Cold Weather Running Tips

tabbydog

I live in VT and have run to -10F. I second the fleece neck warmer. I have one that I use to breathe through when the temps get below freezing. Add a fleece balaclava when it gets below about 10 degrees. I would rather run in any outdoor temp than on a treadmill. My longest ever treadmill run was 4 miles and I thought I would go mad.:laugh:

Sabine_Stroehm

I live in VT and have run to -10F. I second the fleece neck warmer. I have one that I use to breathe through when the temps get below freezing. Add a fleece balaclava when it gets below about 10 degrees. I would rather run in any outdoor temp than on a treadmill. My longest ever treadmill run was 4 miles and I thought I would go mad.:laugh:

You're my hero. I try to run when it gets really cold, but I get so stiff! Each year gets better though!

_canuckrunner_

I run in the winter with YakTrax and really like them. They aren't great for really slick ice but otherwise they do improve traction quite a bit. You can feel them a little when you first start wearing them but after a short while I didn't really notice them there. I wear them on my regular running shoes. I've debated about getting some heavier-duty trail shoes (mostly because the uppers are a tighter weave and I think they'd be a bit warmer - I live in Northern Alberta so it can be a bit cool......). My YakTrax last me one winter running season then usually they need to be replaced since one of the rubber pieces usually snaps.

Otherwise all of the other advice on here is great. Definitely dress in layers, invest in some good moisture-wicking base layers as there is nothing worse than being cold and wet. I have a merino wool neck warmer that is awesome when its really cold and I'll probably buy a balaclava this year. There's nothing better than running in freshly fallen slow when no one else is out there!!! Good luck!

Violetta86

I love these tips and will need them soon in New England! Thanks for posting this.