What to Wear in 50-Degree Weather: 7 Nike Outfit Essentials

Styling Tips

Layering is the key to feeling cozy when the weather is in flux. Check out these versatile Nike layers and outfit combinations for 50-degree weather.

Last updated: January 6, 2024
5 min read
What to Wear in 50-Degree Weather: 7 Nike Outfit Essentials

Dressing for 50-degree weather can be a struggle. These mild days — which can pop up in between seasons — aren’t quite balmy enough for short sleeves, but they aren’t chilly enough for a heavy jacket, either.

Nailing what to wear in 50-degree weather can take some trial and error — and lots of strategic layering. The key is wearing versatile clothes that can be styled in a number of ways and easily thrown on (or slipped off). This way, you can make wardrobe adjustments on the go.

Read on for outfit ideas and a roundup of the best Nike clothes, shoes and accessories to help you embrace 50-degree days in style.

What to Wear in 50-Degree Weather

1. Lightweight Bomber Jacket

While a heavy puffer jacket or parka would be overkill on a 50-degree day, you'll likely still want a lightweight jacket option, like a Nike bomber jacket, to wear as an outer layer.

For example, the reversible Nike Sportswear Women's Varsity Bomber Jacket features just the right amount of lightweight padding, so you still have enough room to layer a hoodie or pullover underneath. The full-length zipper keeps out gusts of cool, outside air.

On the men’s side, the Nike Sanctuary Corduroy Bomber is another warm, loose-fitting option with a smooth, nylon lining, so you can easily slip it over other layers like Nike long-sleeve T-shirts, too.

2. Puffer Vest

A puffy, insulative vest is a closet staple for 50-degree weather, as you can easily slip it on over long-sleeve shirts or sweaters. Opt for a midweight puffer vest with Nike Therma-FIT technology, which helps retain body heat to keep you warm.

For example, the Nike Sportswear Therma-FIT Legacy Men's Vest combines elements of a puffer jacket and a windbreaker, resulting in a durable, water-repellent vest with snap-front pockets and cozy fleece lining.

Meanwhile, the Nike Sportswear Therma-FIT Windrunner Down Vest, which comes in men’s and women’s sizing, features lightweight down insulation and a tailored fit. Layer this over a slim-fitting long-sleeve tee with velour joggers for a comfy, casual look.

3. Fleece Hoodie or Pullover

You can't go wrong with a comfy fleece hoodie or pullover in 50-degree weather. Nike styles range from hoodies to zip-ups to crewnecks — all of which are great for layering and come in different types of Nike fleece.

  • Nike Tech Fleece: For those who want warmth without bulk, Nike Tech Fleece sweatshirts feature a premium and sleek fleece material. With a smooth and tailored fit, Tech Fleece is easy to layer underneath a vest or lightweight jacket in 50-degree weather.
  • Nike Club Fleece: For a softer, more plush alternative to Nike Tech Fleece, opt for Nike Club Fleece hoodies. These sweatshirts feature a brushed fleece material for that classic, cozy sweatshirt feel.
  • Nike Phoenix Fleece: If you’re looking for a twist on the standard fleece sweatshirt, check out Nike Phoenix Fleece. These tops come in oversize fits, cropped cuts, half-zip varieties, mock-neck styles and more — adding some flair to a comfy wardrobe staple. One Phoenix Fleece zip-up style comes in a longer, knee-length cut, giving the look of an oversize cardigan and the feel of a super-soft fleece blanket.

To complete the look, consider pairing a Nike fleece sweatshirt with matching fleece joggers to wear as a set. A coordinated sweatsuit makes for a casual, athletic outfit that’s warm enough for 50-degree days.

4. Fleece Joggers

Jeans are a classic choice for 50-degree weather, but if you are looking for something warmer, stretchier and more comfortable, opt for a pair of loose joggers or roomy sweatpants.

  • Nike Tech Fleece: Just like the sweatshirts, Nike Tech Fleece joggers offer a sleek profile (think: tapered ankles and non-bulky fabric), while still retaining plenty of warmth.
  • Nike Club Fleece: Lean into comfort in a pair of Nike Club Fleece bottoms, which range from wide-leg fits to classic styles with elastic ankle cuffs. Some feature details like cargo pockets or sewn-in patches.
  • Nike Phoenix Fleece: These bottoms — like the tops that match them — feature a brushed fleece ideal for temperatures teetering around 50 degrees. You’ll find high-waisted cuts, extra leg room and an oversize fit, which keep these joggers looking casual and low-key.

5. Long-Sleeve Tee

What you choose to layer under a light jacket or sweater can make or break your comfort level on a 50-degree day. Starting with a long-sleeve tee can give you the versatility to remove outer layers as the day warms up or put them back on if you feel a chill.

Nike long-sleeve shirts range from relaxed styles to training-ready options that feature Nike Dri-FIT technology, which wicks away sweat to keep you dry. Find waffle knit fabrics, soft jersey cotton materials and a variety of bold colors and graphics in Nike Sportswear tees.

6. Sneaker-Inspired Boots

Boots tend to pair well with sweater weather — especially when the 50-degree forecast includes rain. To keep feet warm and complete a cozy look, sport a pair of Nike sneaker-inspired boots.

Many Nike boot styles, including Nike Air Max and Nike Air Force 1 Boots, mimic classic Nike sneakers but with extra features like fleece or polyester lining for added warmth.

(Related: The Best Nike Boots Styles to Wear in Winter)

For hikes and other outdoor adventures in 50-degree weather, opt for functional boots, like those in the Nike All Conditions Gear (ACG) line. Features like waterproof GORE-TEX material provide comfort, protection and cushioning that will keep feet dry and warm.

7. High-Top Sneakers

While high-top kicks are a timeless, go-with-anything sneaker style, they’re especially well-suited for brisk weather because they keep the ankles covered.

(Related: The Best Nike High-Top Sneakers You Can Buy Right Now)

Take the iconic Nike Air Force 1 High, for example. These shoes come in a wide variety of colors and materials you can pair with almost any outfit. Nike Air cushioning underfoot keeps these shoes comfortable for all-day wear.

For another classic, retro shoe that covers the ankle, go with a pair of Nike Blazers. The slim silhouette and exposed foam on the tongue give these shoes a vintage look. Some styles come with unique and exaggerated details, like a jumbo Swoosh logo or quilted leather on the upper.

Words by Emily DiNuzzo

Originally published: January 30, 2023

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