| MENU |
Clothing for Winter Running Dressing for winter running is like dressing for cross
country skiing. Dress in layers. Dress to stay dry.
Perspiration moves more easily through two thin layers
than it does through one thick layer. A well-designed
layering system will keep you warm and dry and yet
allow freedom of movement. Many people today know about
layering clothing.
1. The Base Layer
Start with a base layer that's light and breathable.
This will keep you dry, comfortable and chill-free.
You need a good, breathable base layer–a long-sleeved
shirt and lightweight tights, that can wick moisture
away from the body so it can evaporate. It's important to wear synthetic, wicking materials rather than absorbent fabrics (such as cotton). They will get wet, stay wet and feel heavy. Select long sleeve shirts and long underwear made of polypropylene. This material will wick away moisture and allow for evaporation. This should keep you warm and dry. Breathable fabrics wick perspiration away from your skin and pass it on to the next layer. One wrong piece, and the layering system breaks down. leading to unpleasant running in heavy, damp clothing.
For moderate winter temperatures, one layer should be
enough. You may want to add a vest.
2. The Thermal Layer
Not everyone feels that they need this layer. Polar
Fleece/Arctic Fleece have made this an additional
layer for warmth without weight. When the temperature
drops below 0 degrees C., add a second layer. The
outer shell on the upper body will protect you from
the cold, wind and snow yet will still allow
perspiration to evaporate. One layer on the legs
should be fine.
Even a two-layer system won't keep you warm when the
wind is howling and the temperature drops below minus
18 degrees C. You need a thermal layer between the
base layer and the outer shell. This layer continues
the moisture-transfer process but traps air to keep
your body's natural heat from escaping.
3.The Outer Shell
This is an asset on colder winter days. A shell
prevents the wind from traveling through to the skin.
A windproof breathable shell is best. A wind-proof
suit made of a fabric such as Gortex may be used 12
months of the year.
Another layer can be added on very cold days. A hat,
balaclava or neck gaiter will also help to keep you
warm.
As your body generates heat when you run, dressing too
warm can also cause you to get chilled as the increase
in perspiration will result in wet clothing.
Running Gear Checklist:
Polypropolyene-type underwear (top and bottoms) Summary
More runners overdress than underdress. A good rule
of thumb should be that if you feel chilly during the
first two kilometres of your run, you are dressed for
the weather. If you feel nice and warm right after
heading out the door, you are going to get too hot
and sweaty later on.
All of this comes at a cost, of course, as some
complete outfits can be priced over $400. But when
you have to consider their durability and the fact
that you are not going to freeze. Remember that a
good looking jacket can be worn for nonrunning events
too.
Fariyal Samson - Women in Motion September 1.2000
|
