I have bad news. It’s cold out. And I *think* the cold weather might be here for a while. Every winter I re-learn about cold weather running. This time I learned the hard way, unfortunately, on Saturday. Staying warm is my top priority from here until May. Don’t be like me on your first cold run of the year. Be smart. Wear more clothes. How to accomplish such a feat? Check out my pictorial “how-to” below!
Staying Warm While Running in the Cold
First things first, you need to check out the weather conditions. Is it in the 40s? 30s? 20s? Teens?! Second, consider the windchill, if any. What does the “feels like” or “real feel” temperature indicate? Go by that number and not the actual temperature.
When you’ve determined what kind of conditions you’re up against, it’s time to start dressing yourself.
For Temperatures in the 40s
Consider a light base layer and a pair of unlined tights (or capris for those of you that run warm). You can add to this if you run cold, like a tech t-shirt under your long sleeve. Sometimes this helps.
For Temperatures in the 30s
If you didn’t add a second shirt in the 40s, I would consider adding one in the mid to upper 30s. When it’s low to mid 30s, I would add a heavier second layer plus fleece lined tights, mittens or gloves, and a headband or hat.
For Temperatures in the 20s
Temperatures in the 20s call for a base layer, a heavier second layer, possibly a vest or light jacket, fleece lined tights, mittens or gloves, and a headband. Seems like a lot, huh?
For Temperatures in the Teens and Colder
Wear all the clothes you own. Plus a fleece jacket. And get some of those handy-dandy hand warmers for your mittens. Wear a buff around your neck to keep warm. Consider adding shorts or a wind layer on your bottom half if it’s going to be windy. The teens are pretty brutal. The single digits are worse. If you’re going to be running in the elements, be prepared. No amount of clothing is too ridiculous.
There are a whole lotta combinations for successful warmth and cold-weather runs than what I’ve posted here. But this is one of my tried-and-true layering techniques that I use time and again for everything from running to walking the dogs to heading to the playground with the kids. Just remember, layering is the key!
Need more tips, accessories, and ideas to stay warm? Check out my 9 Tips to Run Through Winter by Dressing for Success.
And now it’s time for the Running Coaches’ Corner! Join Lora Marie, Susie, Debbie, and myself for the Running Coaches’ Corner linkup today and every Wednesday. We love reading your running stories, racing tips, and coaching strategies. Scroll to the bottom of this post to add your link!
I’ll be offline tomorrow but I’ll see you back here on Friday for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
xo
TALK TO ME!
What’s one body part you MUST keep warm to be comfortable?
What’s your favorite winter-running accessory?
Loading InLinkz ...Also linking up with Nicole, Annmarie, Jen, and Michelle for Wild Workout Wednesday.
