All-Weather Running Gear
All-Season Comfort Gear for Men and Women
Running socks have become a science these days as sweat absorption models have become more sophisticated and equally pricey. I wear socks and so pay attention to the market. Anything that can reduce the impact on my feet through cushioning and stem the development of blisters is worth some extra dollars in the long run. Socks come in all materials and styles, with durable and naturally breathable wool or polyester mix being preferred over cotton. My personal preference is ”no show” socks in warmer weather or races, and quarter cut or longer in the colder months. I wear my socks just once before washing but I know many runners dry them out and reuse them.
I’ve found as I get older my extremities feel the cold more quickly, and I’m a runner who prefers warmth over the cold. So woolen hats and gloves in the winter are usually enough to keep the chill at bay in southern New England. In the summer baseball-style caps help keep the sun off my head.
Here’s my personal gender-neutral array of equipment.
These are not woolen but mostly polyester providing a breathable environment for your feet, but still providing plenty of cushioning. They come in an array of colors – I tend to stay in the white/black zone – and use the shoe size chart to get the snug fit for yourself.
Balega also does an ultralight lightweight version which comes in quarter and crew lengths. I tend to wear longer socks during the cooler months.
When it comes to a winter running hat, I’m firmly in the woolen beanie camp. This unisex hat is smooth and one size, and because it is 100% Merino wool it provides extra warmth but also breathes, wicks moisture, and helps resist odors.
The Mission cooling hats not only shield from the sun but you can activate it before your run to keep you cool for up to 2 hours. They are one size and unisex but have an adjustable buckle closure for a snugger fit.
For winter running gloves, I use ordinary fleece-lined gloves with a water-resistant outer layer. I have purchased expensive running gloves before, and I didn't find they kept my hands any warmer than these gloves.
I prefer fleece-lined gloves to help absorb sweat. While not an essential feature for me these have a sensitive touchscreen for control of smart devices. These unisex gloves come in different sizes for a close fit to reduce heat loss.