It's cold outside, but that's no excuse to skip exercising. All you need to do is layer up and keep your body warm. Chris Freytag of Prevention magazine has assembled the perfect outfit:
Start with an inner layer next to your skin.
The New Balance Compression Long Sleeve running top utilizes the “Lightning Dry” technology with fabric that keeps wetness away from the skin. Hydroponic polyester yarns transfer moisture away from the body to keep you dry. The form-fitting top helps reduce muscle-fatigue and can be used as a base later for any sport and includes flat-seam construction to prevent chafing. ($34.99 at nbwebexpress.com)
Next, add a middle layer.
The Women's' Nike Sphere Pro Half-Zip Top has special fibers which open up as you sweat, and close when you dry off — allowing maximum ventilation for a cool, dry workout. The garment creates air space between itself and the skin. Once the body heats that air, it creates a thermal insulation, allowing the body to focus energy on working out instead of worrying about being cold. Worn by, among others, elite speed skaters during warm-up laps. ($60 at nike.com)
Top off your torso with an outer layer.
Try the tough but fashionable Northface W. Furallur Jacket. This 600 fill down jacket has a detachable hood and is coated with a waterproof yet breathable HyVent technology to keep out the elements. ($269 at northface.com)
For the hands, gloves should be lightweight and not cotton.
The 180s Convertible Running Glove has a four-way stretch micropoly shell with reflective piping. When the weather turns colder, the gloves can be converted to mittens with an attached windproof, water resistant retractable shell. ($20 at 180s.com)
Forget those soggy old sweatpants. High-tech running tights are the way to go.
Adidas Tights with Brushed ClimaWarm fabric keeps you warm and dry, while anatomically placed vents prevent overheating to help you conserve energy. ($80 at shopadidas.com)