Maybe It’s Too Cold to Run — Or Maybe You Just Need a Cozy Pair of Ear Warmers

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While running famously has a very low barrier to entry, if there’s any aspect of it that requires some extra gear, it’s running in the cold. We recommend plenty of cold weather gear that can make your outdoor runs more bearable—gloves, jackets, thick pairs of tights—but it’s all too easy to forget to cover your ears.

A few minutes into your run, you might notice that your ears feel so cold that they hurt, or so cold you can’t feel them at all. You can always opt for a nice winter hat which is great for those very cold days, but headbands and ear warmers allow heat to escape via the top of your head, preventing you from overheating as you warm up throughout your run or workout.

We’ve rounded up the best ear warmers for runners—those that stay in place as you jog, wick away sweat, and don’t get too cold after your sweat gets them wet.

The Best Ear Warmers for Runners

• Best Overall: Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Ear Warmer Headband

• Best Earmuffs: 180s Fleece Behind-the-Head Earmuffs

• Softest Material: Patagonia Re-Tool Fleece Ear Warmer Headband

• Best for Long Hair: TrailHeads Ponytail Headband Ear Warmers

• Best for Sensitive Ears: Sprigs Earbags Bandless Fleece Ear Warmers

What to Consider

Style

There are three basic types of ear warmers on the market: headbands, earmuffs, and ear cups. Headband-style ear warmers are great for keeping your hair out of your face and keeping you warm in cooler conditions, offering some warmth around the neck and forehead as well as the ears. Earmuffs and ear cups may feel slightly less secure and won’t hold your hair back, but they may be a better choice for those prone to overheating.

Size

Most ear warmers only come in one size, which manufacturers claim will fit everyone—but everyone’s head is different. Ear cups come in several sizes. Earmuffs typically have a wire wrap inside that sort of springs the cups to your ears to keep them snug. Headbands are the toughest to fit if you have a very large or very small head. If you’re concerned about your headband slipping down or not fitting over your ears, we recommend a stretchy option, like the Trail Heads headband, that’ll cling to your head no matter what size it is, or earmuffs that can widen to accommodate your head.

Material

In terms of materials, we recommend moisture-wicking materials that keep sweat from dripping into your eyes or pooling beneath your ear warmers. Merino wool is naturally moisture-wicking, and it doesn’t hold onto odors, but it’s very toasty—maybe too warm for folks who tend to run hot. Fleece is another warm and comfortable option, but it tends to stay wet if it gets wet, so you might want to opt for something quick-drying for long runs, or bring a neck gaiter as a backup.

How We Selected

To find the best ear warmers on the market, we first considered our own experiences with winter running, prioritizing options made with high-quality materials and designs that are comfortable for most people. We vetted our selections by reviewing customer feedback from people who own these ear warmers, and made sure to take price, sizes, and comfort into account. We also prioritized warmers from brands we know to make long-lasting gear, like Smartwool, so you can use your ear warmers for many winters to come.

Thermal Merino Reversible Ear Warmer Headband

Smartwool is known for its cozy and durable merino wool products that are moisture-wicking and super warm. Made from 100 percent merino wool, this headband is not only toasty for those cold winter months, but also offers a bit of stretch for optimal comfort.

It’s also tall so it covers a large portion of your head for extra warmth, plus it’s reversible. Best of all, you can slide it down to use as a gaiter. Smartwool’s merino is very thin, too, so it dries faster and won’t freeze after getting wet.

Fleece Behind-the-Head Earmuffs

Headbands cause some people to overheat, so if you prefer to have your forehead exposed, these earmuffs may be a better option. They sit on the back of your head instead of on top—good for those who tend to quickly overheat. You can also layer these muffs with a hat on extra chilly days.

The earmuffs are just snug enough to stay on without being tight, so they’re comfortable for long periods of wear. They’re also adjustable and foldable, so you can travel with them or throw them in your pocket if you get too warm on your run.

Polartec Power Stretch Fleece Earband Warmer

For days with a bitter wind chill, it can be hard to find ear warmers that stay put. But this stretchy fleece headband won’t budget, and does double duty to keep you warm and keep your hair out of your face. Most people wear the longer side at the neck for extra coverage.

The headband is great for activities besides running, too, like hitting the slopes or hiking. Consider it a versatile option for anyone who likes to switch up workouts and other outdoor activities.

Ponytail Headband Ear Warmers

Those of us with long hair know the struggles of finding gear that accommodates a ponytail. This headband is made with soft, moisture-wicking fabric that stays in place while you jog, and it has a slit in the back for a ponytail so you don’t have to squish it flat.

Not only is this convenient for wearing your hair up, but it can also help keep the band secure, and prevent it from moving around on your run. Another plus is its reflective strip on the front, which helps with visibility in low-light conditions.

Re-Tool Headband

This headband is ultra plush and supremely warm. Similar to a traditional sweatband, it has a slimmer fit so it covers your ears and not much more. Some runners may find the design a bit too thin, and its high pile can trap sweat. But if you have a small head, this is a great option that won’t slip while you jog, and it’s stylish, too.

Earbags Bandless Fleece Ear Warmers

These ear cups are a great lightweight solution for keeping your ears warm and cozy without worrying about slippage. They have an elastic cuff that comfortably fits around your ears, plus they’re double-lined to keep out biting wind and rain.

If you tend to get a headache after wearing a headband or ear warmers, these are an excellent choice. They’re also a smart bet for people with sensitive skin on their neck. Best of all, if you like to run listening to music or podcasts, they don’t push on your earbuds like some other styles do.

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