Outdoor sports
Running clothing for the winter: These are the most important features
In the cold winter months, the right running clothing is essential
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With the falling temperatures, the reluctance to do the obligatory outdoor run increases. Jogging in winter is one thing above all: healthy. Why this is the case and how you can brave the cold with the right running clothing is explained here.
According to current statistics, in 2022, over six million people aged 14 and over frequently went jogging – or went for a forest or cross-country run. The numbers make it clear how great the interest in running is in this country. Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that many joggers’ motivation decreases in the autumn and winter months. Your immune system will be even further strengthened by the cold if you go running regularly. Because as the saying goes: There is no such thing as bad weather, just wrong clothing.
Which running clothing is suitable for winter?
Due to the low temperatures, many joggers tend to dress too warmly – this can lead to a build-up of heat and, as a result, a cold. Therefore, always choose your running clothing carefully. The onion principle is also a proven system here, as the air between the layers can store body heat better. And another tip: It doesn’t matter if you feel cold in the first five minutes, as your body will heat up sufficiently after the first few steps. What is important for the individual layers is explained in more detail below.
How to protect your upper body while running
The running hat
It’s just a myth that we lose a lot of our body heat through our heads. However, on cold days it is definitely advisable to wear a loud hat or at least a headband (to protect your ears). However, make sure you choose thin and breathable materials so that your head doesn’t overheat while jogging.
The running clothes
When it comes to winter running clothing, you should not only pay attention to the materials, but also the fit. The fact is: if things are too loose, cold air can collect between the layers and cool down the body. Quick-drying and breathable synthetic fibers (for example polyester and polyamide) that transport wet sweat away from the body. To increase blood circulation in your legs, you can also wear running clothes with compression.
The running top
The so-called are best suited for cold days Softshell running jackets: They are lighter than regular jackets, windproof and water-repellent (ideally) as well as breathable. It is important that the textiles fit closely to the body without restricting your movements so that the warm air cannot escape. For example, you can wear a short-sleeved running shirt or a thermal long-sleeved shirt underneath – depending on how cold it is outside.
How to protect your legs from the cold
The running pants
While running shorts and pants are suitable for milder days, they will protect you for a long time Running tights made of softshell materials or compression pants to protect you from the cold. The materials are also breathable and promote blood circulation in your calves and thighs. Alternatively, there are also special ones Thermal leggings for jogging, which men especially like to combine with shorts on top. When it comes to running pants, make sure that they are windproof and water-repellent.
The running shoes
Since it is often not only cold outside in the autumn and winter months, but also muddy or wet water-repellent running shoes the best choice. To minimize the risk of slipping on snow and ice, the kicks should have an appropriate profile and be cut so that you can roll properly with your feet in them. Also make sure you have a good, secure grip so that your feet don’t slip around in the shoes while jogging.
The running socks
Since your feet sweat a lot when jogging, there are special ones Running socks the best choice. These are made from breathable material blends that can wick sweat away and minimize blistering.
Why is running in winter so healthy?
There is no question that running is healthy. Anyone who goes jogging regularly strengthens their immune system and thus minimizes the risk of illness. But does that also apply in winter? The answer is of course: yes! If you protect yourself from the cold temperatures with the appropriate running clothing, you will burn even more calories than in summer. This is because your body needs more energy to supply blood to the organs for the same performance. In other words: In winter you can actually lose weight significantly better while jogging. And that’s already the case if you go running for an average of 150 minutes per week (spread over several days).
However, you should keep in mind that the cold can be hard on inexperienced joggers. But even for hardened professionals, it is no longer recommended to go running outside when the outside temperature is below minus ten degrees, as the respiratory tract can dry out more quickly. A long walk outdoors is of course possible at any time.
Source: Statista
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