Stay Warm, Stay Motivated: How to Exercise in the Cold Without Feeling Cold

Cold weather doesn’t have to put your outdoor workouts on pause. In fact, walking, running, or hiking in crisp winter air can be both energizing and great for your health. The trick? Staying warm and dry while you move. Whether you're heading out for a brisk winter walk or training for a cold-weather run, wearing the right clothing is key.

Here’s how Heat Holders® can help you exercise in the cold safely and stay comfortable every step of the way.

1. Start With a Thermal Base Layer That Matches Your Activity

Your base layer is your first defense against the cold. It keeps your body heat in and sweat away. But not all base layers are made the same—which is why Heat Holders® offers a range designed for different levels of cold and movement.

  • ORIGINAL™ Base Layers: Best for relaxed walkers or anyone heading out in deep cold. These offer our highest level of insulation and a cozy brushed lining that feels great against the skin.

  • LITE™ Base Layers: Great for moderate walkers or cooler days. These provide a balance of warmth and breathability without overheating during movement.

  • ULTRA LITE™ Base Layers: Ideal for brisk walkers or those walking in cool-to-cold temperatures. Lightweight, flexible, and easy to layer without bulk.

  • CeraCore® Base Layers: Designed for runners or high-intensity exercise in cold or deep cold. With smart temperature regulation and moisture-wicking technology, they keep you warm and dry when you’re working hard.

Choosing the right base layer helps you stay warm on winter walks or any outdoor workout.

2. Protect Your Extremities

Your hands, feet, and head lose heat quickly. To stay comfortable, make sure these areas are covered.

  • Thermal Socks: Choose socks that match your activity. Heat Holders® ULTRA LITE™, LITE™, and ORIGINAL™ thermal socks give you different levels of warmth, depending on how cold it is and how much you're moving.

  • Gloves and Hats: A warm hat and insulated gloves make a big difference on chilly days. Heat Holders® thermal hats and gloves trap heat while staying breathable—so your walk or run doesn’t end early.

3. Avoid Cotton—Stay Dry to Stay Warm

When cotton gets wet, it stays wet. That means it can make you colder once you start sweating. Instead, wear moisture-wicking layers—like all Heat Holders® base layers. They pull moisture away from your skin and keep you dry, even during long walks or runs.

4. Warm Up Before You Go

Don’t wait until you're outside to get moving. A short warm-up indoors (like stretching, light jogging, or jumping jacks) gets your blood flowing and helps your body adjust to the cold. That way, you’ll feel warmer right from the start.

5. Choose Routes with Shelter and Sun

If possible, walk or run on routes that get some sunshine and have wind protection, like trees or buildings. Even on cold days, the sun can help raise your core temperature while you move.

6. Listen to Your Body

If you start to feel chilled, slow down or head inside. Shivering is a sign your body’s getting too cold. On very cold days, indoor workouts might be the better choice. But with the right clothing, you’ll be surprised how comfortable a winter walk can be.

Stay Warm, Stay Active

Cold weather shouldn’t keep you from moving your body and enjoying fresh air. With the right base layers and thermal gear from Heat Holders®, you can make every winter walk or outdoor workout a warm one. From relaxed strolls to snowy runs, we’ve got you covered. Check out the Walking in a Winter Wonderland Collection for our best recommendations on staying warm and active this winter!

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