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TFS’s Winter 2006
Apparel Guide (Part I)

Posted December 18th, 2006 at 12:00 PM by Carolyn Hershler

Section: Running & Training, Injury & Rehab, Gear & Apparel, Apparel, Training Tips, Health & Fitness, Injury & Rehab

The mere thought of facing brutally low temperatures, face-burning winds, rain, sleet, snow, and ice is probably enough to make most people decide against that winter run in favor of some eggnog in front of the fireplace.

However, winter running can be invigorating and really enjoyable as long as you use common sense and are properly suited with the right cold-weather running apparel.

While comfort is always a concern, you need to keep the focus on staying warm and protected from the elements. When the body is subjected to extremely low temperatures it loses heat quickly. Therefore, unprepared runners leave themselves at risk and vulnerable to hypothermia, windburn, frostbite and a winter full of injuries.

Of course, there is also a limit to how much heavy clothing you can wear before it inhibits your running or even puts you at risk for the very calamities you were trying to prevent. Matt Anderson, the owner of Fleet Fleet Sports, explains:

When one wears too many layers, it can lead to overheating. Sweat gets into the fabric and your body can get extremely cold. Overheating can [also] easily lead to hypothermia.

In order to prevent overheating, a balance must be found between keeping your body warm and allowing it to breath. To learn more about the potential dangers of harsh weather and how to avoid them, check out: Cold weather running: Tips to help you stay injury free all winter long.

The most important body part to protect is, of course, your head. Evan Roberts of Running Times Magazine writes:

Scientists estimate that 50 and 80 percent of body heat is lost through the head. Wet clothing and wet hair both dissipate heat much more rapidly than dry clothing and dry hair. Damp, sweaty hats also begin to freeze, further reducing the insulation they provide.

Therefore, a good winter hat is a real necessity. Proper heat conservation, comfort, durability, and personal preference are factors that should be considered when searching for the right hat for you. One good option is Cloudveil’s “Four Shadows Beanie.” This classically designed beanie is made with nylon, lycra, and “Coolplus” material that makes it comfortable and durable, while also providing the necessary protection to keep one’s head and ears warm.

If conventional winter hat’s are not your thing, you can opt for alternatives like earwarmers and winter “headband-esque” products. Although they are more stylish and do a good job of keeping your ears warm, you should realize that they are not quite as effective at preventing heat loss. However, if this is what you prefer or the temperature is bit milder, try 180’s earwarmers. 180s has created a twist on the traditional earwarmers by placing the supportive band around the back, as opposed to on the top of the head, which provides additional comfort. The sleek design allows room you to comfortably wear headphones or you can even purchase their models that come with built in headphones that can work with any mp3 player. 180’s “Exolite” earwarmers are specific made runners and are dubbed on their website as breathable, wind-resistant, and useful in preventing overheating.

A proper pair of gloves is another key item in protecting yourself from Mother Natures’ frigid, winter blasts. The relative temperature that you’ll be exposed to on the particular day you choose to run should determine your choice of gloves. Remember, your hands and toes are farthest from the center of your body and unless you protect these extremities, you can easily lose sensation or even develop frostbite.

In terms of form, you have the option of deciding between “glove” or “mitten” styles. The “glove” styles are key if you plan to use training assistants (like the Garmin Forerunner, etc.), mp3 players and other devices where you will require the use of your fingers. Otherwise, give “mitten” styles a try because they provide additional warmth.

One product that combines both styles is 180’s convertible running glove. The freedom of being able to use either a glove or a mitten allows runners to adjust to the different temperatures that they may experience (for example if you turn away or towards the sun or wing) and/or if you need to use your fingers.

Not quite so cold? Or maybe you’d like some extra features? No problem. Try Nike’s (Our Editor swears by them!) or Adidas’ Ultratech Running Glove. Both of these models feature areas of softer material just in case your nose is runny (a likely occurrence during long winter runs!) and strategically placed reflective strips for extra safety. The combination of personalized details and proper hand protection makes them both a good choice.

Protecting your legs against wind and the cold is also essential for a successful and enjoyable outdoor run. Since your legs are being put through the most strain, they will heat up quickly so you need find protection with breath-ability and flexibility. A good pair of running tights made from moisture wicking material will get the job done well. To combat the coldest temperatures, running tights are also great first layer to wear in conjunction with an outer layer of pants or shorts. Jessy Cummings, author of “Head-to-toe Recommendations for winter clothes,” explains:

Thermal underwear or running tights made of Thermion, Thinsulate, Thermax, Coolmax, polypropolene, and/or silk is a great wicking layer. Men need to be especially careful in freezing weather to keep this layer warm.

One of the top rated running tights for men is the Brooks Vapor-Dry 2 product. They combine “Vapor-dry” material with 7 percent spandex for a perfect balance between water-resistance and flexibility. These tights are a perfect option for mid-winter runs to keep your legs dry and warm without being overbearing.

For women, New Balance’s 508 running tights provide similar water resistance and comfort with a combination of nylon and lycra. The 508 tights are preferable to those who enjoy a more “cotton-like” feel as opposed to the Vapor Dry tights’ spandex feel. In addition, the “cotton-like” feeling allows for a more breathable fit in comparison to other running tights.

Stayed tuned for Part II of TFS’s “Winter 2006 Apparel Guide”.

Make sure check it out so you can be fully equipped for all of your winter running!

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Other research sources and for more information: [Gear Devil], [Running Times], [About.com - Winter Athletic Apparel 1], [About.com - Winter Athletic Apparel 2], [Runner’s World], [Cool Running]

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