Winter Running: We Hate This Too

It is currently 22 degrees out, but don’t worry, it feels like nine! Weather this frigid is uninspiring, to say the least. The cold can be brutal on skin and lungs and knowing what to wear can often be a puzzle. There are also more dark hours in the day, boo! Who would even want to go out in that?! These are common complaints we hear from customers, and if we’re honest, from ourselves. Cold running ain’t for the faint of heart, but we’ve got some tips to help you through the next couple months.

Annual Run Up The Mountain - Dec 2024

First, let’s handle how to dress. There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad outfits! True and not true. Thirty-eight and raining is bad weather, but there is a good way to dress for that! Layering is the name of the game in winter. Layers can be shed, but if you’re caught unprepared you might be in for an uncomfortable time. My general combo is a base layer (short sleeve, tank top if you tend to run warm), a mid layer (long sleeve shirt), and an outer layer depending on the conditions (Windy? I like a vest or wind breaker. Raining? Waterproof jacket, obvs. Just dang cold? Insulated jacket or a hoodie.). Getcha some warm gloves, a head or face covering (I’m really loving my Buff headband and merino neck gaiter), and good tights/leggings (insulated? Don’t mind if I do!). Oh and Darn Tough socks! Wool is basically a non-negotiable for cold-weather running.

So how do we handle motivation in cold weather? That’s a trickier one for sure. My favorite motivation is running with friends. Friends are my favorite year round of course, but holding each other accountable can be crucial for winter training. Make a group text with your grittiest pals and hit them up on a daily/weekly basis with your intentions for the week. Plan ahead! Group runs are great, too. Jus’ Running keeps the Pub Run at Archetype Brewing going through the winter and Tuesday Night Track is coming back on January 28th. Another good trick to keep running through the cold months is signing up for a winter or spring race. Make an ambitious goal, try a new distance, or maybe plan a destination race. The more excited you are about the finish line, the less likely you’ll be to bail on your goal.

Jus’ Running Pub Run out of Archetype Brewing on Wednesday nights at 6:15pm.

We want to hear from you! Send us pics of your creative winter layering, group runs with friends, or happy finish lines. Respondents will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to Jus’ Running. Deadline for submission is February 1, 2025! To enter, email your pictures to JusRunningAVL@gmail.com or tag us in an Instagram or Facebook post!