Winter Running

Are you an avid runner, yet despise running in the freezing cold? Let me be the first to tell you, you’re not alone. With a few tips, regimes, practices, takeaways, whatever you need, you’ll be out running in the tundra in no time.

Set a Clear Goal

Sometimes the motivation we need to get our foot out the door is to have our eye on a prize. This prize could be setting a goal of running a certain number of times a week, accomplishing a mileage goal, or breaking a specific time while running. Though, rarely are records broken in winter conditions, therefore give yourself a break if the snow or cold weather slow you down naturally. Training will still be beneficial, and the results may come in the spring as a result of diligent winter training. Having an established end-goal in mind will help increase motivation and get you out there, even in the snow.

Have the Right Equipment

The rule of thumb when dressing for winter weather is to wear clothing as if it were 10 degrees warmer than it actually is. This is due to the fact that your body will warm up while running, and you don’t want to overheat.

Wearing pants designed to keep your body insulated will help, such as the Men’s Winter Warm Hybrid Pant and the Women’s Q Speed Run Crew Pant. Running tights, such as the Men’s Breath Thermo Tights and Women’s Fortify Tight, are also an option, if you prefer that style and feel.

Having a quality base layer can make all the difference in maintaining body heat and keeping you warm throughout the duration of your run. The Craft ADV Fuseknit Intensity Long Sleeve is designed for training in cold conditions, available in Men’s and Women’s. Completing the outfit with an outer layer base coat is the finishing touch on apparel. Whether you choose the Men’s Subz Jacket or Women’s Subz Jacket, or the Men’s Impact Run Winter Jacket or the Women’s ADV Warm Tech Jacket, your upper body will stay warmer for longer and bring you comfort when hitting the winter trails.

Covering your hands and head are more important than one may think. Wearing the proper gloves can keep your fingers and hands warmer for longer, avoiding discomfort and the temptation to stop your run sooner than you would like. Options for head coverage are a fleece hat, winter pom hat, Drylete Balaclava, or a headband.

Know Your Trail

It’s important to run somewhere familiar to you. Exploring new trails is difficult in the winter because you don’t always know where the path leads. Portions of trails may be icy, so it’s wise to inform a friend or family member where you are heading and how long you plan to be gone. The YakTrax Pro Traction Device will provide traction on packed snow or ice, and give confidence to conquer the trail in the dead of winter, while not compromising safety. Wearing a headlamp is smart when running early in the morning or late at night, as runners are not always easily visible to cars, bikers and other pedestrians.

Whether you already run outside consistently throughout the winter, or purposely avoid the roads and trails during the cold months, practice using these tips and tricks and find what best works for you. You never know, conquering the goal of winter running may come easier than you think. See you out there.