5 tips to note when running in winter #5TTT
This time of year is one that all runners look forward to. It’s the beginning of fall, which means that winter isn’t too far away. Winter weather presents challenges for even the best outdoor runner. The biggest among them being cold weather.
Keeping safe during your run in cold weather is quite simple once you have the right gear and know-how to run with the cold.
Proper winter dressing
When we run in winter, we lose more moisture through our extremities than we do in summer, making them more susceptible to cold damage. It is important that we not only cover every part of our bodies in winter but that each layer provides insulation without restricting or irritating the skin.
Some tips for clothing:
- Wear moisture-wicking fabrics that help your skin release sweat and stay dry.
- Wear a base layer that wicks sweat away from your skin before you get too sweaty.
- Wear an insulating layer that will trap warm air close to your body.
- Wear an outer, windproof (and insulated) shell on top of the other layers to prevent wind chill and minimize water absorption.
The most important thing is to keep warm and dry. This means you should avoid thin or flimsy clothing. After all, staying warm and dry will help maintain your body temperature so you can run for longer. As such, it’s best to opt for clothes that are made of a thicker material like the green bomber jacket mens.
Stay hydrated
Running in winter means you still have to keep up with the regular things, like drinking water. Whether it’s below or above freezing, drink at least 16oz of fluid per hour while running to stay hydrated – just don’t try to down it too quickly as this could lead to feeling unwell.
Ideal running shoes
Sports shoes are the next essential item to consider when buying clothes for running in winter. Sports shoes must be made of material that is waterproof (or at least water-resistant) because you don’t want water seeping into the shoe and soaking your toes. This will make your run uncomfortable and potentially dangerous as you risk developing blisters or even frostbite.
Also, sports shoes should be able to drain any water that comes into the shoe – again, this is for comfort and safety reasons. Sports shoes should also have a suitable grip so you don’t slip over on ice or snow.
keep your hands head and feet warm
Another key tip for staying safe when running in the winter is to take care of your extremities. Your hands and feet are most likely going to feel the chill first, so make sure to wear waterproof socks and gloves, with thin inner liners if necessary. This way you can prevent snow from getting into boots or shoes and avoid chafing.
Take care of your face, hands, and feet in winter. Protect exposed skin with a balaclava or scarf that fits neatly under a helmet or hat. You may feel tempted to wear long sleeves or thermal pants for warmth, but these will only impede your movement and heat loss through perspiration. Hat covers are available for runners who want to reduce the wind chill on their faces but aren’t comfortable wearing a balaclava.
Put security first
Don’t forget to take precautions when running at night! Remember that in winter we lose an hour of daylight, which will make it darker when you set out on your run. Always carry a safety light on you.
Consider wearing accessories to make yourself more visible if you run before dawn or after dusk, as visibility is lower in poor weather conditions. It’s also worth looking into reflective accessories for night runs.
Running is a healthy exercise choice that delivers amazing benefits, so don’t let cold weather keep you from your weekly cardio session. With a little bit of extra planning and a willingness to experiment with jackets and headgear, you can easily overcome the hurdles to running in winter.
