As the temperatures drop and the hours of daylight decrease, I’m starting to break out all my Fall running clothes and gear to get ready for my absolute favorite running season. Check out some of these favorite running essentials to stay safe and comfortable during your cool runs.
Best Long Sleeve Running Shirt for Women: Under Armour Women’s Quarter Zip Top
A 1/4-zip shirt is an essential for Fall running because it allows you to easily regulate your temperature as you warm up or the conditions change during your run. This long sleeve shirt from Under Armour is cozy and comfortable, and does a great job of wicking away sweat if you do start to heat up. This shirt is available in many different rich colors, so you’re sure to find one that suits your style and running wardrobe. Buy on Amazon
Best Capris: Baleaf Women’s High-Rise Squat-Proof Workout Capris
As soon as the weather starts to cool, I love pulling out my capris, since they’re perfect for that in-between weather when it’s too cold for shorts, but too warm to wear tights. While these super affordable and butter-soft capris are great for yoga or gym workouts, I frequently wear them for running.
With a high waist and four-way stretch fabric, they fit well and are extremely comfortable. They also have side pockets to hold your phone and other essentials. Buy on Amazon
Asics GEL-Venture 10 Trail Running Shoe
Fall is a great time for trail running, but if you don’t want to spend a lot on a pair of dedicated trail runners, Asics’ GEL-Venture 10 is a fantastic option. With a grippy outsole, they provide reliable traction on both roads and trails. And the GEL cushioning offers great shock absorption and comfort as you’re hitting the trails. They come in a wide range of color options and look sharp for casual wear, too. Buy on Amazon
Best Long Sleeve Running Shirt for Men: Under Armour Men’s Tech 1/4 Zip
A fantastic 1/4-zip long sleeve for men, this shirt is made of Under Armour’s quick-drying, soft fabric that has superior wicking capability. It also features anti-odor technology to prevent growth of smelly microbes. Unlike some other body-hugging UA shirts, this shirt features a loose cut. It comes in numerous sharp-looking colors. Buy on Amazon
We also appreciate the high-rise waistband, which stays in place and provides gentle compression, as well as the convenient side pockets for phones or keys. Overall, we love that these leggings strike a great balance between performance and comfort for crisp autumn workouts. Buy on Amazon
Best Joggers: Baleaf Lightweight Joggers
Baleaf’s Lightweight Joggers are a versatile and practical choice for women who like their running clothes to also function as everyday wear. Made from a lightweight, breathable fabric blend, these joggers offer a soft yet durable feel with just the right amount of stretch. The pants feature a tapered leg design with elastic cuffs, a wide waistband with a drawstring for a secure fit, and multiple zippered pockets that are great for safely storing keys, phones, or other small essentials.
These joggers strike a solid balance between comfort and functionality. We appreciate their flattering fit and how they move easily with us. Plus, they work well as travel pants due to their packability and wrinkle resistance. Overall, we think they’re an excellent value for the price and have become a go-to staple for many women seeking style without compromising on performance. Buy on Amazon
Best Vest: Little Donkey Andy Running Vest
This lightweight, budget-friendly vest is perfect for the transition from Fall to Winter, keeping your core warm on cold runs. Made with 4-way stretch fabric, it’s comfortable and allows for maximum mobility. The vest also features two zippered hand pockets, which are ideal for stashing your phone or other essentials. It comes in a range of sizes and basic as well as vibrant colors. Buy on Amazon
Best Leggings: Baleaf 7/8 Leggings With Pockets
Baleaf’s 7/8 Leggings With Pockets are a solid choice for running in fall weather, offering a comfortable blend of warmth, flexibility, and breathability. The fabric is soft yet supportive, with a medium weight that provides enough insulation for cooler temperatures without causing overheating during higher-intensity runs. The 7/8 length is perfect for transitional weather, keeping the ankles covered without excess fabric bunching. Buy on Amazon
Best Reflective Wear: Freemove Reflective Vest for Running
Reflective gear is key for Fall running because it helps you be more visible even when it’s not completely dark, such as in the morning, late afternoon or early evening. This reflective vest is inexpensive, extremely versatile, comfortable, and very effective. It can fit right over your running clothes and it’s made of ultra-lightweight mesh, so it won’t make you overheat.
This vest is so comfortable that you may even forget you have it on. It’s also available in six different sizes, so you can get the fit that’s perfect for you. Buy on Amazon
Best Fall Running Socks: Feetures! Elite Max Cushion Running Socks for Men and Women
Feetures! running socks are my favorite for all seasons, but these quarter height socks are perfect for Fall running because they’re a bit warmer than the no-show socks and they offer protection from pebbles and dirt when running on trails. They feature just the right amount of compression and cushion for the perfect fit and support. The wicking capability and seamless toe also help with blister protection. Buy on Amazon
Best Lightweight Running Gloves: TrailHeads Lightweight Running Gloves
Sometimes my hands are cold during my Fall runs, but my thick winter running gloves are too warm to wear. Ideal for Spring or Fall running weather, these lightweight gloves from TrailHeads are perfect for those types of running conditions. In addition, they can be used as a base layer for really cold winter temperatures. They feature a secure, snug fit to keep your hands protected from the wind and cold.
Made with moisture-wicking technology, these gloves dry quickly if your hands do start getting warm and sweating. An additional bonus is the conductive fabric on the thumb and forefinger that allows you to use touchscreen devices without removing your gloves. Buy on Amazon
Best Post-Run Treat for Fall: Honey Stinger Energy Waffles
These Honey Stinger energy waffles are a perfect go-to snack during a long run on a cool, crisp morning. They taste great and have plenty of carbs to keep you fueled up. Buy on Amazon
Best Light for Running: Knuckle Lights
How did I ever run in the dark without these lights? They’re extremely lightweight and very bright lights that you comfortably hold on your hands while running. You’ll be seen by oncoming cars, and the super wide beam they emit will light your way. They’re perfect for running in the morning or evening, and can also come in handy for camping or dog walking.
Unlike regular flashlights or headlamps, they don’t emit a spot beam, but provide a smooth, even level of light that moves with the motion of your arms. These lights also feature high, low and blinking settings, so you can adjust based on your needs and the conditions. The straps are easily adjusted to fit any size hand and can even go over your running gloves. Your hands stay totally free, allowing you to hold anything else you may need, such as your water bottle or dog’s leash. Buy on Amazon
Also see: 7 Ways to Enjoy Fall Running
What Should I Wear for Running in Fall Weather?
For running in fall weather, you should dress in layers to stay comfortable as temperatures can vary. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, and add a lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt or jacket for warmth. Consider wearing running tights or leggings and avoid heavy fabrics that trap moisture.
A hat or headband and gloves may be helpful on colder days, and reflective gear is important as daylight hours get shorter. Dressing slightly cooler than comfortable at the start is ideal, as your body will warm up during the run.
Why You Should Trust Us
An avid runner, certified running coach, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT enjoys researching and testing running gear and gadgets. Her decades of running experience and writing have helped her learn the value of using the best gear to improve comfort, safety, and performance.
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