The Best Running Layers For Autumn

It’s that time of the year again, as the nights get shorter and the weather turns cooler, runners start to reach for more than just a tee and short shorts on their runs, so below we have looked at some of the best layers you can use to make running at this time of year more comfortable. 

These are not the fully insulated layers of winter, and they aren’t all about being fully weatherproof either, but they do add a bit more warmth and protection than your summer wardrobe, and combine that with good levels of breathability, making them ideal for Autumn, Spring, or layering in the winter. 

One of the simplest ways to dress for autumn running is by following the three-layer system:

• Base Layer: A lightweight, sweat-wicking top worn next to the skin to help regulate temperature and manage moisture.
• Mid Layer: An insulating piece such as a half zip, hoody or crew that adds warmth when conditions cool down.
• Outer Layer: A lightweight vest or jacket that protects against wind and light rain while remaining breathable enough for running.

Below, we've picked some of the best pieces for each layer, along with a selection of tights and leggings to complete your autumn running kit.

Layer 1: Lightweight Long Sleeve Tops

ASICS Women’s Core Long Sleeve Top

Providing extra coverage without any excess weight, this layer is ideal to add a touch more protection over a singlet, on its own, or below a shell. Flat seams reduce irritation, for long run comfort. 

Salomon Core Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

By using a 3D knit structure in the fabric, Salomon have enhanced the airflow through this soft feeling layer that helps keep you covered up, without overheating. Quick drying and lightweight, it works on its own, over tees, under vests, or however you want to wear it.

Layer 2: Mid Layers and Extra Warmth

New Balance Women’s RC Essentials Heat grid ½ Zip

By using NB HEAT technology, this low bulk, easy to layer top manages to offer extra warmth in a soft, sweat wicking layer. It’s full of clever details too, from the zip stash pocket to the thumbholes, dropped hem and reflective details.

adidas Women’s 365 H.Koumori Crew

Blending the line between technical running gear and lifestyle comfort, this crop length top features sweat wicking, fast drying fabric and pre-shaped sleeves to make motion effortless. The soft French terry fabric is cosy on rest days too.

Under Armour Tech 2.0 ½ Zip

With a comfy loose fit design, it lets the UA tech fabric shine with quick drying, sweat wicking and ultra-soft performance. A sleek design makes it easy to layer, while the generous zip means you can change up your ventilation on the move.

The North Face Direct Sun Hoody

Designed to keep the full glare off your skin, this lightweight and sweat wicking layer gives you UV protection for sunny days, and extra coverage for slightly cooler days. It can pack into its own hood when no longer needed and features taped shoulder seams to make carrying a pack more comfortable.

Layer 3: Weather Protection

ASICS Road Packable jacket

Although it features both wind and water resistance, this packable ASICS jacket, also features ACTIBREEZE technology to keep it breathable, including ventilation zones in the underarm and back that keep up the airflow and help prevent you from overheating.

Nike Women’s ACG Trail Vest

Adjustable to suit your needs, you can use the two-way zip, and bungee at the hem to cinch out the weather, or pack it away completely when no longer needed. Lightweight and water repellent, it even features four pockets and a whistle, everything you could need.

HOKA Skyflow Wind Jacket

Made from an ultra-light, rip stop fabric, and designed to pack away when no longer needed, this layer helps you make the most of changeable conditions. Treated with a water-repellent finish, it keeps light showers on the outside.

On Weather Vest

Protect your core with almost no extra bulk, this Gillet layer gives windproof warmth and water-repellent protection from the lightest of materials for a barely there feel. Waterproof zip pockets let you safely stow gear too.

Tights & Leggings

Adidas Women’s Run Essential Leggings

Built with a tight fit and using Climacool moisture management, these tights offer full length coverage with a comfortable and dry feel. Pockets on the thighs mean you can access your storage easily.

Nike Women’s High-Waisted 7/8 Leggings

Part of Nike Swift range of elevated running gear, these tights feature perforations behind the knee to help keep you cool and sweat wicking technology. Drop in side pockets and a zipped back phone pocket let you keep your gear on hand.

On Women’s Performance Tights

With a new sizing and luxe leg construction to give you the perfect fit, these sweat wicking tights are ideal for autumnal coverage. There is also enough storage to hold your phone, gels and other essentials.

On Weather Pants

Full length coverage with a water-repellent finish, the On Weather pants deliver everything you need without the insulation some winter layers feature. A breathable knee construction keeps the comfort levels up, and ankle zips make them easy to pull on/off.

HOKA Men’s Novafly Run Pants

Using a more breathable fabric at the back and a comfy stretch woven fabric at the front gives the perfect combination of protection and breathability for the season. A water-repellent finish helps shed light showers.

Adidas Men TECHFIT Compression Training Long Tights

Providing coverage as well as compression, these tights help your muscles stay stronger for longer and help them recover faster. They also feature AEROREADY sweat wicking and mesh details to improve breathability.

Whether you're logging easy miles, tackling long weekend runs or simply trying to stay consistent through the changing seasons, investing in the right autumn running kit will help you focus less on the weather and more on enjoying your time on the road, trail or track. Whatever your preferred setup, these pieces offer the perfect balance of warmth, breathability and protection to keep you running comfortably right through autumn and beyond.