MemberAnyone run in the winter? I live in Canada and right now the ground is coverred in snow 🙁 I really want to run outside but I’m kind of afraid of slipping and falling. Any tips for running in the winter? I got a new running jacket and I want to wear it so bad!!!
MemberBuy some yak traks! They are the best for running in the snow and ice. They have little grips on them that provide stability. And they just slip over any running shoe. I think I got mine from amazon.com for about $20.
MemberI’m in upstate NY and I deal with the same thing. When I can do so safely, I will run on the shoulder of a road instead of the sidewalk. The shoulders tend to be more clear of snow and slush, so I slip less when I am running. If I can’t avoid the snow, I try to find places where it is either really packed or not packed at all. It’s the middle area where I slip and slid a lot.
There are spikes you can get for regular sneakers so you will grip in the snow. The yak traks are also good, but if you do have to run on clear pavement (crossing roads, or hitting stretches that are clear of snow) it makes them wear out a lot faster. I saw a DIY tutorial on how to make your own “spikes”. Basically you take the insole of your shoe out, and put screws through the sole, then put your insole back in. You can probably search online for more information on that. I have worn my trail running sneakers in the snow before too, since they have more grip on the tread than my road sneakers do.
I’d also just plan to go more slowly. I also find that sometimes when I try to avoid a spot I think is slick or slushy, I tend to slip more or strain my muscles than if I just ran straight, but cautiously. At least it is already January and the days are getting longer. Winter won’t last forever! (This is what I tell myself daily to make it through – I hate the cold and I hate the snow).
MemberI only run in the snow if it’s not packed down already. Non-icy snow is OK, and it’s kind of like running on the beach–the unstable footing makes it a much better workout. Like the PP said, though, take it SLOW and watch your footing!
Member@sweetchiquita12: Another Upstate NY-er here. Spend some time looking at and testing out shoes. Don’t buy the ultra-lightweight ones that are all mesh. Your feet are going to get soaking wet and freeze. If you have a local running store, stop in there.
Don’t forget to layer up! Sweat-wicking inner ones, and that snazzy new jacket (which I am guessing is waterproof) on the outside. Don’t forget gloves, ear warmers/headband, and keep an eye out for cars. If you’re planning on running in the evening/low light hours, invest in a reflective vest or light.
Have fun!
MemberI’m in Ontario too, and I’m finding it hard to run safely! I moved to a condo that doesn’t have an indoor gym so I’m stuck with outside being my only option. I’ll keep reading advice on this thread, thanks!
Member@ohmybears48: I googled the yaktraks? Do you own a pair? I want to try them cause I’m super scared about falling!!!
@mrstilly: Thanks for the good advice! I’m sure you know all about lovely snow in New York since its not to far from Ontario. I just cant wait until the winter is done! It makes everything so difficult and I hate running inside on a treadmill…soo boring!
@Crindy: I never thought of comparing it to a beach but that is a good idea! I will have to go super slow though because knowing me I will probably end up falling and that would not be cool just months before my wedding!
@BlondeBee: It’s funny you say that about the mesh shoes cause those ar the ones I have! I never thought about the wet feet thing until now (Duh!) I need to lok into this for sure. Yes my new jacket is water repellent and has relflective stuff on it and it cost a pretty penny..so it better be good.
@Scintillante: Yayy!! A fellow Torontonian! Do you live downtown? I feel like the snow melts alot faster down there because of all the cars and people using the sidewalks so much..I live in the suburbs so the snow lasts forever unless a mild spell happens
MemberMy Fiance and I wear these bad boys- waterproof and good traction, but they won’t bug you if you have to run on or cross pavement. Get gaiters if you’re running in deep snow though because the gore tex does nothing if snow gets in from above!
If you are running solely on snow/ice, check out microspikes. Yaktrax are ok but they’re not very durable. I wear these winter hiking when the snow is packed enough to not need snowshoes.
I usually wear a headband because unless it’s wicked cold a hat is too warm. Lightweight gloves that allow me to use my ipod are a must. Make sure you keep your feet toasty with some wool socks, too-Smartwool and Darn Tough are my favorites. And finally, if you are running in the dark, make sure you are lit/reflective!
And, as a PP said, you’re not going to break any PRs in the winter. Just be proud of the fact that you are doing something great for your body (while most people are chowing down mac & cheese on the couch)!
MemberI’m also from Ontario and enjoying the wintery weather we have right now!
I usually go running in my neighbourhood which has fairly quiet, wide streets and just run on the road. There are also a few paths that I know of which get plowed and salted fairly regularly so they are good options in most of the winter.
But in general I wait until a day or two after a storm so streets/sidewalks are a little clearer.
MemberSuch a great thread. I definitely would love to get into jogging in the cold! I think i will maybe order some yaktrax and gaiters since they seem to be a decent price.
Member@sweetchiquita12: Yes, I’m right downtown and the sidewalks are cleared on major streets. That’s a plus!
Member@Little_Nut88: Yayy Ontario! I heard it is supposed to snow more tonight and that puts a damper on my running plans for tmrw 🙁 You said you run on the road..does this make you a bit nervous? I live where people drive crazy (Toronto) so not sure if I could do it
Member@sweetchiquita12: Yay more snow! Guess I better try to run tonight! I’m outside of Toronto and my neighbourhood is pretty quiet with lots of well lit streets so I don’t mind running on the road. I also usually run with another person so that helps with being safe on the road.
MemberGot my yaktraxs and some warmer running clothes. Only problem is it gets dark so early i will only be able to jog on the weekends until the days get longer. Excited though! i’m just hoping the rain we are supposedly suppose to get will hold off. Ugh.
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