Running in different weather conditions - what to wear

A good mix between breathable fabrics and thermal clothing goes a long way

You can run on bare feet, a XXL tracksuit or in simple shorts and T-shirt, but you will run the most comfortable in a functional outfit.

What do you choose from the bulging racks in sports stores? And what do you wear when it’s hot or freezing? Our trainer explains.

Choose breathable fabrics

The most comfortable running clothes are made of breathable fabrics. These fabrics are made of polyester and allow perspiration to evaporate from your skin. This means it cools you of in the heat and keeps you dry – meaning warm – when it’s cold. The best known breathable materials are CoolMax, Supplex and Dri-FIT. A cotton shirt may seem a good choice because it’s light and natural, but it soaks up sweat and sticks to your skin. Unfortunately, polyester fabrics on the other hand can give off a corky smell when you sweat. Natural fabrics like cotton and wool don’t have that side effect. Nike has Dri-Fit cotton running clothes, IceBreaker and SmartWool make wool running clothes.

Sports bras

For women, besides a good pair of running shoes, a sports bra is the most important piece of running apparel, even for small-breasted runners! Breasts are supported by weak ligaments that stretch easily. When you run, your breasts bounce up and down. This can lead to premature sagging and who wants that? A good fit of the bra is essential for comfort and support: the bra should fit snug but not tight. You can test the bra’s support in the fitting room by running in place and jumping up and down. Put your arms in the air to be sure the bra stays in place. After that, check for any seams or places where the bra might rub against your skin. This can cause chafing, especially when it’s warm. Go to your local running shop and try a few on before you buy.

Men in tights

Most beginners, especially men, have to get used to wearing tights. There are other options, but tights keeps you dry and warm and it doesn’t flutter around your legs. You can also wear shorts over it. When you run, your experienced temperature is 10 degrees Celsius higher than the actual temperature. Are you doubting about wearing a jacket? Leave the jacket at home. You get warm enough when you run. Is it hot? Wear shorts and a T-shirt or singlet. Your bare skin is the best cooling system. Don’t forget to protect it with sunscreen!

Winter running wear

It may not seem appealing to go out for a run when the thermometer is at freezing point or below, but when you wear lightweight running clothes that keep you cozy, it can be pretty marvelous to run in a snow-covered landscape. The best way to dress comfortably for cold weather is in thin layers because air gets caught between the layers, acting as extra insulation as it warms with your body. When it’s below freezing point wear a long sleeved thermal shirt, a second top like a turtleneck or a vest, a jacket, heavy running tights (you can put thermal tights underneath it, or wear wind pants over it), a cap, gloves and/or mittens. Again: every layer must be breathable. Mix a regular cotton shirt in there and you’ve destroyed the moisture management of your outfit.
What is your favourite running outfit?