Top running accessories to winterize your outfit

Runners who train in urban centres frequently encounter snow-covered and ice-glazed surfaces. Unfortunately, in these conditions, more aggressive traction devices tend to punch through snow and ice and bottom out on the road or sidewalk. The result is unwanted pressure points on the bottom of your feet and an unnatural running gait. Thankfully, the Running Ice Traction Device from Yaktrax solves these problems while still providing the traction you need. It features low-profile carbide steel spikes at the forefoot and 1.4 mm steel coils at the back. This combination provides plenty of control on slippery surfaces without radically impacting your gait. A durable natural-rubber harness system with additional hook-and-loop straps provides a locked-in fit. If you are training in less severe conditions, you can remove the forefoot carbide spikes.

Constructed with a recycled brushed thermal jersey fabric, the Core Essence Thermal Hat does an exceptional job of trapping warmth while remaining very breathable. The hat features a low-profile shape that allows runners to easily stuff it in a pocket if the temperature rises. Craft builds the hat in numerous colours so you can perfectly match your running outfits. This is a must-have piece of kit for anyone running during the winter.

The Petzl Bindi is perfect when you need a bit more light or want to be more visible to traffic, but don’t need the power of a full-size headlamp. This diminutive headlamp weighs just 35 grams, has three white and two red light modes, and provides up to 50 hours of light in the low-power setting. USB charging ensures the Bindi is always ready for your next run, and thanks to its small size and low weight, it can easily be tucked in your pocket, ready for deployment.

More of a set of reflective suspenders than an actual vest, the Vibe Reflective Vest is a top choice for runners seeking 360 degrees of reflectivity in a minimalist package. A combination of adjustable buckles and elastics ensures a body-hugging fit without restricting movement during challenging training runs.

If you spend your time running on snowy and ice-covered trails, consider getting a pair of Kahtoola Microspikes. Featuring 12 aggressive, ¾” stainless-steel spikes, this traction device provides unparalleled security on challenging winter trails. A rugged elastomer harness system ensures a secure fit on a variety of footwear without restricting the foot’s natural movement when running or walking. While the Microspikes may be too aggressive for slightly snow-covered surfaces, they excel in more extreme conditions.

When you’re dealing with changing weather conditions, reach for the Craft Hybrid Weather Glove. This versatile glove/mitten provides the warmth and weather protection you need in cold, sloppy conditions or when you’re still warming up. If the temps rise or you start overheating, simply pull back the waterproof mitten cover and continue your run with the now exposed, more breathable brushed polyester glove. The glove is covered in silicone dots for a secure grip on phones and keys, while the touchscreen-compatible embroidery lets you take important calls and text messages without exposing your hands. Finally, the addition of a small reflective band ensures you remain visible when running in low-light conditions.

The biggest issue with many headlamps is the lack of comfort and security of their relatively simple headbands. Sure, the headlamps feel fine when you’re standing around, but as you’re running, the constant bouncing causes the headlamp to shift and move. Tightening the headband can minimize some of this shifting (but at the expense of comfort). The Petzl Iko, with its unique headband, solves this dilemma. Featuring a semi-rigid head-strap system, the Iko offers a secure, bounce-free fit without the head-crushing tension of more conventional headlamps. The light has multiple beam settings and can run up to 100 hours in low-power mode. While the Iko is designed to operate with three AAA batteries, runners can purchase the rechargeable Core power pack if they prefer to avoid buying replacement batteries.

Built with 100 percent merino wool, this versatile neck gaiter is the perfect addition to any winter running outfit. While most runners will employ this as a traditional neck gaiter, it can also be used as a headband, balaclava or toque alternative. The merino wool does a great job of trapping heat and will not absorb odours, unlike many synthetics. This is an incredibly versatile accessory that can be used in numerous cold-weather situations.

Made of a soft, stretchy and highly breathable brushed polyester jersey, these gloves deliver the warmth and weather protection runners appreciate in less extreme conditions. The gloves provide exceptional dexterity and, thanks to their touchscreen-compatible construction, ensure accurate texting or scrolling through music playlists. The addition of a silicone print in the palm reduces the risk of dropping expensive phones or other valuable items.

This simple safety vest features a bright yellow mesh body with highly visible reflective swatches on the front and back torso, as well as on the shoulders. Two Velcro tabs adjust the fit, and the vest’s highly sculpted shape doesn’t interfere with arm movement when you’re running. The vest also has attachment points for additional LED lights when greater visibility is required.

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