In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
The body's core temperature changes significantly more during running than during road cycling, even during "relaxed" "basic units". If you are still shivering at the start of a running session, you may be sweating profusely in the same clothes after half an hour. Modern running clothing can now compensate for cold protection and breathability so well that the classic "onion variant" with several layers of clothing is no longer absolutely necessary - at least at temperatures above freezing.
Modern running clothing for the winter
The new running collections from CEP and Gore for the cold season are representative of developments in the clothing market in this respect: fabrics are becoming thinner and lighter while maintaining good insulation and improved breathability. We tested one men's model and one women's model at temperatures of 0 and 7 degrees, sometimes with light snowfall.
CEP Cold Weather in detail
CEP has been known for years for high-quality running products and has recently also made a name for itself in cycling with recovery clothing. The "Cold Weather" collection made from stretch material has a consistently athletic fit that should suit most road cyclists. The long-sleeved shirt with short side zip keeps you warmer than the thin material would suggest and is the ideal outfit when the outside temperature is just under 10 degrees. The lined gilet is recommended as a complement when temperatures are around freezing. The trousers that match the shirt, on the other hand, kept our testers very warm even in single-digit temperatures.
Barely visible at first glance, the reflective stripes, which mainly adorn the back of the shirt and tights, fully fulfil their function in the test. Especially when illuminated by other driving light sources, the chequered pattern is clearly visible from afar and thus provides a significant increase in safety in road traffic. The long sleeves of the top, which are fitted with finger loops, were also convincing, as they prevented cool air from penetrating even when running without gloves.
The knee-length "Cold Weather Socks*", which at just under 55 euros seem quite expensive, turned out to be a very positive surprise in the test. Thanks to the warming merino wool, they also allow you to run in summery running shoes without your feet freezing. What's more, the compression of the tight-mesh sock stabilises the joints and promotes regeneration - a practical two-in-one benefit.
The cut of the women's shirt has a clearly noticeable waist, but this is not at the expense of length. As with the men's model, the loin area is covered - important for keeping you warm. In the trousers, the difference between the men's and women's models was less noticeable, as both are very close-fitting. While the men's shirts are available in red, black and dark blue, you can choose between dark blue, black and light blue (good visibility!) for the women's models. All items are available in five sizes, XS-XL for women and S-XXL for men.
CONCLUSION: CEP clothing in the dark is the perfect equipment for endurance runners and anyone who wants to become one. Road cyclists benefit from the tight fit (90 per cent polyester) and the materials are all of high quality.
- Prices: 79.95 euros (shirt), 99.95 euros (trousers), 54.59 euros (socks)
Gore Infinfium R5 in detail
When you put this thin jacket on for the first time, it's hard to believe that you can brave temperatures of 0-5 degrees in it. But in fact, the new Infinium material, which Gore also uses in other product lines, is the best combination of comfort, wind protection and breathability yet. At a measured 247 grams, the jacket is also so light that it can easily be stowed away if required.
The stretch inserts at the hem and cuffs tighten the silhouette, although we would have liked a slightly tighter fit on the arms. The very high collar and the hood, which doesn't get out of shape even in gusts of wind thanks to the high-quality stitching, are useful. The two side pockets are ideal for stowing your mobile phone and keys.
The use of Gore's Windstopper technology is also noticeable in the trousers: even after three quarters of an hour in the sleet, the testers were not too cold at an outside temperature of 3 degrees. The water-repellent outer membrane certainly helped here. It only became uncomfortable in stronger winds. Tip: To avoid cold "air pockets" under your clothing, it is advisable to choose a tighter model rather than a larger size if in doubt. The hem can also be adjusted as required using the drawstring.
The tights offer storage space in the form of a side pocket on the left thigh and a small back pocket that just fits a modern smartphone. The advantage of the tight cut is that the mobile phone doesn't wobble around when running. Also good: the zips on the lower leg and the adjustable waistband with an elasticated drawstring.
The jacket is available in black, red and white-neon, the trousers in black or black-neon. Despite smaller reflective elements, the neon version is recommended for better visibility - this is where the brightly coloured jacket comes out on top, even in comparison to well-known road bike jackets.
CONCLUSIONS: Occasional runners may be put off by the high price, but those who run regularly and for long periods will enjoy the combination of lightweight material and high functionality.
- Prices: 249 Euro (jacket), 119 Euro (trousers)
