As many of you realize by now, the winter weather in Geneva is very different than most people assume. Switzerland is known for snow-capped Swiss Alps and skiing, among other things, but Geneva rarely receives snow. Due to Geneva’s proximity to the lake and low elevation, between a few different mountain ranges, the winter climate is far more temperate. Our typical temperatures, December through February range from a low of 28 to a high of 40, far warmer than New York City. In order to ski, most people drive at least an hour, to nearby ski areas which are at higher elevations and have far colder weather.
I haven’t invested in winter running gear over the past few years, even though it now doubles as ski base layers. When I cleaned out my closet and dresser back in November, I realized that much of my gear dated back to my first winter in Philadelphia and was starting to show signs of age. After donating many of the items, I couldn’t resist updating my winter running wardrobe with a few new pieces I found on sale over the holidays.
I’ve had the chance to test out each of these over the past few weeks in Atlanta, Savannah, New York and now Geneva. The verdict is in – each of these pieces was a GREAT investment! They range in price from $12 to $80 so there is something for every price range.
Under Armour Printed UA Fly-By Turtleneck – This is an update on their classic turtleneck which I’ve owned for years. The figure flattering cut makes this the perfect running base layer as you can easily wear more layers without bulk. The neck is extra long, so I was able to pull it over my mouth during a cold run this week. The coolest part is that the chest and neck have a mesh panel which allows for more breathability!
Under Armour Brave The Run Running Gloves – These gloves fit very snug, ensuring that no wind or cold will hit your skin. The finger tips work with smart phones while the front of the glove includes wind blocking material and reflective stripes!
Brooks LSD Lite Vest II (older model on sale here, here and here) – While I own plenty of running jackets, this is my first vest. During my two runs this week I realized just how helpful a vest is, regardless how light it is. This light but mighty vest blocks win while also providing pockets, water resistance, pockets and reflective stripes! This will definitely become a running staple almost year round!
Under Armour Heat Gear Tights – I’ve owned these trusted tights for 7 years and they remain my favorite each season! The moisture wicking material keeps me dry even in the midst of a long run or a sweaty, speed session. The wide waist ensures that it stays in place while also providing a flattering fit. Since they are all black these can also double as leggings when we’re up in the mountains or touring a cold city. At $40 it’s hard to find a better deal for winter running tights!
Lululemon Energy Bra – Okay, this technically isn’t winter running gear, but I added it to the list because it’s a new addition, and I love it! In theory, it is far thicker than some of my other bras so I’ve found that it helps keep that area warmer during cold runs. The thick material and removable pads help give shape to those of us who are less endowed while still providing plenty of support during a run, workout class or at home boot camp!
Original Turtle Fur Fleece Gator – The most inexpensive item on this list, this gator can be worn around the neck/chin area for extra warmth OR worn as a headband! This week I’ve worn it twice as a headband, perfect for keeping my hair out of my face and ears warm.
Brooks Heater Hog Long Sleeve Top – I ordered this after seeing in on a few of my favorite blogs. Many of my long sleeve running tops are technical t-shirts, often too light for winter runs. I was hoping to find an in-between layer that would keep me warm, but not as warm as the Under Armour turtleneck. This fitted top has quickly become my go to top for outdoor workouts! Their description doesn’t lie as it truly wicks moisture from the body! I wore it on a walk in Savannah, thinking we’d be taking a gentle stroll only to realize that we were taking a two-hour power walk. My face was dripping in sweat yet my core and underarms stayed comfortable due to the power of this top!
What’s your favorite piece of winter running gear?
My favorite are lulu winter running pants. I have one pair from two years ago that are slightly different than my others (their regular winter tech tights). This pair is wider throughout the leg and has a wool waist band. It’s amazing for winter hikes and winter runs and room enough to layer under on a super cold day, but warm enough you don’t always need to.
Good call Nicole! Those are so great. I love my old lulu winter running pants but they are actually TOO warm for Geneva thus far.
I second the love of vests! As a minnesota runner I almost always wear a vest. bonus the pockets can hold gloves or a neck gator that I might need in the beginning, but don’t need in the middle of a run when I’ve warmed up.
Also, the original turtle is the best neck gator ever. So cozy.
For base layer I prefer Nike Hyper warm as they have thin fleece inside that feels amazing before you warm up, but still wicks as your workout continues.
Yay Katie #teamvests!
I have just bought myself a fleecy gator, great for skiing too! My favourite thing at the moment is Kalenji’s fleecy lined leggings, they are a steal too 🙂
You’ll love it Stephanie – so multifunctional!
The vest is where it’s at! It’s just so versatile. Keeps your core warm while not overheating you. Plus the pockets with zippers to be able to stash gloves and ear warmers halfway is a huge bonus and you don’t have to worry about losing anything because of the zippers! One of my other favorite pieces of Winter running gear are my ProCompression socks. Mainly because they double as summer. I like that I can wear them (because I always do for long runs anyway) and then I can also wear capri’s versus tights because between the two I’m completely covered.
It is so wonderful! I’m in love with the vest already! One of my coworkers asked me how to keep her ankles warm during the winter months and I totally forgot about the compression sock method! Thanks for reminding me!
I know exactly what you mean about people thinking the weather is worse than it is! Denver is one of the sunniest cities in the country (we get 300+ days of sunshine a year!), and much more temperate than I would have though. While NYC was in the single digits yesterday, Denver was 55 degrees! The mountains tend to shield us from most bad weather, which is awesome. (Plus, of course, they provide awesome activities!)
That’s awesome Laura! I didn’t realize Denver was so much like Geneva. 🙂
Well, Christchurch (New Zealand) doesn’t really do cold either. Our temps look similar to yours – usually down to about 28 overnight and average high of around 50 in winter. My favourite winter running gear includes my icebreaker beanie and long sleeve top and my Helly Hansen lightweight rain jacket 🙂 – we don’t get snow but we get a lot of rain!
I’ve never tried Helly Hansen brand but I know a lot of people who LOVE it! I’d rather get snow than rain!
My fav piece of running gear is my gaiter. My face gets so cold and it is hard to breathe in the cold winter air and the gaiter covering my face is crucial in every way!
I bought some at Bass Pro a few years ago and they are my favorite things to use with winter running.
We, in NW Ohio, range from -15* (not including wind chill temp) up to 40 during the winter months. Holy weather swing…keeps us on our toes though!
It’s so versatile isn’t it Amanda!? I didn’t know they sold them at Bass Pro! Yeah you definitely get more cold weather in Ohio than we do!
I just got a Nike vest for Christmas. It is the Aeroloft vest. It’s been the best running vest ever. Not cheap thouhh 🙁 but I will wear it enough that it justifies the price. And I love my turtle fur gaiter too!