Shop Winter Weather Gear on Amazon for Outdoor Walks

Forget shoveling snow and slipping on icy sidewalks; my least favorite part of Midwest winters is finding the motivation to continue the 4-mile outdoor walks the summer version of me thought were a good idea. But alas, I must. 

Not only do I despise the treadmill, but after sitting at a desk all day, there’s no denying I could use some fresh, albeit cold, air. Plus, after the walk is finished, I’m always glad I did it. To combat the voice in my head telling me it’s fine to sit under a warm blanket in front of the fire instead of heading outside, I’ve compiled quite a collection of outdoor accessories that help keep me warm so the task doesn’t seem quite as daunting.

While the essentials like a winter coat and warm boots are obvious musts, I’ve found they’re not quite enough for long walks. So, I pile on the layers with thigh-high socks, a neck warmer, thick gloves, and extras like compression sleeves and fleece-lined leggings. Shop my favorite outdoor exercise essentials below that keep me warm through [TK temperature] midwest winters, with prices as low as $8.

Writer-Loved Winter Outdoor Accessories

Luga Fleece-Lined Leggings

I have no doubt I wouldn’t complete my walks without fleece-lined leggings. Soft and stretchy, they lock in body heat, so the longer I’m walking and raising my temperature, the warmer I get. They’re also available in a handful of colors and have two side pockets that fit a phone to keep your coat pockets free for your hands.

Trendoux Touch Screen Gloves

These touch screen-friendly gloves are both warm and practical. Made of acrylic and spandex, they’re surprisingly thick, so my hands stay warm regardless of how long I’m outside. Three fingertips on each glove are touch-screen compatible, and the palm of the glove has silicone, so my phone doesn’t slip out of my hand and land in the snowy street.

Unihand Rechargeable Hand Warmers

While sometimes it is simply too cold to exercise outdoors, when the temperature is hovering at my limit, adding rechargeable hand warmers is a lifesaver. With a temperature range of 95-130 degrees Fahrenheit, the warmers easily fit in the palm of your hand and even under extra stretchy gloves.

Rosoz Ponytail Beanie

I purchased this ponytail beanie several years ago, and it remains my favorite winter hat. Simply put your hair in a ponytail or bun, then slip the hat on, pulling it through the top hole. Just note, having a hole in the top does mean it’s not as warm as some other hats, so it’s not the best choice when the temps are below zero. The pro, though, is that it doesn’t make me overheat indoors, so it’s also my go-to while running errands.

Blitzu Calf Compression Sleeves

I wear these calf compression sleeves daily due to health issues, but I found they also help keep me warm in the winter. Made of nylon and spandex, they easily fit under socks and thick leggings for an extra layer of warmth. Their actual purpose, however, is to improve blood circulation and help with muscle fatigue, which can happen easier in the cold.

NovForth Winter Neck Warmer

When a scarf just isn’t enough, this neck warmer makes frigid temperatures more tolerable. The warmer can be worn like a turtleneck or pulled up to cover your nose and mouth so you don’t breathe in cold air. “I never once felt the wind chill that was close to zero during my walks with my dog in the mornings,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “I didn’t even have to zip my coat all the way up.”

Moerdeng Women’s Long Winter Puffer Coat

I appreciate a fashionable and fun winter coat as much as anyone, but when it comes to outdoor walks, I value warmth over style. This long puffer coat may not be the chicest choice, but it’s a winner in other ways. With a down cotton fill, fleece lining, extra large hood, and windproof cuffs, the coat is also waterproof, which means even the snow and rain can’t stop my walks.

Moon Wood Thigh High Socks

I initially purchased these thigh-high stockings to wear indoors, but they quickly turned into my walking socks. Made of cotton and stretchy yarn, they cover nearly my entire leg and stay surprisingly snug even during a brisk walk. They’re thick enough to help with warmth but thin enough to be worn under leggings or jeans.

Senllen Balaclava Cold Weather Fleece Ski Mask

When the winter is wintering extra hard, this fleece ski mask is added to my outfit. It fits over a winter hat and scarf, helping block wind and snow on my face and neck. It is also incredibly soft and breathable and seems to repel snow well, keeping my face and neck dry even when it feels like I’m walking in a snow globe.