Cold-weather running events with MEC, Altra and Smartwool

Best for runners seeking a warm, versatile, zero-drop shoe with a roomy forefoot

By mating the popular Escalante 4 with a Smartwool merino blend upper, Altra has created a superb minimalist, zero-drop shoe optimized for colder weather. This limited-edition collab employs the same construction as the conventional Escalante 4, so it’s not surprising that it offers a similar responsive and comfortable ride (it’s the same Altra EGO midsole). The outsole is also the same (Altra FootPod), so it, in conjunction with the midsole’s gooves (InnerFlex), delivers a natural flex pattern. From a numbers perspective, this limited-edition collab is also very similar to the original Escalante 4; zero drop with a 24 mm heel and 24 mm forefoot stack height.

Speaking of the forefoot, the shoe has a very spacious fit that many runners will appreciate. So, now that I’ve buried the lede, let’s talk about the new Smartwool upper. Smartwool has supplied a unique merino blend textile that enhances the shoe’s insulation without compromising breathability or making it too warm for running. It’s a smart design tweak that significantly improves the Escalante 4 SW’s cold-weather performance. Also, as I’ve mentioned before, this is a limited-edition collab that’s exclusive to MEC. This means that once these shoes are gone, they are gone. Shop early to avoid disappointment! 

Best for runners seeking additional warmth with the benefits of merino wool next to the skin

Looking for some cozy joggers to keep you warm during those cool morning runs? Then check out the Smartwool Active Fleece Jogger. Built with a technical stretch knit fabric that combines soft merino wool on the interior with a durable, recycled synthetic textile face fabric, these joggers deliver warmth, wicking, breathability, and, thanks to the face fabric, excellent weather protection. Smartwool specs a soft elastic waist band with a drawcord for a secure yet comfortable fit, and adds elastic ankle cuffs to help prevent cold drafts. Two zippered hand pockets and reflective detailing round out the features on these good-looking and highly functional cold-weather running joggers.  

Best for runners seeking a warm jacket with excellent breathability, and easy movement

As the temps start to drop, reach for the Smartwool Active Fleece Jacket. Constructed with a sophisticated fabric blend that consists of 47 percent recycled polyester, 38 percent merino wool and 15 percent elastane, the Active Fleece Jacket provides warmth, sheds light wind and damp weather, while providing the breathability and easy movement needed during challenging workouts. Smartwool also specs thumbhole wrist cuffs that prevent drafts, keep the sleeves from shifting and provide additional hand warmth during cool early morning runs. Finally, two zippered hand pockets provide storage for small essentials, while the full-length front zip allows for easy venting in warmer conditions. Seriously, this is a great cold-weather running jacket and should be part of every runner’s clothing kit.        

Best for runners seeking warmth and maximum breathability in less windy weather

This classic cool-weather running top uses a stretchy merino blend fabric that provides just the right level of warmth and wicking while remaining superbly breathable. The result is a garment that is ideal in milder and less breezy conditions, which can also be used as a midlayer in colder weather. As with many Smartwool garments, the Active Fleece 1/2 Zip has thumbhole wrist cuffs that prevent drafts, keep the sleeves from shifting and provide additional hand warmth. Other notable details include a zippered chest pocket that can accommodate keys, ID, and a phone, as well as reflective details that increase visibility when running in low-light conditions. Finally, the half-length zip allows for easy venting during hard workouts and simplifies getting dressed. This is an exceptionally versatile running top that can bridge a wide range of cold conditions. Get two, you won’t be disappointed.

Best for runners seeking wind protection and warmth for their core

Packed with a heat-trapping proprietary 50 percent recycled wool insulation and sporting a windproof front panel, the Active Fleece Wind Insulated Vest is perfect when used alone in cool conditions or as part of a more sophisticated layering system in truly frigid weather. The back of the vest sports similarly technical construction with a wind-resistant nylon upper back panel, while the lower back and sides showcase a cozy four-way stretch fabric. This savvy design delivers exceptional warmth and weather protection for your core while allowing excess heat and perspiration to easily escape.  Throw in two zippered side pockets for small items and reflective trim for increased visibility, and you have an incredibly versatile vest for cold-weather running.

Best for runners seeking a long-sleeve top with excellent moisture management

By combining the merino wool with Tencel Lyocell fibres, the Smartwool Active Long Sleeve delivers exceptional moisture management and temperature control. The result is a wonderful running top that can be used alone in milder conditions or as a base layer when the temperature starts to drop. As an added bonus, the top’s high merino wool content (53 percent) ensures the garment resists odours, something that many synthetic tops struggle to achieve. Runners will also appreciate thumbhole wrist cuffs that prevent drafts, keep the sleeves from shifting and provide additional hand warmth. Throw in a flattering fit with a unique shoulder seam construction, and you have a attractive, versatile, and some would say essential, cool weather running top.

Best for runners seeking warmth with additional wind protection

When the wind picks up and the temperatures start to drop, it’s time to deploy the Active Fleece Wind Pant. Constructed with a unique four-way stretch fabric with windproof front panels, the Active Fleece Wind Pants provide cozy warmth (thanks merino) while shielding you from cold gusty winds. The back leg panels employ a recycled synthetic face fabric over the merino wool, ensuring excellent breathability and wicking while offering reasonable protection against the elements. Smartwool has used a flattering high-rise waist with a drawcord for a comfortable and secure fit, while the addition of two zippered hand pockets provides plenty of storage for small essentials. If you are serious about running this winter season, you need a pair of these sophisticated pants.        

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