It can be quite cold when running during winter, which makes picking out what to wear even more difficult. The goal to cold-weather running gear is to keep you warm and your skin dry while allowing your body to sweat to maintain your core temperature. Layer your running clothes. Layering allows your skin to sweat but stay dry, and allows you to remove clothing when you get too hot.
Cold Weather Headgear
Depending on how cold it is, cover up varying areas of your head. Wear earmuffs to prevent heat loss. If it is cold enough to do so, wear a beanie to cover both your head and ears.
Upper-Body Wear
Find synthetic athletic wear that wicks away moisture while keeping your body warm. Ensure your shirt covers your arms. Consider wearing increasing levels of protective garments -- such as sweaters or windbreakers -- over your athletic shirt. If you run in inclement weather, avoid wearing cotton, as it will soak up water and keep it close to your body, which will make you colder.
Cold Weather Pants
Layer the bottom half of your body in moisture-wicking clothing as well. Start with nylon athletic leggings or shorts. Depending on the temperature, layer by adding jogging pants or sweatpants and remove them as needed. Wear socks to keep your feet warm.
Other Accessories
Always wear a well-fitted sports bra when running. Get measured and ensure you are fitted properly. Don't wear multiple sports bras to stay warm, as you can hurt your breasts and potentially cut off circulation. Wear gloves to keep your hands warm, as your hands and fingers are particularly susceptible to the cold. Most items you wear are layers that can be removed as you warm up, or as your body temperature rises. Don't expose your skin to exceptionally cold air just because your core temperature is warm, as exposure to the cold can result in mild to serious injury.
References
- Running Gear World: Women's Cold Weather Running Gear
- The Running Advisor.com: How To Choose Running Apparel
- Cool Running; Don't Let the Cold Slow You Down -- Tips For Cold Weather Workouts; Katherine Switzer
- Michigan State University: Winter's Wrath -- Fat, Chilblains and Dehydration, Oh My!; Tom Oswald; 2007
- "ScienceDaily"; Bouncing Breasts Spark New Bra Challenge; September 2007
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