Tips for Fall / Winter running
Thinking about braving the weather and running with the group for the winter? Great! Running in winter is as much fun and certainly can be as comfortable as summer running (well, almost).
- The trick for winter running is to layer up. Avoid cotton or other natural fibres in favour of synthetics/microfibres that wick away moisture and keep you dry.
- As the weather turns colder (like now), start with a light short- or long-sleeved t-shirt and add a mid-weight layer or shell. You can buy light, mid-weight, and heavy-weight inner layers, and use your judgment about how many layers to wear depending on the conditions as it gets colder.
- Once the weather turns cool, a shell is a must. You'll want one that breathes well and provides cover for the inside layers. A good shell keeps wind out and warmth in.
- Running pants come in various weights too. You can wear regular weight pants in the cooler weather and add synthetic underwear on the very cold days. But again, it's all about judgment. No two people feel the cold in the same way. If you're cold, go for a heavier weight pant and add the underwear when you feel you need them. Women tend to get colder in the lower half than men, so keep this in mind.
- Shoes tend to be the same regardless of the season. Feet tend not to get cold if you're always moving. But hats and gloves are a must, as is a balaclava for extreme days. You don't want to freeze! All these items should be synthetic so that they will breathe well.
- I'm a big fan of Bushtukah, located at Richmond and Kirkwood (across the street from the new Loblaws). They have lots of volume and their prices tend to be lower. Ask their sales people for help. They're all very knowledgeable about clothing.
- Best advice: don't run on extreme days, days that are too icy or slippery, or in heavy snowstorms. Experience shows that there are really only about 10 days or so in a typical winter when you should not be running. Otherwise, get out there and enjoy!
- Want more advice? Don't hesitate to ask when we're together on Tuesdays or Saturdays, or send me an e-mail.
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