5 Pieces Of Gear That Excite Runners About Winter Training
These five pieces of winter gear make us actually look forward to training in blustery conditions.
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As the seasons change, so too must a runner’s gear and wardrobe. I mean, it’s basically one of the reasons we run, right? Here are my five cannot live without pieces of clothing and gear that help get me through New England winters.
Brooks Canopy Jacket, $120
This lightweight, packable jacket even has a roll-away hood for when the winds kick up. With plenty of pockets and hidden thumbholes, this coat can go the distance or keep you warm and dry for a quick winter sprint. I’ve had mine for four years and counting. I load it into the washer and dryer after each use (although you’re probably supposed to hang it to dry) and it still looks new.
Trailheads Power Stretch Convertible Mittens, $30
My fingers start out freezing during winter runs and end up sweating. If you have the same issue, these mittens might be a great match for you. Simply peel back the top layer to let your digits breathe once they heat up. The best part? Your thumbs get their own layers and have a built-in magnet to keep the tiny thumb flap from flapping in the wind as you run. Genius!
Balega Hidden Dry Socks, $13
Yes, this is a $13 pair of socks–but think about how important the comfort and health of your feet is, especially in extreme temperatures. As soon as you slip these babies on and take them for a test run, you’ll be ready to buy another pair–despite the price tag. These little foot pillows are handcrafted, have a deep heel pocket with blister protection and provide the perfect amount of warmth and moisture removal.
Kahtoola NANOspikes, $50
These shoes were designed for ice, snow and pavement–and that last part is key! I don’t know about you, but most of my winter runs consist of terrain in various stages of the plowing process. Once I head out the door, I’m bound to encounter hard-packed snow, ice and wet pavement. Luckily for me, my Kahtoola spikes can handle it all–no mid-run removal necessary.
Nike Pro Warm Training Tights, $55
Winter running tights can feel like snow pants, weighing you down while feeling bulky or overly warm. Not so with the Nike Pro Warm training tights. They feel buttery soft, have some style, wash well, stay put on the run and keep your bottom half warm and dry as you run through winter.
Bonus Winter Running Tips
Newspaper
Ball up some newspaper and stick it inside your running shoes after you return from a damp run in the rain, snow or fog. The newspaper will absorb the moisture overnight so that your shoes can be dry and ready for your next planned outing.
Duct Tape
Wrap duct tape over the mesh of your shoes’ toe boxes so you don’t freeze your toes off! Yes, wool socks help, but a strip of carefully placed duct tape goes a long way in terms of insulation.
Hand Warmers
I usually buy a bulk package of 20 hand warmers at the start of the season so that I’m prepared for the duration. I start by placing one in each glove. If they get too warm as my body heat rises, I transfer them to my jacket pockets for added body heat.
How do you prepare for winter running? Tweet us @womensrunning to share your winter training plans by tagging #RunIntoWinter.
Related:
3 Tricks To Maintain Your Training Schedule Through Winter