With the dark evenings, chilly weather and snow setting in, it can be difficult to gather the motivation to go out for a run. Let’s admit: it’s pretty hard to drag yourself out of bed when it’s pitch black outside, especially when the cold lets your breath crystalize the instant it escapes your lips.
But don’t worry - you don’t have to stick to the treadmill all winter long! Even if you have already set a goal for 2019, by dressing appropriately, you will be able to maintain your fitness AND you will be ready to conquer the roads even in winter. We have created a must-wear guide for your winter running that will keep you on track, comfortable and, most importantly, WARM!
-
Beanie or head warmer
It is very important to keep yourself covered and protect your head from the cold and wind. Wearing a beanie or head warmer will likely prevent frostbite and chapped skin. If you are looking for a little more protection, a neck gaiter can actually be extremely valuable on a frigid, windy day to protect your neck and face.
*Pro tip: The cold weather can chap your lips and make exposed skin crack. Protect your lips, nose or cheeks (and everything else that is exposed) with chapstick or Vaseline. And don’t forget that wearing sunscreen will protect you from the winter sun.
-
Base layer and jacket
The key to winter running is layering! Not only do layers keep your body warm, but they will also allow sweat to move through the layers of clothing as well. A good solution would be to wear a base layer and then an outer layer or jacket.
The base layer should not be made entirely of cotton – because when it gets wet, it will not dry and you will eventually feel cold! So you want to wear a sweat-wicking base layer, like merino wool or materials made of synthetic fabrics that will wick moisture away and will help you stay warm and comfortable.
The outer layer should protect you against wind, rain, and snow, but at the same time allow heat and moisture to escape. A good idea would be to wear a jacket with a zipper, so you can regulate your temperature by zipping it up and down. A jacket can also easily be tied around your waist if you find yourself too warm.
*Pro tip: Tuck your base layer into your running pants to cover your entire core and seal in maximum warmth.
-
Gloves
When you start running, your hands and feet will tend to be the coldest part of your body. A pair of lightweight fleece or wool gloves can make a big difference – making your hands warm up fast once you get moving. Consider that many long-sleeve running shirts or jackets come with thumbholes, which are a great way to keep your hands warm at the beginning of the winter season. In case it gets freezing cold outside, you can also switch to wearing mittens!
*Pro tip: If you like to run with your phone, you might want to buy gloves with touch-screen compatible fingertips. This way you can keep warm while assuring you are on the right track!
-
Tights
Running tights are essential for your winter wardrobe. As your legs generate a lot of heat while moving, you don’t need as many layers as for your upper body. Therefore one pair will be sufficient. But the same goes for the tights as for your base layer – you want a sweat-wicking material that dries quickly and keeps you warm. You can consider wearing thermal tights when the winter seriously kicks in.
*Pro tip: It might be a good idea to wear tights with reflective details. This way you will be more visible in the dark.
-
Socks
Your feet are as important as the rest of your body – especially since they will carry you all these kilometers! Therefore you should seriously consider the socks you are wearing, before heading out into the cold.
Danish Endurance offers a wide range of running socks that are perfect in the winter. Especially our
Quarter Pro socks are perfect for a workout in the cold because they are made of breathable fabrics with technical cooling lanes to wick away sweat. These socks will keep you comfortable and warm during your training. Apart from that, our
Kompressionsstrümpfe will give you extra layering under your tights, if you are really freezing and want to boost your blood circulation while running. By wearing our compression socks, you will also be able to recover faster from your workout. Have a look at our
DANISH ENDURANCE Webshop and find your favorite socks today!
*Pro tip: Wear a higher cut sock to eliminate those chilly gasps between your shoes and tights.
-
Running shoes
Last but not least, an important thing to consider is your footwear. Since the winter causes slippery roads, and often muddy and snowy paths, you might want to buy shoes with an extra outsole and good support in the midsole and heel. This will keep you from slipping and sliding. Also, the top mesh part of your shoe should keep your feet dry and cool, while at the same time being water-repellent.
You should also consider finding a shoe with proper stability, cushioning and durability, because they will protect you in winter conditions. Stability is needed to support your arch and will keep you more comfortable when running.
*Pro tip: Investing in a great running shoe with better support that fits you and your running style perfectly will pay off eventually. It highly reduces the risk of getting injured.
With this guide, you can now embrace the cold and enjoy some cooler workouts. Bear in mind to wear running clothes that have reflectivity and high visibility, so you can be seen on those darker mornings or evenings.
By the way, did you know that running in the cold can actually be an invigorating experience this time of year? The landscape is different, the trails seem quieter, and when the sun shines – it’s breath-taking. So what’s holding you back!? Get moving!☺
