What to wear when running in autumn? – running clothes for cold weather

Autumn is a period when the sun is getting less and less. It is cold and cloudy outside. It often rains and there is a cold wind. These weather factors certainly discourage many runners from going outside. However, if you want to exercise even in such unfavorable weather, you should choose the right clothes. Surely you are wondering what to wear running in the cold weather. 

You’ve come to the right place, because you’re about to learn everything important to prepare for running during autumn and when it’s cold and windy.

How do you adjust your running clothes according to the air temperature?

It may seem that the choice of clothes is simple after all. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is important to remember not to dress like a snowman because while running our body will warm up, and we will be much warmer. Not sure how many layers to wear, and what parts of your closet to put on? There is a way to do it. 

If you want to be well-prepared to go out, go out on the balcony before leaving the house. If you’re chilly, that’s fine. It is because by running, you will warm up quickly. During the run itself, you are supposed to be warm, and comfortable, which in turn means that you have to endure a little chill at first. On the other hand, if you’re warm and comfortable after just going out, it’s essential to go back and leave one of the layers you’re wearing on or replace your current clothes with thinner ones.

There is one rule that says to dress for running as if it were 10 degrees more than it actually is. Of course, this rule does not necessarily work in your case. By trial and error, you will gain experience and know how to dress for an autumn run or when the weather outside is unfavorable. 

How many layers of clothing to wear for running? 

If you want to be comfortable and convenient, you need to take care of the right number of layers of running clothes. You should put on 2 or 3 thin layers. Such a running kit has many advantages. 

First of all, if you get too hot, you can easily and quickly remove one layer of clothes and enjoy more comfort while running.

What’s more, by choosing the right materials that are thermal and also thermoactive, you make sure that moisture is wicked away. Thus, you are assured that they will not chill you and provide good insulation.

Running clothes for cold weather – of which should consist of 3 layers of clothes 

1. First layer – the base of the clothing

Underwear (bra and thermal briefs), a tight blouse, and legging. They should be thermoactive: they insulate well, wick moisture to the outside, and provide ventilation – the clothes are breathing. What is also a good idea is to wear a sweatshirt with pockets on the back to store removed clothes.

2. Second layer – when it’s very cold outside 

This layer is simply winter running clothes. It’s best to put this layer when the temperature is close to zero or below zero. On the other hand, when you are a chilly person, and it’s only about 4-5 degrees outside, don’t hesitate to put it on. It should be looser than an insulating air cushion can form between the first layer and the second one. 

What clothing will work best for this layer and temperature? A great idea is to wear a thin fleece. This clothing can be an example of an insulating layer.

3. Third layer – protection against strong wind and rain, when temperatures are below 10 degrees. 

Running in autumn? What to wear when outside, the temperature is below 10 degrees? It is the time when you can wear a thin and light windproof jacket or even a sweatshirt for winter running, which does not let the air through. This will protect you from the cold. 

What to wear for running in the rain? Simply put on a rain jacket. These jackets should take up really little space when rolled up or folded, and it’s best if they roll up into their own pocket. A good running wind jacket is made of thin material that protects from wind and even light rain.  

Running in autumn – what to wear when it’s cold outside?

As we mentioned earlier, clothing for this type of weather and season should be appropriate and made of technical or thermoactive materials. Why? They wick moisture to the outside. This provides great comfort while running. 

Moreover, if you want to feel comfortable, you must avoid cotton socks and hats or beanies. Wet feet and head from sweat during training are not pleasant, and it is a simple way to catch a cold. 

So, you may ask what to wear running in cold weather. The first rule is not to overheat your body. 

Cold weather – running clothes appropriate for the weather 

You definitely want to choose clothes that are comfortable and do the job. Here are some tips on how to do it!

Jacket

• light and thin, which will fit your figure, 
• longer back of the jacket to protect the kidneys and bottom from the cold, 
• should not restrict the range of motion – comfort is the priority, 
• reflectors to improve the runner’s visibility, 
• should be rainproof or windproof, 
• should wick moisture to the outside and have ventilation holes, 
• have a hood to protect against rain and wind. 

Running shoes

• waterproof membrane, 
• more built-up upper,
• an outsole that does not slip on wet surfaces. 

Socks

• made of moisture-wicking material,
• you can purchase waterproof socks, 
• should be long – they should reach at least past the ankle (so they protect the Achilles tendon, which is exposed to the cold). 

Protect upper body parts – head, ears, sinuses, throat  

There are a lot of running clothes for cold weather. In addition to basic clothing, it’s a good idea to secure and protect your upper body – meaning: ears, head, throat, or sinuses.  

To do this, you can buy a jogger’s cap. It should be breathable and wick away perspiration so that your head is not wet. This is why you should avoid hats that are made of cotton. Moreover, the hat should protect your ears and fit snugly on your head. You should also match the thickness to the temperature that prevails outside. 

Instead of a hat, you can also choose a balaclava or a special chutney to cover your head, ears, and throat. 

Protect lower body parts – limbs, joints, and tendons

We’ve already taken care of the upper part of the body, now it’s time for the lower part. It also should be well protected from lower temperatures. All because the cold can cause joint pain or muscle strain. 

What’s more, a lot of heat escapes through your lips, so you should do everything to protect them. How to do it? 

• Choose warm running leggings – they will provide comfort and warmth during training, 
• Put on long socks made of a suitable material, such as technical material, 
• To protect your hands, you can simply wear a long-sleeved blouse. If you are not fond of them, then it is best to buy running cover sleeves for your short-sleeved shirt, 
• Don’t forget about gloves to protect your hands and not frostbite your fingers, which are prone to this when running in cold temperatures. 

Want to run in autumn when it gets dark quickly? Remember to wear reflectors!

At this time of the year, the day is getting shorter and shorter, and even sometimes at midday it can be quite gloomy and visibility is poor. That’s why it’s best to choose a running outfit that already has reflectors. Stock up on extra reflective items as well. A simple band worn on the arm or leg will suffice. 

How to dress for running away from streetlights? 

Take a headlamp with you, especially when you want to run, and it’s dark outside the window. The headlamp should be lightweight and hold up well to your head so that it doesn’t bounce and fall off your forehead with every step you take. 

Now you know what to wear running in cold weather. As you can see, appropriate clothes are very important, and they can protect you not only from the rain, wind or cold but also from injuries. Cold weather? Running clothes appropriate for these weather conditions make running comfortable.