The temperatures are dropping fast here and having good gear is so important to keep running through the winter! A lot of my favorite winter running gear is no longer carried or has been updated so if that is the case… I’ll share the new updated versions below. Please note—> I would love to hear your favorites too in the comments because we are all always on the lookout for the best things for our run! Also, good gear is definitely worth the investment in my opinion. Many of my pieces have lasted for years and years and have gotten me through many runs in the 15-50 degree range (under 15 degrees and I hit the treadmill).
*Hand warmers from Costco are key for my winter running happiness.
*A gas station hot chocolate machine for the kitchen counter so you can grab a cup the second you walk in from your run is on my Christmas wish list for Andrew to get for me.
*Jackets and base layers:
-The Canopy Jacket Nightlife is my current favorite but will need some really warm base layers as it gets colder to go with it. Waterproof, reflective, light, comfortable, flexible and really cute. I also love the LSD jacket that I just got.
-I used the Cascadia Thermal Jacket like crazy last winter and I will this winter too.
-Love this Full Zip.
–Fly By 1/2 Zip is awesome and SO warm.
–This one from Costco is crazy warm.
–This one, this one, this one and this one are a few of my favorites!
-I just got this Baselayer and it is unreal. It will accompany me on many of my winter runs this year.
-The Notch Thermal Long Sleeve is awesome and I love that it keeps your neck warm too.
Vest:
-I LOVE a good vest. They keep my core warm and my arms free. I have one similar to this one that I love and this one.
*Pants:
-Brooks has amazing pants for winter running and I wear the Greenlight Tight Nightlife, Formation Crop and the Go-To tight.
-Love THESE from The North Face with their fleece lining (so warm)!
-You can’t beat the price and cuteness off all of Old Navy leggings and I use many for running.
-The Keep The Fleece Tight are on my Christmas wish list too… I feel like I would just wear them all day long:)
*Socks:
-Currently the only pair of thicker running socks that I love are these (I would love recommendations on warm running socks to stock up on some more).
*Gloves:
-I just got these Patagonia mittens for running with my hand warmers:)
-I also use these from Costco a ton and love them.
Ears:
-Having something covering my ears during the winter runs helps me out so much. This, this and this one.
Would you rather train through the hot months for a fall race or through the cold months for a spring race?
(Pic on left from a very hot run where my hair frizzed, pic on right from a 20 miler on snow with my sister)
I was high-fived on my run yesterday and I thought that was pretty cool. Either the guy giving me a high five as he was running was in a really good mood or he thought it was cool that we were both wearing the same gloves from a race but I hope he was giving everyone high-fives. At first it surprised me and then I thought it was really nice and that I just love the running community and how encouraging everyone is.
Skye pulls our hair every chance she gets. She has also started to really enjoy attempting to pull out my huge fake eyelashes. She got one the other day and it hurt so bad.
The change in time sure made the morning a lot easier… there was more light during my run and the girls were up and ready to go earlier than our normal morning rush.
I love sharing a desk with Andrew but judging by his AirPods… I’m not sure he feels the same way;)
Skye and I went on a walk and worked on her standing until Brooke was home from school.
Skye also worked on her reading while in downward dog and I’m impressed.
We did Brooke’s homework and then a neighbor brought us warm homemade bread. It hit the spot.
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It’s Tuesday which means I’m sharing tangents with you:
*It has been one month since the marathon… It feels like it was 4 months ago though! That was a really good day.
*Anytime Skye meets someone new or is feeling a little shy she nuzzles her head into you… it is the sweetest thing.
*Megan D’s husband and Andrew mountain bike together and she sent me this picture. Good thing that running shoes aren’t as expensive as new bikes (but the combination of many running shoes each year, gear, fuel for all of our miles and races might be equivalent).
*I HAVE A PLACE FOR A GARDEN!!! I have always wanted to have a garden and cannot wait for this!
*Chic-Fil-A fries, ketchup and their sauce… Andrew brought some home for me the other day and it was a beautiful sight to see. I switch off with each fry with what sauce I use… variety;)
*Andrew has joined me in setting out his running clothes each night before going to bed… it makes it so much easier to get up and go when everything is out and ready for you.
*Time for another trail run today! My sister is having Skye at her house during her nap. We are going on a trail run for our date this week.
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Would you rather train through the hot months for a fall race or through the cold months for a spring race?
-I’m all about those fall marathons… I’d much rather just wake up crazy early and get in the 20 milers before it gets too hot than doing them in all of the snow but I don’t really mind that either. BUT I prefer fall races.
Favorite winter running gear? Do you need winter running gear where you live? Any really warm sock recommendations?
High five on a run… has anyone ever done that to you? Do runners in your area usually smile or wave or not so much?
Which eating establishment offers the best fries in your opinion?
-Five Guys.
77 comments
Kelly
Here in Texas it is definitely more fun to train in the winter for a spring marathon than train in the summer for a fall marathon. That said, somehow I always end up doing fall races! I’ve done 20 milers in 85+ degrees and 90% humidity before and let me tell you, it’s pretty gross. The nice thing though is that it’s an instant boost at your race destination where they actually have cool weather! I’m excited to be running Boston next year as I get to start training in late November! My “winter running wardrobe” consists of a long sleeve shirt and a pair of tights, ha. And even then I use it for just a couple runs a year, and probably don’t really need it. I get jealous sometimes of people’s pictures of winter running, but then again I guess it’s kind of nice to never really have to worry about ice or turning into a popsicle. :)
The Hungry Runner Girl
I am so happy you are entering the perfect training months for Texas! I don’t know how you do those 20 milers in those conditions, you are strong! Boston is going to be amazing for you… please keep me updated on all of your training! Maybe we should move to Texas for the winters… I like your winter running wardrobe much more! Enjoy your day Kelly:)
Mollie
I bought the Oiselle New Quill jacket (or whatever was the equivalent) a couple years ago and it’s been great to run in. It’s really warm and it’s also cute for just wearing in general. I totally agree on the Lulu long sleeve tech–I have one from like 6 years ago that’s still in perfect condition after a billion and a half runs.
Summer training 100%! It’s crazy hot and humid here during the summer, but the WIND in Virginia Beach in the winter is insane. I’ve never experienced anything like it. It comes from all directions and it’s so cold. I dread it. I think training in the winter last year lead to a big burnout. But I’m a California weather wimp. I’m also really clumsy and don’t trust myself to run in icy or snowy conditions without at least a couple falls. :)
The Hungry Runner Girl
Okay, I just looked that up and it is adorable. I want them to have more colors too… and the vest like it?! Yes, I swear that long sleeve tech will last my entire life. Running in that winter wind… you deserve an award. I would be on the treadmill. I’m right there with you on falling on the snow/ice. I need to learn how to love the treadmill again because I can’t run on the ice. Have a wonderful day Mollie!
Natalie
I’d definitely rather train through the hot months. I am such a wimp when it comes to cold weather and really don’t like it one bit. And I love getting high fives while running! A few people have done that to me while running on the boardwalk at the beach, and it always adds a little extra pep to my pace! :)
I’m a huge fan of Chick-fil-A fries, and Dicky’s Barbecue has some pretty incredible waffle fries, too. Side note, every once in a while, you should try dipping your fries in the ketchup and then the Chick-fil-A sauce (both sauces on one)–it’s really good! Have a great day, Janae!!
The Hungry Runner Girl
You live in the perfect place for this… it probably won’t get very cold at all in the winter! I want to come run on the beach boardwalk! I’ve never been to Dicky’s Barbecue! Oh that is a great idea! You too:)
Isla
I live in Upstate New York and refuse to run indoors, so I’ve gotten pretty good at the winter running gear!
A few of my favorites:
-Athleta polartec leggings are great for the coldest days! They have a bunch of different styles, all with drawstrings which helps keep them from sliding down since polartec can be slippery.
-SmartWool funnel-neck top: these are quite spendy, but I love mine so much! It is nice and toasty, but still breathes really well, which a lot of other warm materials do not. And it doesn’t get stinky, so you can wear it for a lot of runs before having to wash it (especially if you layer it over a t-shirt). And it’s machine washable! I also have SmartWool gloves and ear warmers.
-Brooks Cascadia vest is great! I also have one of their parkas, but I tend to overheat in it unless it’s crazy cold.
-DarnTough skiing or hiking socks: much warmer than running socks, and super durable!
-Wool Buff: I have one of the lightweight Buffs made out of merino wool. It’s great as either a neck warmer or pulled up over my nose and mouth when it’s super cold.
-Synthetic (non-cotton) underwear: Definitely a necessity for longer runs in the cold, especially if it’s precipitating.
The Hungry Runner Girl
Isla…. YOU ARE THE ABSOLUTE BEST. Thank you so much for sharing your favorites. I will be purchasing those socks and the wool buff. I bet it gets SO cold there. Oh and I want those leggings. Thank you thank you thank you. I’ll think about you when I am being a wuss about running outside. Have a great day!
Andrea
I laughed at the sharing desks pic!!! I would definitely be Andrew if I shared a desk with my husband. I run in the country so don’t see a ton of other runners or walkers but if I do we always smile and wave. I mostly see cyclists and we smile and wave too! I just bought a treadmill yesterday (my thirtieth bday present to myself) and I am so excited!!!! So I plan on using that through most of our Canadian winter. Can you do a post on what layers/hats/gloves you wear for different types of weather?? As a new ish runner I’m always confused on what to wear for certain temps and end up over dressing or under dressing.
Eleanor
So I have to say that I literally do the same with my chick fil a fries!! Switch off one ketchup, next chick-fil-a sauce!!
I live in Florida here so Fall marathons/halfs are just a no-no. Training in August-October here is deadly.
I’m doing a January half though in Alabama. (Still not super cold). But it will probably be 30s that day. So, for racing half in the 30s what would you wear? The other day I saw someone say they did a Jan half in like New York and she was wearing short and a tank and arm sleeves and gloves… any ideas?
Thank you for the clothing suggestions though, I’ll definitely check them out for the week we have freezing temps here;) The best thing I did last year was get a vest, because I felt like I could easily use that as a layer to keep my core warm. Also->cheap arm sleeves = knee high socks that you cut the foot part off. It works PERFECTLY. And you don’t care about throwing them off if needed.
I am the runner that smiles at everyone and waves like a crazy person on runs. I don’t get offended when people don’t do it back cause maybe they’re in their zone or whatevs…
The Hungry Runner Girl
This makes me so happy to hear… wish we could meet at chic-fil-a and grab some fries! I cannot even imagine running outside during those months in Florida. I am SO happy you are entering into your great running weather! If I was racing in the 30s… that is exactly what I would wear too (and have for races in those temps)! If you freeze when running fast then I would do tights and a long sleeve but for me I get so hot when racing that the shorts/tank/arm sleeves/ gloves are the winner for me! YES to the cheap arm sleeves… brilliant. Have an amazing day and I love that you are so friendly on the run! Thanks Eleanor!
Grant
Haha I live in Florida too and am training in August-October for the third year… I find shady routes and basically just get used to being drenched in sweat!
Eleanor
Way to go!!! I run through the summer, but I slow down and don’t train for races.
The Hungry Runner Girl
HEY ANDREA!! Oh I bet your Canadian winters get way colder than here… you are hard core! I’m so glad you just got a new treadmill (HAPPY BIRTHDAY) for those really cold days! As far as what to wear for different temperatures… I wear the things I have listed above and add a layer or two for when it gets really cold. I don’t use any different tights or anything and just add a few more layers. I don’t run outside under 15 degrees so I don’t have gear for that! Try out hand warmers, they are a life saver for me! If the temperatures are over 30 then I’ll usually just wear one long sleeve (or even just a tank) under the canopy jacket/or the fly by 1/2 zip with one layer underneath and for under 30 then I start layering a bit more with a long sleeve (the one from Costco I listed) with a thicker layer (the Matilda I had up above or something) and then a jacket. Under 20 and I’ll probably add another and stick with fleece leggings only! I hope that helps a little bit. Have a beautiful day!
hahah you would put the airpods in too?! I just wanted to talk haha!
Kathy
@andrea, I use this tool (https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a20803133/what-to-wear/) almost every morning before I go out for a run! But agreed that a post from HRG would be great :) . I’m all about training through the winter and running spring races! I LIVE for the hot shower after a freezing cold run, but that’s not probably the popular opinion! I live in Philadelphia, so warm running gear is necessary, and most people aren’t keen on the high fives :/ maybe one day!
Wendy
Cold weather running gear for me means actually getting to wear long tights and a long sleeve top…ha! SoCal really is great for running all year. Even in the hot months, I just get out the door early. So, I do love fall/ winter running and training for spring races because my runs feel cooler. I do enjoy going out to Colorado occasionally, to get in some really cold runs!
A couple of times out on our trails, I have been high fives while running. It made my whole day! The running community really is great!
Ok, off for my run! Have a great Tuesday!
The Hungry Runner Girl
Oh I am so so jealous of your winters:) Maybe I’ll come join you for some runs this winter! I hope your run was great.
Carla V.
In my Canada years, I loved running in the snow! I miss the crisp sound it makes and leaving traces, I prefer that to the hot humid summers we had. Now I’m back in the Netherlands, every season is good for running: it never gets really cold or hot. Black ice is the only real issue here in winter, though more for cycling than running.
The Hungry Runner Girl
Every season is good for running… oh that sounds perfect! The black ice sounds scary though… do you use yaktrax or run on the treadmill when it is icy? Have a wonderful day Carla and I hope you get a crisp run in the snow once this winter:)
Carla V.
Black ice is scary, I agree. We usually run very slowly and avoid bridges, no yaktrax (although I still have them) or treadmill. Thanks for your snow wish, but actually it’s a disaster here with snow ;-) (But just for the joy of running in fresh snow it would be welcome!)
The Hungry Runner Girl
Oh I read that wrong! I thought you missed running in the snow in Canada and the crisp sound. My bad! Oh good luck!!! I’ll think of you when I am dreading going out in the snow!
Carla V.
No, you were right, I miss the fresh Canadian snow. Just don’t let it snow here in NL, we’re not prepared to it. Have a wonderful day!
The Hungry Runner Girl
Oh!! Thanks so much and I’ll cross my fingers for you! You too!
Betsy
I have one-year old twin boys and also wear big fake eyelashes. My boys LOVE to try to pull them, one little guy in particular. Luckily they inherited their dad’s long dark eyelashes and won’t have to get fake ones when they’re older ;)
The Hungry Runner Girl
ONE YEAR OLD TWIN BOYS… Betsy, you are so so busy! Hahaha I’m glad I’m not alone. Skye sees them and can’t think about anything else but pulling them out;) LUCKY (that would save me so much money if I inherited eyelashes like that). Have a wonderful day!
tracy
I live in western Canada and we just had 10 cms of snow yesterday and all super freezing temps for the next week is forecasted, so the snow is here to stay. As I get older, I wimp out more and more on running in the cold, lol. I used to be pretty hard core and would only move inside when dangerously cold. Now I am just not very tolerant anymore.
Five Guys fries ALL the way…..
The Hungry Runner Girl
10 cm of snow already?! I am just like you.. I am getting wimpier each winter ha. Good luck in all of that snow!
Lee
I just bought a Brooks Canopy…. I missed a race because I didn’t have the necessary gear for the weather. I googled “jacket des linden wore in 2018 boston marathon ” and bought myself one. I can’t wait for it to get here.
Thank you for sharing all of your favorite cold weather gear. It’s really helpful.
The Hungry Runner Girl
Oh that makes me happy! Whenever I put mine on (the one I have is a bit different) I feel like I am channeling Des Linden;) I hope you have a wonderful day Lee!
Chris (So Cal)
High fives – I got one when I was running – from a fireman one time. There was an emergency scene in front of me on a busy street and I had no where to go besides forward or back – so I caught the eye and said I can turn around. He goes no – come thru and high fived me. That was years ago – not sure I would have even remembered had I not read your post today – too funny! Janae – your posts are so positive and fun :) I’ve read off and on for years – Brooke was still a tiny when I found you. I’m so happy for your life now :) God bless you!
The Hungry Runner Girl
That is awesome that a fireman gave you one one time! Thank you so much Chris and thank you for joining in over the years:) Isn’t crazy how much she has grown and how much life has changed? I hope your day is a great one!
Anna
I agree with the other Texas runner…winter running is much better!!
Do you use a headlamp/light when running in the dark? Any recommendations?? The time change is changing my running strategy.
Thanks!
The Hungry Runner Girl
Hey Anna! On the dark mornings I am usually on a lit bike trail so I don’t worry about cars/lack of light as much but I do take out Andrew’s headlamp when I run around the neighborhoods and it doesn’t bother me (I have friends that can’t stand wearing a headlamp though). I saw these on shark tank last night and want to order them now:
https://www.amazon.com/Night-Trek-Shoe-Lights-Camping/dp/B076PVWQNX
They look AWESOME and so helpful to see so that you don’t trip on something. Have a wonderful day and enjoy your winter!
Jackie
I live in Iowa and it is supposed to drop down to 16 degrees this weekend. Yuck! I bought the Cascadia jacket last year (on sale in white) and hope that it keeps me toasty this winter. I have an old pair of fleece Nike tights that I love but need to replace as well as a pair with a windshield front for super cranky weather. They make noises when I run so they only get pulled out when it is truly frightening. I have issues with my hands and feet and need to find a pair of mittens to pull over my gloves. Duh! But last year I had my mom buy me a pair of runshield shoes for me for Christmas and it has made a world of difference. Go figure, if wind isn’t rushing through the mesh, your toes stay warmer! I also have a big pair of all-purpose red socks that I pull on when the temps are in the 20s. They are ugly but do the job. I read on a blog once that someone used duct tape to close up the mesh on their shoes. Makes a ton of sense!
The Hungry Runner Girl
16 degrees already… AHHHH! I hope the Cascadia jacket works well for you and that you find another fleece pair of tights to keep you warm! I had to look up runshield shoes… ummm awesome! Such a great idea to use duct tape, I will be using that this winter. Thanks for sharing Jackie! Have a wonderful Tuesday.
Diana
I think I technically would rather run/ train in winter than super hot summer because you can always add more layers and the run will feel better the farther you go and not worse. However, I like fall marathons better than spring because as your training goes on you are going from the toughest conditions to much better conditions and then there’s a greater chance of great running weather for actual race day. With spring marathons, I feel like you could get anything from snowy to a fluky early 85 degree day which is tough if you aren’t acclimated to it. However, I think I just need to find a place where it is fall weather all the time :-)
The Hungry Runner Girl
Oh that is so true… you get so strong through the hot months and get to race in cooler temperatures. YES about spring races too, you never know what is going to happen. Let me know if you find that place! Have a wonderful day Diana!
Jenny
I live in Florida and we are STILL hot and muggy here (75 degrees and 91% humidity when I started my long run on Sunday, sob!) Needless to say our marathons here are in the winter. By the way I was excited yesterday because you MENTIONED MY NAME in your actual blog post (answering people’s questions.) Yes, my life has definitely gone up a notch!!! Ha ha… have a great day Janae!
Stephanie
Oddly enough, I miss a really cold winter to bundle up and run in. I remember one of my most favorite training runs EVER being in about 15 degrees and I was bundled up like crazy. There were ice crystals from the cold sweat on my eyelashes. Somehow, I still remember that run being one of my happiest ever. But that said I have come to love a run that’s super-early before the day’s heat becomes unbearable (except in Atlanta, even in the pre-morning hours, the humidity is so thick that the heat doesn’t seem to matter that much. It’s just gross out. Before you run you feel gross, and after your run you feel gross and like it won’t leave you for the rest of the day no matter how good your shower feels).
As for cold weather running gear, I have a hodge podge of things I like:
–I’m short and my hands and head are relatively small, so I tend to go to the girls’ section at Target for headbands/earbands that are fleece-lined and for gloves.
–As for bottoms, I am a big fan of the “speed up” bottoms from lululemon (& an even bigger fan of their free hemming so I can get them to the length that works best for my short 4’11” frame, which means pretty much everything needs to be hemmed). I am also a fan of the petite-length bottoms from Athleta, and on my wish list to try this year are their new “run free” bottoms. I think they might be a good length for me.
–Because I am so short, and because I have weird proportions, I have a hard time finding good tops that don’t bunch up aorund my hips or that aren’t like girls’ sizes that, ostensibly, COULD fit me except the arm holes are super duper mini-sized. I just got a thin, fleece-lined full-zip running hoodie from Road Runner Sports (https://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/22217/?cc=097) that I am excited to try out. I’ve worn it casually with yoga leggings, and it has been soft enough to not TOTALLY ride up my big Greek-girl hips when I move. I also sized up so I can wear layers beneath it if I want to and so it is really LOOSE around the hips to hopefully not ride up, so we will see. I wish it had a zipper on a pocket, but since I wear running bottoms that have a zippered pocket around the back part of the waist, I don’t worry too much. Can’t wait to try it out!
–I am OBSESSED with my two Dash hoodies from Brooks (one that I bought last winter and another that I recently bought). I could have sized down for a more form-fitting fit, but I kept my regular size in the top and I have room to wear a tank top layer underneath. I love my two dash hoodies SO MUCH that after my totally kickass run on Sunday morning back in my mid-Missouri town and feeling SO GOOD, I believed that it was my hoodie that gave me super powers and I broke down and bought a THIRD dash hoodie–the nightlife neon yellow & black one I had been wanting. I think it’s a good luck charm and I think on days that are cold and foggy and maybe a bit rainy or misty (and making Atlanta drivers drive like complete whackadoodles), no one will miss me.
–As for SOCKS in the winter, I am a big fan of the low-cut socks from Bombas. They wind up coming long enough around my ankles to cover the whole bottom of my leg/ankle area for no dry skin areas, and the socks from Bombas, I find, are thick enough to make my feet happy in the winter. Since I tried the low-cut Stance socks from the ‘run 360’ designation and found them comfortable and easy to wear, I am excited to try a pair of the crew socks-length Run 360 socks (‘distance crew’) from Stance this winter (here’s the pair I bought: https://www.stance.com/distance-crew/W448A18DIS.html?dwvar_W448A18DIS_color=PINK#secondary=&start=1
–When I lived in a town with REAL WINTER, I wore the cold gear bottoms from Under Armour all winter long. I liked them, and I veer towards other brands more than I tend to veer towards UA. But the cold gear bottoms tended to have just enough brushed & fleece lining on the inside without being too thick or too much.
(I get a LITTLE EXCITED when talking about gear…any season of the year…)
Lisa
From Northern VT. I run all year round and love fall and winter running! Try Darn Tough socks if you buy the thicker ones they will work perfect for winter running.
Jenny|Running On Life
Last year was the first time in years that I ran in the cold/snow. And it wasn’t as bad as I remembered with lots of layers. But we will see if it happens again this year. I haven’t ever bought winter runing clothes I mostly just end up with extra layers gloves and ear warmers (I think my ear warmers are key for me. I hate when my hears get cold and hurt). But we all know winter running isn’t my thing and I almost always end up inside instead of outside haha.
Annemarie
That’s a tough question. I live in San Diego, so really winter is the best time to train. It’s not freezing cold and I can sleep a little later on long run days. That bring said, I do have this insane love for really early summer weekend runs and I LOVE fall races. I did buy the Brooks LSD awhile back for trips back East to visit family at Christmastime and I plan on wearing it for Tokyo!
We have a very friendly running community here, so lots of waving and smiling! I have had a couple “great job” from time to time which I tend to pass on!
My husband would agree with Five Guys… but I actually still think McDonalds has the best fries!
~ R
–I’ve done both spring and fall marathons and don’t particularly prefer either way. Miserably hot summer long runs and slippery winter runs are just about equally icky.
–I live on the edge of the Colorado foothills so I definitely use warm running gear. My favorite warm socks are SmartWool Phd – they have several thicknesses and heights and are noticeably warmer than any others in my random assortment of socks. I recommend you go to a store that carries them and try on different ones before buying – there are a couple I love and one I hate but it’s hard to tell the difference online.
–My favorite mittens are also SmartWool (super warm *without* hand warmers if you layer another thin pair underneath) and my favorite beanie is SmartWool’s lightweight double-layer one – I haven’t found a run too cold for it yet (but I draw the line at 10F so I don’t know colder than that).
–I am struggling to find long length tights that fit my long(er) legs, generally small size body, and not flat booty. I hate them creeping down my backside/hip and threatening plumber’s crack. Maybe it’s time for a visit to Old Navy…
–Runners in my area tend to the nod or the hand-lift half-wave. No high fives unless it’s kids at races.
Stephanie
Have you looked at Athleta for tall sizes in running bottoms? I know Athleta can seem a bit pricey sometimes, but the quality is good…and as someone who is PETITE height and who definitely has “Greek girl hips and bootie” I appreciate the non-see-thru coverage of their clothes as they stretch to hug my curves! ;)
Megan
These aren’t on the level of gas station machines, but I have the SimpleTaste to make my hot chocolate and I love it! A lot more affordable than the gas station machines!
https://www.bestproducts.com/appliances/small/g1018/gourmet-hot-chocolate-makers/
The Hungry Runner Girl
Okay, this is my dream article. Thank you SO much… I want all 7 of them:) I hope you are having a beautiful day!
Leah
Darn Tough socks forever and ever! Awesome American company and the most freaking comfortable socks ever. I like these for winter :) https://darntough.com/collections/womens-run/products/womens-ss18-vertex-1-4-ultra-light-cushion?variant=854132129811
The Hungry Runner Girl
Those look amazing!!! I love the colors too… thank you SO much!
Megan D
Ross’ mountain bike (and gear to go with it) far outweigh anything I spend money on. Okay, maybe except food, but he eats a lot too! You should see him with this new one. He literally wash, dries and details it after he gets home from each ride. Meanwhile he doesn’t put his dishes in the dishwasher. It’s fine. Everything is fine.
Summer training, fall race for sure. And I love Spitz fries. You need to come with us and try that place. Also Smoking Apple has some awesome sweet potato fries.
teresa
Ok, Spitz started right down the street from me and i had no idea til right now that they were in Utah. That’s awesome. The street cart fries with the works (pretty much everything that would be in a wrap but on top of fries instead) are the BEST. And they’re a whole meal.
In los angeles I’d much rather train for a spring race since winter here pretty much means I run in the exact same shorts and tank and just don’t feel overheated. I have one long-sleeved shirt for temps under ~45 and two pairs of 3/4 length capris for under ~50…I don’t think I wore any of it last year except when traveling.
I used to really like smartwool phd socks for snowshoeing and I also wore them the ONE time I ran in 30 degree weather- my feet stayed warm :)
High fives- just kids in races.
Molly S
Upstate Illinois here…summer vs winter: winter if it’s daylight.
I think I may have to buy those mittens that you linked!
I still wear a pair of Lululemon tights that I bought in 2012! I’m currently sourcing most clothing from Oiselle. I really want to support them and I do love the bird logo!
Melly
Hey Janae, I don’t know if you would be comfortable having a “coffee machine” in the house,but the keurig K cup machines have cups you can buy to make hot chocolate (no coffee involved). They produce warm yummy hot chocolate on demand with no cleanup! Short of spending a couple thousand bucks on a actual hot chocolate machine like a gas station, it would give you the product result you want.
The Hungry Runner Girl
Oh that would be PERFECT!! Thank you Melly… I didn’t even think of that! Have a wonderful day!
Katie
I’d rather train all summer in the heat for a fall marathon, rather than all winter for a spring marathon! The heat is rough, but I prefer it to the cold. :)
Emily
Do you have a CocoMotion machine? They’re harder to find now, but I’ve had one for like 20 years and they make the BEST hot chocolate. Mine is Mr. Coffee brand, but there are knock offs one that are way cheaper. (It was cheap when I got it, but it’s got a cult like following now — it’s THAT good.)
The Hungry Runner Girl
AHHH I used to have one of those… I totally forgot about them! I WILL GET ONE!! Thanks Emily and have a beautiful day!
Fiona @ Get Fit Fiona
I’m like Andrew when I work – I need silence or music with no words. I can’t concentrate with people talking around me.
I think the fries at Five Guys are pretty good too. I also like McDonald’s fries too.
Ali
Thank you for all of the gear recommendations! I appreciate it! Definitely in need of more gear. I wear PhD Smart Wool socks and have definitely noticed a difference compared to my ordinary non-wool socks. But, my feel still get cold. Just not as cold.
We wave or head nod here but I’ve never gotten a high 5.
Corrinne
We have an older gentleman who always high fives the runners on our city trail. Always makes me smile when I see him! I have a pair of North Face running tights and they are my favorite when it gets in single digits. I also have some Mizuno tights, socks and gloves with their special thermal technology that I really like. McDonalds fries when they are fresh and hot are always a safe bet!
Liza
You need a Mr. Coffee Cocomotion machine! Great for hot chocolate, but we’ve had ours for years so not sure they still sell them.
christine krause
Skye is so cute doing yoga and reading.
Setting out workout clothes the night before is a great habit.
I just listened to a podcast about routines and they said habits (like setting out workout clothes) creates success. Even though they are little habits they all add up to a big picture.
I always set out my workout clothes the night before. I am personally not a fan of winter in the Northeast. I love summer; however, when I lived in Colorado I found the winter to be easier. I think it is because there is so much sunshine in Colorado. Does Utah have the same amount of sunshine as Colorado? New Jersey winters are brutal (in my opinion). I will still run outside all winter!
Have a good day!
Kristine Chew
Locally we have a place called Meet on Main (and they have the best kimchee fries) – it is like a meal I am not joking!
Vancouver doesn’t get insanely cold but our mountains definitely have snow now. I would say a running toque, layers and a pair of long tights is enough to get me through city running in winter – that and magic mitts. I have a run your heart out pullover from lulu from years ago – that is super warm and on the really cold days I will pull that out. My favourite socks are stance socks.
When we head up to hike the local mountains in winter or winter or snowshoe run though – I will definitely dress warmer, winter toques, sometimes ski mitts thermal under wear, a rain jacket over a puffy coat (I have a packable one from Arc’teryx that packs down super small). We got great thermal under wear/ base layers from ice breaker and smart wool (we shopped their warehouse sales or look for deals) because otherwise it tends to be quite pricey.
Glad you are enjoying more trail running and Skye is super cute when she gets shy! Have a fantastic day Janae:)
Grant
Ahh I work at Chick-fil-A and I feel like I can’t escape it even on my days off haha. You may or may not be surprised to hear that when you’re around those fries for 6+ hours at a time most days of the week, you get very very sick of them.
In Florida I have no choice but to train in the heat unless I only train in December/January! I’ve been training for a December marathon and although it’s gotten a little cooler, most of my runs the past few months have been hot. Every winter I get to break out the gloves for a few weeks though! Looking forward to that.
I’ve gotten a couple high-fives… I think I just prefer the nod of mutual acceptance/respect/pain from other runners though, haha.
W
I live in Boston and run outside every day throughout the winter. It gets pretty cold.
I love the older version of Saucony Vigor jacket (I think it was the Vitarun and the Nomad before that). It’s waterproof/windproof and amazing. It’s also super thin but lined with very light fleece, so I can wear fewer layers and less bulk. On the coldest days, I’ll just wear a tank and a light fleece running long sleeve under this jacket and be warm.
For cold tights – hands down the Sugoi Midzero and Subzero tights. I wear the Midzeros from 30 down to about 19. Below that I wear the Subzeros down to about 8-9. Below that I wear a pair of regular thin tights with a Pearl Izumi softshell pant over them.
For socks – Smartwool PHD, Light in the slightly higher cut that covers the ankle so there’s no skin exposed. Smartwool Ultralights are light enough for summer, but Light thickness is plenty warm for the coldest days (also wool keeps you warm if there’s snow on the ground and feet get wet).
For hands – always mittens. And ALWAYS have an extra pair of mittens in your pockets just in case you need another layer.
Headband + hat makes sure your ears are completely covered and a Sugoi neck gaiter pulled way up over the nose on the coldest days.
I also have little shoe covers. I rarely use them, but find them great at blocking the wind. I mostly wear them for relay races in the winter when I’m going to be standing around waiting for my start. You have to replace the elastic straps periodically because they get chewed up from the road – These are not the exact ones, but similar https://www.embracedincomfort.com/product-p/shldz-001.htm. I’ll check the brand I have and update tonight, as you can buy replacement elastics for mine (not sure about these).
How are the Canopy/LSD for blocking wind? I have a Saucony unlined light windbreaker for fall, but I always feel like the wind goes right through it.
Sarah Crouse
I live in NC, so with the humid summers, I’d much rather train in the Winter for a Spring race. I was running the other evening and told my friend, “I just love my Fall / Winter running gear” ~ ha ha. I’ve invested a lot of money over the years in my gear, and you’re right, they’ll last a long time. Most of my stuff is from Brooks and Gap. On a recommendation from @runfargirl who lives in New Hampshire, I bought a few of the Smart Wool Merino reversible headbands and really love them. They keep my ears warm without adding something bulky to my head.
Have a great day!! Enjoy your trail run!
Kristin
I’d rather train in the cold, but . . . I grew up in Minnesota! It’s in my blood. And I HATE running in the humidity. My body rebels.
I’ve never been randomly high-fived but one evening run, there was a little girl standing on the trail (with her mom) and yelling “AMEN!” at all the runners/cyclists who passed. It was pretty cute and uplifting.
I LOVE these lined running tights from Athleta for very cold runs; they’re lined with fleece but move really well. I ended up buying a second pair because I liked these so much. Highly recommend! https://athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=353819022&cid=1085510&pcid=1059481
Sherri
I just ran my first marathon on Oct 28 and I will say that training through the summer was not my favourite. I do not enjoy hot weather and it was hard to manage training during family vacations. I am super pumped to train this winter for the NJ Marathon in April. I LOVE cold weather running and when there is ice I just hit the treadmill. Sucks for long runs but gets the job done!
GREAT roundup of winter running gear btw!
Lisa
I live in AZ, so fall/winter/early spring running is best! I cannot run outdoors between late April and late September no matter how early I head out. It’s just too brutally hot. I really do not like super cold. I do not know how you do running in snow!!
It’s so funny, just the other morning I resisted the urge to high five a runner early in the morning. I was so proud that I had gotten up so early when I did not want to that it just seemed natural to do that, but I didn’t so as not to look like a wierd-o… I think it’s good to say good morning, wave, or nod. The world needs more kindness .
Have a great Tuesday!
Michelle
I live in the mountains in CA, so it’s snowy, but relatively warm (typically in the teens and 20’s in the mornings). My favorite running pieces are buffs in varying weights that you can either wear just around the neck, or ears or like a balaclava; vest (I love my Eddie Bauer Ignitelite hybrid vests) and studs for my shoes (i use about 8 studs per shoe – same ones my husband uses on his fat bike). And this may sound weird, but on the coldest days, I’ll wear a short quilted puffy skirt to keep the buns extra warm. It doesn’t work for speed or a big workout, but for an easy day it can be a bunsaver :)
Meagan
Chik fil a fries <3
Kathy
I prefer to train in the summer and run a fall race. Although if I lived in the southern part of the US, I’d probably prefer to winter and spring race. I just wake up earlier when the weather is cooler. Plus if I run in the morning then I know I’ll get it done, sometimes the day just slips away and it’s hard to find the motivation to run. Spring races also have a tendency to have crazier weather than fall races!
If it’s really cold, a wool neck gaiter that can also be pulled over your mouth is really nice! I have one from smart wool that I usually use for snowboarding! I also have a pair of under armour that are fleece lined and they are so warm!!
I love McDonald fries! It’s the only reason I still go there! I also love Steak n Shake fries too!
Amanda
Would you rather train through the hot months for a fall race or through the cold months for a spring race?
That is a toss up…I think I’d rather power through the heat and enjoy a crisp fall race!
Favorite winter running gear? Do you need winter running gear where you live? Any really warm sock recommendations?
No winter gear needed here in Hawaii…although I did have to bust out a long sleeve for an early morning run the other day…pretty wimpy I know!
High five on a run… has anyone ever done that to you? Do runners in your area usually smile or wave or not so much?
No but I love that so much I am going to start doing it here on Oahu. i do encourage people I see who seem to be struggling with a smile and a “good job, you look like you are CRUSHING it today!” Shakas and high fives for everyone!
Which eating establishment offers the best fries in your opinion?
Oh my goodness…JJ Dolans here in Honolulu. makes McDonalds look like amateurs and they used to be an unparalleled ruler in the fry world for me.
Have a great day all!
Tracy
I’d much rather be hot than cold. Winter is not my favorite! We definitely need cold weather gear here in Kansas :(
Allyssa
Still waiting for temps to drop here in Florida! This morning I ran in 82 degree weather with humidity near 90%. Basically, it’s still summer. But that doesn’t really stop any of the runners I know. We don’t really high 5, because sweaty hands don’t need to touch, but waves and a verbal greeting are nearly guaranteed. Since our race season just started in October, I prefer a spring race. That way you can train the higher mileages through the winter. I have to laugh at your clothing recommendations based on temperature. I switch to leggings and long sleeves if I run in anything below 55 degrees!
James Memmott
Be careful planting a garden with those old railroad ties and even the newer pressure treated ones, they leach bad stuff into the soil which ultimately ends up in your food. Lots of research has been done on this in the past. I would remove the old ties and replace with just redwood or cedar. Good weekend project for Andrew, sorry Andrew;)
Kelly
Anything you’ve used to stop from literally freezing your butt off? Once it drops below 35 or so, my butt gets so cold on runs. And since I usually do a half marathon in April, winter training is guaranteed. I’m half tempted so sew pockets into my pants for hand warmers. Or tape them on. If only sweat didn’t dissolve all adhesive material.
Jess
Ok, super delayed comment but I hopped back to this post because I’m online shopping for warmer socks today. These aren’t socks, but I thought they might work for covering that ankle area when I’m wearing shorter socks. I might try out a pair! https://www.oiselle.com/shop/running-accessories/ankle-biters