Sub-zero temperatures are in the weather forecast – it’s time to get ready for the winter running season. From a warm apartment, running outside in winter looks scary. But you should go out there and it turns out that after a couple of kilometers you warm up, it becomes warm, the frosty air invigorates you and improves your complexion, the snow-covered forest or park is beautiful, and tea after a run seems incredibly tasty.
Of course, all this is subject to the right choice of equipment for running in winter. I’ll share a list of some useful items from the experience of two winter seasons.
- spiked shoe attachments (leedos).
For jogging in the snow, any winter or trail sneakers with a tenacious embossed sole is enough. However, in our climate in winter it often happens that the temperature rises above freezing during the day, the snow melts, is covered with a layer of water, and then at night it gets below zero again, and it all turns into a real ice rink. The only thing that saves on ice is spikes, which provide maximum traction and safety while running. You can buy fancy studded sneakers, but there is a more practical inexpensive solution – overlapping spikes, aka leedostudes. - Mittens instead of gloves.
Captain Obvious Discovery – regular mittens (the kind you wore as a kid – where all fingers but the thumb are together) are much warmer than the most super-duper-duper-fancy running gloves. For my severely freezing and slowly warming hands, the mittens were a real salvation; before that, I was running in gloves with frozen hands. - Ski balaclava.
For the sensitive skin of the face of jogging in the freezing cold – doubtful fun. Horrified and shocked as I prepared for my first New Year’s Eve Yule half marathon in the sudden onset of winter, I found a successful solution – a ski balaclava.
It is a mask of technologically advanced material to protect the face and neck from chafing and frostbite. It is elastic, well-fitting, wicks away moisture. Openings are provided across the nose and mouth to facilitate breathing.
- Buff
A buff is a versatile piece of multi-purpose use: from a neck warmer and bandana to a face mask and even a handkerchief.
Usually I use it instead of a hat at temperatures from +5 to -5 when my head is still warm but my ears feel uncomfortable, especially in windy weather. Another working option – instead of a scarf around the neck. In case your face gets cold it can also work as a mask.
- Thermal underwear .
Used as a bottom layer, adhering directly to the skin, and already on top put the remaining layers on the principle of cabbage. High-quality thermal underwear actively dissipates moisture (sweat), and also allows you to keep warm during intensive physical activity. It is made of lightweight synthetic material. When buying it is better not to save money and not try to find the most budget options, and choose thermal underwear proven manufacturers.