I have to admit that I never really invested much money in my running apparel.

However, I have found over the years that being comfortable when I run is one of the best ways to actually enjoy the activity and stay motivated when the temperatures drop. I try to dress as if I’m going to be in weather that is about 10 to 15° cooler outside than the air temperature says so that I don’t overheat when I run.

Below, I have put together some suggestions for what to wear for fall running to keep you comfortable and boost your motivation as the fall weather sets in.

What Should I Wear for Fall Running?

One of the best fabrics for fall running is wool. I always thought that wool running apparel was only for cold weather because wool can be insulating, but it is actually great for all seasons. Wool running clothes breathe, wick sweat and moisture, and regulate your temperature while running whether it is hot or cold. 

However, I have to share a very important caveat: wool is itchy if you don’t get the best Merino wool running apparel. I always hated wool running tops because I bought the cheaper stuff and it always felt scratchy or not as soft. 

As it turns out, not all Merino wool is the same—to make sure you have the softest feel possible, you have to look at the microns or diameter of the follicle. The smaller the follicle, the softer the feel. Most merino clocks in at around 23 microns, but as you get down to the 16-18 range, it will become finer and softer to the touch. 

Merino wool running tops, leggings, and socks have revolutionized my comfort running in cold weather.

Here are some of my favorite Merino wool running clothes for fall running:

H3: IBEX Paradox Long Sleeve | $90

This tagless long-sleeve running top is buttery soft. Ibex uses a combination of premium merino wool and TENCEL (a fiber made from natural raw material wood) for breathability, and  maximum comfort. It is featherlight so that you don’t overheat, yet it blocks the fall running chill. Plus, it seems to work wonders for never getting that faint sweaty funk even if you wear it for several runs before washing it.

H3: Smartwool Women’s Merino Active Fleece Tight | $120

My motivation to run in the cold weather drops significantly when my legs get cold because I start to feel tight and my running stride doesn’t feel smooth. 

For cooler fall running weather, my pick for the best running tights is the Smartwool Women’s Merino Active Fleece Tight. These women’s running tights are designed so that there is breathable, ultra-soft merino wool right next to your skin with a durable synthetic material over top to protect against the elements. There are also reflective elements and ankle zips so that you can be seen in the dark and roll up the tights or let in some air if you start to warm up.

TYR Hydrosphere™ Women’s Pace Running Shorts | $49

For warmer fall days, I might still run in shorts. My current favorite are v-notch running shorts from TYR.

These are traditional women’s running shorts with built-in liner but they are so lightweight and they use a special material on the outer layer to repel water. As a result, I find that they dry a lot faster than most of my other running shorts. If you are running on one of those misty fall mornings or even running in the rain, you won’t be saddled with sopping wet shorts.

If you like women’s compression running shorts, I highly recommend the Pearl Izumi Women’s Prospect 7″ Bike Shorts. The longer length is perfect because it protects your thighs against the dreaded “chub rub“ chafing. The comfortable and wide waistband helps you feel tucked in and supported. The crotch area breathes well so that you don’t get sweaty or have to deal with chafing where you absolutely don’t want chafing. The legs and waist don’t ride up at all, which is often a problem with running in compression shorts

Bonus: I love that there are pockets where I can put my phone or extra money. .

A running vest is an often overlooked, but incredibly versatile addition to your fall running wardrobe. What I love about a running vest is that by design, your arms are not encumbered by extra material so you can really focus on driving a powerful arm swing.

I appreciate this particular vest because it keeps your core warm without overheating. It is extremely lightweight, and it blocks wind and repels water while providing just enough insulation . It’s also great to wear in the car if you are driving over to meet a friend for a run or want a light layer to put on for your walk or drive home post-run.

If you’re like me and your body temperature runs cold, or you have to run at either end of the day when it’s coldest, you’ll like running in the Jack Wolfskin Waldsee jacket.

It is a functional outer shell for fall weather and it has a cozy brushed interior that feels soft if you want to layer just a tank top underneath.

Because it is a full-zip running jacket, you can let in extra air as you warm up or easily unzip it and tie it around your waist for your final few miles. 

It may sound like a minor difference, but wearing warm yet breathable running socks keep your feet comfortable, particularly if you are wearing well-ventilated, meshy running shoes.

I highly recommend Smartwool running socks. They come in a variety of heights, from no-show to well above the ankle, and there is targeted cushioning in strategic regions. The Merino wool helps keep your feet cool yet warm, and wicks moisture, odor, and prevents blisters.

Overall, for fall running apparel, I highly recommend wearing layers that breathe. You can always shed a light layer if you are doing loops, tie a long-sleeve top around your waist, or stash it in your hydration pack if you are doing a longer run.