Your Resource for Staying Warm and Comfortable on Cold-Weather Runs

We get it - winter running isn’t easy. Freezing mornings, biting winds, and surprise rain or snow can make it tempting to stay indoors. But with the right layers, you’ll be ready to take on any weather—and even enjoy it! This guide breaks down everything you need to know about layering for winter running so you can stay warm, dry, and comfortable.

THE EVOLUTION OF LAYERING (AND WHY IT MATTERS)

Did you know layering wasn’t always a thing? Back in the day, runners wore heavy wool or cotton that soaked up sweat and left them shivering. It wasn’t until the 1950s and 60s, when mountaineers popularized layering for warmth, that the concept started catching on in other sports.

Today, layering has come back strong, thanks to high-tech fabrics that wick sweat, trap heat, and block wind and rain. Brands like SCOTT use these innovations to make layering lightweight and adaptable for any conditions. Simply put, layering lets you focus on your run—not the weather.

UNDERSTANDING LAYERS – HOW TO DRESS FOR WINTER RUNNING

Layering is like building the perfect running outfit, one piece at a time. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Base Layers: Your first line of defense

What it does: Pulls sweat away from your skin so you stay dry.
What to look for: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or polyester.
Pro Tip: Skip cotton—it holds onto moisture and chills you fast.

2. Mid Layers: Your warmth booster

What it does: Keeps you warm by trapping body heat.
What to look for: Fleece, synthetic down, or thermal tops.
Pro tip: Go for a zip-up style so you can vent heat if needed.

3. Outer Layers: Weather protection

What it does: Shields you from wind, rain, or snow.
What to look for: Waterproof and breathable jackets, like those made with Pertex®
Pro tip: Have a lightweight jacket in your arsenal that you can stuff in a pocket if/when you overheat.

4. Accessories: The small things that make a big difference

Accessories like Gloves, hats, and neck gaiters keep heat from escaping.

WHY LAYERING WORKS

Temperature control: Add or shed layers as the weather changes.
Moisture management: Sweat can make you cold fast, so staying dry is key.
Weather protection: Layers let you adapt to unpredictable winter conditions.

LAYERING TIPS FROM THE SCOTT COMMUNITY

The less sciency part is, we’re all unique and while the logic is there, there is certainly an element of trial and error involved in optimising comfort on winter runs – some of us run hot, while others struggle more in the cold. We asked the SCOTT community to share their lived experiences with running layers:

Marc Darchez, SCOTT Ambassador: "Breathability is everything. A sweaty mid-layer is worse than being cold."
Juan Cifre, SCOTT Ambassador: "I always pack a lightweight waterproof jacket. It’s easy to stash if I don’t need it."
Jana Klaiber, SCOTT Ambassador: "Double up on socks! Thin liners under thicker ones keep my feet warm and blister-free."
Sebastian Sonntag, SCOTT Ambassador: "A windproof vest over a thermal top is my go-to. It’s lightweight and keeps my core warm."

Ready to layer up? SCOTT’s Winter Collection has everything you need, from moisture-wicking base layers to weatherproof outerwear. Shop the SCOTT Running collection and take on winter like a pro.