WINTER HAS ARRIVED!
It finally made it to Northern Michigan this week! It's hard to believe that just last week we hit 70's and was outside in a tshirt and shorts! However, we all knew this was coming. As I was going through my closet to exchange out my summer wear for my winter wear I thought this is a great time to share what I've found works in battling the elements outdoors.
Below are my tips on how to prepare for this wintery season as a outdoor runner and hiker!
FROM MY HEAD TO MY TOES
Layers
I’ve tried many different ways to keep myself warm. I freeze but sweat so bad. I also do NOT like feeling stuffed with too many layers were I struggle to bend over to tie my shoes. It was recommended to me last year to incorporate a few key elements.
Headgear
I prefer a knitted cap on normal days, however if I’m running I look for a snug beanie or a headband. A neck gaiter is great for your neck/chin/mouth area. Breathing in the harsh cold weather hurts, so pull it up over your nose for the first few minutes to warm it until your body adjusts.
Merino Wool Base Layers
I wear it for running, hiking, when I’m out and about. I prefer a wider waist band for my bottoms. I went with a legging style and they sit comfortably under jeans or my running tights. For the top, I went with a lighter weight long sleeve. It’s worth the investment, so buy a decent brand and air dry them.
Check out my video below! I love my Merino Tech and Ridge Merino base layers!
Dri-Fit Top
Try using an inexpensive dri-fit long sleeve top. Aim for a looser fit, which works well with the base layer underneath. I picked mine up at Walmart, but just be aware of any seams at the neckline as those can irritate you. Running Warehouse usually has great deals on top brands as well!
This Brooks Thermal Long Sleeve is on clearance right now!
Socks
Merino Wool has been the best so far. If I’m snowshoe running I’ll double layer. I keep a thin summer merino wool socks and then put my hiking merino wool socks overtop. If I’m running a hard surface without snowshoes then I’ll wear one pair only and usually go with my thicker pair.
These CloudLine Socks have been great for me! I used 3 pairs of these for my 50k, and they are still holding up!
Wind Jacket
This is something I had no idea I was missing. I was bundling up 3-4 layers and was unable to move comfortably let alone breathe properly. Since I wasn’t sold on the recommendation I went to amazon and picked up a very inexpensive one to test out. It is A MUST.
Gloves
Mittens, you just need mittens. Wind Resistant mittens are my go to.
Pants
The merino wool base layer is great. But I found I needed fleece leggings overtop. I’ve tried squeezing my fleece tight leggins over top, but it was uncomfortable. SOLUTION: I bought a pair of cycling water/wind resistant joggers. They are slightly looser. I’ve found inexpensive brands on Amazon. The Men’s seem to have a better fit/style to them, at least in the lower cost area. If you are looking for an affordable way to stay warm and still run, this is it!
Check out my joggers: TSLA Men’s Thermal Windproof Cycling Pants
Now that I’ve broken it down, here is an example of my normal layers for when I hit the trail for a run.
20-35 degrees – Two layers for my bottoms. A Merino Wool base layer with fleece lined leggings. Top has Base layer, dri-fit shirt, wind jacket.
-5-20 degrees – Same as above except I’ll switch out my dri-fit for a fleece lined thin pullover.
Try out replacing your fleece lined leggings for the cycling joggers!
If I’m hiking I use the same idea as above, however I do have a thin insulated snow pants that are still wind resistant (not water) and give that extra warmth since I won’t usually work up as much of a sweat.
RUNNING/OUTDOOR TIP!
If you are freezing and sweaty bring a change of clothing. Even stripping off the baselayer for an oversized sweatshirt will help if you are in a car after. If you are hiking or running at your home, give yourself a few minutes to let your body adjust to the temperature. Drink chocolate milk or another beverage and wait before hopping into the shower. This will help with the redness and itchy/burning that can happen for the sudden change!
Stay Wild,
Stacey
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