This time of year, suiting up in layers is often a must. But when the leaves drop, temperatures follow with rain and wind that can chill to the core. The solution is gear made from smarter fabrics that help maintain warmth while wicking away moisture with breathable, precision cuts that block wind. Engineered to handle unexpected precipitation, these fabrics can make hiking, running, biking and even walking outdoors anything but cold, wet and clammy. We checked in with Richard Friedman of Lo-Man Outdoor Store in Babylon and Justin Abbott of Woodbury Sports for the season’s stay-warm picks that will cover athletes head-to-toe.
All-Weather Headgear
Perfect for autumn running, the Saucony Razor Hat is a layer of all-weather, windproof outer fabric lined with a cozy thermal fleece that’s warm yet moisture-wicking. Its just-right brim is wide enough to deflect a surprise rain, sleet, or snow without compromising visibility. $38; woodburysports.com
A Better Base
Grandpa’s long underwear this is not. UnderArmour ColdGear base layers come in multiple weight categories from 1.0 for cool weather and high activity levels, to 4.0 for brutal temps, yielding the ultimate in temperature regulation and customization. The close-fit cut makes it work like second skin. $50-$90; lomanoutdoor.com
Outstanding Outerwear
The Columbia TurboDown collection layers cutting-edge technologies for top-notch temperature regulation in any weather. This latest entry into the “down sweater” category of packable short jackets has a literal silver lining to hold in body heat, while the down and a proprietary synthetic fill is lightweight and insulating but also fast-drying after a squall. And it’s all encased in a wind- and water-resistant shell. $150-$325; lomanoutdoor.com
Toasty Digits
Fingers stay warmest in mittens, but are more useful in gloves. Outdoor Research’s
Hot Pursuit Convertible Running Gloves are the best of both worlds. They have a removable two-pronged wind- and water-repelling outer layer that stashes neatly away in a pocket at the wrist. The glove’s fingers are touchscreen-friendly, too. $35; outdoorresearch.com
Versatile Trousers
Convertible pants are a mainstay of avid hikers. Even in cool weather, the ease of going from long to short is appealing. The Stretch Zion pair from prAna is comfortably loose but not baggy, fashioned of water-resistant ripstop nylon that’s both durable and supple. $250; prana.com
Hot Hikers
For a boot that’s waterproof and extra-rugged yet nimble, look to Italian maker Salewa’s Firetail EVO Mid GTX hiking boot. The flexible Vibram sole provides great range of movement and excellent traction in dry, wet and even snowy conditions. Its innovative fit system allows for easy adjustment to accommodate both wide and narrow feet (or thicker and thinner socks). $190; alpineshop.com