2020 is Coming to an End

The year with 1000 memes about how horrible it was will be behind us shortly.

As I ran around Buffalo (I think this is the longest stretch that I have been only here in YEARS), I noticed a lot of people had taken up some new sports. Early bike adopters were the lucky wone…bikes can’t be found to purchase anywhere, and there were a lot of new faces running around town.

I really hope those of you who are new to running stick with it! It definitely kept me sane during some stressful times and also helped keep my fitness up…despite every race being canceled around the world.

Winter is coming…

Summer was very hot here. Even though there wasn’t the usual stuff to do, running through summer could be brutal.

Dave and I went on a lot of 5:45 am runs to keep to the cooler part of the day.

Now that the days are getting shorter (and 5:45 am is pitch black), it is time to get out the winter running gear. Although running in the mornings is much easier when it is light, running when it is colder can be more comfortable (well, until it gets to be close to or below zero) if you have the right equipment.

Gear for Colder Weather

My number one pick for winter running has to be a lighted running vest. I find that on early morning runs commuters can be a pretty oblivious bunch. Most drivers are not expecting to see pedestrians or runners early in the morning on their way to work…or at least they drive like that is true.

Having a lighted/reflective vest gives drivers something to catch their attention, and I definitely feel like it has made a difference.

My first “cold” run of the season was last week. Once the temperature dips into the 20’s I use a base layer to help keep me warm. It is important to make sure whatever you choose as the layer against your skin is going to get rid of sweat as well. Otherwise you will be cold during the run and FREEZING if you have to walk at all.

Under Armor for me has been my running go to. I do have other things that I love (including this Kari Traa Base Layer), but I always end up with Under Armor.

Gloves are a must for me, especially now that I think I have some arthritis going on in my fingers. Have you ever gotten back from a cold run and can’t open the door because your hands are so cold? It can be hard to even turn off your watch!

When it is bone-chilling out there, I use two layers on my hands. The base layer is thinner and then I have another pair that is thicker with a mitten over-lay. If it gets too warm, this allows me to remove a layer while still protecting my hands.

Good running socks are a must no matter what temperature you are running at, but in the winter you may need more protection than the usual no-show socks. I like my socks to go up the leg a bit for added warmth and comfort and if I step in an icy puddle (which happens more than I care to count) having the extra layer between my pants and my leg is great!

Have you ever been on a run and feel a breeze on your chest? Even if I am wearing two layers and a jacket, there can be a little area there that gets cold. I like to think I’m running so fast I’m creating enough wind to feel it, but that is definitely not what’s going on, lol. A neck warmer will keep that area warm and you can pull it onto your face if it is windy or snowy.

You should be wearing a hat, and it is a personal preference whether you like a full hat or just an ear warmer type one. I mostly wear a full hat, because I like to pile my hair up into it instead of putting my hair in a ponytail all the time (if you have hair issues from running or have thin hair like me, this post and this YouTube video talk about what you can do).


Last year it started snowing and my husband had forgotten to put on his hat. We ended up changing our original route so it would take us past a running store so we could get him one! He bought a balaclava as well and we went on our merry way…with him being very relieved and much more comfortable.

Finally, a jacket that is made for the cold and for running can make even the coldest run bearable. We all warm up as we go, but you need something that keeps all that warmth in.

I am so happy I found this Under Armor Infrared jacket. I had a different one the past few years, but I liked the one my husband had which had a slimmer fit and just seemed so much nicer.

It really keeps in the heat. If the temps are cold but not freezing I go back to my old one because I get too hot!

Running Through the Winter

If you are wanting to do winter running and are like me (and, like me, you aren’t confident that racing will be a “thing” in 2021 either) you may need a training plan to get you through.

It can be too easy when the weather is cold and gray and snowy to warm your feet by the fire and say you’ll go out tomorrow.

Since I mostly run Spring marathons, training needs to start in mid-January. This makes it impossible to keep putting off runs indefinitely, for my running fitness will suffer if I don’t get them in.

I can put one off for a day maybe, but then the next day it needs to happen to stay on track.

With so many races on hold, I know it will take a lot of will power on 15 F days to suit up and go if I’m not really training for anything.

Plan your Winter Running

I suggest you plan out your winter season of running, even if you are not going to race.

You can find tons of schedules online or in books or get yourself a coach. Coaches are not just for elite runners, and even if you are a beginner you may want to look into what is available in your area. Virtual coaches are also all over the internet. You should do your research to see what is best for you and that the person is a reputable coach.

I usually write my own plan and am pretty good about sticking with it, but if I don’t have one it is too easy to skip runs. I also tend to be less motivated in the winter anyway (marathon training keeps me going), so I know it will be important for me to have some sort of schedule in place in order to get me up and out the door. Having a runner as a spouse will also help with that!

If you have any questions regarding planning out your winter running, send me an email at sherry@wrinkledrunner.com or use the contact form here on the website. I’d be glad to help.