What to wear for running
Technical layers that wick sweat, shoes made for running and something bright or reflective if you run at dawn or dusk. Dress for how warm you will be after ten minutes, not for the first minute.
Two outfits that work
Bright top, tights, reflective jacket
- bright running top
- black running tights
- cushioned running shoes
- light reflective jacket
A bright top with a light reflective layer keeps you visible, and tights are comfortable from cool mornings to cold evenings.
Technical tee, shorts, high-visibility vest
- navy technical tee
- black running shorts
- cushioned running shoes
- high-visibility vest
A technical tee and shorts stay light, and a high-visibility vest helps drivers and cyclists see you at dusk.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | A thin top, shorts, a cap, sun protection and water. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | A long-sleeved top or tee with shorts or tights, and a light vest. |
| ColdBelow 10° | Layered tops, tights, gloves, a hat or headband, and a windproof layer. |
Do and don’t
- Dress for ten minutes in, not the first minute
- Wear something bright or reflective in the dark
- Choose seamless socks to prevent rubbing
- Carry your phone and some ID
- Run in cotton, which stays wet and cold
- Wear brand-new shoes for a long run
- Wear dark clothes at night with no reflectors
- Wear headphones that block traffic sounds
Check the night before
- Check the forecast and wind, not just the temperature
- Lay out layers you can tie round your waist
- Pack your phone, keys and a small card
- Charge the watch or phone
- Tell someone your route if you run alone
Questions people ask
What should I wear running in cold weather?
Layers: a technical long-sleeved top, tights, gloves and a hat, with a windproof layer if it is windy. You should feel slightly cool at the start.
What should I wear running in the dark?
Bright clothes with reflective details, a head torch or clip-on light, and a route you know.
Do I need special running shoes?
Shoes made for running have the cushioning and grip you need. A shop that watches you run can help you choose.
Is cotton OK for running?
For short, easy runs it is fine, but it stays wet and cold. Technical fabrics dry faster.
Pick Running in FeinLens and see what you already own
FeinLens builds complete outfits for this occasion from photos of your own clothes, dressed for the forecast where you’ll be.
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