If walking were an Olympic sport, I’d stride right up to the podium to accept my gold medal. In all honesty, though, I really do enjoy walking — even if a panel doesn’t recognize my skill with a perfect 10. I walk to my classes. I walk to my mailbox. I walk to work. Heck, I’d walk to a place where I could do more walking.
But my pedometer-pushing habits hit a rough patch in the winter when the cold weather settles in. Sometimes when I come back inside after a walk, my roommate can’t tell if it’s me or the abominable snowman entering the apartment. Other times, I just avoid walking outside altogether because I have no desire to become a human popsicle.
Luckily, buying a couple of gear essentials can change this. Below you’ll find reviews for three products that might make your winter walking (or running) a little warmer — and they’re all worthy of the Olympic gold.
THERMAL RUN HAT (Unisex)
Brand: Pearl Izumi
Cost: $25
Multiple colors available
This hat does the impossible: It keeps your head warm without weighing like something you’d wear to survive in Siberia. The lightweight material feels like a sports jersey, so it’s breathable and wicks away moisture, with extra lining around the ears. There’s a reflective bar in the back, too, which is great for visibility at dusk and dawn. The hat can feel a bit like a swim cap at times — not necessarily a criticism, as it helps it to stay on while you’re moving. If anything, though, that’s a small complaint for what I otherwise feel is a well-thought-out piece.
BARRIER HEADBAND (Unisex)
Brand: Pearl Izumi
Cost: $25
It’s highly likely that I will never take this headband off. The S-shape comfortably covers your ears, protecting against the cold wind, and there’s a convenient hole for ponytails. The elastic banding, which lays flat, is not so tight that it feels like it’s squeezing your brain, but not so loose as to slip off. Seriously, it’s a marvel of modern workout accessories.
THERMAL CONDUCTIVE GLOVES (Women’s)
Brand: Pearl Izumi
Cost $30
Multiple colors available
When I wear these gloves I feel like Mr. Incredible — in the best way. They fit incredibly well, which I credit to Pearl Izumi’s impeccably accurate size chart (which you can find online). The fabric covering both the index finger and the thumb is touch screen compatible, so it’s easy to pull out your smartphone on a walk to check your heart rate, calories burned or your Tinder matches. There’s nice grip on the palms, too. The gloves cover the wrists, blocking out any wind chill, and they stay down nicely. There’s a bit of excess stitching at the tops of the middle finger and ring finger, which can feel odd at first, but as you wear them it becomes unnoticeable. Overall, these are some quality gloves for relatively cheap.
@CourtneyLTanner