Tips and Gear for Cold Weather Running

October 8, 2015

by Patrick Lapera
Tips and Gear for Cold Weather Running

It's easy to motivate when the sun’s out and the birds are chirping. Not so when it's twenty-seven degrees with grey skies and heavy winds. Just because it's frosty doesn't mean you have to retreat to the treadmill. Here are a few tips and gear recommendations to keep in mind as you prepare to hit the cold ground running.

Runners who layer intelligently can remain comfortable in any weather.

Under Armour ColdGear Infrared EVO Mock $33.88 - $39.58 Your base layer should be the first thing you should think about (and the first thing you put on). For high-output activity in cold weather, we prefer a synthetic base that wicks well and isn’t too snug. Under Armour is still making excellent base layers; we’re partial to the ColdGear Infrared EVO Mock. Breathability sets “ColdGear” apart; it’s all runners need until it goes from chilly to cold.

A quality pair of running tights can be used in most cold weather conditions.

CW-X Insulator Endurance Pro Tights Men's Base layer bottoms should be form fitting. The CW-X Insulator Endurance Pro has wind and water protection built in to the front of the tights. Other run-friendly features include reflective logos and a waistband with a back pocket. For snow and heavy rain, consider layering rain pants over the tights.

Wind can slow you down to a crawl.

Pearl Izumi Fly Softshell Run Jacket Starting at: $67.80 A wind resistant running jacket is necessary for particularly cold or windy days. The Pearl Izumi Fly keeps runners focused on the next stride instead of the weather, as it’s designed with running specific features like reflective strips and a vent system. Combined with an insulating layer, this jacket gets runners through fall and well into winter.

Staying dry is key; keep out rain and expel moisture.

Westcomb Shift LT Hooded Jacket When temps drop even further, the snow/rain is on its way and a wind shell won’t cut it, a bombproof shell is crucial. The Westcomb Shift LT Hooded Jacket fits the bill. Designed for high intensity activities like rock climbing and touring in terrible weather, this Westcomb piece shields runners against both rain and snow. Breathability beats out that of shells designed strictly with skiing in mind.

Don’t forget the extremities.

Even if your core is warm and dry, frostbitten extremities will, at the very least, cut a run short. As such, socks, gloves, and hats are not to be overlooked. Outdoor Research’s Wind Pro Hat, a favorite of backcountry skiers and riders, is an excellent wind resistant and breathable hat for running in freezing temperatures. For your hands, we recommend the dexterity of the North Face Power Stretch Running glove. When temps drop even further, this TNF piece works as a base layer underneath a heavier glove or mitten. Having the right socks is a crucial yet overlooked piece of the puzzle. Of course, your mid-summer sock isn’t going to cut it. Go for a warm sock that wicks like Smartwool’s PhD line.

Outdoor Research Wind Pro Hat $23.76 - $24.36 The North Face Powerstretch Glove $31.21 - $33.38

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