Adamant Gear

Clothing Rules for Winter Running

 

Keeping to your running routine is a challenge at any time of year. Finding the energy to get up out of bed at dawn or go for a jog after work takes dedication – which may be in short supply more often that we’d like.

Still, one way to make running a little easier is to wear comfortable clothes and gear. This is especially true in winter, helping to maintain a pleasant temperature and prevent overheating.

If you’re keen to stay in shape through the colder months, take a look at our clothing rules for winter running for the advice you need …

 

Layer Up, Strip Down

 

Don’t just head out into the cold wearing a bulky hooded top with nothing underneath. Why?

Well, as you get into your rhythm, you’ll start to warm up – and if you feel too hot, you’ll want to pull that heavy thing off. Unless you love jogging topless, this is unlikely to be the best move.

Wear a base layer (ideally, a wicking thermal, with long sleeves), a T-shirt, and a zip-front hoody. As you heat up, you’ll be able to take that outer shell off, and then the T-shirt, leaving yourself with a base layer.

Be sure to buy your workout gear in fairly loose sizes, so you can remove tops easily and quickly.

 

Be Seen at All Times

 

Unless you’re running between daylight hours, chances are you’ll be out there in the dark during winter. Most of us find time to run before and after work, putting you into a slightly more dangerous situation.

When you’re running along roads, down country lanes, and in the city, you have to stay visible. It only takes one driver to miss you as you’re crossing the street to cause an accident.

Wear a high-visibility vest over your top, illuminated armbands, or strobing LED lights that clip to your clothes.

 

Be Willing to Change Straight Away

 

After your run, be sure to take your sweaty clothes off right away. Leaving your running gear on can leave you vulnerable to catching a chill, and make you colder as your body starts to sweat to cool you down.

 

Don’t Forget your Hands

 

Make sure you wear gloves. It’s easy to focus on keeping your torso and legs warm, but your hands are still just as vulnerable to the cold when you’re running.

Wear thin gloves which are resistant to the wind and rain. Ideally, they will be small enough to roll-up into your pockets if need be. Your gloves should also be fine enough to let you handle drinks and eat snacks without dropping them.

You may also want to put your gloves into a waterproof backpack, as with any snacks or drinks.

 

Spray your Sneakers Dry

 

Waterproofing your sneakers will help your feet stay dry and comfortable when running on wet days. We all know the frustration of tramping through a puddle and having to cope with damp socks the rest of your run.

Invest in a waterproofing spray, and treat your sneakers every couple of weeks.

 

Get a decent wardrobe of running clothes and accessories together for winter, and you’ll likely find your motivation staying at a high level – it’s easier to get yourself out there when you know you’ll stay comfortable.