Jogging is just as important in the winter as it is in the warm season. In addition to sports training, a person receives hardening and a portion of fresher and cleaner air than in other seasons.
Achieving the desired duration and comfort of your workouts without harming your health will help with proper preparation for the race and choosing a good suit. The subtleties of choosing clothes should be studied to the smallest detail and pay attention to the main characteristics of a particular model.
What to wear for a run in winter so as not to freeze?
You should not dress heavily in winter. Overheating of the body may occur, then a sharp cooling, then a cold or a more serious illness. It is enough to put on light, high-quality clothes under a special winter suit. Don't ignore a special hooded jacket, gloves, hat or balaclava.
All parts of the body must be insulated. Special warm inserts on vulnerable parts are required (on the butt; on the upper part of the leg in front) for additional protection of the skin from hypothermia during movement.
Features of running suits
The suit for winter running differs from the usual and has a number of its own characteristics:
- Waterproof;
- Windproof;
- Thermoregulation;
- Ventilation functions;
- Elasticity and softness.
While running, the suit should not bring discomfort and hinder movement. For this, a special material is selected (mixing of natural and synthetic fibers) with special characteristics. For improvement, additional inserts and elements are used.
Warmly
A good and high-quality suit does not burden the body with cumbersomeness and heaviness, but retains the maximum body heat. Such clothes work on the principle of warming and protection from hypothermia with a minimum induction of perspiration. To achieve this effect, it is best to use clothing made with synthetic or wool fibers.
Windproof
This function serves to remove excess heat and protect against cold wind penetration. Most often, to enhance the non-breathability, additional fabric impregnation is used. This procedure does not affect heat dissipation, it only increases the resistance to external air currents.
Moisture removal
Moisture wicking is the most important function of the equipment, which separates moisture from the body by transporting liquid in the form of perspiration to the outer surfaces of the fabric. The composition of clothing made from synthetic, woolen or silk materials does not absorb sweat, but passes through itself, creating a comfortable feeling when running and is the most optimal material for the product.
Protection from rain and snow
The rain and snow protection function is designed to keep moisture out from the outside. Prevents body getting wet and protects against hypothermia. It is made from lightweight waterproof materials of synthetic origin. Also, as an enhancer of resistance, special impregnations with high-quality substances that do not cause side effects (strong odor; allergies) are used.
What to wear under a suit
You should not wear a suit on a naked body. A good effect while running can be achieved if you dress properly. Proper attire consists of several layers.
Layering as the main principle for running in winter
Unfortunately, in winter it is impossible to find one thing with all the functions of protection and comfort working. Manufacturers have not come up with a universal material to keep heat, let air in, protect from precipitation, be lightweight and elastic at the same time.
Therefore, winter equipment consists of several layers that are responsible for one or another function:
- The first base layer is responsible for moisture regulation. It can be a T-shirt and underpants made of special material or thermal underwear;
- The second layer is responsible for thermoregulation. Does not allow the body to cool down or overheat by maintaining a comfortable temperature and removing excess heat from the body;
- The third is protection from weather conditions (rain; snow; wind).
Layering of equipment is the main principle of preparation for winter running. If you follow the sequence of clothing, you can keep not only warmth and comfort while running, but also protect your body from irritation and various rashes. The main thing is that things should be light and of high quality.
Thermal underwear
Underwear or thermal underwear. Its selection should be taken very seriously due to direct contact with the body. High quality synthetic and natural fiber material that is moisture permeable for long-lasting movement without inconvenience or restriction.
It can be seamless underpants, T-shirts, turtlenecks or underpants with special inserts in delicate places. The presence of seams on such clothing is allowed. They can be flat and almost imperceptible.
The use of purely natural fabrics when creating underwear is not permissible due to excessive moisture absorption, perspiration retention and obstruction of air circulation. Natural things cool quickly after getting wet and cause hypothermia of the body. They also make movement heavier and restrained.
Compression clothing
In winter, the human body receives not only stress from the cold, but also from excessive exertion. Compression underwear, whose functions are aimed at supporting the body while running and minimizing stress on the vascular system of the legs, spine and neck, will serve as an assistant.
Compression garments are optional during the cold running season. Those runners who have back, joint or vein problems should pay attention to such a suit. Use as underwear in multi-layered clothing. The quality of the material is at a high level with various inserts for comfortable sports.
Winter running suits overview
Adidas
Sportswear company Adidas moves with the times and produces new models with improved features for the cold season. The base layer of the garment is equipped with special synthetic inserts that allow you to wick away moisture and control body temperature.
For the pants, a special fabric is used, which was developed by the technologists of this company. The products are waterproof and windproof. Washable well, soft to the touch and light in weight.
Saucony
The winter running suit from this company is divided into 3 levels:
- Bottom - Dry - wicks moisture away from the body, leaving it dry. Equipped with thin and flat seams with special inserts in the armpits and between the legs.
- Medium - Warm - thermoregulatory. Aimed at maintaining a comfortable body temperature. Synthetic fiber with fleece inserts fits snugly to the body and keeps you warm for a long time.
- Upper - Shield - protective. Thanks to special inserts on the back and front, the jacket does not let the wind through, and the special impregnation of the fabric does not allow getting wet.
Nike
Nike is one of the first to take a layered approach to create quality winter sports apparel. The fabric is developed using a special technology of the enterprise, taking into account age and physiological criteria. Usually, the company's things are monochromatic, without any special color highlights.
Lightweight and soft bottom layer fabric with a ball of pile is designed to regulate perspiration and retain heat. The top layer, mostly nylon, is wind and rain resistant and is very lightweight and compact. The hood is equipped with special ties to adjust the size.
ASICS
The company offers a range of membrane suits for jogging in cold winter seasons. The bottom layer fits snugly to the body like a second skin. Not perceptible because of lightness, softness. No seams. Quickly removes moisture and dries. Works to warm up the body during a decrease in activity. Long service life due to elasticity and high quality material.
The windproof top layer (trousers and windbreaker) does not allow moisture to pass through and allows you to be outdoors for a long time in bad weather. The windbreaker is equipped with a hood with adjustable size, and additional pockets with waterproof and waterproof zippers.
The cuffs are adjustable with Velcro, which do not press down on the wrist and do not rub, but are only responsible for fixing the sleeve in the desired position. The side panels under the sleeves regulate warmth and do not hinder movement.
New balance
Until recently, the American firm was little known in our region. But, thanks to the high technology of tailoring, the use of high-quality materials and the use of some tricks, the brand proved itself and became no less popular in the market. Suits for winter running wick away moisture well and, thanks to special inserts, ventilate the body without creating discomfort during active movement.
Outerwear protects from wind and rain. The presence of LED strips allows you to move with confidence in the dark, and chest pockets provide safe storage of accessories (phone, player, headphones, etc.) in bad weather. The pants are impregnated with a special substance that prevents deep absorption of dirt and moisture. Washable well both by hand and by machine wash.
PUMA
The company uses materials for suits with synthetic fibers for the top layer, and mixed (synthetic + natural) for the bottom. The upper layer is equipped with additional laces at the bottom of the jacket and on the cuffs of the trousers. Zippers are impregnated with a substance that does not allow moisture and air to pass through. The inner side of the windbreaker is lined with fine pile to conserve heat.
The underwear is pleasant to the body, creates a comfortable indoor climate and prevents excessive perspiration. Soft elastic around the neck and on the cuffs helps keep warm and cool air out. The porous structure of the fabric allows moisture to quickly wick away from the body to the next layer. It does not need special care, it is easily washed and lasts a long time.
Reebok
The technology for the production of suits is aimed at achieving maximum comfort in any weather conditions. The use of breathable inserts both for the underwear and for the top layer provide maximum ventilation effect for the body.
Moisture does not accumulate on the skin due to air circulation and maintaining the right temperature. The bottom layer fits the body and takes shape depending on the physiological characteristics of the person. Does not stretch due to the elasticity of the materials.
The top layer provides maximum freedom of movement. Does not get wet and does not let the wind through. Almost imperceptible by weight. The pockets and back are fitted with reflective inserts for safe movement when visibility is limited.
Salomon
To create lightweight and practical winter running sportswear, the company uses innovative technologies aimed at ergonomics, comfort and modern design that distinguish the brand from other manufacturers.
The base layer is practically not felt on the body, it warms well and conducts moisture upward. Sewing is usual, without any inserts, from high-quality material. In addition to the functions inherent in such a layer, the lower suit of this company does not allow the appearance of unpleasant odors of sweat.
The top layers use a combination of the latest fiber blending technologies to maximize body ventilation and repel water from external sources. Padded wrists and throat, adjustable hood.
Prices
Prices for winter running suits depend on the quality of materials, the manufacturer's firm and the number of items in the set. On average, a good three-layer outfit costs from 20,000 to 30,000 rubles without additional accessories. By purchasing additional things (Balaclava, socks, gloves, etc.), you will have to pay 5000 - 7000 more.
You can save money by choosing things from domestic manufacturers with simple technologies for creating special suits or looking for branded things in second-hand shops.
Where can one buy?
You need to make expensive purchases of well-known brands in specialized sportswear stores with the provision of all relevant documents to the buyer. A guarantee is required.
Fitting and quality checks should not be obstructed. Also, you can order a winter suit on the manufacturer's secure Internet sites. Where a guarantee is also given for the goods, and payment occurs after receipt and verification.
Reviews
Unique item - compression T-shirt. The service life is long, very convenient. Can be used not only for sports, but also for recreation. Replaces 10 regular ones. The only negative is that it gets boring to walk in the same one.
Dmitry, athlete.
The thermowells serve for three years. In winter, it is used as a base layer, and in the warm season as outerwear. They not only protect from cold, but also protect from overheating.
Marina, a lover of active movement.
Due to the nearby track, there is a danger of being hit by vehicles while jogging. The presence of reflective elements of the equipment will make it safe to go in for sports at night or in the presence of poor visibility.
Alexandra, not a professional athlete.
Items of equipment can be used not only for sports, but also for protection from cold, wet weather conditions if necessary. For example, for a walk in the forest or trading at the market in winter.
Vsevolod, a football fan.
Buying branded items in stock stores is not a bad savings. You can find good things for a lot cheaper. The main thing is to carefully examine the condition of the clothes and pay attention to what is written on the labels.
Nikolai, runner.
If a person knows how to sew, then ordering a special material and making winter equipment with a waterproof effect with maximum heat retention will be much cheaper, especially for a child's version.
Natalia, housewife.
No matter how the manufacturers write on the labels that the suit does not require special care, you still should not tempt fate. Winter tracksuits (ski, running) should be taken to dry cleaning after a seasonal lesson. There is everything that will help to preserve the appearance of clothes as much as possible.
Gennady, ski instructor.
Whether a professional or a jogging enthusiast, both need high-quality and comfortable clothing for jogging, especially in the winter. To protect the body from colds and other consequences from the cold, as well as to strengthen the body and disperse the blood through the veins, special equipment bought in a brand store or hand-sewn will help.
The most important thing is that the suit has all the qualities that will conserve heat, protect from cold and moisture, and will not cause difficulties while running.