Getting ready for winter running
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So I started to make a winter running-gear wish list – but where to start? What is the best thing to wear for an early morning jog when it’s below 20? It was time to call in the experts – Dartmouth Cross Country runners Meggie Donovan ’15 and Pete Jankovsky ’12.
Born and bred New Hampshire girl Meggie certainly isn’t averse to a bit of cold weather.
“Most people do run outside year-round”, she told me. “You get used to it! You have to wear spandex, and fleece mittens are key”.
She recommends running tights, a long-sleeved synthetic base layer, a waterproof windbreaker (I personally like [this Nike one(http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/? l=shop,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-414700) – it looks warm and the reflective strips will be great in low light) and a fleece headband. Cotton clothing is an absolute no-no – “NEVER run in sweatpants!”
Meggie’s personal cold-weather favorites are Under Armour spandex base layers and Nike zip-up pullovers for staying warm. She particularly likes the thumb holes for extra warmth and comfort.
Pete is a firm advocate of outdoor running and even runs outside during blizzards – “It’s kind of fun!” he told me. I’ll take your word for it, Pete.
He tends to run in Nike gear and keeps the same running shoes year-round, though he did tell me that it’s good to use newer shoes with better grip in the winter. Regular T-shirts are the absolute worst things you can wear, Pete told me. “They’re not as warm, and they get heavier when wet.”
For him, gloves are the most important thing of all, especially if you have any circulation trouble. These Manzella Gore-Tex gloves are sure to keep your fingers warm and toasty even in the toughest conditions.
So there you have it – everything you need to stay warm and cozy while you’re pounding the pavements this winter. Any more advice? Tweet me your suggestions @labeletrangere. Happy running, people!