Trail running is a great way to get into shape, enjoy nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. But if you just throw on your shoes and hit the trail, you may find yourself uncomfortably cold, hot or itchy. Dressing for success in trail running is easy and rewarding; a good outfit will equal a good time in the great outdoors.
Instructions
Get Your Gear
1. Buy quality trail running shoes that fit your specific running needs. Visit a running-specialty shop that has knowledgeable employees who are runners or consult reputable online sources. Don't skimp on shoes, you'll rely on them for many miles.
2. Get running-specific clothing. Gone are the days of gym shorts and sweatpants. Running wear today is made of wicking fabrics that will keep you warm in the cold and cool you off in the heat.
3. Be sure that you have the right accessories for your regional climate. In very cold areas, if you are running in the winter, you may need a full-face balaclava or a knit beanie. In most places, you'll need gloves when it is cold. A rainproof, wind-resistant but breathable running jacket is also a must. Find one that you can crumple up and stuff into a pack.
4. You will also need some gear for hydration and to carry a few needed tools. There are great hydration packs available that also double as mini-backpacks. For shorter runs, you can opt for a bottle on a hip pack. For runs more than an hour, hydration backpacks with a built-in bladder and many useful pockets are more comfortable, practical and they can carry enough liquid for a several-hour jaunt.
Dressing for Cold Weather
5. Dress to feel a bit cold at the start. You will quickly warm up as your run progresses. If you dress to be warm at the start you will soon find yourself to be too hot.
6. Be sure to wear a hat or a beanie. You loose a lot of body heat from your head.
7. In temperatures that are at freezing or below, you'll want to wear gloves and tights to keep the bite of the cold air off your limbs. The new wicking fabrics will draw sweat from your skin and keep you dry and warm.
8. Don't neglect to bring liquids with you just because it is cold outside. You'll still sweat with exertion and you will need to replace the fluids that you lose.
Dressing for Warm or Hot Weather
9. If you're running in arid areas under the sun, a tank or bra top might not be the best choice. Choosing a white running tee might be more comfortable because it will keep the sun off your shoulders and upper arms. A running hat with back flaps that cover your neck might make your training/or racing more comfortable.
10. Be sure to wear sunglasses and a running hat in sunny, bright weather. They will add to your comfort and protect you from the sun's rays.
11. Always wear high SPF sport sunscreen and pack plenty of liquids in bottles or a backpack bladder system.
12. Don't forgo socks in the heat! The wicking properties of running socks will help you keep cool and dry and prevent blisters.
13. If you're running in warm or hot conditions in more shady surroundings, a tank or bra top is fine as long as you look out for poison oak or ivy, especially if you are sensitive and are in affected regions.
Tags: more comfortable, find yourself, from your, keep warm, start will, sure wear, trail running