Winter running can be a challenge, but if you’re determined to run outdoors through the cold months, you can certainly make it happen. You do, however, need to switch up your routine a bit. My biggest mistake last winter was not investing in appropriate running gear. In the warm weather, I alternate between a few pairs of running shorts and lots of old t-shirts, but in the winter it’s vital to have the right clothing. Here is what you need:
1) Base Layer
Your sports bra, running tights, and running shirt should all be made of synthetic, moisture-wicking fabric. These materials are designed to pull the sweat away from your skin and keep you warm. You do not want cotton on your body this time of year. It soaks up moisture and leaves you with a nice, cold, damp layer of clothing right next to your skin. Instead, opt for fabrics like polypropylene or a polyester/spandex blend. As long as it’s above 40 degrees, you can probably get away with just a long-sleeved shirt on top.
2) Insulating Layer
When the temperature really drops, like in the 15 or below range, you’ll want to add an insulating layer. This should be made out of fleece, which helps to trap some air for warmth, but still provides enough ventilation to release moisture. Look for a shirt made of Dryline, Polartec, Thermax, or any polyester fleece.
3) Outer Layer
The point of the outer layer is to protect you against wind and water. However, it’s important that the jacket you choose also provide enough ventilation that you won’t over-heat. Look for a light jacket made with microfibers, such as nylon, Climafit, or Gore-Tex. Start wearing your outer layer wants the thermometer goes below 40.
4) Cover Your Head
When the temperature drops below freezing, you really need to wear a hat, or a least a nice, wide headband that is made to cover your ears. Again, look for synthetic fabrics that wick away moisture.
5) Gloves
Running gloves are made with breathable fabrics that keep your fingers warm, but prevent your hands from becoming a sweaty mess. Some of them are even especially designed to let you still operate your iPod, while wearing them.
If you’re over-whelmed by all of the different options out there, check out these
suggestions from Shape!
Do you run outside in the winter? What do you wear?
Comments (3)
Thanks for posting this! I have an 8k run coming up Jan 30 at 8am... and last year's run started off somewhere around degrees... i FROZE!
Can anyone recommend a specific pair of good running gloves? The Pearl Izumi Grip-Lite gloves recommended on Shape's site don't appear to exist anymore. I have some Nike ones, but they get soggy very quickly.
My Nike running hat, on the other hand, is very nice. It covers my head and ears well, and it even has a special hole in the back to put my ponytail through. I find running headbands to be unattractive and ill-fitting.
My sister bought me a runner's scarf for really cold weather, although it's more like a glorified turtleneck than a scarf. It's effective, but it fogs up my glasses sometimes.
I ought to buy more cold weather running gear suitable for temperatures below 30 degrees, but I simply cannot afford it right now. The result is that I've been stuck inside a lot this winter, and it sucks.
thanks for posting this