The warmest winter workout gear to make any sub-zero sweat sesh feel toasty

With degrees dropping by the day, it’s only natural that your fitness routine slows down this time of year. Besides your busy December schedule (late night holiday parties do not bode well for early morning runs), the lower temps make it a real challenge to get out of bed and trade your flannel PJs for spandex leggings and bulky layers.

The right clothing and accessories will make it a bit easier and motivating to get out there and brave the cold—whether you’re logging multiple outdoor miles or just trekking a few blocks to your warm, heated gym. Pieces that have extra features like insulation and wicking properties will help you keep your mind focused on your running mantra…instead of just repeating expletives about how cold it is. Of course, you need to layer up, but that doesn’t mean putting on every long sleeve shirt and sweatshirt you own.

One more thing to keep in mind: As we all know (…and hate) the winter months give us less sunlight, which means reflectivity is super important. Pick products that offer visibility in low-light conditions and ensure you will be seen by cars passing by, pedestrians, and maybe, depending on where you live, a random deer. Safety should always be first and foremost with any fitness activity.

From the tip of your toes to the top of your head, here are 11 pieces to efficiently keep up your fitness goals during the winter months.

Asics Gel-Kayano 25 SP sneakers, $160 

This fan fave now comes in a color scheme meant to keep your feet out of the dark. They’re reflective and made especially for dawn and dusk (hi there, early evening runs when sunset is at 4 p.m.), but you’ll want to lace them up at at all hours. Available in sizes 6 to 12.

Darn Tough Vertex Micro Crew Ultra-Light Cushion Socks, $19

If you’re usually an ankle sock person, may we suggest switching it up for winter with something higher, which will offer more protection (and warmth!) for your ankles—no slipping, bunching, or blistering in sight. Plus, showing off your socks is cool now, and these are certainly some you’ll want on full display.

Athleta Contender Splatter Reflective 7/8 Tight, $180

These compression tights are perfect for medium or high impact activities. With reflective properties, your legs will (in the words of Rihanna) shine bright like literal diamonds, so you won’t need to worry about visibility on early morning or night runs. Available in sizes XXS to XL.

Lululemon Cross Chill Run Gloves, $36

Fight off frost bite without having to shove your hands in your pockets. These Lululemon gloves are not only stretchy and soft, but they also feature tech friendly pads on your digits to make sure you can text, change a song, or snap a pic of your snow covered route.

Outdoor Voices Fleece Half-Zip, $85

Nothing ruins a good run like the chills. The inner lining  of this Outdoor Voices half-zip is particularly woven to keep you dry, and there are finger loops, AKA the best invention of all-time, to provide some extra hand protection. Available in sizes XS to XL.

Sweaty Betty Fast Track Jacket, $145

Sweaty Betty’s shell is pre-layered in the front and back to keep the breeze out and your bum warm. Plus, strategically placed reflective tape is an added bonus. Available in sizes XXS to XL.

New Balance Radiant Heat Bonded Jacket, $250

What looks like a simple, asymmetrical fitted puffer is actually anything but. This sleek jacket includes New Balance Radiant Heat technology, which is a metallic woven fabric similar to the silver blankets marathoners get post-race. The special lining actually reflects your body heat and keeps it close to you. And the wind- and water-resistant outer layer make sure any conditions on the outside, stay there. Available in sizes XS to XL.

Brooks Running Cascadia Thermal Vest, $110

This light weight vest moves with you, and won’t slow you down on the road. Hello, personal running record 2019. Available in sizes XS to XL.

Buff DryFlx Neck Warmer, $25

Don’t forget your neck! It’s such an important area that often gets neglected. Filled with stretch, this cozy warmer can be pulled up to cover your mouth, put over your head to safe guard your ears, or pulled low to protect from any zipper chaffing from a top layer.

Beats By Dre Powerbeats 3, $199

If you don’t have a pair of wireless headphones yet, add these to your gift list. They’re sweat and water resistant so that when the snow or freezing rain starts coming down (ah, winter), your playlist won’t stop. Battery lasts for 12 hours, so they’ll be ready to go whenever you are.

Smartwool Merino 250 Cuffed Beanie, $28

Double lock, 100 percent wool construction means your head won’t release any warmth while you’re planking in the park. Merino is a natural fiber that wicks moisture and is anti-odor so no need to wash this cap on a daily basis. And bonus: It’s itch-free. Yay!

Since you’ve got the gear ready to go, here’s a science-backed reason why you should take your HIIIT workout outside this winter, and why you should still be logging some outdoor miles even in the dead of winter.