HOW TO STAY DRY WHILE RUNNING
“I can’t go out running – it’s raining!” It’s a common excuse that even the most committed runners will have used at some point. But it needn’t be such an easy excuse, as long as you have the right running gear to protect you from the elements and keep you warm. Find out what to wear while running in the rain to keep you dry, warm and comfortable.
When it rains, you’ll need running gear that can keep you dry. Technically, that means keeping an eye on two different things:
- Rain from the outside
- Sweat from the inside
WHAT TO WEAR RUNNING IN THE RAIN
ASICS running clothing uses advanced fabrics that keep you protected and dry, as well as comfortably warm. Tops made from the lightweight Softshell material are particularly well suited to wet weather. Softshell material consists of three thin layers and is designed to be:
- Water and wind repellent
- Breathable and wick moisture away from your skin
- Thermoregulating – i.e. it traps warm air close to your skin to regulate temperature
LAYERING UP IN WET WEATHER
ASICS running clothing is based on a layering concept that involves combining items depending on your needs and the climate you run in. You can find out more in our guide to layering up in unpredictable weather. When layering, you can choose to wear up to three layers depending on the conditions:
- Outer or shell layer to protect you from the wind and rain
- Mid-layer for thermoregulation and to provide extra warmth
- Inner or base-layer for thermoregulation
In winter, you might choose to wear all three layers, while in spring, two might be all you need to suit the conditions. Winter items are also available in different thicknesses, so you can cover up in colder weather and wear lighter items when it’s milder.
CHOOSING A TOP AND BOTTOM
- Choose a shell layer of Softshell or WINDBLOCK to protect you from the rain and wind
- Depending on the temperature, opt for a base and/or mid-layer of brushed material to provide warmth and keep you dry from sweat
- Choose tights made from a brushed material to keep your leg muscles warm. They should be padded with Softshell material on the front to protect you from the rain
- If it’s very cold, wear a pair of shorts over your tights for additional rain protection and warmth
STAY VISIBLE IN BAD LIGHT
Another important factor to think about when running in the rain is your visibility. In winter, when the days are short and you’re often forced to run in the dark, it’s essential for your safety that you’re visible to other road users.
ASICS running clothing features reflective details to ensure your visibility, often applying them through 360 degrees so you can be seen from all angles. You can also run with a small LED lamp.
WHAT TO WEAR RUNNING IN THE RAIN: 3 SMART STRATEGIES TO KEEP YOU DRY
Not sure what to wear while running in the rain? Let these three simple tips guide your wet weather choices.
- Wear a running cap with a brim
A running cap can be hugely beneficial when running in the rain. It will keep the rain off your face even in the worst possible conditions. If the weather is warm but wet, a ventilated running cap will help to keep you cool so you don’t overheat, while a thicker hat will provide vital protection in cold, wet and windy conditions.
Take a look at the ASICS range of running caps and beanies for men and women.
- Don’t overdress
Overdressing is a common mistake runners make when choosing what to wear while running in the rain. Wearing more layers than those we’ve described will not keep you drier. Instead, it will weigh you down and hamper your performance.
- Prevent chafing
Chafing can be an unwelcome companion on any run, but you’ll be more susceptible when you’re running in the rain. If you’re going on a long-distance run in wet weather, apply Vasoline to parts of your body where you’d normally experience chafing or blisters before you head out. Your feet, inner thighs, underarms, sports bra lines and nipples are all areas that are prone to chafing.
Still not sure what to wear while running in the rain? Then explore our collection of ASICS running clothes.