Cold Weather Running Gear

As the season changes, weather starts to deteriorate, daylight hours get shorter and some days it takes a bit of effort to get out for a run. But for those runners who have invested in the proper cold weather running gear, running throughout the cold weather seasons can be quite comfortable.

As the cool days approach, runners need to replace their shorts with either loose running pants or running tights and change over from short sleeves running shirts to long sleeves. What gets us cold is wet fabric against our skin, so remember when looking for cold weather running gear, make sure that the layer closest to your body is made of a fabric that will wick moisture away from your skin.

ASICS Thermopolis LT Half Zip Top ($65) – This cold weather running top is incredibly soft & smooth and more importantly will keep you WARM.  The from zipper allows for some venting. – Available at Roadrunner Sports	Saucony Boston Running Pants ($60) – These loose fitting running pants are great to wear alone on a winter run or put on over tights in more extreme cold. 9” ankle zippers make them easy to slide on over running shoes - Available at Paragon Sports	Nike Storm FIT Featherlight Hat ($30) – This reflective hat will repel wind, rain & snow but at the same time is breathable to allow just enough heat to escape. - Available at Paragon Sports

Then as the rain comes, runners need running clothes that will keep them dry as well as warm during their training. Add a water-resistant rain vest or jacket to the cool weather apparel. A running hat is also useful to keep the rain off your face and out of your eyes. The running hat will also help to keep your head dry and warm.

Brooks Aireplex Stretch Jacket – Designed with a weather-resistant stretch-woven fabric and a soft terry wrist wipe for those runny noses.  The jacket has a vented back panel that increases breathability.  Perfect for light rain and dry snow. – Available at Roadrunner Sports	Saucony Ulti Mitt ($30) – This Mitt will keep you dry, warm and visible as it comes with a removable flashing LED light combined with reflective accents – Holabird Sports	Nike Lightweight Running Skullcap ($18.00) – This beanie will provide enough warmth without overheating your head, will wick away sweat and the curved panel cover your ears.  The female version has a ponytail opening at the back. – Available at Roadrunner Sports

You will need to balance comfort with cost when selecting your rain jacket or vest. The choice starts with a cheaper nylon windbreakers to more expensive jackets that are made of blends of polyester, nylon and Gore-Tex. Buyer beware - nylon is not a breathable fabric, so if you purchase a 100% nylon jacket, you may become very hot and sweaty on your run. The more expensive running rain gear will be made of a synthetic blend fabric and will be lightweight, waterproof and breathable. If you use your jacket and/or vest for other active winter wear, then investing in the right clothing makes it more justifiable.

When we get into the very cold days of winter, it’s time to start to layer up. Air and heat gets trapped between the layers and does a great job at keeping you warm. Several thin, light dri-fit layers work better than a couple bulky layers. Thin layers allow you to move more freely and not get weighed down. A good thermal undershirt works well under the long-sleeved running shirt. Depending on the outside temperature it may also be necessary to wear gloves and a hat.

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