As I mentioned in last weeks post, I’ve been online window shopping, looking at things to get me ready for training in the winter. As well as looking at cycling gear that’s needed during the colder months, I’ve been looking into some running clothing and accessories to keep me happy and motivated to go out in the winter.

1. Jacket.

Waterproof jackets are a must. You can also get thermal ones for extra warmth, but I personally find these get too hot when running and I really hate having to tie jackets around my head.

Look for jackets that have some form of reflective pattern or logo on them for extra safety when it gets dark.

2. Gloves.

Gloves are a must for me. I have raynaud’s syndrome so my hands and feet and be a nightmare in the cold. Espcially if I’m holding a cold drink as I’m running!

3. Waterproof Phone Armband. 

I use my phone to track my runs on MapMyRide, as well as listen to music. I have a waterproof armband to keep it dry if it rains so I can keep tracking my progress and listening to music and podcasts on the go.

4.Socks.

Socks are a great way to keep your feet warm and dry. You can get thermal ones and waterproof ones to prevent a less than ideal run home!

5. Hat.

So, it might be a myth that we lose 40 – 45% of our body heat through our noggin’, but your head is still one of the parts where you feel the cold the most.

I also find them useful for keeping earphones in place as my abnormally small ears struggle to keep a hold of them.

6. Leggings.

I switch out my shorts for leggings during the winter to keep my legs warm.

I did try leg warmers once, but the were too irritating and kept falling down, so leggings it is to keep my pins warm and dry in winter!

What are your winter running essentials?