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Layering for a winter workout
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Those of us who play in the outdoors know the importance of gearing up for chilly weather. And now that it's November and the mercury's dropping, outdoor athletes need to pay special attention to the way they're dressed.
In general, you can think of your outdoor gear as having three different parts: the layer that touches your skin; the layer that insulates, and the layer that keeps the rain or wind off of you.
Let's start with the layer closest to your skin, or the base layer. You want something that stays close to your body, so that it can wick the sweat that you generate while working out right off your skin. That will help to keep you dry and warm. That means no cotton. As a general rule, polypropelene tops, like Patagonia's Capilene line, or Helly Hansen's LIFA line, will work well. If you're going for a natural fabric, merino wool will work beautifully, and stays warm even when it gets wet, so that if you're caught in a rain shower without a rain layer, you might still make it home without catching a wicked cold. Look for the two top names in the business, SmartWool or Icebreaker.
In terms of your next layer up, your insulating layer, think in terms of loft. The thicker, or puffier, your insulating layer is, the more insulation you're going to get from it. But remember, too, that you want a layer that breathes. A fleece is great for this type of layer, particularly if you're not outside in windy or rainy conditions. Fleeces are available in several different thicknesses; in the northeast, something like EMS's Power Stretch half-zip top, of medium weight, would be a great addition to any wardrobe.
Your final layer is your inclement weather layer. If you look outside and it's a bit breezy, but you have to get your run in, it's a good idea for you to put on a wind-resistant layer. GoLite's Wisp and Ether jackets (for men and women, respectively) are good and light, and will keep you somewhat dry even if it does end up raining on you.
On your legs, you can layer the same way you would dress your upper half, but most athletes will find that their extremeties stay much warmer than their cores. To that end, consider investing in a good windproof vest, like this one, from Mountain Hardwear.
Perhaps most important, as the days become shorter and our workouts start taking place in the wee dark hours before and after the working day, make sure you stay visible. Illuminite is a pioneer in the field of reflective clothing that looks normal by day, but lights up like a beacon when hit with any light at all.
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