I’ve asked many of the runners in my local running group this question and the number one tip that has been repeated over and over again is:
If you feel warm and comfortable at the beginning of your run, then you’re wearing too much.
You should feel chilly when you start your run, but not shivering cold. Your body will warm up once you get moving.
Four Cold Weather Running Essentials for Me:
Note: Keep in mind that I live in Arkansas, not Alaska.
(1) Cold Gear Top – I bought the Under Armour Cold Gear Fitted Long-sleeve Mock. It worked great! It has a soft inner lining that wicks the sweat away and keeps you warm. I know there a lot of different brands out there that offer cold gear. I just went with Under Armour.
I either wore a zip-up jacket over the top or a long-sleeved t-shirt. Another idea would be to wear a fleece vest over the top. Especially if you don’t like your arms feeling bulky or weighted down.
(2) Running Tights – Yes, I know. I just heard you groan.
Believe me. I understand.
I feel like a total fatty in running tights. It’s like every dimple and jiggle is amplified . . . BUT they’re really great at keeping your legs at just the right temperature. You could always throw on a pair of running shorts or a running skirt over the top.
(3) Gloves – I bought this pair at Academy Sports and they did the job. I wash them on delicate and let them air dry.
(4) Fleece Headband – I bought one for about five dollars from the sports store.
What is some of your favorite gear for cold weather running? Do you have any tips you would like to share?
So far it has not been cold here in Texas for a run. I recently bought a light weight fleece jacket. I have always ran in a capri yoga like pant and was never really hot. it is my upper body that feels the warmest when I run.
I ran a race in 40 degree weather this past weekend. I was so concerned about being cold, b/c I’m a wuss. LOL Well, just like you said, after the second mile I was ripping off my jacket and eventually by the end was running sleeveless. I can’t stand stuff on my arms. I think this will be a trial and error for me. Thanks for the input! I like the vest idea too. And those “tight” pants, well, I’m learning to love them. ; ) The garment lady helping me at the store said to go smaller than you think with them b/c they will relax as you run and you don’t want saggy pants. LOL
It hasn’t been too cold over here in California. We are now experiencing cooler weather and you need a light sweater….but I am still waiting for really cold! You still look cute all bundled up for your run.
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I always wear running tights, a long sleeve running shirt that wicks sweat away and doesn’t chaff…..this is HUGE! I also have a light weight jacket. Great tips Ruthanne!
You so stylish.
I broke down and bought running tights and love them. Of course, I wear running shorts over them, but they do their job and keep my legs warm. I’m looking for a good pair of gloves and something to cover my ears now. Those are the only places I get uncomfortably cold. A vest will probably work better for me since I HATE sleeves. Love the suggestions as always.
I’ve never tried running in cold weather before. I usually run in the morning, just before the sun shines. Maybe this winter season I may consider this.
Thanks for the great tips…I’m starting the C25K and need all the advice I can get for running outdoors.
Thanks! Leigh
I just moved from Louisiana to North Dakota. Yesterday for my outdoor run, it was probably the same temp as my coldest run in Louisiana…except that it started snowing! I’m sure that in the next couple of months, it’s going to get too cold to be outside, unfortunately. For those with qualms about running tights, you can also throw a pair of yoga pants on over them. They don’t really add too much extra warmth, they move easy, and they hide more.
I also live in North Dakota – - I am worried because I really want to run this winter outside but I don’t know if I’ll be able to handle it
I struggled with this last year too. I found that my happy medium is a tank under a light longsleeve shirt. no jackets for me!!!
awesome post!
I’m in Minnesota. Just started running last fall and ran all through last year’s crazy mild winter. My tip is wear cross country ski clothing. Winter tights or sporthill pants, layers of smartwool-ish top & windproof jacket (or vest if >20) , warm socks & duct tape over top of shoes. It’s so awesome to run in the snow!
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