Men's running textiles at Black Friday

The three-layer rule for running in cold weather

In cold weather, runners wear three layers with distinct roles. Close to the body, a long-sleeved technical top, like the Climacool Adi365, wicks sweat away. On top, a lightweight mid-layer retains warmth without weighing you down. The third layer, a windbreaker or waterproof jacket, blocks cold air and rain. Dress as if it were about ten degrees warmer than the actual temperature: the body warms up quickly after the first kilometre, and an outfit that’s too warm causes sweating, then cooling when you stop. Below zero degrees, a close-fitting running pant replaces shorts.

Shoes

Men's running during Black Friday also includes:

• Running shoes.
• Trail shoes.

All men's running items are gathered on the men's page.

Adizero and Climacool tops: lightweight and ventilated

A running top is judged by its weight and ventilation. The Adizero range from adidas, designed for competition and fast sessions, focuses on a very lightweight fabric and a close-fitting cut that doesn’t flutter in the wind. The Climacool Adi365 models feature more mesh areas on the back and under the arms, where heat builds up. The tank top completely frees the shoulders for warm days or road races. A technical polyester top dries in minutes outdoors, unlike cotton, which stays heavy and causes chafing on the chest.

Waterproof or windbreaker jacket: protecting against the rain

The waterproof jacket for running, like the Elite Lab Shell and Jago or the Joma Berna with hood, prevents rain from getting through thanks to a coated fabric or membrane while allowing some sweat vapour to escape. Its waterproofing is measured by a water column in millimetres: the higher the number, the more the jacket can withstand a long downpour. The windbreaker, lighter and more breathable, protects against wind and light drizzle. Taped seams, an adjustable hood, and reflective strips make a difference during winter outings, often in the dark.

Short with built-in briefs and merino socks: preventing chafing and blisters

The two-in-one shorts, like the adidas Formotion, combine loose shorts and built-in briefs that protect the inner thighs from chafing over long distances. On your feet, technical socks prevent blisters: the adidas Climacool are ventilated, the Hummel Grip grips the insole, and the Sums in merino wool regulate temperature and hold less odour. A seamless toe sock reduces irritation, and a reinforced heel extends its lifespan. A Phantom Athletics tracksuit completes the outfit for warming up and cooling down.

Frequently asked questions

How to choose the size of a running top?

A running top should fit close to the body without being tight: take your usual size and check that the shoulders remain free. If it’s too loose, the fabric flaps in the wind and chafes under the arms on long runs.

Can you run in a tracksuit?

For a slow jog in winter, yes, but the loose bottoms rub and soak up water in the rain. The tracksuit is mainly for warming up and cooling down, before switching to a more fitted outfit.

What hat or neck gaiter for winter running?

A thin hat made of technical fabric covers the ears without making you sweat, and a neck gaiter protects the throat from cold air. Both can be removed and tucked into a pocket if the temperature rises during the run.

How to prevent odours on running clothes?

Wash your gear soon after the run instead of leaving it damp in a bag. A bit of white vinegar in the rinse cycle neutralises odours, and merino wool, naturally less odorous, can be worn several times.

Why wear bright colours for winter running?

In winter, runs often happen at dawn or after work when it's dark. A brightly coloured top and reflective strips make the runner visible to drivers and cyclists.