Unlike other seasons, winter running requires gear that will protect you from harsh elements. Rain, wind, cold, snow – these are the things that impact your run. You need to protect yourself from head to toe, but there are smart, lightweight ways to do that so you never get slowed down. TrailHeads winter running gear is designed by runners for runners; here’s what you need.
Introduction
A lot of runners find themselves sidelined during the winter months. Many admit that dealing with cold winds and rain is the main reason they avoid their outdoor run, so they opt for the indoor treadmill (boring). But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can maintain your training routine for an upcoming spring event, or battle seasonal “blahs” with invigorating outdoor runs. You just need the right winter running gear to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable.
There’s more to it than just throwing on more clothes; winter running gear is specifically designed to be lightweight, insulated, and to shield you from the specific conditions you deal with in winter. That includes snow and sleet, biting winds, and dropping temperatures that can lead to frostbite/frostnip. Picking the right pieces and putting them together in a smart way will make your outdoor winter run the best part of your day.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Winter Running Gear
The key to winter running gear lies in one word: layers. How many layers you need will depend on the weather conditions you run in. Now, understand that layers doesn’t mean bulky, heavy or too many of them; there are performance materials available that keep you warm and won’t weigh you down.
The other thing to look for in winter running gear are materials that are breathable and will keep sweat from clinging to your body. Gear made with merino wool, nylon, and polyester breathe, wick away moisture and keep you warm and dry. This applies to everything from shirts and running tights to outer jackets, even hats, socks and mittens. Holding sweat next to your body in cold weather is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to hypothermia. So look for breathable winter running gear.
Understand the Basics of Layering
Consider the shirt next to your skin as your “base layer.” Skip cotton or thermal shirts because they absorb moisture; choose a performance, moisture-wicking material. Next, add a mid-layer. This does most of the work keeping you warm. Fleece is a popular option, but some runners choose down for colder temperatures. Finally, add the outer shell, a jacket that keeps moisture off your other layers. This should be wind and waterproof, and should “breathe.” The last bits of layering include running tights, wool socks, running gloves, and a warm hat/cap.
Choose an Insulated and Breathable Gear
In other seasons, sweat naturally evaporates from your skin; in colder months, it can be trapped against it, creating discomfort and leading to possible hypothermia. It’s crucial to choose winter running gear that keeps you warm but also breathes. There are so many options today, made from high-performance materials that keep you warm, but are also breathable.
Material Considerations
It’s all too easy to throw on cotton shirts, sweats, or thermals for your outdoor run. But cotton isn’t the right material for winter. It traps moisture against your skin and makes you uncomfortable. When it comes to your winter running gear, breathable, water-repellent materials are essential. Merino wool is a great insulator; synthetics like nylon and polyester are top picks for keeping moisture at bay.
Minimize Exposure
It doesn’t take much time for your extremities to suffer from frostbite or its cousin, frostnip. Keep ears covered via a running hat with flaps or a beanie that can be pulled low. Wear running gloves or convertible mitten gloves to protect your hands and fingers. A cozy neck warmer can be pulled up to cover your mouth and nose. Pay attention to any exposed skin to stay healthier and more comfortable.
Visibility
Running in the winter months brings some safety challenges. Those who want to get their run in in the early morning hours find it’s still dark out. Days overall are shorter, the sun goes down sooner. Plus, winter can bring frequent darker, gloomy skies. It’s vital to be sure that you’re visible to traffic. Your winter running gear should include some reflective accents.
Comfort and Performance
One of the most important things about your winter running gear is that it’s comfortable; that means being able to “adapt” pieces as you get warmer. Look for shirts with sleeves you can push up, a jacket you can unzip, a hat with warming flaps you can flip up or down, and convertible mittens that vent heat from your fingers.
Being able to combat the harsh outdoor elements means wearing materials that either repel or wick moisture away from your skin.
Essential Winter Running Apparel and Accessories
As with any sport, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of stuff you think you need. Outdoor runs in winter do require certain items to keep you warm, dry, comfortable (and safe); just throwing on more of your usual gear doesn’t really cut it in the unique conditions that winter months bring. The good news is, you don’t need to go crazy. We’re breaking down the essential items you need for an enjoyable winter run, plus a few things that might be a good addition to your winter running gear.
No matter what it’s like outside, don’t let conditions keep you off the road or trail. Keep up your outdoor runs by adding these essentials to your winter wardrobe.
Running Tights
In colder months, regular tights or leggings won’t cut it. Sweats definitely won’t do it, since they’re usually made of cotton, and cotton holds moisture against your skin. That can lead to chills, and at the very least, that bulky weight is uncomfortable. Running tights for winter are designed to provide a light compressed layer of insulation. Plus, they repel the elements and wick away sweat as you run.
Running Jackets
You’ll need a good outer layer to repel wind and rain, and that’s where a good running jacket comes in. It should be windproof and waterproof. The jacket is the crucial “shell” layer that holds in the warmth from your other layers. Plus, look for a jacket that has some reflective accents or details to provide visibility on the road or trail.
Breathable and Antibacterial Socks
Like all your gear, you’ll want running socks that are breathable; wool or recycled polyester are perfect choices for this. Look for details that hold the socks in place and that cushion the heel for greater comfort.
Running Shoes
When navigating winter roads or trails, your running shoes should support you fully. A good rule of thumb is to replace your shoes every 300 to 500 miles. For winter runs, running shoes should be waterproof, and for extra grip on slick or icy roads, slip traction devices over the shoes.
Gloves and Mittens
Keep those digits warm in winter with a pair of running gloves or mitten gloves. It doesn’t take long for your fingers to be impacted by colder temperatures which can lead to frostbite or frostnip. Mittens keep your hands warmer than gloves, then there are convertible mittens! The mittens cover a a pair of fingerless gloves; if you need to use your phone the mitten part folds back to free your fingers. Then you just cover them up again, without missing a step.
Neck Warmers and Balaclavas
It’s easy to overlook the neck and face area when you’re running in winter. But these are areas that can easily be affected by colder temperatures. A lightweight scarf or neck warmer covers that last bit of exposed skin on your neck and face, keeping the cold air out and the warm air inWe offer neck warmers for men and women’s neck warmersthat are lightweight, breathable, and cozy. They can be pulled up over the nose and mouth to fight off sudden cold blasts.
Conclusion
Winter running gear has come a long way in recent years, using sleek, great-looking performance materials that keep you warm and dry, and don’t weigh you down. In chilly, rainy, snowy or windy weather, you can still get your run in, keep up your training schedule, and enjoy the less-crowded trails and routes.
If you’ve shied away from running outdoors in winter, step away from the boring treadmill and suit up with smart pieces that will make a cold weather run invigorating and enjoyable. The right pieces of winter running gear will elevate your performance, so turn to TrailHeads. We’re runners too, and have designed our gear for others who share our passion – no matter what the weather is like outside!