I’ve learned something about myself over the last few months: I really enjoy running in the cold, and in the dark. I’m not talking sub zero temps here, but 35-45 degrees is my sweet spot. I love getting bundled up and starting out cold, then warming up, but still never overheating. And when I run in the dark I can’t see very far in front of me, so it keeps me guessing about how far I have to go. So I just keep going.
After I did my half marathon a year ago, I took a long break from running. I didn’t think I would, and then it just happened. I didn’t start back with running consistently until October of last year. At first I wasn’t sure if it would last, but when I discovered my new found love for cold weather running I became hooked.
Having good cold weather running gear is really important as the temperatures continue to dip close to, or below, freezing. No one wants frost bite. The key items I wear to keep me warm are lined pants, gloves, a headband that covers my ears, and 2 top layers, usually a tank or tee and a long sleeved jacket or shirt with thumb holes. I also like to have my neck covered if it’s below 40, so I always wear a running jacket or sweatshirt with a collar on those days.
If you’re in under freezing temps in your area, I’d also recommend a running vest. It will help keep your core temp up.
I’ve rounded up some of my favorite cold weather items for you, in case you too want to start hitting the pavement (or trail) in this cold weather.
Question of the day: Do you like to run in the cold? What do you wear to keep warm when exercising in this cold weather?
I need some new workout pants, mostly for the gym, but for outside running as well!! I never thought of a running vest, but I miss running in the winter up here and that would probably help!! xo, Biana – BlovedBoston
I prefer to run in the cold vs running in the heat–but this is my first winter doing it and there’s definitely a learning curve! While I was pretty comfortable on my run the other day (30), I didn’t have gloves and I thought my fingers were going to snap off!! So when I went out last night, I added a fleece over my under armor, a headband over my ears and gloves–and I was perfectly comfortable through the entire run!! Thanks for sharing your specific gear–I’ll have to add some of it to my list!
I’m so with you on running in the dark – it makes a dramatic difference on how far I can go without really “noticing”! But no no no on the cold. I freeze out at 50 degrees. How do you keep your nose from getting so congested and runny that it ruins the run? (Real question)
Man I wish I could get on board with running in the cold. I guess it’s because I grew up with the heat, but I’d much rather run in the heat. We’ve been saying we’ll go for a run in the cold here…I suppose we’re making ourselves by doing a 5k this weekend :-p We’re so not prepared! These are great clothing suggestions, Tiffany!
Girl! I HATE the cold. Hate it! To me, there is no point in being out in it 😉 So, I just go to the gym everyday instead! Bless people who go outside 😉 haha
We are so the opposite! Love the cold and snow! A clear, crisp day is my favorite this time of year. I hate the heat when it’s over 90….I just feel like I can’t breathe when it’s so hot.
I definitely don’t love the cold, but I love your suggestions for what to wear since it’s probably going to be pretty cold for the next three months!
It is so much nicer to run outside when it finally cools down here in FL. There is nothing worse then running in 90+ heat with humidity! The cold cold though?……that would require some fleece lined run pants and ear warmers 😉
I do actually like running in the cold. Er… Well, if the 40s can be called “cold”. I think that’s my sweet spot. When I ran my half marathon it was in the low twenties and misting… my eye lashes froze off. If I wasn’t having such a great time I would have been miserable.
Do I like to run?! No.
LOL okay now that I answered that question, I could totally “want” to run with all the cute gear you shared here. Soooo awesome!
I’m 10 days into my bodyweight training exercises by the way. I think this routine might actually stick!
Wishing you a lovely day.
xoxo
LOL! This post is funny for me since I live in Florida. You would melt here, as I would turn into an ice cube there, but it’s what we are used to. I wanted to read this post anyway, because 1. I like you, your blog & your posts. I try never to miss one – my holiday break does not count 😉 – 2. Cute workout gear, hot or cold, I wanna see cute clothes, lol and 3. I love to work out. I view your work outs you posts, nice!! I just got some cute black and hot pink work out gear from Old Navy. I don’t know what it is, when I think I look cute, or at least TRY to, I just feel better inside 🙂 Nice post! xo love, cindy 🙂
I def agree about the vest- I love them because they aren’t super heavy! but still warm!
Would love if you could pop over and enter my giveaway today!
Coffee Beans and Bobby Pins
I don’t even run, but I’m still thinking I need that vest! 🙂
HAHAHA! You need that vest just for the cold winter months out there Jenny. 🙂
I’m with Jennifer…I don’t like to run but I want to wear all of this stuff LOL. Dang girl you are awesome to get out when it’s cold and dark to go running, that kind of weather just makes me want to snuggle up and sleep. I’m sure it does you too but you have this little thing called MOTIVATION and DRIVE that I’m lacking lol. Very awesome, I liked to hear your reasoning for running in the dark, that makes a lot of sense!