Cold Weather Running Tips, Tricks & Giveaway

We have a winner!!

Zoe's Mom, send me an email at momslittlerunningbuddy at gmail dot com and we'll get the info we need to get you your gosportid!  Congrats!


We all know summer is behind us, if you live in a location that has seasonal changes then you know mornings are cold now.  Here in STL, it's currently around 45 degrees in the early morning hours and sometimes it doesn't get much warmer throughout the day. 

If you're a runner or planning to start running, this weather change presents new challenges.  You can't just through on a t-shirt and shorts and head out.  A little more planning is required and it's not just about what you wear but your safety is also something to consider.  So I thought I'd give you some tips for running in the cold.

Safety
This is a hugely important topic that shouldn't be taken lightly.  For me, safetly means being able to do the following:

1. Be comfortable with your surroundings
In the winter, we know it gets darker earlier and darker longer in the morning.  So if you're heading out to run, make sure you: pick a run route you're comfortable with and pay attention to the time of day.  If it's needed make sure you take a headlamp or knuckle lights to help you see.  A reflective vest would also be good if you're planning on running around vehicles. An pepper spray if need be.

Some of my preferred safety products are: Roadnoise Vest (seen below) | Petzl Headlamp | GoSportID

2. Communicate if needed
I always run with three things when I run outside. A phone, an ID and a small amount of money.  Why? You ask?  Caroline had an experience at Hood to Coast that explains exactly why. 

I also make sure someone knows that I am going for a run, how far I plan on going, and where I'm running.  That way they can keep track of time and will know quickly if there's a problem.

Gear
What to run in is always a game in cold weather. 

My rule of thumb is to try dress like it's Ten Degrees warmer than when you start. 

So besides that, I love to LAYER, LAYER, LAYER and be prepared to shed and possibly hold a few layers through the remainder of your run.

Accessories:
They make all kinds of hats for running but the goal is to try to keep the heat in.

  

Hands:

I wear gloves and I also use a hand warmers in my gloves.  I have had frostbite on one of my fingers (I almost lost my finger) so I pay special attention to it.  I have to make sure it stays nice and warm or pay the price.

Head:

Keeping heat in is important so try to find a hat that's comfortable.

Tops:

Depending on how cold it is, I usually wear two layers on top. A long sleeve shirt, layered with a light weight jacket or pull over.  If you're not big on wearing gloves, you can find tops that have thumb holes to cover more of your hands or some that actually roll over your entire hand like a mitten or there are always arm warmers, which I love.

Source: oiselle.com via Katie on Pinterest

Bottoms:
Running tights are great at keeping your legs warm.  They are not necessarily the most flattering but they are good option to staying warm.

Socks/Shoes:
They do make thermal socks which might be a great option if you are running in super cold.  Also, if you are planning to run in snow, first of all be careful but also, consider investing in a pair of trail shoes.  Many trail shoes are built to keep water out so it works as an added bonus when you're running in the snow. I have a pair of Salomon's and love them.

Ok, so those are my tips on gear and safety.  GoSportID has graciously offered to team up with me on this post.  What does that mean?  That means that one lucky winner will receive a goSportID. 

What do you have to do to win?
1. Go to GoSportID, leave a comment telling me what goSportID you would get
2. Leave a comment with your best Cold Weather Running Tip
3. Pin this post
4. Follow GoSportID on Twitter
5. Tweet the following:
I want to win a @GoSportID from @MomsLRB. Perfect accessory for outdoor running! http://tinyurl.com/an7jend

Winner will be chosen on Tuesday, November 6th (also known around these parts as my birthday).  :)