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Running in winter requires the right clothing. With the right materials and a well-thought-out layering system, you can stay warm without overheating. Here’s a guide on how to dress for winter running, along with tips from our friends, the Backa Brothers.
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Run all year round – with the right conditions
For the Backa Brothers, running is a natural part of everyday life—whether it’s summer heat or winter cold. The key to running year-round isn’t about dressing warm, but about dressing right.
When you run, your body generates a lot of heat. Your clothing should help regulate that temperature—not trap it.
Layering—but light and functional
For winter running, the layering principle still applies, but with thinner and more functional layers than for more static activities.
A wool base layer closest to the body helps transport moisture while keeping you warm. From there, you adjust your layers based on the temperature—a lightweight wind jacket with a hood is often a great piece to have in your wardrobe.
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How to dress for the temperature
How much you need to wear depends on both the temperature and how warm you tend to run. The Backa Brothers, who are used to cold climates in northern Sweden, follow these guidelines:
0 to –5°C
A lighter layer is often enough. A Zip Turtleneck LITE works well as a single top layer, providing both warmth and ventilation.
–5 to –10°C
As the temperature drops, add a shell or wind jacket on top to protect against cold air and wind.
Colder than –10°C
In really low temperatures, an extra insulating layer is needed. A Zip Turtleneck LITE combined with Ullfrotté 200, along with a shell jacket on top, works well.
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Remember the details
When running in cold conditions, it’s often the smaller body parts that are affected first.
A thin hat like the Beanie LITE is always used to keep the head warm without overheating. On your feet, thin wool socks such as the Socks Skilled Liner help wick away moisture and maintain a comfortable temperature inside your shoes.
When temperatures drop below freezing, a Tube LITE can protect your neck and face from the cold air.
Dress a bit less
One of the most important tips from the Backa Brothers is simple—but crucial:
If you feel slightly cold before you start running, you’re dressed right.
It might feel counterintuitive, but your body warms up quickly once you get moving. If you wear too much from the start, you risk becoming sweaty—and cold—during your run.
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Adapt to yourself
It’s important to remember that everyone experiences cold differently. The Backa Brothers are used to low temperatures and often use thinner layers than many others would.
You can use their guidelines as a starting point, but adjust based on how you personally respond to cold, wind, and intensity.
Summary
Quick tips for dressing right when running in winter:
Use wool closest to the skin
Add layers based on the temperature
Protect against wind with an outer layer
Don’t forget head, feet, and neck
Dress slightly on the cool side from the start