To be honest, sometimes the only reason I get up to work out is knowing I have a fly new outfit to put on. When I first began running, I would scrounge around for whatever sweatshirt was the least wrinkly and find a pair of shorts that at least covered the lady parts. Not only was it less effective for any type of exercise, but it did nothing for my self-esteem.
Ahem, isn’t that why I was sweating it out in the first place? To feel good about myself? No bueno. Luckily, this is when the fashion world turned it’s head towards active wear. Every store and their sister has cut out tops, swingy skirts and decorated leggings for heart-pumping activities of every type.
While options were limitless, my bank account, however, did have a limit. $90 for capris that cost more than the actual barre class itself? Get out. After searching high and low (emphasis on the low), here’s my pick for the best workout gear that you need this winter.
Designed for high impact activities, these leggings not only keep you warm with fleece lining but the material also wicks away moisture. No more sweaty chills. Plus, the tightly knit fabric means no peek-a-boo undies.
This jacket offers you the most bang for your buck. The fleece collar and wind-breaking material will keep you warm and dry when beginning to exercise, but the easily detached sleeves can be taken off mid-workout once you get your sweat on. A jacket-vest hybrid means more options at a lower cost to you.
A winter hat with a pony tail hole…need I say more? Keep your ears toasty but give your hair all the freedom it desires.
Athleta offers some serious deals year round (shout out to the teacher/student discount!). These gloves are perfect for lengthy time outdoors…and have touch-sensor technology for when you stop to check instagram mid-run. Shhh, we won’t tell.
These are my go-to socks for cold, long runs or hefty endurance workouts. Compression socks have a multitude of benefits. Not only do they increase muscles circulation and speed up recovery, but they also keep you extra warm! I like to buy them in neon colors to make me easier to spot when running outdoors on messy winter sidewalks.
Although when you think of Sketchers, you think of your 12 year-old self sporting the newest casual kicks, this company has stepped up their athletic game (pun intended). Not only are these shoes weather-resistant, but they have a solid traction for slippery terrains.
How do you keep warm during winter workouts? By moving! While a wind-proof vest and fleece lines leggings are nice, the only way I can stay warm is if I actually get my butt in motion. Talk about motivation!
Stay up to date on Juliette’s adventures by following her on Instagram –julietteelise & twitter @JulietteElise_ !
