Sometimes, the seasons seem to change overnight. One day, you’re ticking off miles on a brisk, 16°C afternoon with sunshine overhead; then the next morning, the temperature dips to freezing. But cold weather running doesn’t have to be all bad. With the right gear and mindset, you can continue training as usual.
Instead of turning over and enjoying the cozy comforts of your warm bed- use these tips to make the best of your cold weather running. Including some of my the gear I use to keep a consistent running program year round.
DISCLAMIER ALERT: I live and train in Vancouver, B.C. Canada, our winters are mild compared to the winters in Eastern Canada and other parts of the world. Usually , Vancouver has relatively mild winters with little snow, temperatures from about 0 °C to 8°C (30° to 46°F). During this time, it is not uncommon for people to be able to cycle, and to enjoy outdoor activities around the city. My recommendations are based on this milder West Coast climate.
Warm-up With The Dryer
Pop some of your running clothes in the dryer for a few minutes before heading out the door. By the time the warmth of the clothes wears off your body will be warmed up. 😉
Keep your appendages Warm
Your hands will be cold, and it can be unbearable. I have had a pair of Sugoi Zap gloves for years. They work great in almost all conditions, but when the temperature drops below freezing and its snowing I often add handwarmers to them.
Its equally as important to keep your feet warm by wearing the right socks. I am talking about socks that wick away wetness but keep your feet warm, like non-itchy SmartWool socks. I prefer merino wool Icebreaker socks.
Dress Like Its Warmer
You want to be warm without sweating so much you get a chill. Ideally dress as if it is 10 to 20 degrees warmer. You should be slightly cool when you start.
Invest in Technical Gear
Invest in running gear with technical fabrics to wick sweat with zippers at the neck and underarm area to vent air as you heat up. I have a MEC running jacket that I love but the running room sells a comparable one here. I also invested in a few good quality cold weather pieces for great price at Costco. including the Paradox Women’s Merino Blend Base Layer, and the 32 Degrees
The crown Jewel of my running gear is actually not running gear at all but the Sugoi’s RS Zero jacket, which I purchased 10 years ago at a warehouse sale. This Jacket is intended to be a cycling jacket. I’ve only worn it for cycling a a handful of times, but I’ve worn it on all my winter runs over the last 10 years. Jackets designed for cycling are great because of the three back pockets that allow you to easily carry or store items while training. What really makes this a great cold weather training garment is the technology that goes into it’s design.
The outer layer comes with a durable water repellent finish directing water off of the jacket as opposed to being absorbed. The inside layer employs an advanced wicking fabric so that liquid will be wicked and move out through the fabric; making the inside layer a moisture management layer. (It’s also pretty soft.) The middle layer is a durable monolithic film delivering a very waterproof and windproof garment that keeps you warm and also breathes well.
Wear Reflective Clothing:
Wear reflective, fluorescent gear, and don’t be shy about lighting yourself up like a Christmas tree. I have tried many different lights and reflective bands over the year but the best by far was the Nite Ize LED Run Vest that Adrian got me for Christmas. I also use a headlamp which I purchased at Dollorama, but this is more for me to be able to see the ground than for others to see me.
And if your really commited to COld weather running…….
If you choose to venture outdoors in the snow , ice cleats work like tire chains for your shoes to significantly improving traction across snow and icy surfaces. Last year Adrian got me the Kahtoola Nano Spikes and they made my winter running more consistent, and so much safer.
I hope these tips help when the chilly weather arrives. If you have any tips or tricks you want to share I would love to hear from you.
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