Best running tops and tights for fall 2023

This excellent piece delivers all the benefits of merino wool in a stylish package you’ll enjoy wearing for years. The soft, fine wool of merino sheep provides lightweight, breathable insulation for all your winter outdoor pursuits and is luxuriously comfortable next to the skin. It’s also naturally odour-resistant and sweat-wicking, and helps regulate body temperature. Made with 53 per cent merino wool, 44 per cent polyester and 3 per cent elastane, this body-hugging quarter-zip is easy to get on and off, is machine washable and can be layered under a windbreaker or shell, or worn on its own for maximum warmth. 

These fleece-lined tights for men and women are made of 79 per cent DriLayer Threshold sweat-wicking, insulating material, for protection against the elements in sub-zero temperatures, and 21 per cent spandex. The stretchy knit fabric hugs your body, providing mild compression as well as a comfortable, supportive fit and complete range of motion, and there are no side seams, meaning no chafing. The tights have side pockets for your essentials, plus an extra pocket in the back. 

This body-hugging and smooth-feeling thin longsleeve will keep your arms and trunk warm on cooler runs and can be layered under a warmer half-zip when temperatures plunge. Made from 100 per cent recycled polyester and available in all sizes from XS to XXL, it’s constructed with Nike’s Dri-FIT technology, which wicks away moisture to keep you dry and comfortable on runs of any length. The rounded hem is form-flattering and the side slits permit complete freedom of movement, from your run to the gym to the rest of your day. Machine washable in cold water. 

This substantial yet lightweight quarter-zip from the Swedish brand, Craft, comes in a variety of colours and is perfect for layering over a thin longsleeve, under a windbreaker, or worn on its own for a single cosy layer. The piece’s high collar provides extra protection on windy days without being confining. Available in all sizes XS to XL, it’s made from 91 per cent polyester and nine per cent elastane, with just enough stretch to adapt to your body and plenty of insulating warmth for fall–plus its flattering styling looks just as good buying groceries or running errands as it does on the trails.

The Nike Challenger tights are a high-quality cold-weather solution for days when shorts or half-tights just won’t cut it. Made with a stretchy knit material and featuring Nike’s Dri-FIT technology for sweat-wicking, the tights are warm and comfortable in any weather. They have an elastic cord at the waist for full adjustability and a long ankle zipper, so you can get them on and off without removing your shoes. The rear pocket is big enough for a phone, and features a protective coating to keep your device dry. There is also an additional pocket at the side for a credit card or key. Made from 83 per cent polyester and 17 per cent spandex, the fabric moves with you for total freedom. The tights feature reflective elements for safety while running in the dark.

Chilly winds are no match for these eye-catching tights. Whether you’re on a training run or heading to the gym, you’ll love their smooth silhouette, high-rise crossover waistband, luxurious fit and superior functionality. Designed with New Balance’s DRYx technology, these gorgeous tights are made from 77 recycled polyester and 23 per cent spandex for a stretchy, form-fitting and flattering look. The material is sweat-wicking, for supreme comfort and an unrivalled fit. The 7/8 length is versatile enough for chilly late fall or mild winter runs.

This insulated running vest from Brooks is perfect for those dark, early-morning runs when you need a little extra warmth and you want high visibility. It’s wind- and water-resistant, providing just enough warmth for cooler runs while letting you maintain maximum range of motion. The 3M Scotchlite reflective accents will make you highly visible in low-light conditions. The vest has two zippered side pockets, plus a third pocket, so you’ll never be without your essentials; it’s also super packable. Made with an eye to sustainability, the vest is manufactured with up to 79 per cent recycled materials.

Do you sometimes wish you had just a thin extra layer of insulation on your early-morning runs? This 100 per cent acrylic polyester longsleeve crew-neck from Ripzone is exactly what you need on chillier days. Made with antibacterial technology to combat odour, the shirt can be layered under a half-zip or windbreaker, trapping warmth while wicking moisture, so you stay fresh, cosy and comfortable throughout your run. The women’s is light grey with green top-stitching, while the men’s is black with red top-stitching. 

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