As I train for the half marathon, my biggest concern, as I mentioned before, is being able to run outside during the winter. The idea of doing 8-10 miles runs on the treadmill is horrifying to me. Therefore, the clear alternative is to make sure that I am getting myself outside for runs on the weekend in the middle of December when sitting inside drinking hot chocolate would seem like a better option.
Instead of bombarding Megan with endless questions, even though I know that she would happily answer them, I decided to turn to Runners World for some advice.
My biggest concern and source of excitement when it comes to running in the winter involves clothing. I want to make sure that I am dressed properly, but honestly, I love the idea of getting some new, awesome apparel! My mom is already asking me what I want for Christmas, so it seems like the perfect time to figure out some nice running-related wish list items.
Here’s what it sounds like I need so far:
- Long spandex pants: I currently only have mid-calf length spandex. Megan already warned me that freezing cold ankles are not ideal, so these are definitely on the wish list.
- Long sleeve technical tee: I have one, but I would like to up this to three. Just because. And apparently there are shirts with thumbholes?! Count me in. Love it.
- Short sleeve technical tee: I don’t have any of these. I have only been running in cotton t-shirts, and it seems like getting a couple of short sleeve technical t-shirts would be helpful for layering and nice when Spring/Summer come around.
- Vest: I don’t know why, but I’m super psyched about getting a vest. I like the idea of keeping my core warm, while allowing my arms to remain a little lighter. Plus, I really think that they’re cute.
- Jacket: I have no appropriate running jackets. I know that these can be costly, so I have to do some more research to figure out some good ones. Suggestions are welcome!
- Gloves: Ugh, I don’t like the idea of running with gloves on. Unlike Megan, I don’t mind wearing gloves in general, but I’d prefer to not wear them while running. However, it seems like if it gets really cold, they may be necessary. We’ll see.
I think that you have to figure out what works best for you, but Runner’s World has some helpful tools for what to wear depending on the temperature.
Go here and you can enter in temperature, wind, conditions (e.g., sun, overcast, etc.) and whether you like to be warm or cool during runs, and it will suggest an outfit for you! Pretty nice. Or if you don’t want to put in data, this article was pretty good too.
I am “nervous” about winter running, but mostly, I’m really excited! When it comes to working out, I actually enjoy feeling like I’m hardcore. I like the idea of waking up and heading outside when most people are hunkering down indoors. The best part is that I know that I won’t be the only one out there. I’m going to try my hardest to look the best 
, but we’ll all be in it together.
Felicia – Don’t forget to cover that head! You may laugh as I tell you that I live and train in Austin, TX – but we have our share of cold mornings in the winter, and I travel to the NE quite a bit for work. Actually was able to train in Central Park last week, which is one of my favorite runs.
Making sure you have a few different weight hats makes a big difference as well. For guys, a skull cap from under armour when it is between 40 and 45 degrees and then a warmer hat (fleece) for anything below 35 degrees and it will make a big, big difference.
The other key investment is gloves for sure. Nothing worse than cold fingertips to ruin a morning run. Don’t skimp here as running gloves vs. other gloves have great features such as soft material over the backs of the fingers in case you need to wipe your nose/face during your run — makes all the difference in the world in the winter.
Best of luck! Enjoy those winter months – great for PR’s!
Thanks for the tips! I only thought briefly about hats, but it sounds like I should definitely add that to my list. And even though I don’t like the idea of running with gloves on, I’m guessing that running with freezing cold fingers is much worse.
Running in the winter is definitely going to be a new experience for me, but I’m absolutely looking foward to it. It’s time for me to start doing some research into some of the better products out there. I know there are a lot of options. Thanks again!
I like headbands more than hats. But not the Blair Waldorf kind (if only…)–the kind that jsut cover your ears. Better for pony-tails.
Also, there’s an article in the NYT about exercising in the winter that touches on that same thing that you say in the end about feeling hardcore and part of an elite club!!
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/12/health/nutrition/12best.html?_r=1&ref=fashion
Also, running vests are my favorite thing i own. i try to wear them as often as possible. And i get super excited and compliment excessively when others wear them.
I have never seen you run in a vest, Jane. Are you just sucking up to Felicia??!
Awesome tips! As a novice runner I’m dealing with the same issues…and in NYC too…totally helpful info…I’ll be prepared…hopefully the winter won’t be too bad!
I feel like last winter was pretty cold in the city, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that this one will be mild!
Re: gloves. Hardware stores sell these super cheap cotton gardening gloves, maybe $1 a pair. They keep your hands just a little warm… but then if you get too hot on a run, you can tuck them behind a tree and not worry if they get stolen. Amazing.
I definitely would have never thought of that. Great idea.