Running through winter can mean frozen trails, strong winds, rain, snow and rapidly changing mountain conditions. The right equipment should keep you warm without causing you to overheat, while still allowing you to move confidently across technical terrain.
Rather than relying on one heavy item, cold-weather runners should build a complete system around layering, grip, moisture management, protection and hydration.
Start with a moisture-managing base layer
Your base layer sits directly against your skin and should move moisture away from your body as you run. Even in freezing conditions, hard climbs can generate a considerable amount of heat and sweat.
Avoid thick everyday cotton clothing, which can hold moisture and become cold once your pace slows. Instead, choose a close-fitting technical top that dries quickly and remains comfortable beneath additional layers.
Depending on the conditions, your base layer may be:
- A lightweight short-sleeved top for milder winter runs
- A long-sleeved technical layer for colder temperatures
- A thermal base layer for exposed mountain routes
The goal is not to feel completely warm when standing still. You should feel slightly cool at the beginning of the run, as your body temperature will rise once you start moving.
Add an insulating mid-layer when needed
A mid-layer traps warm air between your base layer and outer shell. It is particularly useful during long training runs, high-altitude routes or sessions where your pace may vary considerably.
Choose a lightweight layer that can be removed and packed away easily. A thin technical fleece or breathable insulated running top will usually offer more flexibility than a bulky winter jacket.
For shorter, high-intensity runs, a base layer and protective outer shell may be enough. For longer adventures or colder mountain conditions, carrying an additional warm layer is a sensible precaution.
Protect yourself with a lightweight outer shell
Your outer layer should protect you from wind, rain and snow without trapping too much heat.
Look for a running jacket that offers:
- Wind resistance
- Water resistance or waterproof protection
- Breathable fabric
- An adjustable hood
- A lightweight, packable design
- Enough room to fit over your other layers
Conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Even when a jacket is not required at the start, carrying one can provide essential protection if the temperature drops or the weather turns.
The Merrell Skyrunner World Series includes races across steep, rugged terrain where athletes may encounter snow, glaciers and extreme mountain environments, highlighting the importance of carrying suitable protective equipment.
Choose trail shoes for the terrain
Cold-weather road running and winter mountain running require very different footwear. When running on trails, prioritise traction, stability, protection and a secure fit.
Merrell’s trail-running range is designed for rugged terrain, with models such as the Agility Peak 6 positioned as a technical trail shoe for demanding surfaces.
When choosing winter trail-running shoes, consider:
- Deep lugs for mud, loose ground or snow
- A stable platform for uneven trails
- Toe protection against rocks and frozen ground
- A secure heel and midfoot fit
- Enough room for winter running socks
- Waterproof protection where consistently wet or snowy conditions justify it
Waterproof shoes can provide additional protection in snow, shallow water and prolonged rain, although less insulated shoes may remain more breathable during faster sessions.
No shoe can provide complete security on every frozen surface. Dedicated traction devices may be needed where ice is expected, and the route should always be adjusted when conditions exceed your experience or equipment.
Do not overlook your socks
Cold, wet feet can quickly turn a good run into an uncomfortable one. Socks should manage moisture, reduce friction and sit securely without bunching inside the shoe.
Lurbel is the Official Sockwear Sponsor of the Merrell Skyrunner World Series and has produced technical mountain-sport socks for more than 30 years. The brand developed its first trail-specific Aitana sock in 1999 and continues to focus on technical structures designed for demanding terrain.
For cold-weather running, choose socks that:
- Fit closely without restricting circulation
- Extend high enough to protect the ankle
- Manage moisture effectively
- Provide cushioning in high-impact areas
- Match the fit and volume of your shoes
- Remain comfortable over the intended distance
Thicker is not always better. Socks that make your shoes too tight can reduce comfort and restrict circulation. Test the complete shoe-and-sock combination before using it for a long winter run or race.
Keep your hands, head and neck protected
Your gloves, hat and neckwear are among the easiest items to add or remove as conditions change.
Lightweight running gloves may be sufficient for sheltered routes, while insulated or water-resistant gloves are more appropriate for exposed mountain conditions. A thin beanie or headband can protect your ears without trapping excessive heat.
A neck warmer is particularly versatile. It can be used around the neck, pulled over the face in strong wind or worn as an additional head covering.
Consider carrying:
- Lightweight gloves
- A running hat or headband
- A neck warmer
- A spare dry pair of gloves for longer mountain routes
Small accessories take up little space but can make a substantial difference when the weather deteriorates.
Choose winter running tights carefully
Your legs generate heat as you run, so many athletes require less insulation on their lower body than they expect.
Standard technical tights may be suitable for cool conditions, while thermal or wind-resistant tights provide additional protection during colder or slower runs. Some runners prefer shorts over tights for extra protection and storage.
Look for:
- Stretch and freedom of movement
- Flat seams to minimise irritation
- Moisture-managing fabric
- Wind-resistant panels where needed
- Secure pockets for essentials
- Reflective details for darker conditions
Test tights on climbs and descents to ensure they remain secure and do not restrict your stride.
Hydration still matters in cold weather
Cold conditions can reduce the urge to drink, but runners still lose fluid through sweat and breathing. Carrying water and maintaining a planned drinking routine remains important, particularly during long or high-intensity sessions.
BIX develops performance nutrition and hydration products for endurance athletes and is listed among the official partners of the Merrell Skyrunner World Series.
Your hydration plan should consider:
- The length and intensity of the run
- Elevation gain
- Access to water
- Temperature and wind
- Personal sweat rate
- Whether bottles or soft flasks could freeze
Keep bottles close to the body where possible in extremely cold conditions. On longer runs, check regularly that flask valves and drinking tubes are still functioning.
Electrolytes may still form part of your hydration strategy in winter, but requirements vary between runners. Test any hydration or nutrition product during training before relying on it during a race.
Carry essential safety equipment
Cold-weather running becomes higher risk when it takes place in remote, high-altitude or rapidly changing mountain environments.
Your pack may need to include:
- A charged mobile phone
- An emergency blanket or bivvy bag
- A headtorch
- Spare food and hydration
- A waterproof jacket
- An additional warm layer
- Gloves and a hat
- A basic first-aid kit
- Navigation equipment
- Traction devices for icy conditions
Tell someone where you are going, which route you plan to follow and when you expect to return. Merrell’s outdoor guidance also recommends planning the route, checking the weather and carrying the correct clothing and provisions before heading out.
Wear reflective gear in low light
Winter often means running before sunrise or after sunset. Visibility should therefore be treated as part of your essential equipment rather than an optional extra.
Choose garments and accessories with reflective detailing, and use a headtorch when running away from well-lit roads. A rear light can also improve visibility to other runners, cyclists and drivers.
Bright clothing may make you easier to see during poor weather, but it should not replace reflective elements and suitable lighting.
Build your kit around the conditions
There is no single cold-weather outfit that works for every runner or every route. A short run through a local park requires a different setup from a long skyrunning session across exposed ridgelines.
Before leaving, consider:
- The forecast temperature
- Wind speed and wind chill
- Rain or snowfall
- Ground conditions
- Route elevation
- Time spent in exposed areas
- Expected pace
- Distance from shelter
- How quickly conditions could change
Always pack for the conditions you may encounter later in the run, not only those present at the start.
Test everything before race day
Cold-weather equipment should be tested as a complete system.
Wear your intended shoes, Lurbel socks, base layer, jacket, tights, gloves and running pack together during training. Check that the layers move comfortably, that your pack does not rub against your jacket and that you can access food or hydration while wearing gloves.
A reliable winter kit is not simply a collection of good products. Every item needs to work together without restricting movement, creating pressure points or trapping unnecessary heat.
Cold-weather running gear checklist
Before a cold training run or mountain race, check that you have:
- Technical moisture-managing base layer
- Lightweight insulating layer
- Windproof or waterproof jacket
- Merrell trail-running shoes suited to the terrain
- Lurbel technical running socks
- Running tights or weather-resistant trousers
- Gloves
- Hat or headband
- Neck warmer
- Hydration and BIX performance nutrition
- Headtorch and reflective details
- Emergency equipment
- Fully charged phone
- Route and weather information
Final thoughts
The best cold-weather running gear keeps you protected while allowing moisture and excess heat to escape. Start with a technical base layer, add insulation according to the conditions and finish with a protective outer shell.
