Dan said:Hi,
I am in need of some advice about running during winter. This is my
first winter season that I am going to attempt running in. I have
already done a few runs this winter with regular clothing (cotton t-
shirt, cotton sweater, nylon jacket) which really did not turn out
well. Half way through my run the sweat absorbed by the clothing
starts chilling me and makes it difficult to run. So, my question is,
dose anybody have any specific suggestions as to what clothing I
should purchase? I will need the clothing to be decently reflective
(as I always run at night) and it must be able to 'wick' away sweat.
You could move to Alaska and experience the balmy weather we've been
having, courtesy of Pacific storm (and the rain of last week). I'm sure
even cotton would work.🙁
More seriously, how cold is "cold" - +50F in FL, -20F in MN? wind? are
snow/ice an issue?
If you're sweating that much to get clothes wet, you're probably dressed
too heavily. Consider using layers and peel as needed. You will sweat
somewhat, regardless of how minimal you go - it's part of the body being
alive. You should start a little on the cool side, and you'll warm up -
or start with shell and peel.
This time of year you could probably find some great Chrismas sales at
your local Wal-Mart / Target or whatever. Just look for synthetic,
wicking clothes - stuff made from polyester, polypro, powerdry, etc.
Even acrylic will be better than cotton. Particularly for pants, be sure
to get something that's somewhat stretchy so you can move easily.
Beanie-type hat, maybe an earband, mittens. REI is finishing a sale on
Monday. Other spots to check are
www.sierratradingpost.com
www.campmor.com (good source for duofold stuff)
FWIW, I generally start with a short-sleeve wicking t, regardless of
season (have been know to peel down to this even in winter), then
long-sleeve base or insulating layer, then shell. t shirt doesn't
matter, but I like powerdry for base layer and Sporthill's Swift fabric
(like their Infusion tops) for insulating since it breathes enough for
running, but has enough wind resistance that a breeze doesn't whip
through it. I like their Catalyst for colder temps (near 0F) - a little
heavier and more wind resistant. Most shells worth getting (at least
that I've seen) are windproof / non-breathable / not waterproof. If you
can, I like them with pit-zips for ventilation, but seldom find that. I
think I've seen a few shells that may not be completely windproof, but
they still don't breathe. If I've got my layers right and it's not
windy, I generally just carry the shell (we have wind come up quickly or
even going to open field).
On bottom, I like Sporthill XC pants (windproof to about 30mph),
although they've changed the cut in recent years (more so for the women,
which makes them too baggy). In cold weather, I may use tights of
verying weights under them. If windy (above 30mph) or really cold (below
-5F), I'll add windpants with full zips (get frosted on inside where
condensation freezes).
Socks - Smartwool of various weights.
Since I usually run on trails, I worry more about getting good gear, and
then worry about adding reflective stuff if needed. Checking cycling
shops should turn up some reflective leg bands that can also be worn on
arms. I think some even come with blinking lights. Reflective vests are
probably the easiest solution.
Enjoy!
Dot
--
"A winner is just a loser who tried one more time." -Captain George M.
Moore, Jr., United States Air Force (retired),
http://www.avdlm.com/press.php?page=stories&storyid=1
