Running doesn't require much, but the right gear makes every run more enjoyable, safer, and more effective. Whether you're heading out in July heat or braving a February freeze, here's what to look for and why it matters.

Start With the Basics: Shorts & Tights

The first rule of running bottoms: avoid cotton. Cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, leading to chafing and discomfort fast. Look for moisture-wicking technical fabrics (polyester blends, nylon) that pull sweat away from your skin and dry quickly.

Pockets are not optional. Modern running shorts and tights come with thoughtfully placed storage: side thigh pockets are ideal for your phone, back waistband pockets with zippers are perfect for a key or metro card, and wraparound waistbands double as a running belt. Before buying, always test the pocket: put your phone or key in, shake it — if it bounces or sags, move on.

• Shorts: Great for 15°C and above; look for a built-in liner (replaces the need for separate underwear and reduces chafing)

• Capris: Ideal for spring and fall shoulder seasons (8–15°C)

• Tights/leggings: Your go-to from October through April in Montréal

T-Shirts & Long Sleeves

Again, no cotton. A technical t-shirt in a polyester or merino wool blend regulates temperature, dries fast, and prevents odour buildup on longer efforts. Merino wool is especially versatile, warm enough for cool mornings, breathable enough for warm ones

• Short-sleeve tee: Your workhorse from May to September

• Long-sleeve technical top: Essential for runs in 5–15°C range; doubles as a base layer in winter

• Tank top: Good for hot summer days above 25°C prioritize mesh panels and UPF sun protection if you run midday

  
  

Dressing for Montréal Winters: The 3-Layer Rule

Montréal winters are no joke — temperatures can drop to -20°C or below with wind chill. The solution is layering, not bulking up:couronsmtl+1

1. Base layer (against skin): Moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool — never cotton, which stays wet and freezes

2. Mid-layer (insulation): A lightweight fleece or thermal top to retain body heat; fabrics like Polartec or Thermax work excellently.

3. Outer layer (protection): A windbreaker or breathable shell to block wind and light precipitation

A common mistake is over-dressing. You should feel slightly cool at the start — your body temperature rises quickly once you're moving. As a general guide:tinamuir+1

Winter Accessories: Don't Skip These

Extremities lose heat fast. A few key pieces make or break a cold run:

• Gloves or mittens: Lightweight breathable gloves for -5°C; warmer mittens below -10°C

• Headband or tuque: Protects your ears, a fleece headband is often enough above -10°C

• Reflective or light-up gear: Montréal winters mean shorter days and lots of dark runs — a reflective jacket or clip-on light is a safety essential

• Yaktrax or screw-in cleats for shoes: Icy sidewalks are the #1 winter hazard; traction devices that slip over your shoes can be a game-changer

You can find all of these equipment at your local sports shop. 

Summer Hydration: Bottle, Belt, or Vest?

Once runs exceed 45–60 minutes in the heat, hydration becomes critical. The question isn't whether to carry water — it's how:

• Handheld bottle: Simple and inexpensive, ideal for runs up to 90 minutes; the main downside is it occupies one hand

• Running belt with soft flasks: Sits around your waist, holds one or two small bottles plus your phone and keys — a solid all-in-one solution for 1–2 hour runs

• Hydration vest: The best choice for long runs (2h+) or trails; a bladder in the back holds 1.5–2L and front pockets store gels, keys, and a phone.

For Montréal summers, where humidity can push the "feels like" temperature well above 30°C, also consider adding electrolyte tablets (like Nuun or Liquid IV) to your bottle rather than plain water, they replace the sodium and minerals lost through sweat.

A Note on "Buy Once, Buy Right"

Running gear can be expensive, but a few well-chosen pieces outperform a wardrobe full of cheap ones. Prioritize:

1. One good pair of tights (with pockets) for fall/winter

2. Two or three technical tees or tanks for summer

3. A windbreaker that can double as a mid-season jacket

4. A hydration solution that matches your longest typical run

Shop end-of-season sales at local stores like Courir, MEC, or Sports Experts, you'll often find last year's technical gear at 30–50% off, and running gear doesn't go out of style.

Running in Montréal means preparing for four very different seasons, but with the right layering system, pocketed bottoms, and a solid hydration plan, every run becomes something to look forward to, even when the thermometer disagrees.

This is the third practical post from Les Endurants. Each one comes directly from a real conversation on a real run.

What’s the running equipment you stand by and that works across the seasons ? What do you do for the warm summers and cold winters ? Share your best tricks for others to benefit from the lessons learned.  

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Les Endurants is a weekly running community for entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and anyone who wants to move and build real connections. An initiative of ProAction Entrepreneur, led by Edouard Ferron-Mallett.