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The colder months are well on their way, and before they hit, you'll want to stock up on all the cold weather gear you may need to make your outdoor runs more bearable. While we all know to reach for gloves, jackets, and a thick pair of tights, it's all too easy to forget to cover your ears—and find they're practically frozen solid halfway through your run. And while hats are great for the coldest days, a headband or ear warmer is a better option for when it's not super cold yet but still nippy enough to bother you.
Ear warmers keep your ears comfortable and cozy while still allowing heat to escape the top of your head, keeping you from overheating. With tons of options out there, we've rounded up our favorite options for people of all genders to help make shopping easier. Look below for our top picks that will keep your ears feeling delightful as the weather gets frightful.
The Best Ear Warmers for Runners
What to Consider
Style
There are three basic types of ear warmers on the market: headband style, earmuffs, and ear cups. Headband-style ear warmers are great for keeping your hair out of your face and are best for keeping you warm in cooler conditions. Earmuffs and ear cups may feel slightly less secure and won't hold your hair back, but may be a better choice for those prone to overheating.
Materials
Materials like merino wool are naturally moisture-wicking but may be too warm for folks who tend to run hot. If you want a pair of ear warmers with a more secure fit, look for stretchy fabrics like spandex.
How We Selected
To find the best options among the many ear warmers on the market, we looked at expert-tested reviews from trusted sources as well as consulting reviews written by people who have bought these warmers and ear bands. We then took into account price, materials, design, sizes, and comfort to settle on the six ear warmers you'll find below.
Cover your bases—and your skin—and invest in some running hats, gloves, and gaiters, too.
Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Headband
Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Headband
Pros
- Moisture-wicking material
- Very warm
Cons
- May be too big for some heads
Merino wool is naturally durable, moisture-wicking, and super warm, making it a great material for workout gear. This headband is made from 100 percent merino wool, but it uses a knit design to give it a bit of stretch. Since it is so tall, it covers a large portion of your head, which can help keep you extra warm, and means you can also wear it as a gaiter around your neck.
Key Specs
| Style | Unisex |
|---|---|
| Size(s) | One size |
| Colors | 4 |
| Material(s) | Merino wool |
180s Fleece Behind-the-Head Earmuffs
Pros
- Can be worn with hat
- Fits large ears
Cons
- May move around on small heads
Headbands can cause some people to overheat, so if you prefer to have your forehead exposed, a standard pair of earmuffs may be the way to go. This one sits on the back of your head instead of on top, which gives you the option of also wearing a hat. They are snug enough that they won't fall off, but not super tight, and are comfortable for long periods of wear.
Key Specs
| Style | Unisex |
|---|---|
| Size(s) | One size |
| Colors | 5 |
| Material(s) | Polyester |
Patagonia Re-Tool Fleece Headband
Patagonia Re-Tool Fleece Headband
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Fits snugly over ears
Cons
- High pile can trap sweat
This headband is made of super plush fleece that is soft to the touch and super warm. It has a slimmer fit, so it will cover the ears without stretching up the head, which can be a better fit for smaller heads, and prevents it from riding up or sliding down.
Key Specs
| Style | Women's |
|---|---|
| Size(s) | One size |
| Colors | 5 |
| Material(s) | Polyester fleece |
TrailHeads Ponytail Headband
TrailHeads Ponytail Headband
Pros
- Reflective features
- Lots of head coverage
Cons
- Only works with low ponytail
Those of us with long hair know the struggles of finding headgear to wear with a ponytail. This headband is made with soft, moisture-wicking material, and has a slit in the back for a ponytail to get through. Not only is this convenient, but it can also help keep the band secure, and prevent it from moving around. It also has a reflective element on the front, which is great for running in low light conditions.
Key Specs
| Style | Women's |
|---|---|
| Size(s) | One size |
| Colors | 8 |
| Material(s) | Polyester, spandex |
Sprigs Earbags Bandless Fleece Ear Warmers
Sprigs Earbags Bandless Fleece Ear Warmers
Pros
- Super lightweight and comfortable
- Many size and color options
Cons
- Not the most attractive option
These Earbags are a great lightweight solution for keeping your ears warm. Since they have elastic that fits around the ear, they won’t put pressure on your ears or head, which helps prevent headaches or discomfort, and makes wearing earbuds easier and more comfortable. They are double-lined, so they’re also great for keeping out biting wind and precipitation.
Key Specs
| Style | Unisex |
|---|---|
| Size(s) | S-L |
| Colors | 14 |
| Material(s) | Fleece, Thinsulate® |
Pros
- Wind-resistant material
Cons
- Only two colors available
This headband has a tapered fit that's thinner on the forehead, and expands over the ears. This helps keep your ears covered without having too much fabric slip down your forehead. This headband is also a great option for windy weather as well
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
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