Get Out the Door for Cold Winter Workouts with REP Apparel

As the temperatures drop, you may be tempted to forego your training for the comfort of your home (and cozy pajamas). But don't let winter weather derail your goals!

To help you continue to tackle your training, we've gathered up the best REP apparel to help keep you warm, what to look for when on the hunt for cold-weather fits, and how to layer appropriately for a successful chilly workout. Plus, how to layer for the cold perfectly and weather guidance to keep you safe, active, and moving.

Best Winter Running Gear and Workout Clothes

We're detailing the best winter workout clothes to add to the rotation when winter weather tries to force you indoors. Whether you're going on a run or looking to lift, these threads can help keep you warm and cozy through chilly sessions.

Best Winter Base Layers for Men

While it's common to see women in leggings, men should take a note out of the ladies play book for winter workouts. Men's compression base layers, like the Virtus Light Compression Tights, are breathable, stretchy, and offer light support and compression for layering in the winter.

Best Winter Running Pants for Men

Once you've got your base layer on, toss on the men's Attis Joggers which feature a thicker knit than lightweight tights and can help shield you from the elements. These men's performance apparel joggers are abrasion resistant and breathable, with high hip zipper pockets to keep your essentials on you (without banging around while you run or workout).

Best Cold Weather Leggings for Running

Women's workout leggings can work as either a base layer or the only layer, depending on the weather conditions. The Hera Tights are a high-performance leggings, offering compression, four-way stretch, and a breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying fabric — ideal for cold weather so you stay dry.

However, if you're in the market for a pair of women's apparel leggings with a softer, less compressive fit (ideal for yoga or lounging), check out the Eos Tights — which still provide four way stretch for a comfortable fit and a breathable, quick drying fabric to help keep you dry.

Best Men's Winter Hoodies 

The Attis Jacket is a perfect layer for cold weather, thin enough to add a winter outer shell and with thumb holes to help keep your hands warm. It's breathable, stretchy, with a heavier weight and contoured hood which keeps your head covered without being too oversized. Pair it with the Attis Joggers for a sleek look out in cold weather, in a chilly gym, or chilling on the couch.

Best Women's Winter Hoodies 

The Vellus Hoodie features a breathable, four-way stretch fabric, plus a non-bukly construction that works well under outter shells and jackets. Side zip pockets keep your phone, wallet, and keys secure, while thumbholes help keep hands warm and sleeves in place as you layer up.

Best Headwear for Cold Workouts

The Peak Beanie is REP's most premium cold-weather headwear, with a waffle-knit that offers warmth and style to your cold weather training through the rest of your day. Made from 100% acrylic for a beanie that can withstand your workout while remaining soft. "Fashionable. Warm. Great to have for the upcoming [winter] season," says a customer review.

Best Socks for Cold Weather

Rather than opting for ankle socks when it's cold, aim to use crew socks to help cover more of your body out in the elements. Toss on the REP® Midweight Crew Socks to support your feet during chilly workouts. Made from Cotton, Polyester, Nylon, and Spandex, these crews can help keep your feet dry when it's wet thanks to their breathable and moisture-wicking design.

Winter Workout Layering Guide

Before you rush out the door to tackle your workout, here are some tips and tricks for how best to layer for cold weather:

• Check the weather and plan how long you'll be outside to help you figure out how many (and which) layers to wear.
• Start with a base layer that fits snugly against the body to help pull sweat off your body.
• Add a comfortable hoodie to act as an insulating layer.
• Finish it off with an outter layer that's water resistant, helping to block wind and water. If it's snowing or raining, consider a water repellant jacket to help wick water away from you.
• Lastly, cover up your feet, head, and hands. Opt for a beanie, hat, or headband to help keep your ears warm, and gloves and socks to keep your hands and feet from getting cold or worse, suffering frost bite.
• Depending on where your workout takes you, in colder months it's best to use a pair of shoes with good traction to help you stay upright when walkways turn slippery due to snow, ice, or rain.

Winter Weather Warnings and Guidance

Cold weather, falling snow, and ice on the ground may be the three things you think would derail your outdoor workout, but it's important to also consider how windy it is. Wind chill can make it feel even colder than what your thermometer says.

While you may be ready to go with the right workout apparel, here's some general guidance to help keep you safe:

Extended warm-up: Your body is cold. Your muscles are cold. And cold muscles are more prone to injury. Be sure to give yourself extra time to warm up before tackling your workout.

Limit your cold exposure: When temperatures are extreme it's important to shorten your time spend in the harsh conditions, making sure to take breaks indoors when possible.

Wear layers: Your base layer should feature moisture-wicking fabrics, followed by insulation and a wind- or water-resistant outer layer.

Protect your extremities: Cover your head, hands, feet, and any exposed areas. For areas that aren't covered, apply a moisturizer or lip balm to to prevent dryness.

Hydration is key: The cold can make you feel less thirsty, but it's important that you hydrate well.

Weather protection: Check a weather app before you head outdoors. Depending on the severity of the weather (rain, wind, or snow), choose an outer layer that's water resistant.

Extending the life of your apparel: While it's typically best to wash your gym clothes on a gentle cycle then hang to dry, if your home is cool in the winter, you may want to consider tumbling your clothing dry on low heat to remove moisture.

Takeaway

We've outlined the best men's and women's performance apparel from REP to help you get out the door and tackle your workout in the winter. Be sure to check the weather, plan your route and how long you'll be outside, and layer up to help keep your comfortable through your efforts.

FAQs

Are there any tips for layering winter sports outfits effectively?

Yes! Start with a base layer that sits close to your body. Follow up with a warm, cozy hoodie for comfort, and add a weather-resistant jacket to the top. Also be sure to cover your head, feet, and hands with beanies, mittens, and socks, to help keep your entire body protected from the elements.

What features should I look for in the best winter workout clothes?

Look for apparel that’s breathable and moisture-wicking to help keep you dry and cool throughout your workout. Avoid cotton fabrics, which can hold onto sweat and make you feel cold. Choose a lightweight baselayer, an insulated mid-layer, and a wind- or water-resistant outer layer to help regulate your temperature. Don’t forget features like four-way stretch to support a full range of motion, thumbholes to keep sleeves in place and hands warm, and reflective elements for training in low-light conditions.

How do I select peak performance gym clothes?

Look for apparel that’s form-fitting, with a style that makes you feel confident when wearing it. Choose fabrics that are sweat-wicking, breathable, and stretchy, so you stay comfortable throughout your workout. Finally, select a brand known for creating products tailored to the type of training you do — like REP, which is made by lifters, for lifters.