Keeping your Favorite Runner Warm this Winter

Sorry I've been MIA this past week! The last two weeks of school have been a doozy. But the end is in sight {thank goodness}. I had a presentation and a few projects due this week and then I have three finals next week. Ugh.

First thing's first: this time of year really is one of the best. Yes, I LOVE the sunshine and frolicking outside 24/7, but that little extra feeling of cheer everyone seems to have this time of year is simply refreshing.

And enjoying Trader Joe's spiced cider {while wearing snowman socks} isn't so bad either...

I don't know about you, but as it gets colder, I find myself realizing that "Oh, I really wish I had X or Y to keep me warmer." Granted, we have few days that I might need to wear some of these items, but there are definitely times in December and January that will get pretty frigid around here.

Here are a few things I came up with that may just strike your fancy and end up on your Christmas list (or a shopping list for your endorphin-loving friend or family member).

Running Mittens - When it gets really cold, finger gloves just won't cut it anymore. That's when mittens are where it's at. Because your fingers are cozy together, they keep in a lot more heat than gloves do. I found these North Face Runners at REI that look decent. Plus, if you're a member, you'll earn dividend on your purchase. 

And for fashion and function, I really like these cute Thinsulate mittens that Ashley of (Never) homemaker featured recently.

Neck Gaiter - This is one of those items that could work multi purpose for running, cycling, skiing, and practically any outdoor adventure. The nice thing about a gaiter is that it stays close to your neck blocks the wind on those days you don't pull on a full running jacket or high-neck top. This SmartWool gaiter has a few fun patterns and looks a bit thicker with its double layers.

Good Socks - It may sound like a pretty boring gift to give someone, but honestly, any runner or cyclist will appreciate good socks. Plus, at $10-15 per pair, they aren't something easy to treat yourself to. A few sock brands I love or have hear good things about are: Balega, Thorlo Experias, and Feetures. And while they may seem a tad expensive for socks, they last a long time. I still wear fancy running socks that I bought five years ago.

Cozy Vest - Okay, so this may lie more on the fashion and comfort side than the functional aspect of running or outdoors-ing, but with the popularity of vests and the amount of warmth and comfort they provide, don't underestimate the power of the vest. A few cute options for your post-run latte: Patagonia nano puff, Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Vest, Old Navy quilted tweed, and the Columbia Mighty Lite III.

A few of my other cold day + latte favorites are: this knit infinity scarf, this basket weave hat or this marled popover. And these Ugg slippers in grey (on my Christmas list) for that at-home latte.

What is your favorite piece of running gear? Is there anything you can't live without in the winter time?