There’s nothing like a cool, crisp, fall run—but a run at any temperature can be difficult if you aren’t properly prepared.
Fall conditions can vary wildly, from cool and clear, to warm and rainy, windy, or even snowy depending on where you are, so be sure to check the weather before you head out and use the following tips to assemble the perfect fall running ensemble.
Don’t Overdress
It’s easy to pile on the layers when the temperatures start to drop in the fall. When you’ve gotten used to summer heat, standing outside in 50-degree weather can leave you feeling downright cold. However, if you dress for your body’s resting temperature, you’ll get uncomfortable quickly as you start moving.
For fall runs, just plan to be a little chilly during your warm-up. Remember that feeling a little cool at the start of a run is a lot better than feeling overheated at the halfway point.
If you get cold easily, try doing your pre-run stretching or some in-place cardio indoors beforehand so you shorten that amount of time you’re outside and not warmed up.
Be Seen
With cooler temperatures come shorter days, and that means a wider span of time where you aren’t as visible as you should be. Consider adding a reflective vest, headlamp, or other reflective/lighted gear to your fall running wardrobe to ensure that you can safely squeeze in that workout no matter how little daylight there is.
Mix and Match
Fall and spring are great seasons for running because you aren’t dealing with extreme heat or cold. However, because of that, you may not have gear that’s specific to fall running. You probably have warm weather gear and you bought some cold weather gear, but did you specifically go looking for…nice weather gear?
Think of fall as your transition season between summer and winter running gear. Wear your warm weather shorts and cold weather long-sleeved base layer, or switch over to capris or tights and stick with a short-sleeved top. For cooler fall days and early morning or night runs, vests are an excellent mid-temperature layer to add to the mix. When you start to feel that extra chill in the air, it’s time to include a hat or pair of gloves.
Above all else, remember to layer. Utilizing high quality, moisture-wicking layers will help you keep comfortable in any season and give you the option to adjust with your body temperature.
