What to Wear to the Gym When It’s Cold Outside

As the winter months settle in and temperatures drop, maintaining an active lifestyle can become a bit more challenging for all of us.

However, with the right winter workout clothes, you can stay comfortable and motivated even in the coldest weather.

Here’s a roundup of essential clothing and gear for your winter gym sessions, ensuring that you can embrace the chill while keeping your body temperature warm and ready for your workouts!

Where to Shop for Winter Workout Wear

When it comes to shopping for cute and durable workout wear, here is my list of my most favorite places to shop for a wide variety of stylish and functional activewear:

LuluLemon: Lululemon is known for their high-quality, performance-driven fabrics in their activewear. I love how everything is so functional and they offer options that are suitable for a wide range of workouts, from yoga to high-intensity training.

Lululemon activewear is designed to seamlessly transition from workouts to casual wear which is perfect for busy moms. Many of their pieces can be worn for both athletic activities and everyday activities without compromising on style!

Alo: Alo is a another go-to for me as they are so great at creating pieces that have both trendy silhouettes and functionality.

I love that the pieces can easily transition from my workout to my daytime activities and have really great quality that is worth the splurge.

Athleta: I love Atheleta because they offer stylish designs to cater to various fitness activities and body types.

This is a brand. that has been around for many years that you know you can trust the quality and level of functionality.

Amazon: My go-to for affordable activewear! I love that Amazon carries both well-known athletic brands and smaller, niche brands, so there are ton of options and styles to choose from. Plus, you can’t go wrong with 2 day prime shipping!

Old Navy: Old Navy is a great option for women’s workout wear as they offering affordable and stylish pieces in a variety of sizes.

They also do a ton of incredible sales making it so easy to stock up on workout staples on a budget.

Nordstrom: Nordstrom is a top choice as they offer a curated selection of premium activewear brands that seamlessly blend fashion and functionality.

You know you are getting high-quality and stylish options when shopping at Nordstrom and they also have a great selection of workout appropriate footwear and accessories as well.

Target: Target is one of my favorites as it is so accessible and so affordable!

Their workout wear combines trendy designs, inclusive sizing, and performance features, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option for diverse fitness needs.

How to Layer a Winter Workout Outfit

Winter workouts may bring cold temperatures, but they also provide the perfect canvas for showcasing your unique style! From base layers to warm outerwear, you can strategically dress for style and function in the gym.

Here are some tips to creating the perfect gym outfit in winter.

#1 The Foundation: Building Warmth from Within

First Layer: start your winter workout ensemble a foundation layer that provides thermal insulation and sweat-wicking materials.

Some of my go-to foundation layers in the winter are fleece-lined leggings which offer extra warmth to your lower body without compromising style. These will work better to cut the wind chill if you are braving some outdoor exercise, but will run too hot if you are opting for an indoor workout.

Also look for quarter-zip long-sleeve top that seamlessly transition from my workout wear to casual athleisure outfits. This type of casual and sporty outfit is my go to as a busy mom and makes it easy to go wrong my workout to carpool, etc.!

Here are more various types of warm tops that I tend to gravitate towards for my winter workouts:

Turtlenecks:

• Offers extra coverage and warmth for the neck.
• Suitable for outdoor activities in cold weather.
• Can be worn alone or as a base layer.

Fleece-Lined Leggings:

• Soft fleece lining provides extra warmth.
• Excellent for cold-weather activities like skiing or running in chilly conditions.
• Traps heat close to the body.

Thermal Compression Tops:

• Provide a snug fit to enhance circulation.
• Offer thermal insulation to keep you warm during cold workouts.
• Compression technology aids in muscle support and recovery.

Fleece-Lined Pullover:

• Provides extra warmth with a soft fleece lining.
• Perfect for outdoor activities on chilly days.

Thermal Long-Sleeve Tops:

• Designed to retain body heat and keep you warm.
• Ideal for layering during cold-weather workouts.

Quarter-Zip Pullover:

• Allows for ventilation when needed.
• Provides warmth and style for various winter activities.

Cropped Hoodie:

• Fashionable and suitable for indoor workouts.
• Adds a stylish touch to your winter workout wardrobe.

#2 Chic Outerwear: Defending Against the Elements

Top Layer: stylish outerwear is essential for staying warm and fashionable during winter workouts! Embrace the colder weather with chic windproof jackets and waterproof outer layers, suitable for both outdoor exercises and commuting in cold weather to get to the gym.

Make a statement with a stylish puffer jacket or trench coat that seamlessly transitions from gym wear to streetwear, providing the perfect blend of fashion and function.

Here are several options below that combine both style and functionality for various types of cold-weather exercises that I love!

Longline Puffer Jacket:

• Provides extra coverage and warmth.
• Trendy and versatile for both gym and streetwear.

Fleece-Lined Hoodie:

• Offers comfort and insulation.
• Ideal for layering during outdoor workouts.

Water-Resistant Windbreaker:

• Protects against wind and light rain.
• Lightweight and suitable for high-intensity outdoor activities.

Sherpa-Lined Bomber Jacket:

• Combines style with warmth.
• Perfect for a cozy and fashionable winter look. Layered over a sports bra or tank tops for an indoor workout.

Quilted Vest:

• Adds warmth to your core without restricting movement.
• Great for layering over long-sleeve tops.

Insulated Running Jacket:

• Specifically designed for runners.
• Lightweight, breathable materials, and provides warmth without overheating.

Reflective Outerwear:

• Enhances visibility during early morning or late-night workouts.
• Incorporates reflective materials for safety.

Cozy Wrap or Shawl:

• Provides warmth for pre and post-workout activities.
• Versatile and stylish for indoor and outdoor wear.

Convertible Jacket with Detachable Sleeves:

• Adaptable to different temperatures.
• Offers the flexibility to switch between a jacket and a vest.

Trench Coat:

• Adds sophistication to your winter workout ensemble.
• Suitable for urban outdoor exercises.

Faux Fur-Lined Parka:

• Combines fashion and function.
• Ideal for colder climates and outdoor workouts.

Cropped Puffer Vest:

• Offers core warmth while allowing freedom of movement.
• Provides a trendy and athletic look.

Cape or Poncho:

• Offers a chic and loose fit.
• Provides warmth without the constraint of sleeves.

Layered Down Jacket:

• Combines multiple layers for added insulation.
• Stylish and practical for extremely cold days. Longer coats are always a good idea since the help protect your legs from the cold air.

Teddy Bear Coat:

• Trendy and ultra-cozy.
• Perfect for both workouts and casual outings.

#3 Completing the Look: Footwear and Accessories

Choose athletic shoes that not only support your workout but also add a dash of style to your overall appearance. Don’t forget thick stocks underneath for an added layer of warmth and style!

Another way to add some warmth especially if you are working out outdoors is to wear face masks, hats and gloves.

These cozy accessories help you to stay warm and protected during your workouts, especially in the early morning or late at night.

Winter workouts offer a canvas for expressing your style while staying warm and comfortable as the key to styling clothes in the winter is layering!

With the right combination of stylish and functional layers, you can create a winter workout wardrobe that not only supports your fitness goals but also reflects your individuality.

Embrace the chill, experiment with different outfit ideas, and make every winter workout a fashionable step towards a healthier, more stylish you.

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