One of my goals for 2021 was to push myself in my workouts, while still maintaining enjoyment. I also like to say goal rather than resolution because I’ve actually taken steps to achieve my goal rather than leaving it as an open ended resolution this time around. If you’ve been following my running journey, you know that I am currently in week 3 of my 4 week running challenge. The prize for completing my outdoor runs is a brand new matte black Dior Saddle bag that I want very very badly. Throughout my life, being cold has always been something I tried to minimize. I dread Chicago winters and typically bundle up a little more than necessary when outdoors so the idea of staying active during the cold and dark months to come was especially difficult for me to come to terms with. Running is my preferred method of cardio so I was faced with a tough choice. Do I brave the cold this year? Is this year the year I decide to break my “can’t run outside if it’s below 50 degrees rule?” Gyms with subpar treadmills are out of my reach this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, and there were only so many indoor HIIT workouts one could repeat every week without going insane.

While there is a certain element of crazy associated with the need to run outside in freezing temperatures, it can also be mitigated with preparation and gearing up. I started testing the waters with gear in the 40 degree range, combating the cold by wearing gloves and warm socks. I realized early on that your body tries to consolidate as much warmth as possible around your more important organs so your fingers and toes are the first to go.

Once I got my gear down, I started moving to the 30 degree range comfortably. You should never underestimate the importance of a hat/balaclava (or mask!) and a solid base layer. These “second skins” will keep your body warmth regulated instead of letting it escape like summertime performance gear is designed to do. I’ve tried everything from heat-tech leggings to undershirts and have realized there is a fine balance since your body will also be generating heat on its own. I would recommend leaving your puffer jackets at home and sticking to more lightweight gear for running.

Keeping an eye on the weather forecast is the most important part of running outside. The wind could be unbearable at certain times of the day, the temperature could drop sharply, or the ground outside can be slippery from the snow or even frozen over at times. It’s important to wear shoes that have appropriate traction so that you keep your balance and focus on the road ahead. You should also head indoors as soon as your finish your run since your body temperature will begin to sink more rapidly once you’re finished so you want to avoid being outside for very long post run. With my cold weather preparations and gear, I am now comfortably able to run in 20 degree weather in Chicago. If you told me this a year ago I would’ve laughed in your face. Life is funny sometimes!

I’ve shared some cold-weather running gear that are my personal selects below. These favorites have kept me warm on my runs outside even in these extreme conditions. I hope that they can help you on your wellness journey this year as well. Keep in mind that the first time is always the hardest, but you’ll be back in a routine in no time at all. Happy shopping and have a good run!