Well my friends, welcome to November! If you live in Calgary then you know that winter has arrived! With cooler temperatures and less daylight it can be really difficult to get outside for a run these days. With some great gear running at this time of year can be a really great experience though! If you can get out for a run over your lunch break you can even take advantage of the sunshine. Here are a few of my winter running favorites.
Winter running tights:
Not all running tights are created equal and it can be difficult to find a pair that really stands up to frigid winter temperatures. Anytime we get to -10C or below my go to winter running tights are the Sugoi SubZero Tight. The inside is lined with fleece and they do a good job of blocking out the cold wind. I’ve had pairs that have lasted a good 7 – 8 years so far.
Light warm layers:
The key to staying warm on a cold run is to layer well! I have a bunch of old Lululemon Cool Racerback Tanks that I tend to use as a first layer to help keep my core really warm. Next up is a light, warm long sleeve top. The Oiselle Wazzie Wool Base Layer and Lux Long Sleeve are the best in chilly temperatures. Depending on how cold it is I may just layer up with a vest on top (like the Gilman Vest or the Katron) or I may layer with another warm top with a zipper like the Oiselle Runwear Pullover or Wazzie Wool Side Zip.
A great running toque:
It can be really difficult to find cute, flattering run toques. I love my Sauce Slouchy Beanie and the Boco Performance Knit Beanie looks like it would be great as well. I love hats that have a band of fleece inside at the bottom as I find it really helps to fight the chill. If you are in Calgary and looking for a Sauce toque check out Tri It…they are in stock right now!
Mittens:
I prefer running mittens over gloves as they help to keep my hands just a bit warmer! Try the Oiselle Power Stretch Mittens or the Lululemon Run with Me Mittens.
Sunscreen:
Just because it isn’t warm out that doesn’t mean that you still can’t get sunburned. The sun’s rays will reflect off the snow, plus strong winds can wear away sunscreen and reduce its effectiveness. I really like Bare Republic Mineral Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30. It is lightweight, non-whitening, non greasy and has broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, no chemical additives, and no synthetic fragrances or parabens.
What are your must have items to get you through winter running? Is there a temperature that you will draw the line at and run indoors instead?
I’m always looking for a great sunscreen, thanks for the recommendation.
Jen recently posted…Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable
No worries! Sadly it is only available at Target but at least Target.com ships to Canada now!
Runner Leana recently posted…Favorite Cold Weather Run Gear
Not so much temperature is the problem, I’ve run at -30 C or so. I worry more about a thaw freeze thin layer of ice. Your picture showed sunglasses, but the innocent might think that was a coincidence. Not so, all the glare can be amazing. Other things, your road ID, and someone knowing where and when you are.
Don’t forget a scarf for that tricky bit at the top of your neck. Some people like to cover their nose and mouth when it gets really windy and cold. It’s important to realize the difference wind makes, and dress accordingly with a windproof layer up top when necessary. I generally wear the same shoes and socks when it’s really cold as when it’s hot, but some people need warmer socks.
Leana said layers, and that’s really important. Many people wear too much, and are too warm, leading to sweaty underbits. This is bad.
Keith recently posted…2001, a Fitness Odyssey
Great comment Keith! Yes, sunglasses are key. Even on overcast days I still need them! And yes, never leave home without a RoadID!
Thanks for your tips Keith!
Runner Leana recently posted…Favorite Cold Weather Run Gear
I never think of mittens. But you have a point. They would keep hands much warmer. Someone also mentioned using hand warmers on a blog the other day. That may be something nice to try.
lacey recently posted…Why this is a very special 5k.
Yes, hand warmers are also a great idea!! I bought a big box of them from Costco last winter. 🙂
Runner Leana recently posted…Favorite Cold Weather Run Gear
I invested in a pair of thick, lined running tights two years ago and they were so worth it! (forget what brand they are). I love your hat! Can I copy you? 🙂
Leigh recently posted…Scenes from the weekend
Leigh, I found the hat at Tri It! They might still have a few in store if you want to check them out. Sauce makes some really fun designs!
Runner Leana recently posted…Favorite Cold Weather Run Gear
Sugoi Midzero Bun Toasters (literally) saved my butt this past winter.
Erin, I had never seen those before, but they sounds like a great idea! This might help to give some of my less substantial tights a bit more life in colder temperatures. Thanks for the comment!
Runner Leana recently posted…Favorite Cold Weather Run Gear