Vi’s Brisk Guide to Cold Weather Running Gear
The transition from late winter to early spring is a perfect time for running. But before you lace up your shoes for an outdoor workout with Vi, trust your gut over the groundhog and dress accordingly. Check out this list of the best cold weather running clothes and gear to pair with your favorite set of smart headphones.
Must-Have Cold Weather Running Gear (from the top)
Free Shipping on all domestic orders at GetVi.com!
● Wind- and waterproof clothing: Running in the winter is an impressive feat in and of itself—there’s no need to taunt Mother Nature and her whims. Prepare for cold weather running with durable basics that will protect you from wind, rain, sleet, and or snow.
● Headband/Beanie: Soft and warm coverage is essential for keeping your head and ears safe from the cold. Bonus points if it is designed with reflective lining to make yourself more easily spottable on the road. (Writers Choice)
● Sunglasses: A clear day with snow/ice on the ground will have the suns powerful rays hitting you from all directions. Running with your face relaxed is important when conserving, so it is best not to be squinting during this important workout. Good quality + durable + low cost = best choice. (Writers Choice)
● Buff: A personal staple for all my winter runs, a good buff gives you maximum flexibility by covering everything from your entire head to just your neck. (Writers Choice)
● Running Vest: Keeping your core warm without restricting arm swings is the ideal winter strategy. A well-made, durable and lightweight will be your best friend when those temps are dropping below freezing. (Writers Choice)
● Long-sleeve base layer coverage: These are the bread and butter of cold weather sports gear. Stock up on long-sleeve shirts of varying warmth and thickness to use as a base layer on your runs in the cold. (Writers Choice)
● Gloves: Whether you’re sprinting on a treadmill or curling up next to a fire, your hands always seem to be the last to get the memo. Running gloves are made with varying degrees of warmth and functionality, so any runner looking for cold weather gear is sure to find a glove that fits their exercise needs and lifestyle. (Writers Choice)
● Compression running tights: Many runners have a preference for tights over shorts in the cold weather for warmth alone, but wearing compression tights improves overall circulation, which can help remove fatigue-inducing waste material from the muscles, thus improving endurance. Compression tights also help athletes’ muscles work more efficiently, so they could expend less energy while running at fast speeds. (Writers Choice)
● Running socks: While you can layer shirts, pants, and tights to your heart’s avail, you only get 1-2 chances with socks before feeling chafed or otherwise uncomfortable on your cold weather run. Avoid cotton whenever possible and stick with performance wool or moisture wicking, synthetic socks. (Pro tip: when wearing your compression tights, go with crew socks to avoid serious ankle chaffing.) (Writers Choice)
● Shoes: La Sportiva running shoes are constantly gaining attention, thanks to its high ratings and great reviews written by trail runners. Aside from mountain running, the brand also features running shoes for climbing and hiking. Whether cold pavement or icy trails, Under Armour is a great option for cold weather running. (Writers Choice)
● Headband/Beanie: Soft and warm coverage is essential for keeping your head and ears safe from the cold. Bonus points if it is designed with reflective lining to make yourself more easily spottable on the road. (Writers Choice)
● Sunglasses: A clear day with snow/ice on the ground will have the suns powerful rays hitting you from all directions. Running with your face relaxed is important when conserving, so it is best not to be squinting during this important workout. Good quality + durable + low cost = best choice. (Writers Choice)
● Buff: A personal staple for all my winter runs, a good buff gives you maximum flexibility by covering everything from your entire head to just your neck. (Writers Choice)
● Running Vest: Keeping your core warm without restricting arm swings is the ideal winter strategy. A well-made, durable and lightweight will be your best friend when those temps are dropping below freezing. (Writers Choice)
● Long-sleeve base layer coverage: These are the bread and butter of cold weather sports gear. Stock up on long-sleeve shirts of varying warmth and thickness to use as a base layer on your runs in the cold. (Writers Choice)
● Gloves: Whether you’re sprinting on a treadmill or curling up next to a fire, your hands always seem to be the last to get the memo. Running gloves are made with varying degrees of warmth and functionality, so any runner looking for cold weather gear is sure to find a glove that fits their exercise needs and lifestyle. (Writers Choice)
● Compression running tights: Many runners have a preference for tights over shorts in the cold weather for warmth alone, but wearing compression tights improves overall circulation, which can help remove fatigue-inducing waste material from the muscles, thus improving endurance. Compression tights also help athletes’ muscles work more efficiently, so they could expend less energy while running at fast speeds. (Writers Choice)
● Running socks: While you can layer shirts, pants, and tights to your heart’s avail, you only get 1-2 chances with socks before feeling chafed or otherwise uncomfortable on your cold weather run. Avoid cotton whenever possible and stick with performance wool or moisture wicking, synthetic socks. (Pro tip: when wearing your compression tights, go with crew socks to avoid serious ankle chaffing.) (Writers Choice)
● Shoes: La Sportiva running shoes are constantly gaining attention, thanks to its high ratings and great reviews written by trail runners. Aside from mountain running, the brand also features running shoes for climbing and hiking. Whether cold pavement or icy trails, Under Armour is a great option for cold weather running. (Writers Choice)
How to Find the Best Cold Weather Running Gear
When shopping for cold weather running gear, warmth isn’t the only factor to consider. The clothes on your back during a cold weather run can make a dramatic difference in how you recover. Look for socks with compressive fabric to relieve the stress on your calves, ankles, and feet as you run. In performance tights, highly elastic fabric will cushion your knees and prevent thigh muscle fatigue. Lastly, maintain a balance between warmth and breathability in your cold weather running gear. Your body creates about 10 degrees of its own heat while running, so avoid overloading yourself in weight and layers before you start.
When to Wear Cold Weather Running Gear
Whether you are starting a new habit of running or looking to build endurance, nothing says dedication like a cold weather workout. Equipped with Context Awareness and four aerospace-grade biosensors, Vi will be the first to warn you if it looks a bit too brisk out for your usual workout attire.
As you get closer to your cycling or running goals, trust in your AI fitness coach to keep human limitations in mind and best interests at heart. Before you hit the cold, open road, warm your muscles with a dynamic stretching routine and have faith that with Vi on your team, there’s no finish line out of reach.
