Winter Running: The Kit Essentials (Because It’s Not All About Suffering)

November 13, 2024

Ah, winter running in Ireland. It’s a bit like doing stand-up in front of your in-laws: cold, uncomfortable, and you’re not entirely sure why you’re doing it. But if you’ve decided to brave the elements, you’ll need the right gear. Not just to survive, but to thrive (ugh did I just type that?) or at least make it through without resembling a soggy cat.

The Jacket: Your Armour Against the Elements

First on the list is a good running jacket. Not the flimsy windbreaker you wore once in July, but a proper, waterproof, windproof marvel of modern science. It needs to fend off everything from drizzle to full-blown horizontal rain (which in fairness, is a standard Tuesday in Ireland).

Pro tip: Choose one with reflective strips, not because you want to be seen by satellites, but because it’ll stop you blending into the mist like a soggy ninja.

Thermal Base Layers: The Unsung Heroes

You might be tempted to skip this one. “Ah sher it’s not that cold,” you’ll say, just before hypothermia sets in. Trust us, a good thermal base layer is like a mammy who always reminds you to bring a jacket, annoying but indispensable.

Merino wool is a solid choice here. It’s warm, breathable, and doesn’t smell like a damp dog after a couple of miles. Unless you forgot to wash it from last winter, in which case, good luck to you.

Leggings: Embrace the Lycra

Yes, lads, this includes you. It’s time to embrace your inner ballet dancer. Running leggings aren’t just for looking like a superhero, they keep your legs warm and prevent chafing. Because there’s nothing more demoralising than freezing thighs or the walk of shame post-run when you realise you’ve been rubbing the wrong way.

If full-on leggings feel too revealing, throw on a pair of shorts over them. You’ll keep your dignity intact while avoiding looking like you’re auditioning for Riverdance.

Hats and Gloves: Keep Your Extremities Happy

Ever tried tying your shoelaces with fingers that feel like frozen sausages? It’s not fun. A good pair of running gloves will keep your hands functional, which is handy (pun intended) when you’re waving at motorists or adjusting your Gigi D’Agostino playlist mid-run.

As for the hat, think warmth, not fashion. Forget the beanie that makes you look like an indie band member. You need something that covers your ears and stays put. No one wants to spend half their run chasing a rogue hat down a wind-blown street.

Socks: More Important Than You Think

You might not give much thought to your socks, but on a long, wet run, they’re your best mate. Invest in moisture-wicking, thermal socks. Bonus points if they’re high enough to keep your ankles from freezing when you splash through an unexpected puddle (because in Ireland, every puddle is unexpected).

Avoid cotton socks like you’d avoid running into your ex on a bad hair day. They’ll absorb water faster than a paper towel, leaving your feet cold, wet, and blistered.

Headtorch: Illuminate Your Path 

Winter running means running in the dark, and unless you’ve got night-vision goggles lying around, a good headtorch is essential. It’ll light your path and stop you from tripping over rogue branches, potholes, or, heaven forbid, the family pet.

Make sure it’s bright enough to illuminate more than just the end of your nose. Bonus points if it has a red light mode for that extra spooky, I’m-a-serious-runner look.

Footwear: Tread Carefully

We save the most important til last! Your summer trainers aren’t going to cut it when you’re dodging icy patches and puddle filled potholes that resemble small lakes. Look for trail shoes with good grip. Waterproof ones, ideally, unless you fancy the feel of wet socks squelching with every step.

And don’t forget to check the wear on your current pair. Nothing says “What am I doing with my life” more than slipping on a patch of ice because your soles have gone smoother than a Dáil TD dodging questions.

Conclusion

With the right winter running kit, you’ll be ready to face the elements like a true Irish warrior,  prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way, from torrential downpours to bone-chilling winds. And while you might not look catwalk-ready in all your layered glory, at least you’ll be warm, dry, and possibly even enjoying yourself.

So embrace the lycra, and remember: winter running isn’t just about survival, it’s about looking slightly ridiculous while doing something brilliant. Now, go forth and run, knowing that somewhere out there, a car full of warm, dry people is looking at you and thinking, “Fair play to them, but rather them than me.”