Running in the cold can be a nightmare if you are not layering correctly. If you are not used to layering, you need to know what you should be wearing. Dressing in this way ensures you are warm while running and that you go out for your run.
Dress For Warmer Temperatures
When you look at layering, you should choose warm clothing for 10 to 20 degrees warmer than the actual temperature. Your body heats as you run and too many layers can cause you to overheat. Of course, the clothing you wear will depend on how hot or cold you are when running.
The Base Layer
To start your layering, you need to have a base layer. This will keep you warm by taking sweat away from the body and reducing cold conduction. This layer will also trap warm air close to the body to insulate you from the cold. This should be a long-sleeve top to keep your arms warm.
The base layer should be snug because loose layers allow sweat to run and pool at your waist. Your base layer will also need to be tucked into your pants for additional wind protection. There are many base layers on the market, but you can use a compression top as well.
The Second Layer
If the weather is colder, you need to have a second layer over the base layer. This should be a long sleeve running top that traps warm air. This will help insulate your body and move sweat vapor.
This second layer is not always necessary. If the temperature is currently above 50 degrees, you will often not need this layer. Adding this layer can cause you to overheat during your run.
The Running Jacket
Over the base layer or your second layer, you need to have a running jacket. Heavyweight jackets that are water and windproof while offering low-breathability and high insulation should only be used in the coldest temperatures. Most runners will use a light t midweight running jacket.
Both these jackets will be water and wind-resistant and moderately breathable. Lightweight jackets offer light insulation and should be worn in warmer times. The midweight jacket offers better insulation and can be worn over a base layer only.
The Running Bottoms
While keeping our top half warm is important, you should not neglect your lower half. If you are running in warmer temperatures of 40 to 50 degrees, you should look at wearing full-length tights. Crops and capris can also be used if you feel you will become very warm.
If the temperature is colder, you should look at tights or pants. The weight of the tights should correspond with the temperature. If you are running in single-digit temperatures, you need to look at heavyweight tights or pants. At this time, you could layer your bottoms with tights or crops under pants to stay warm.
The Right Socks
Layering for running does not end with the clothing that you can easily see. Synthetic socs are a good option because they keep your feet warm while removing sweat. However, if the temperatures are very cold, you should look at thicker socks.
During the winter, your feet will not swell as much and your shoes can accommodate the thicker socks. These socks will remove sweat and offer better insulation through trapped air. Your socks should also be quarter length to keep your ankles warm.
If you want to go running in the cold, you need to know how to layer. Layering will keep you warm as you run without hindering your stride. The amount of layering and the clothing you wear will be impacted by the temperature you are running in.