Cool Weather Running Essentials

Layer, run, repeat.

I think the worst of summer is finally behind us, Angels. So let’s give out a big “HOORAY!” because this past summer was the hottest on record, and you all survived. Congrats.

Now that you’ve defeated the heat, it’s time to turn your attention to summer’s miserly adversary: winter. You don’t need too much, but you do need a few basics to get you through the season.

• Outer Layer (that’s fancy talk for a jacket): A solid outer layer is a bit of an investment piece, but it’s one that you’ll use for years to come. I have a Nike fleecy zip-up with thumbies that is my go-to jacket for winter running. I can layer it with with different weights underneath, and unzip it if I get hot. Personally, I don’t like a hood flopping around when I run, so I’d suggest steering away from those. Added bonus if you can pull the zipper both ways, because it’s nice to unzip the bottom of your jacket, while keeping it secure at your shoulders.
• Fleece-lined Tights: Most likely, you’ve already got a pair of tights in your aresenal. But when it gets cold — really cold — you need more protection from the elements. When your thighs get so cold they go numb, it’s an odd (and not in a good way) sensation. Rather than layer standard running tights underneath pants (it’s impossible to keep your pants up and your tights down, and it’s, just, NO), go for a heavier pair of tights. They should feel like fleece on the inside.
• Light-weight Ear Cover: I have a couple fleece ear bands, and they’re all way too hot for running. Believe you me, sweaty fleece on your head is nasty. Really, you just need a lil’ something to prevent frostbite because you’re generating more than enough heat once you start moving. Look for something that wicks sweat and easily covers your ears. I like this Lululemon headband because it keeps hair outta my face, too.
• Light-weight Gloves: The same goes for hands and ears. You don’t need much, just enough to break the wind. So step away from the heavy fleece gloves, and scoop up a pair of lightweight runners. Added bonus if they have a key pocket like these Nike gloves.
• Taller Socks: Normally, I hate it when socks come anywhere near my ankles. It breaks up my leg line and makes me look like a hobbit. But if it’s cold and you’re wearing long pants anyway, you’ll feel a thousand times warmer if you’ve got your ankles covered. I love the warmly comforting feel of SmartWool’s socks when it’s chilly outside.
• Base Layer: Think of this as your second skin. I honestly haven’t found anything that keeps the warm in as well as the Under Armour compression mocks, and they’re worth every penny. It’s like wearing a furnace. If you’ve never worn a base layer before, you might feel weird about how tight it is, but that’s part of why it works. Just layer over the top, and stop worrying about what it looks like.

And that sums up my list of essentials. If any Christmas elves are listening, however, I’d really like to add this little number to my arsenal. Mmmmkay? — Aidz