I'm vowing to have a treadmill-free Winter, which means braving the cold, wind, ice, and snow. Winter running has just as many challenges as running in extreme heat, but with the right gear, you'll stay warm, dry, and comfortable. Here's what to wear before heading out in weather that's below 30° F.
- Start off with a wicking bra and a wicking tank.
- Pull on a long-sleeved midweight baselayer shirt made from either nonitchy merino wool or polyester.
- Slip on wicking socks that go up to your knee to keep your calves warm. I use lightweight ski socks.
- Wear warm running tights on your legs.
- Over the long-sleeve shirt, wear a fitted wind-stopping softshell.
- Running gloves or liners will protect your hands.
- Definitely wear a hat, but make sure it's lightweight so your head doesn't get too sweaty.
- On cold days, I also wear a fleece neck warmer. Not only will it keep your neck and chin warm, but it'll prevent burning lungs.
- Facial sunscreen and lip balm with SPF is also a must, as are sunglasses to protect your eyes, since sun reflecting off the white snow can be blinding.
- Of course, you'll need some good running sneakers. I'm loving these Pearl Izumi Trail Runners. Wearing gaiters over your calves will keep your ankles and legs dry when the snow is deep.
- When it's icy, slip on a set of Yaktrax Pro on your sneaks to give you more traction and prevent slipping.
If you've been running outside this Winter, share your thoughts, advice, and pics in the RunningSugar community group.
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I'm not sure what this temperature converts to in Celsius, but for anyone braving temperatures around -20 degrees Celsius or more, some things I do include wearing a balaclava, mittens with wind blocking material on them, and depending on the windchill two pairs of tights. Also to avoid severe windchill, bundle up and go out with a group and do a one-way run (have someone park their car at the end so you can drive back). Misery loves company and you'll avoid the wind some!
1It was 25 when I ran tonight..
21. smartwool socks
2. UA cold gear tights
3. sports bra
4. UA cold gear long sleeved fitted shirt
5. north face flight series jacket (with neat sleeves -- they hook over your thumbs so your
6. gloves and jacket sleeves don't gap and show exposed skin
7. lightweight hat
WOW, when I'm wearing as much clothing as you suggest FIT, it's -20 windchill! I've lived in the chicago area and competed in college (xc /track) and we ran outside all the time. in the snow, ice, and -25 windchill. 12, 13 ,14 miles. good base layers are very important, as is a hat, and a half zip...because you CAN get hot on 0 degree days, so having something to release the heat is important.
3I ran 7miles this morning it was 23F I wore
1. Smart Wool Socks
2. North Face Wool Hate
3. Liner Gloves
4. Sports Bra
5. Wicking merino lined long sleeved top
6. 800 fill Vest
7. Cashmere Scarf (which came off mid run)
I have had moderate asthma my whole life, so with me was my Ventolin HFA and tissues for my very very running nose.
Was cool to start but warmed up fairly fas
4Yeah, even though it is so cold outside. The many layers I have on come off while I am jogging in the mornings. That is the great feeling of exercising in such cold weather.
5Yeah, Fit, I do think that is a lot of layers for 30*F, but to each her own. This morning I had on tights, sports bra, gloves, long sleeved shirt, thin hat, thin gloves.. it was 25*F and I took off the gloves halfway though !
6What does everyone where before the sunrises? I have trouble going out before the sunrises, which really cutes my run short in the winter....
7ojodeazul -- it depends on the temperature... see above for what a lot of people wear in the cold. generally the best way to go is layers - traps body heat and removable if you get too warm.
8I guess I mean more for visibility to people in the dark, I am ok with warmth, I am more concerned about being hit....
9ohh! you have a few options:
- headlamp (lightweight)
10- reflective tape
- reflective vest
Wow. I can't believe you all think that it's a lot of layers...I definitely need another layer on top....like a fleece or something.....
11Yeah...where I live it's the equivalent of -14.8 F today. Hence my treadmill!!!
12-14.8F, I would not leave my house at all!
13Don't forget to shove some tissues in your pocket! My nose always runs terribly in cold weather.
14Tissues are a must this time of year..I think I have them in every jacket!
15I suggest a bandanna rather than tissues. Yesterday in 20 degree weather I tied it around my face at the beginning of my run in a spot where the wind is particularly fierce. Even so, I one fewer layers than suggested for 30 degrees and was very comfy (after the first 10 minutes). I also like my earmuffs with built in speakers for keeping my ears warm but still letting heat escape out the top.
16Great suggestions. My biggest problem I have though, is something covering my mouth. When I use a scarf, my glasses fog. If I go without, then my throat and lungs ache.
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