General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Running in the cold Rss Feed  
Moderators: k9car363, alicefoeller Reply
2012-12-24 5:49 PM

User image

Veteran
416
100100100100
Cleveland, Tennessee
Subject: Running in the cold
So today I decided to run outside instead of on the dreadmill. I dressed pretty decently but I ran into 1 minor issue and looking for suggestions on improving it. My feet got a little cold but that is about the only area that produced any discomfort that is easily fixed. I had my normal cotton socks on, my normal shows. The temp was -22F with snow on the ground. I only had to go through the snow once or twice but otherwise it was hard packed or plowed.

Any suggestions for keeping feet warm? (socks, overlays, boots, etc)
Icicles off of your eyelids? ( i do not think this can be avoided)


2012-12-24 6:01 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Expert
2098
2000252525
Ontario Canada
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

I use a NB trail shoe a 910's I believe that has an antifreeze added to the cushioning to keep it flexable and still cushion in the cold somewhat anyway's ,it is also gusseted on the tounge and gore tex to help keep water, snow out. I usually pair these with some nice marino wool or drymax socks for my winter running, works for me. if its still too much you could try a neoprene cycling over boot over the shoes. a full balaclava is almost a necessity at that temp too at least for me.



Edited by RRH_88 2012-12-24 6:04 PM
2012-12-24 7:57 PM
in reply to: #4547178

Regular
123
100
Toronto, ON
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
I'm a big fan of SmartWool socks for cold days.
2012-12-24 8:45 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Elite
5145
500010025
Cleveland
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

The only thing I recommend to help you as far as running when it is -22F is a therapist.

That's just not right on any level.

2012-12-24 8:51 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Veteran
258
1001002525
South dakota
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
Was -3 here today, smartwool with salomon trail shoes......nice and toasty
2012-12-25 9:11 AM
in reply to: #4547258

User image

Expert
977
500100100100100252525
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
cgregg - 2012-12-24 8:45 PM

The only thing I recommend to help you as far as running when it is -22F is a therapist.

That's just not right on any level.

X2



2012-12-25 2:16 PM
in reply to: #4547258

User image

Regular
129
10025
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
cgregg - 2012-12-24 9:45 PM

The only thing I recommend to help you as far as running when it is -22F is a therapist.

That's just not right on any level.

^ this  +1

2012-12-25 2:44 PM
in reply to: #4547222

User image

Expert
721
500100100
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

fishwallop - 2012-12-24 8:57 PM I'm a big fan of SmartWool socks for cold days.

^^ This. Smartwool is awesome.  

2012-12-25 3:10 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Extreme Veteran
410
100100100100
Northern Illinois
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
Toe warmers are nice. They stick right on your socks.
2012-12-25 3:16 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Member
154
1002525
Kansas City, Missouri
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
Way to get after it!!!
2012-12-25 3:16 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Member
154
1002525
Kansas City, Missouri
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
Way to get after it!!!


2012-12-25 3:37 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Member
21

Subject: RE: Running in the cold

I recommend you move someplace warmer.

Good lord.

2012-12-25 4:48 PM
in reply to: #4547691

User image

Champion
10018
50005000
, Minnesota
Bronze member
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

Any kind of wool socks, I also wear ski socks, socks from the work store (places that sell Carhartt, etc), whatever.  I have thicker pairs for colder weather.   I have run through slush puddles and they feel almost instantly warm again.

I also wear trail running shoes. Although I think the wool socks are the main component for happiness.

I have to give props to you and the -22F. I was complaining about 6F today (-0 wind chill).  Make sure your skin is covered as much as possible, even if a thin layer.  NO COTTON AT ALL.  Tech fabrics, fleece and wool are best.  With cotton it's too easy to sweat and then freeze.  You will learn lessons along the way ;0

2012-12-25 5:18 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Extreme Veteran
356
1001001002525
Albany/Saratoga, NY area
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

I run outside all winter (although not in Alaska-Brrrr) and I have run in below 0 temps without a problem. I had shoes before with Gore tex and loved them but still wore smartwool. Last winter and this year I'm just wearing trail shoes but if I lived in Alaska I'd probably spend the extra for gore tex. I also really like UA cold gear and will double up on pants and shirts and gloves if its really cold. Plus I wear a windbreaker. You may have done this but for me the biggest thing I can say is make sure you cover your mouth and nose in those kinds of temps. Aside from being more comfortable, it really helps keep you from having problems with reactive airways (cold induced asthma). I have a neck gaiter I wear right through April.

I have never been sorry I started running outside and really don't think I could spend the winter on a treadmill. I am able to actually enjoy the experience of being outdoors in the winter. I get some sunlight and see beautiful things I wouldn't hav if I stayed indoors. Running does that for me. Enjoy it!

2012-12-25 7:39 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Master
1457
10001001001001002525
MidWest
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
I'm glad to see the replies about footwear. I am a relative newby to outdoor running and, although not as cold as AK, my feet are the one part that seems to take a while to warm up (if they ever do).  I have some wool socks that I will try out.  I have a 10 mile trail race this weekend,so I'm a little nervous to try anything new this close to race day.
2012-12-25 9:26 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Extreme Veteran
645
50010025
Media, PA
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

I was about to say give it a mile or so, and your feet will warm up.  Then I saw your location, and -22 F.  You must really not like the treadmill.

I got to experience -15 F once, not running, just going outside in it.  I noticed when I breathed in, I could feel the lining of my nostrils, whatever moisture was there, freeze.  That air is also incredibly dry.  Did you feel anything in your airways, or have any issues breathing?



2012-12-25 9:37 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Veteran
416
100100100100
Cleveland, Tennessee
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

To answer a few questions/give a little more information. I was wearing UA Cold/lined base pants & top, another none line pants and shorts, a dri-fit top and a wind breaker. I also had a full balaclava and hat on and thinish gloves. I was wearing some regular cotton socks with my Asics road shoes.

I had no issue breathing because I was breathing through the bala, the moisture from my breath was collecting on my eyelids and freezing. The "icicles" were slowly growing down and starting to impair my vision, that is the only real reason I turned around. I felt really good on the run. It felt great running outside, I am thinking I am going to repeat this while on vacation and the sun is up. Having short daylight hours it is hard to run before or after work, we are getting about 3.5 hours of daylight a day.

I will try some smart wool socks and maybe some trail shoes out of my next paycheck. Might just have to make that my Christmas gift to myself. I do also plan to try and hit a run in -40 to -60 temps when we get that low, it may only be a mile but I want those bragging rights.

Thanks for all of the opinions and the suggestions of moving or seeking a therapist. I will be moving in May when Uncle Sam says I can.

2012-12-26 9:34 AM
in reply to: #4547222

User image

Master
2802
2000500100100100
Minnetonka, Minnesota
Bronze member
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

fishwallop - 2012-12-24 7:57 PM I'm a big fan of SmartWool socks for cold days.

x2 for me for winter running, plus I use my trail shoes (Brooks Cascadia) when it is really cold or if I am running in deeper snow.

2012-12-26 10:22 AM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Pennsylvania
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

Wow, that's seriously cold temperatures!  I, too, am a huge fan of SmartWool but have also recently added SwiftWick's merino wool four inch socks to the lineup and love 'em!

The outdoorsman addage of 'cotton kills' rings true, although it doesn't need to be as extreme as death to be problematic.  Any time cotton gets wet it gets heavier and just clings to the body and makes a person colder.  Wicking fabrics (inculding wool which naturally wicks) are much better for active outdoor activities, both in heat and cold.

2012-12-26 11:11 AM
in reply to: #4547178


209
100100
Subject: RE: Running in the cold

Trail running shoes which are a little thicker.  Pair of moisture wicking socks under light wool socks.  A gaitor over the top of the trail running shoes.  In addition, a little more ventilation with the balaclava.  Ski goggles might be worth a try.  Try to get away with an opening for the mouth if possible, if you need to stop or walk the moisture will make you cold extremly quick.  Please post if you try it again and temperature.

2012-12-26 3:05 PM
in reply to: #4547178

User image

Extreme Veteran
607
500100
Rochester, MN
Subject: RE: Running in the cold
I live in MN and also run in cold temps.  Totally agree with the many times mentioned wool socks for most cold conditions.  I have some "storm socks" which are thin neoprene type socks I will use sometimes, especially if it is cold & wet or very cold & windy.  I wear these over wool socks.  I bought these a few years ago from Road Runner Sports. 


New Thread
General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Running in the cold Rss Feed