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Running in the cold December 6, 2008

Filed under: Uncategorized — Bridget @ 3:43 pm

After debating for a while yesterday afternoon, I decided to go for a run in the 29* weather.  The final decision came when I stuck my head out the door and decided that the cool air felt refreshing.  After being inside allll day, some fresh air and sunshine sounded like a good idea! 

I bundled up for my run and decided to take some really dorky pics of myself to show you all what I wear for running in cold weather.  Starting from closest to your body, clothing should be in layers for wicking, warmth, and wind. 

My first layer:

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Nike Dri Fit long sleeve top to wick the sweat off my body and Target C9 running pants.

Next layer:

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Obermeyer running jacket, Nike running gloves, and Saucony headband – all for warmth.  I skipped a “wind” layer because it wasn’t windy at all yesterday, but if it was, I would have thrown a windbreaker-type jacket over this (and maybe subbed the jacket I had for something a little thinner).

This gear was perfect for my run yesterday- I was a little cold when I started out, but felt great as soon as I started running.  I was sweating during the run, but didn’t take off any layers or accessories- that would have just made me colder. 

I really think the keys to dressing for exercising in the cold are to avoid all cotton, as it will just get wet from sweat and make you cold, dress in layers, and don’t forget accessories!

I upgraded my accessories this year and it has made a huge difference.  I used to run in cheap stretchy gloves and a cheap stretchy headband thing, but my Nike running gloves and Saucony Drylete Headband are so much better.  They are lightweight and wick the sweat (especially from my forehead), but don’t make me extra hot or sweaty.

I got in a brisk 4.5 mile run in this outfit yesterday and it felt awesome!  Do you have any other tips for running in the cold weather?

 

12 Responses to “Running in the cold”

  1. Bridget Says:

    Maybe now that I’m starting to get into running I need to invest in the cold weather gear…I don’t have any wicking pieces of clothing. Running in the cold usually just sounds so miserable to me, but I think I might not mind it now. Love your layers!!

  2. Melissa S. Says:

    what a great running gear! i ran this morning in everything you suggest not to wear in cold weather…LOL. it was 37 here and I ran in a cotton long sleeve top, race running shorts, sports bra and a baseball cap. LOL.

  3. Erin Says:

    Good for you for braving the elements! Looks like you have a great system set up. πŸ™‚

  4. claire Says:

    You are dressed for running in the cold! My only other tip is if you know it’s cold outside, don’t look at the temp. Sometimes running in 25* weather is bad b/c you know it’s 25*, not because it is really cold, (which it still is….)

  5. Lindsay Says:

    wow – great layering ideas! i dont have any tips but im definitely using yours next time i head out in the cold…

  6. Erica Says:

    It is FREEZING here this weekend, I don’t know how you talked yourself into going for an outside run…but GOOD FOR YOU! You look adorable in your running gear…fashionable and functional! We will be in STL Thurs and Fri this week for Christmas shopping and treatment.

  7. Hangry Pants Says:

    Yeah I need some outdoor running clothes, but don’t you get all hot in there?

  8. Sharon Says:

    Wow, thanks for sharing what you wore. I was thinking of getting some “winterized” clothing for outside running!

  9. wow- warm and stylish…you cant go wrong!

    Kelly Turner
    http://www.groundedfitness.com

  10. layering with dryfit on bottom is my biggest key.. I’ve also found a Neck Gattor which i like because I can pull it up over my mouth if I really need to

  11. carolinebee Says:

    Hi! I just found your blog while wandering, love it, i’m adding you to my reader πŸ˜€ Great winter gear- I live in Southern CA so i’m a cold weather WIMP, but I salute you for braving 29 degrees WOW! and cute target finds!

  12. Bridget Says:

    Claire- I love that tip! It’s such a mental thing, so that totally makes sense.
    Hangry- the only thing that really gets hot are my hands, and that’s obviously pretty easy to fix! I used to get a lot hotter when my outer layers and accessories were fleece or sweatshirt-like.
    Amanda- I’ve seen the neck gator and it definitely looks like a good idea for really cold weather!
    Carolinebee- welcome! I’m going to head over to your blog πŸ™‚


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