Author: Maegan Krifchin, Mizuno Elite Race Team Member
Published on: October 28, 2016
The temperatures are dropping, which means as runners, we have to consider some changes to our usual running attire. During the summer months, with hotter temperatures, it is sort of a no brainer to roll out of bed, throw on some shorts and a tank and get out the door.
However, fall and winter are slightly trickier. Is it cool out? Windy? Damp? Rainy? Etc., etc. The sun rises slightly later these days, so early morning runners will have a crisper run.
How should you prepare? Keep it simple- layers! I typically prefer to be slightly too warm than too cold. So, long tights, a long sleeve and a wind breaker are my go-to picks. I find that if you keep your core warm, it usually keeps you feeling warmer throughout your run. I also wear a base layer, this would be a tank top. To keep really warm, a good trick is to tuck your base layer into your bottoms, that way your stomach and lower back are not exposed to the wind.
When it gets even colder out, keep your ears in mind, they can be pretty sensitive. I like to wear a headband or hat that covers my ears. I prefer the hat over the headband, it stays in place better and is warmer. Don’t forget to cover up your hands. Mittens keep your hands warmer than gloves, so I like mittens for shorter runs or non-workout days. On days I have to practice fluid intake, gloves work better for my grip on the water bottle. It’s always the worst when you have everything ready to run, get to the trail and realize you don’t have your gloves or mittens. My backup plan is socks! They work pretty well especially if you keep your hands in a fist. I always keep a change of clothes in my car and a couple of extra pairs of socks lying around, just for instances such as this!
Speaking of a change of clothes, I always like to change out of my wet clothes right away after my run. Sometimes this is in the park bathroom, or just my car or the parking lot- you do what you need to do. I don’t like to be in the wet clothes, your body gets cold very quickly after my run. Help to prevent sickness and get comfortable by changing into fresh dry clothes quickly after a run.
It’s better to be safe than sorry right? So my tips are: layer up, be slightly too warm if you have to choose, and keep extra socks lying around in your car! Cold weather is not scary and is not a reason to hide out inside and not go running. It’s just a time to take a few extra minutes to be prepared. So layer up and go run!