Running in cold weather isn’t for everyone. But for those who are preparing for events like marathons or triathlons, training must go on despite the rain, snow, and cold conditions. With the right tips and knowledge of what to wear running in cold weather, you’ll be on your way to the safest and most enjoyable cold weather running you’ve ever experienced.

Tips For Running In Cold Weather

Reward Yourself

Promise yourself a treat of some kind you can only have after you complete your run. This can help motivate you to get the job done on those days you don’t feel like running in less than favorable conditions.

Warm Up

A proper warm up can have a big impact on your run and preventing injury. Get your heart rate up in a warm environment by doing some dynamic stretches, running in place, leg swings and lunges, just to name a few. 

Choose Your Shoes Wisely

Sneakers with mesh are an open invite to cold, wet feet from snow and slush. Wearing waterproof sneakers can make all the difference in cold weather running, so make this a priority.

Light It Up

With less daylight in the winter months, chances are you’ll be ticking off miles with little light to be seen. Combined with mile-high snow banks and the random wintry mix, running in cold weather conditions can be dangerous. Don’t be afraid to wear highly reflective vests, blinking lights, and even a headlamp. The light can help you see your path so you don’t fall and injure yourself and make you visible to drivers and plow trucks.

Related: 5 Ways Winter Sports Athletes Benefit From Heated Apparel

What to Wear Running In Cold Weather

Face Mask

Breathing in bitter cold air can result in unwanted health conditions and illnesses like asthma. Wearing a face mask or balaclava can help add warmth and moisture to the air you’re breathing while keeping your skin warm, lessening the chance of getting frostbite.

Base Layers

Lightweight base layers that pull moisture away from your skin are the way to go. The last thing you want to do in the cold is trap sweat and moisture, which can put you at a higher risk for hypothermia.

Layer Smart

Keep cold-weather illnesses like hypothermia at bay by layering smart. Bundling up can result in overheating, but once you stop running you cool down very quickly. Solve this dilemma with the best heated vest for changing temperatures. If you’re running races in the cold winter months, keep your muscles warm to prevent injury with a wind and water-resistant heated jacket or heated hoodie.

Whether you’re training for your first marathon or just trying to stay active during the winter months, Gobi Heat® has the heated apparel to keep you warm and comfortable in otherwise cold and miserable conditions. 

Happy running!