Running when it's fa-fa-freezing...

TminusFitnessN321
TminusFitnessN321 Posts: 58 Member
edited November 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
I've started running now, yay me, but I'm having a hard time with the cold weather. Any clothing tips or running tips for a cold newbie like me? Sometimes my treadmill gives me cabin fever. Thank you.

Replies

  • tallmama3
    tallmama3 Posts: 22 Member
    the good old layering works, first few winter runs I over dressed and wasnt't able to dress down so it sucked! it will be a bit of trial and error on what you need for your body. Running spikes are a must! I also seem to do better with a light weight buff over my face. Other days I just embrace the treadmill!!
  • TminusFitnessN321
    TminusFitnessN321 Posts: 58 Member
    That's what I'm experiencing now lol. More error than trial. What's a buff?
  • redpandora56
    redpandora56 Posts: 289 Member
    Running gloves and one of those ear warmer headband thingies are my go to items! The rest I leave to layering, long sleeve top with a jacket or fleece over it is usually enough. When it's really cold I have extra thick running tights that are lined with this fleecey velvety stuff that are great.
  • yesimpson
    yesimpson Posts: 1,372 Member
    I find a scarf makes a huge difference. The cold air really affects my throat and chest especially when I first set out. It might not be a terrible idea to run laps round your house/street/block when you first try, so if you have too many/not enough clothes in you can nip back inside and layer yourself more appropriately!
  • getalife9353
    getalife9353 Posts: 100 Member
    For cold weather activity I always use a three layer approach. First layer is a wicking layer to pull moisture away from my skin, second layer is insulating layer for thermal protection, third layer is a barrier layer to protect from the elements (wind, rain, snow) if needed. I want to control moisture as much as anything so use synthetic fabric or wool as they do not hold moisture. For the barrier layer use a breathable fabric like Gore-Tex or similar, or a jacket with zippers that allow venting. A scarf or buff for the neck is helpful and of course gloves and good insulating socks (again synthetic or wool). Avoid cotton as it will hold the moisture from your perspiration and can lead to chilling. In general try to dress as if the temperature was 20 degrees (F) warmer for high energy activities (running, cycling, etc) and 10 degrees (F) warmer for low energy activities such as walking.
  • LoneWolfRunner
    LoneWolfRunner Posts: 1,160 Member
    It's just trial and error, but when you find what works you will find ways to dodge the mill all the time... I ran in -19F windchill this morning and was cozy warm the whole time...
  • Elise4270
    Elise4270 Posts: 8,375 Member
    The running buff is like a baklava. (I think). It covers your head face throat and neck. I priced them yesterday ~30$. Didn't get it cuz I was sure I wouldn't get out no matter how many layers I had! Saw this one at hibbitt sports
  • 3dogsrunning
    3dogsrunning Posts: 27,167 Member
    Every winter it takes me a little bit to figure out how to dress again but like the person above, I start with a wicking layer, a tshirt or long sleeve, then a warm layer or two depending on how cold. Then the barrier. I just wear my regular spring running jacket, the wind breaker type.
    I did end up buying a down filled winter running jacket from lululemon on sale and it was one of the best purchases. Most of the time I don't need more than a long sleeve wicking shirt under it. Not a "must have" but certainly a "nice to have".
    On the bottom I strongly suggest investing in a good pair of winter running tights. It makes a big difference. I also have another pair of winter running pants that I bought at the running store but mostly I just wear tights.
    Then a hat and gloves or mittens.
    Recently I started wearing a balaclava on the really cold day (I ran -20C the other day). I would imagine the scarf or buff suggestion would achieve the same.

    You should be cold when you start out. If you are warm at the start you will get too warm while running.
  • yesimpson
    yesimpson Posts: 1,372 Member
    3dogsrunning wrote: »
    You should be cold when you start out. If you are warm at the start you will get too warm while running.

    Absolutely. Much better to achieve and keep a comfortable body temperature once you're running than dress for one immediately because you'll be sweating like a hog ten minutes in.

    I actually find colder temperatures more comfortable to run in than hotter ones, because waiting to keep warm motivates me to keep going!

  • TminusFitnessN321
    TminusFitnessN321 Posts: 58 Member
    Thanks, everyone.
This discussion has been closed.

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