How to Dress For Winter Weather in Temperatures Below 20 Degrees

This article is a continuation of our 'Cold, Colder, Coldest' digital campaign.

Last week we focused on how to dress for 'colder' conditions, or, temperatures between 35 and 20 degrees.

We consider temperatures 20 degrees and below the "coldest" conditions. Dressing for the "coldest" temperatures use similar layering techniques as the "colder" temperatures but adds some new, additional steps to your layering system. Here's how you should handle your wardrobe:

1.

Pick up some quality outerwear

In this case, outerwear includes weather resistant jackets, vests, and hybrid pullovers. Your outer layer is what will make or break your run in temperatures below 20 degrees. Straight up. Quality outerwear will be durable, water resistant(some even waterproof), and packed with revolutionary technologies such as loft insulation and reflectivity weaved within. 

2:

Keep you technical long sleeves in your closet, bring out your baselayers.

As mentioned in last week's "colder" blog, technical spun long sleeves just won't cut it. They won't retain and generate heat and absorb moisture while still staying dry like merino wool or a fabric such as Mizuno's Breath Thermo will.

3:

Pick up a second layer, or, "mid-layer."

You've already started your first layer with a baselayer. Now it's time to choose a second layer.

Option 1: A half zip long sleeve top. Half zips are great due to their versatility and neck protection. Many brands offer thumb holes and pockets.

Option 2: A loft-insulated vest, half zip, or long sleeve. During the "coldest" temperatures brands use a material known as "loft" for increased insulation. Loft is typically a synthetic, hybrid down material made to mimic warm under feathers from duck or geese.

Option 3: Another merino wool baselayer. Two merino wool baselayers are better than one. Smartwool and Icebreaker make varying weights of merino.

Option 4: A technical long sleeve. We're sure you own several. This is your time to put them to use. Just make sure you put it over your merino wool baselayer, not vice versa.

All options will generate the same amount of protection from the weather. They just use different laying methods.

4:

Put your shorts and sweatpants in storage and grab a pair of windblocking pants.

While many brands line their fall tights and pants with fleece-like fabrics, which is perfect for mild winter temperatures, many brands take it a step further and incorporate materials and fabrics to shield from wind while adding insulation. Fabric such as Nike's Shield fabric resists the rain and wind and is lined with soft, fleece-like fabric to hold in your body heat. The North Face's Flight Touji Tight includes wind and water-resistant front panels. Moral of the story: Pick up a pair of windblocking pants.

5:

Ditch your liner gloves for insulated or hatchback gloves.

In temperature under 20 degrees, lightweight wool liner gloves just won't cut it. Your hands will need some extra warmth to protect from frostbite. We carry some great gloves from Manzella that feature insulation and windstopper material. Some even fold over your fingers for increased dexterity when you need it.

6:

Never leave a wool headband or hat out of your rotation and add a balaclava or neck gaiter.

We're serious. Your ears will get frostbitten in temperatures under 20 degrees if you're out for a run for more than 20 minutes. One of the most underrated winter accessories in a runners wardrobe is a balaclava. A balaclava can be worn multiple ways to cover your ears, nose, throat, cheeks, and even some of your sensitives skin around the eyes.

Bonus:

If there's ice, keep your footing with YakTrax.

They might look funky but they're a device that seamlessly fits onto your current running shoes and uses coils and spikes for enhanced traction in snow and ice. You'll see them in action in our outfits below.

Let's check out our two example outfits:

From top to bottom on Jilana:

Smartwool 250 Reversible Headband

A double layer band and special interlock knit separate this headpiece from the crowd. Made from 100% merino wool with clean finish seams for bulk-free fit.

Merino 150 Pattern Neck Gaiter

Faturing an extended length that ensures maximum versatility and protection from the elements. Made from our Merino 150 fabric, this gaiter features the same soft, comfy feel as their lightweight baselayers.

Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Crew Pattern

Smartwool's best selling and warmest base layer. Chafe-free seam construction and panels that offer more comfort with a pack. Works as a single layer in cool weather or as your first baselayer in cold weather.

Nike Therma Sphere Element Long Sleeve Running Half-Zip 

Nike Therma Sphere fabric manages your body's natural heat to keep you comfortable in changing temperatures. Mittens at the sleeve cuffs provide extra coverage and warmth.

The North Face Flight Touji Jacket

Water-repellent running jacket that features an insulated core for lightweight, streamlined warmth. 360-degree reflectivity increases your visibility in low light.

The North Face Flight Touji Tight

Weather resistant panels, thermal stretch, and a directionally placed shell on your thighs to keep ice off of you when you hit the trail or road after first snow. Reflectivity detailing throughout.

Stance Run Crew

A mosaic of mesh vents wraps from the top of the foot to the arch to further enhance breathability while Air Channel Cushioning uses an articulated foot bed to increase padding and airflow.

Adidas Ultra Boost X ATR

Higher collar and winterized features such as a water repellent upper are added to Adidas' best seller. An all-terrain, gridlike outsole made of Continental rubber delivers superior grip, wet or dry.

Manzella Adventure 100 Mitten

2-layer Gore WindStopper® soft-shell mittens feature PrimaLoft insulation for excellent warmth on cold winter days. PrimaLoft synthetic down offers lofty warmth, low bulk and excellent packability, plus continues to insulate even if wet.

YakTrax Run

Run naturally on packed snow and ice with the Yaktrax Run's combination of removable spikes and steel coils, providing 360° of unbeatable traction.

From top to bottom on Jay:

Smartwool 250 Cuffed Beanie

With a roll cuff for added warmth over the ears, the Cuffed Beanie is perfect for mild and cold weather activities alike. Made from our Mid 250 baselayer fabric, this hat insulates and moves moisture.

Smartwool Merino 250 Balaclava

For cold and windy days, don't forget to cover the bits of your face left exposed by a hat and gaiter. This aalaclava keeps you dry and warm while still enabling good peripheral vision.

Icebreaker Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe

The staple merino wool baselayer. Merino wool wicks away moisture, dries quickly and breathes to regulate temperature for outstanding warmth in cold weather.

Nike Therma Sphere Element Long Sleeve Running Half-Zip 

Nike Therma Sphere fabric manages your body's natural heat to keep you comfortable in changing temperatures. Mittens at the sleeve cuffs provide extra coverage and warmth.

Brooks Hideout Jacket

Critical taping for wind and water resistance, Fitted hood can be rolled and sealed underneath the collar when conditions improve, and zippered hand pockets offer safe storage for electronics and small essentials.

Nike Shield Phenom Running Pant

Weather-resistant, insulating and stretchy fabrics combine for a comfortable range of motion. Zippers at the leg hems allow for easy on and off.

Manzella Hatchback Gloves

To provide extra protection from the wind, pull out the lightweight, windproof finger hood; when not in use, stash in stow-away pocket on the back of the hand.

Brooks Ghost 10 GORE-TEX

The smoothest ride possible with GORE-TEX® technology, for neutral runners who want a plush, adaptable fit.