Running in the rain

caitlinlws

Hi everyone,

I am supposed to run a 5k race tonight at 8pm. The forecast is for pouring rain, and around 38 degrees. Best way to dress to stay as comfortable as possible?
I've run in chilly temperatures, and rain, but never both at the same time!!

Any help would be appreciated!

majope

Wear a hat with a bill to keep the rain out of your eyes, and dress only slightly warmer than you would for that air temperature normally--the wet tends to make you a little colder, but not dramatically (unless maybe there's a lot of wind).

I would probably wear tights and a light jacket or long-sleeved shirt with a vest over it. I wouldn't wear gloves at that temp but my husband would, so part of it is personal comfort level.

I do think it's sort of pointless to try to stay dry in the rain. I see people at races sometimes draped in plastic bags or swerving wildly to avoid puddles and want to shake them and say "It's just water. You'll be fine!"

Best of luck with your race!

weesinglane

The last time I ran in the rain, I had a cap and light track jacket on. The cap was gold - not getting my face or hair drenched was great.

The only annoying thing was getting water in my shoes, but I guess that's unavoidable.

jacksonpt

Light wicking base layer, heavy wicking warmth layer (however warm you need), rain/wind shell.

Feet are really the hard part, not much you can do there.

SonicDeathMonkey80

Scotchgard your shoes, wear good socks, and wear some sort of wicking layers so you don't get all clammy-cold. If you're going to wear a waterproof/resistant overgarment, make sure it is well ventilated in the back and pits for sweat management. And the hat is a great idea - stay away from glasses if you can. Or you can just poke head and arm holes in a trashbag like the guy in Silver Linings Playbook