This is not a sponsored post, just gear that I own and love. I have included links to the items (or similar items) in the post. I am a Dr. Cool Ambassador and the link provided for that item is an affiliate link.

I used to loath winter running. Every ounce of me hated it. But living in Arizona for a few years and the discovery of snowshoe running have brought me to a place where I embrace the cold. Getting out there day in and out during the winter has taught me how to dress. Mostly I've learned by trial and error, which means I've had so runs where I've overdressed and some where I've been so cold the only thing that keeps me going is the thought of a hot cup of coffee.

Along with having the right gear, I have a few rules of thumb I use when dressing for a winer run: If I'm warm and cozy in my clothes at the start then I'm overdressed and if I haven't warmed up by mile three I'm underdressed. Most of the time I nail it in the "what to wear" department and these are a few of the things that I find to be essential:

1. Saucony Mittens.

I've had my Saucony convertible mittens for a while now and they are my go-to gloves on a cold day. I love the way they convert from a glove to a mitten if necessary. They also have a snot wipe spot and a place to clip a small light. I found mine at TJMaxx, but you can find a similar mitten HERE.

2. Saucony Balaclava.

Sometimes a neck warmer and a hat just aren't enough and that's where I love my Saucony Balaclava. It's a great piece that I guarantees my ears and cheeks won't get cold. Plus I can pull it up over my mouth when the temps are super cold to help warm the air I'm inhaling. You can find the one I purchased HERE.

3. New Balance Beacon Jacket.

A reflective jacket is a must for those dark winter runs. In the winter I prefer a lightweight jacket as opposed to a heavy insulated jacket, mostly because it allows me to layer a tank, t-shirt or long-sleeve underneath depending on the temperature. My New Balance Jacket is perfect because it not only has reflective details but also glows in the dark! Mine is an older version, but you can find a newer version HERE.

4. Run Janji Tights.

My Run Janji tights are by my far my favorite for winter running. They are warm without being bulky or restrictive. Plus I love the "swirly pattern." They are made from a soft, brushed jersey material that is thick enough to block the wind a bit and keep my legs nice and toasty. You can find these fun tights HERE.

5. Darn Tough Socks.

Warm socks are a must and in the winter I usually go from a low-cut no shoe sock to one that covers my ankles. Darn tough has a great variety of merino wool socks that are ideal for keeping feet toasty. They are the only socks I've worn that keeps my toes warm from start to finish. You can find a full selection of their socks HERE.

6. Dr. Cool T-Shirt and Long Sleeve.

When the weather requires more than one layers, it is important that those layers are breathable and wicking. If you're layers aren't breathable you can wind up much, much colder than planned because you'll be wet. And wet and cold is no fun. I love layering with Dr. Cool t-shirts and my Dr. Cool Long Sleeve. Because the cooling technology of the fabric is ideal for keeping you dry (and therefor warm) on your run. You can find the long-sleeve HERE.

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What gear do you love that keeps you getting out there despite the cold?

--Sarah

Best Gear to Beat the Cold: My Winter Running Favorites