation. Most reputable running brands sell a good pair of tights, try and get a pair with some reflective accents on them for added safety. We love the Dynafit Alpine Reflective Tights for this reason. These tights also have a series of mesh and zip pockets for your keys and nutrition.
5 of the Best Trail Running Routes Near Dublin
Socks: for your feet
A good pair of running socks is an important part of your winter running kit. It is extremely likely that your feet will be wet on most of your winter runs so having a fabric that doesn’t hold onto moisture is a must. The Bridgedale Run socks are excellent as are the Dynafit Alpine Socks
Want something to train for?
Run The Line 13km/26km: 18th November
IMRA Spring League: February – March (tbc)
Art O’Neill Ultra: January (tbc)
Quest Kenmare: March (tbc)
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