Best Places For Winter Workout Gear In Sacramento

Residents of the Sacramento region are lucky in many ways, including having close, easy access to snowy areas and local weather that allows for outdoor sports and activities all throughout the year. Average winter temperatures range from the 30s to the mid-50s, and rain is the worst precipitation to be seen in the capital city. Whether you go outside to play a sport or just want to get out there to work out, finding the right apparel to keep you dry and comfortable is important. The two best tips are to focus on layering and to head out to these local businesses for the best in winter workout gear.

Rocklin Endurance Sports
2161 Sunset Blvd., Suite 200
Rocklin, CA 95765
(916) 259-2820
rocklinendurancesports.com

Specializing in gear for those who love to run and bike, Rocklin Endurance Sports has plenty to offer for winter workouts. There is a good selection of clothing and accessories from Louis Garneau, including jackets with sleeves that can be zipped off. Garneau jerseys, tights and vests are also helpful for layering. To keep your head warm and dry, start with very thin insulated ear covers and skullcaps, and check out shoe and toe covers when the weather is especially cold. Special HeatMaxx fabric with a moisture-wicking lining makes Garneau's knee and arm warmers great accessories to have. Both are made to stay firmly in place while still being easy to remove and small enough to stick in your pocket.

Helm Of Sun Valley
2843 Howe Ave.
Sacramento, 95821
(916) 922-5431
helmsunvalley.com

This iconic Sacramento landmark was created by USSA master ski racer Brad Helm, and all of his staff members have spent a lot of time on the slopes as well. With 4,000 square feet of space, the shop features anything an alpine skier could want. Apparel, including sweaters and performance fleece, is available from high quality brands such as Eider, Bogner's Fire & Ice, Sport Obermeyer, Icebreaker and Bergans of Norway. Boots, both ski and after-ski varieties, are a Helm's specialty. Boot technicians can help with custom orthotics and are able to shim, cant, grind and stretch most boots. Also, check out boot heaters, gloves, hats and other ski necessities.

Related: Best Ways To Help Your Winter Skin In Sacramento

City Bicycle Works
2419 K St.
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 447-2453
citybicycleworks.com

If winter biking is your workout of choice, City Bicycle Works should be your destination. Among the products at this midtown shop are a variety of water repellent, cold-weather vests and jackets. Try the double layer Assos IJ ShaqUno jacket, Pearl Izumi Fly jacket or an Assos IJ PompaDour S7 jacket with laminated AirBlock panels, RX fleece and the manufacturer's signature AEPD ergonomic styling.

Clark's Snow Sports 
3515 Sunrise Blvd. #26
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742
(916) 852-7735
www.snowsportsforless.com

One thing that sets Clark's apart from other retailers is the low prices. In addition to boots from Itasca, Dalbello Aerro, Boa and Salomon Faction, there are toe and hand warmers and boot dryers. Socks are critical to your comfort, and among the options at Clark's are the popular lightweight "micro-supreme" socks for snowboarding by Eurosocks. To keep your face and head protected, there is a variety of neoprene facemasks, snow hats and beanies. Clothing, gloves, mitts and more are available for adults, children and even the youngest of snow enthusiasts. Some feature water-wicking microdenier linings, special insulation and breathable, waterproof inserts.

Sacramento Nonprofits

Show your hometown pride while staying warm for your workout by purchasing items that help your favorite local charities and causes. Support the arts by purchasing exercise-perfect shirts and caps from Friends of the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission that feature a unique red rabbit design by artist Lawrence Argent. American River Parkway Foundation raises funds with sweatshirts and thermals, and the nonprofit Sacramento Running Association has protective performance fleece jackets with reflective designs. Support Red Rover emergency services and disaster relief with outdoor wear, hoodies and shirts for adults and kids, and check out shirts from the Food Literacy Center.

Related: Best Ski Slopes For Kids Near Sacramento

Valerie Heimerich is a freelance writer out of Sacramento. She typically covers business, employment, animal rescue, volunteerism and nonprofits. Her work can also be found at Examiner.com.