Gym Bag Must-Haves: Essential Gear for Winter Fitness

Published: Thursday, November 29th 2012

OK, so it’s cold outside. And as you put on layers-upon-layers, you’re desperately hoping that the added clothing doesn’t impact your outdoor bout of heart-pumping goodness. But just because the outside temperature drops dramatically doesn’t mean that your workout gear needs to go from sleek to bulky!

This winter, invest in a few pieces of new (or much-improved) fitness gear that’s warm (but not bulky!) while keeping you completely in style. But where to start? We talked to Karyn Riale, national retail buyer for The Shops at Equinox, for her recommendations on the best gear to buy now for your winter workouts.

ZeroPlus Pant

“The ZeroPlus Pant is brushed on the inside with a perfect fit,” says Riale. Made for both men and women, it not only keeps you warm, but also “wicks away sweat and makes you look good while you’re running around,” she adds.

$70 at sugoi.com

Exolite Acoustic Earmuffs

These earmuffs “are sleek, comfortable and very warm,” says Riale. Even better? They’re “so lightweight, when you’re running you don’t feel like you’re wearing anything,” she adds. Add these to your must-buy list for winter gear.

$35 at 180s.com

Bodyfit 260 Long Sleeve Crew

“The Bodyfit 260 Long Sleeve Crew is the perfect layering piece for running outside or just wearing under a sweater and doing errands,” says Riale. It’s made of merino wool, so it keeps you warm, but just as importantly, it’s breathable and odor resistant. Phew!

$90 at us.icebreaker.com

Tahoe Touch Tip Gloves

Manzella’s Tahoe Touch Tip Gloves are a “must-have for doing any outdoor activity during winter months,” says Riale. “They’re fleece so your hands stay warm, but the touch tip detail allows for use on any touch screen phones.” While there are other gloves that tout the same technology, these are gloves Riale stands behind 100 percent. Welcome to the end of having to remove gloves to use your phone!

$22 at manzella.com

Yurbuds

You’ve probably heard of Yurbuds as the sport earphones that stay in place — no matter what. They are “best in marketplace,” says Riale, and are “the must-have ear buds for working out because they stay put and don’t move,” she adds. Whether it’s a sauna or frigid weather outside, these headphones will come in handy for any workout, regardless of the climate.

$29.99 to $59.99 at yurbuds.com