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Nov 09Winter running
Well its that time of the year again, already I’ve seen the numbers in my Saturday morning clinic drop off sharply. I hate the cold to but I still run through the winter instead of starting all over again in the spring. I tell people to continue to run as much as they feel comfortable doing through the winter to maintain their edge. Granted its a bit harder to drag your butt out into the winter cold, slushy roads and biting winds but you should maintain your physical fitness all year around especially in the winter when your body tends to want to hold on to those extra calories and your ability to get even a little exercise is just not there. Winter running is possible and sometimes even fun with the right gear. I’ve written some basics about running and running gear below.
When it comes to gear I actually have no idea about any other brand other than Nike as you know I’m a Nike whore… since I’m a Run Leader they I have to wear it, plus it works so why not. For other brands I would recommend you talk to the people at your local running store, they’re usually very well trained and know their stuff.
Bottoms
In the winter I wear long tights and wind breaker pants, the tights keep the heat in while the wind breaker pant keeps the wind and water out.
Shoes
I don’t really pay attention to the type of shoes I run in the winter because I don’t feel the need to get specific winter shoes although its nice to stay dry. I’ve run in winter running shoes and they definitely do make a difference in keeping out the water and wind. I don’t feel the need for winter shoes because our winters aren’t that bad, sure there are days that you may need a water resistant shoe but the number of times you need a shoe specific for these conditions is not high enough for me go buy shoes that I will probably only wear a few times per year.
Socks
If you have a winter shoe you can use your regular sock because the shoe would keep out the water and wind and keep your feet warm. You may want a specific winter running sock if you find your toes get cold easily. Again I can’t justify buying specific winter running socks for the little bit of use.
Top
I wear 3 layers, Nike Pro, a middle layer which maybe fleece or some other material and the exterior layer , the shell, that keeps the wind and water out. I have winter running jackets that work very well in keeping the heat in and elements out. I would suggest you do the same layering technique, on your run you can always open up a jacket to cool down if you get to warm but if you under dressed you have no option to get warm until you get home, this is not a good, it’s better to have more than to have to little.
Gloves
Some tops will have a built in glove like thingy in the sleeve, I don’t find these sleeve pouches very effective. You should consider mittens with fingers or just mittens. I wear regular fleece gloves and find they work well enough for me, I often have to take my gloves off during a run because I heat up a lot.
Mask/scarf
I’ve seen some people wearing mask during runs and I can understand the need but I’ve never seen a scarf or mask that I would feel comfortable running in, but I do understand and see the practicality of such items. The tops I wear typically have high enough necklines so I can pull them up over my mouth and nose but days that I underestimate the weather and get caught out without a high neckline top I feel the need for a mask or scarf…I’ve always said someone should make running mask and scarfs…niche business.
Glasses
A good idea especially on those drifty, snowy days. I haven’t run with glasses yet but there are days I wish I had my running glasses on. Running shades may also help cut down on the snow glare.
Hats
Find a cute one and wear it, we lose a lot of our body heat through our heads. I wear a running toque and swear by it, I’ve ventured out without headgear before and suffered. I recommend a toque as a hat leaves the ears and sides open to the elements. The Nike toque I wear is not very thick, its the same style as the Nike Pro gear, thin like spandex but as effective as a thick fleece.
Conclusion
Many companies make materials similar to the Nike Pro so you should have no problem finding warm light weight gear. Make sure you dress proper for the weather.
http://www.howtobefit.com/winter-running-guide.htm
