Words: Jonathan Wells
New Year, new you? We’ll see about that. Optimistically, we’re all hitting the ground running in 2022; dashing into January with good-hearted, open-minded intentions of exercise (how else are you going to shed those extra festive pounds?). But, in reality, one look at the wild and wet weather outside and the only thing we’re seriously committing to is an extra hour in bed.
However, while you could simply join one of London’s best gyms — in all their centrally-heated glory — there’s nothing like the invigorating feeling of fresh air to motivate yourself. Yes, you may freeze if you go out jogging before work in your summer shorts and an old T-shirt — but invest in the best winter running gear and you’ll be prepared come rain, shine (or snow…).
Find a quality, but breathable, jacket
During summer, you probably never wear a jacket whilst running. Why would you? Even if there is a nip in the air, you’ll be sweating and toasty after a couple of miles at pace. But, on the rare occasion that the rain is really pouring, snow is really falling or — worst of all — it’s started to sleet out there, a jacket is essential.
But be careful. You need to ensure that you get something breathable, such as Asics‘ ‘Lite-Show’ running jacket, a lightweight yet windproof shield against the elements. From British brand Castore comes a more colourful option; designed specifically to ward off the rain while allowing for ultimate breathability. Or, for the really run-engineered option, go for Kiprun‘s ‘Running Windbreaker’ jacket; windproof, waterproof, well-ventilated — and crafted with side zips and built-in mittens.
Invest in some tights. Yes, tights.
It may seem counter-intuitive to wear leggings — or, as some labels have tried to brand them, ‘meggings’ — but there are real benefits to keeping your leg muscles warmed up on a winter run. You won’t stiffen up, and with trousers tighter to your legs, movement will be less restricted and you’ll inevitably clock a quicker time.
Under Armour are, of course, leaders in this field. The brand’s ‘Fly Fast’ compression leggings feature technology designed to regulate body temperature and provide a versatile, sweat wicking base layer for every workout. Adidas‘ ‘Own the Run’ tights feature ‘Climacool’ technology and 360-degree reflective trims and New Balance‘s ‘London Edition’ tights feature a ‘polyknit’ material with stretch for easy movement and smooth strides.
Wear the right shoes for frosty or wet conditions
Ice and frost are not a runner’s friends. One slip or trip could end not only your morning jog, but put you out of action for a couple of weeks. As such, it pays to buy some alternative running shoes for the winter season, ones with better grip and a warmer, snugger shape.
Salomon’s ‘Snowcross’ trail-running sneakers are built for even the snowiest runs. Incredibly resilient, they provide superior cushioning, stability and motion control. Nike‘s fan-favourite ‘Pegasus’ trainers feature a water-repellant upper and outsole designed for extra grip on wet surfaces. Or, for tricky terrain, opt for Hoka‘s ‘Speedgoat’ sneakers, finished with deep lugs for supreme stability and a soft midsole for a comfortable run.
Keep your fingers from freezing
One of the worst things about wintertime running is the after-effects. Once you return to the warmth, your fingers especially can feel like they’ve got frostbite; all dry skin and numbness. And balling your hands into even the tightest of fists can’t stop this encroaching cold, so it pays to buy a pair of purpose-made running gloves to protect your fingers.
Patagonia‘s excellent ‘R1’ gloves are touchscreen-compatible and cut from warm, wicking stretch fabric. Tracksmith‘s ‘NDO’ stretch-jersey gloves are similarly cosy; crafted using wind-blocking, water-repelling fabric. And, from Reebok, these ‘One Series’ gloves not only boast touchscreen-compatible fingertips, but also handy silicon dots to increase grip.
Want more kit to supercharge your workouts? This is the best wearable tech that will actually improve your exercising…
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