Calling on Experienced Runners, need your help!

theshow4jsu

So, now with Christmas on the horizon, I am being pressured by loved ones to submit a Christmas list for what I want. Top of the list is new running shoes. I also have recently started running outside instead of on a treadmill, so I need suggestions on what is best for colder weather running. I live in Alabama so it doesn't get terribly cold here, but cold enough to cover up some. What are some the best items for running in the cold? I have a jacket that my wonderful wife surprised me with, any other suggestions? Gloves? Head bands? Long sleeve shirts? Calling on all experienced runners out there.

BrianSharpe

How about a nice medium weight half-zip top for cooler days. If you run in low light conditions a headlight could be useful. One of my favorite running hats is a toque made by Asics with reflective stripes (they make matching gloves that may be warm enough for your neck of the woods but are definitely fall/spring here)

CarsonRuns

Under Armour Cold Gear Mock Turtle neck. Perfect base layer from 45°F to 15°F.

GiddyupTim

You gotta find out what you like -- go to a running store -- and then request it. They are all so different, and they fit differently. Especially with shoes. Same size, same width, can fit and feel completely different depending on brand.
Now, you can request items based on importance. Shoes are first and foremost. Next is a shell-type jacket or running tights or sweat pants, whichever is more important to you. (I tend to find my legs get warmed up and so I need a jacket more.) Then a hat -- a hat adds a lot to warmth, but it is also the kind of accessory that can make you very hot if the weather isn't that cold.
Finally, gloves. If there is snow on the ground, you might need gloves. But, even then, you might not.

Mokey41

For shoes I'd ask for a gift card to a running store because you really need to be fitted for the right shoes for your gait. My other gear is a long sleeved tech shirt, headband to keep ears warm, gloves, smartwool socks and winter tights.

theshow4jsu

I already know what type of shoes. I like the Brooks Glycerine line. I had the 9's, looking forward to owning the 10's now.

RGv2

To be honest...you probably don't need to worry about cold weather footwear in Alabama.

I wouldn't run in a jacket personally. They usually don't breathe that much. For me, usually a loose Brooks long sleeve shirt and some tights that I wear under my normal running shorts, up here in MN..... Any running store should have some decent gloves.

3dogsrunning

You gotta find out what you like -- go to a running store -- and then request it. They are all so different, and they fit differently. Especially with shoes. Same size, same width, can fit and feel completely different depending on brand.
Now, you can request items based on importance. Shoes are first and foremost. Next is a shell-type jacket or running tights or sweat pants, whichever is more important to you. (I tend to find my legs get warmed up and so I need a jacket more.) Then a hat -- a hat adds a lot to warmth, but it is also the kind of accessory that can make you very hot if the weather isn't that cold.
Finally, gloves. If there is snow on the ground, you might need gloves. But, even then, you might not.

I agree, shoes are number one and get fitted first.

My next suggestion was also a shell jacket. I like the shell jacket because you can wear it during the shoulder seasons with lighter clothes underneath, and layer for colder months. I use it to keep the wind off of me. While mine isn't completely waterproof, it does keep a lot of the water out.
Running tights are important to me too, however, it gets pretty cold here.
The rest of the stuff, I just buy a little at a time. I started out using regular sweaters and hoodies for warmth, and slowly added the nicer running gear. It is nice to have a lighter, thinner warm layer, but you can definitely get away without it.
I still don't have a running hat or gloves. I just use the regular stuff.

lyttlewon

I run in a long sleeved shirt and capris, and I think it gets colder here than in Alabama. It was 40 on Saturday and how I was dressed was plenty warm for me.

3dogsrunning

I run in a long sleeved shirt and capris, and I think it gets colder here than in Alabama. It was 40 on Saturday and how I was dressed was plenty warm for me.

In that case, disregard what I said. That is not what I consider cold. LOL. I wish.

RGv2

Layers you can peel are always good.

It has been in the teens and twenties here. It's cold when you start, but you warm up prettty fast. You don't want to overdress, but if you do, it's good to have layers you can take off and be comfortable carrying.