How to stay warm, dry and safe while venturing into the outside world this autumn and winter.

Winter is coming to claim your exercise routine. When just weeks ago you thought nothing of throwing on some Climacool shorts and T-shirt for a sprightly jog around the park, your motivation has dropped in line with the mercury, and braving the winter weather seems increasingly unappealing. On top of that, the New Year is just tangibly close enough that it almost seems reasonable to put off exercise until 2018 begins. But, dear reader, there are no excuses.

Fortunately (or, unfortunately, depending on your mindset), you needn’t stare out at the blustery weather with quite so much apprehension, because we’ve got you covered. Covered with warming layers of expert-designed sportswear perfect for winter exercise, that is. So, scroll down for a few picks that will maximise motivation and, whether you’re running, walking or cycling, will give you a head start on the competition.

Mr TS Eliot may have declared April to be the cruellest month, but we very much doubt that the author ever laced up his Nikes for a run in the tail-end of November. Thankfully, sportswear technology has improved a little since Mr Eliot’s time: this Falke Ergonomic Sports System jersey T-shirt and the shell running jacket are both especially designed to keep the wearer insulated and protected against the elements when exercising. Pull on this pair of 2XU compression tights, made with two types of Lycra and designed to reduce muscle fatigue, and keep your head warm with this ribbed wool beanie from Moncler Grenoble, and going for that winter jog around the park doesn’t seem quite so bad after all.

We don’t want to go all mumsy on you, but the paramount thing to consider when cycling in the winter is, of course, your safety. That means you stay warm, dry and – most importantly – seen. This shell cycling jacket by Mavic ticks all three columns – the fabric is waterproof, oil- and dirt-resistant and features reflective panels to keep you visible in low light. Wear it over a matching jersey – you can always take your top layer off if you get warm/overly optimistic – topped off with this “Cosmic Ultimate II” helmet, which will protect your head without weighing it down. And remember to keep your hands toasty with these thermal gloves from Café du Cycliste, and your feet comfy with a pair of durable and streamlined Fizik cycling shoes.

There’s nothing like a brisk winter walk to warm your cockles, take in some fresh air, and burn off a few of those biscuits we saw you snaffling. Gone are the days when rambling was a boorish pursuit; thanks to brands such as And Wander giving outdoor gear a streetwear twist, these twill trousers are the kind of thing we call “multifunctional outerwear”, which means that as well as working for an active lifestyle, they’ll also look good in the pub. Of course, there’s substance with that style: this Aztec Mountain checked shirt is lined with shell panels, and these Arc’teryx hiking sneakers have Vibram Megagrip soles for superior traction on wet surfaces – so are great for splashing about in puddles.