Winter is approaching--and with the fall of seasonal temps comes the need for warmer, more insulating winter clothes. If you exercise regularly, you'd be wise to stock up on warm fitness clothes to keep you toasty and safe during the winter season. But what if you're on a budget? If you can't afford to splurge on expensive winter fitness clothes this season, consider saving some dough with the following recommendations:
1. Buy your fleece clothes at thrift stores.Fleece is a great insulator and helps wick away sweat, but many high-quality fleece clothes can easily ruin any budget. To save on fleece, hit your local thrift store for gently used fleece jackets, trousers or gloves. Don't forget hats or ear muffs--you typically lose heat first through your head, so make sure to keep the head warm as well. Here's a handy checklist for what to buy while at a thrift store:
- Jacket
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Long trousers or running pants
- Socks
- Gloves or mittens
- Ear muffs
- Headband
- Hats
To save big, aim for clothing that costs less than $15.00 and choose clothing that still has a bit of fluff. Look for any holes; too many holes and cold air could cool your skin.
2. Eschew the compression pants aside for cheap leggings. While compression pants can improve your workout game, they're often too expensive. Compromise by purchasing several pairs of skin-hugging leggings instead. Although they don't have all of the same benefits, leggings won't get in your way and are easily layered. Good places to find cheap leggings: Target, Walmart, and Ragstock. Avoid thrift stores; most leggings are too loose and worn to be suitable for exercise.
3. Hit Old Navy sales when possible. Old Navy has its own fitness clothing line designed for budget-savvy people, which includes moisture-wicking bras, pants, tops, jackets, and headwear. To save even more money on these clothes, go only when Old Navy puts these clothes on sale. As an additional tip, Old Navy does put these clothes in its clearance rack, so check this rack often to save even more money on winter fitness clothes.
If these tips don't help, consider going the second hand route--ask friends or family members if they have any fitness clothes they're willing to give to you. Better yet, ask your family members or friends to gift you fitness gear for Christmas. Alternatively, you can request gift cards to specialty stores, such as Dick’s Sporting Goods.