Rainy Days: What to Wear

The weather outside is frightful…but wind and rain needn’t put an end to your running plans. Here’s how to dress for rainy runs.

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Be Bright
Visibility on the roads is extra poor in rain and drizzle, and added to that, it’s harder for drivers to stop quickly in wet conditions. It’s time to pull out the hi viz kit, remembering the rule - bright, fluorescent fabrics for daylight, and reflective details at night for maximum visibility.

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Layer Up

But dress for the temperature too…if it’s cold, layer a wind and water resistant, lightweight shell over a moisture wicking baselayer. It won’t keep you completely dry, but it will keep the worst of the rain out and help to maintain your core temperature. Layering your shorts over compression tights will also help to prevent chafing in the wet. If it’s relatively mild though, don’t over do it with the layering – you’ll end up overheating and miserable.

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Protect Your Electronics

Rainy runs don’t have to mean you forego your sound track. Shorts, tights and jackets with waterproof pockets are ideal for storing your phone or iPod. A waterproof phone carrier which wraps around your arm is also a good option. Failing that, wrap your phone in a plastic zip lock bag and stow it in your pocket.

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Wear a Hat

Preferably a cap or a visor, with a peak to keep rain out of your eyes. Make sure it’s breathable, and ideally water resistant. Moisture wicking headbands also work well to prevent water from streaming into your face.

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Wear Thinner Socks

There’s nothing more misery-inducing than wet, soggy feet on your runs. Help your feet and shoes to dry out faster with a pair of thin wicking socks which will absorb less moisture, and wick it away faster. The thicker your socks, the harder this is – and the wetter your feet.

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Waterproof Your Feet

You can avoid wet feet altogether by opting for a running shoe with a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex, which allows the foot to breathe while keeping it dry. Trail runners beware though - if water gets into the shoe, it can’t get back out, so no running through deeper water.

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Dry Out Your Shoes

When you’ve warmed up with a hot shower and dry clothes, don’t forget to give your shoes a little TLC too. Stuff them with newspaper to help absorb excess moisture and leave them to dry naturally in a well ventilated room, away from sources of direct heat. Tomorrow they’ll be dry and good to go for your next run.

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