It’s freezing here in San Francisco! The highs are in the upper 40s and the lows are in the low 30s (Fahrenheit). Yes, I admit it, I’ve grown soft (temperature tolerance only) living in Northern California. I left the Northeast in 1996 after a brutal winter where two feet of snow fell every other week. These days, I prefer choosing to see snow only when I’m snowboarding. Given my soft state, any day below 50 degrees F is cold!
For all of you who are experiencing a real winter, Runner’s World has a good article about winter running apparel in the February issue. The article discusses taking a layered approach with a base layer, a thermal layer and an outer layer to keep warm and dry without overheating.
“Base Layer - No matter what material your base layer is made of, it should cover as much skin as possible without being too bulky. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and polypropylene are designed to wick sweat from the skin without absorbing it. Wool absorbs the moisture vapor generated between your skin and the fabric as you sweat but keeps you warmer than cotton when wet.
- Outdoor Research Sequence Long Sleeve Tee - It’s best for humid climates and for runners who tend to sweat a lot, since its blend of polyester and Merino wool is effective at wicking away moisture away from the skin.
- Brooks HVAC Pulse Seamless Long Sleeve Shirt - The nonchafing seams and stowaway mittens (women’s) or thumb holes (men’s) make this formfitting shirt suitable for high-intensity workouts when the weather turns chilly.
- GoLite DriMove Zip Top - The top’s loose fit and half-zip design make it ideal for training runs in cooler climates or as a companion to a water resistant shell.
Thermal Layer - Like an extra blanket on your bed, a good thermal layer traps body heat without adding bulk. A thermal layer can come in a variety of forms, from a heavyweight half-zip shirt to a cushy microfleece pullover. This layer should be made of synthetic or wool fabrics (avoid cotton) to continue the moisture-wicking process started at the base layer.
- Asics Thermopolis Lite Crew - The top’s soft and stretchy polyester/lycra fabric also excels at moisture management and breathability; when paired with a light shell, it’s great in everything but the most frigid weather.
- The North Face Quilted Hybrid Jacket - More snug-fitting hoodie than jacket, this tip includes thumbholes to help protect your hands from the cold.
- Gramicci Cross Country Zipneck - This midweight shirt is best worn over a base layer in cool conditions or under a light jacket in cold weather.
Outer Layer - For your final line of defense, look for a lightweight jacket that won’t change into a sauna midway through a run. Your water-resistant shell should keep light rain and snow at bay and regulate your temperature by allowing excess warmth to escape through vents. Switch to a fully waterproof jacket when the weather gets really fierce.
- Adidas adiStar Gore Windstopper Jacket - Its water-resistant Gore Windstopper fabric and a soft lined, stand-up collar keep icy gusts from penetrating your core.
- Pearl Izumi Torrent Jacket - The shoulders, arms and removable/stowable hood are made of waterproof polyester to prevent moisture from soaking through in heavy rain or snow, while the rest of the jacket is made of breathable, water-resistant polyester.
- New Balance Nemo Jacket - Despite being seam-sealed, the jacket maintains a comfortable temp inside by using a large rear vent to disperse excess heat.”
What goes on the lower part of your body depends on the weather and how comfortable you are with “spandex” fitting clothing. I’m partial to Under Armour or Pearl Izumi pants/tights. I have used Under Armour Cold Gear Leggings and shirts for running, cycling and as a base layer while boarding with great results.
Finally, to keep your fingers warm and toasty, don’t forget about running gloves. Despite the frigid temps in Northern California (hey, it’s all relative), I’m going to continue running with many layers on. And remember… cotton kills!
