Layering for working out: how to run in sub-20 degree weather
When it hit 30 degrees last month, I finally started running outside again, trading the Willard treadmills for sprinting down Orrington to the Baháʼí Temple. Unfortunately, due to my deference to the RealFeel temperature (24 degrees), my unwillingness to layer up when running (not a good choice) and my incorrect assumption that I would “just warm up” as I ran, I found myself three minutes into my workout seriously considering what I would do if all my fingers contracted frostbite and fell off.
While I did survive the run to Baháʼí and back to South Campus in leggings and a T-shirt, I’ve learned from experience what to wear on these freezing runs (at least a light jacket over a T-shirt)—and so have other students on campus. As the weather starts to deceptively warm up, I asked a couple students on campus about their outfit choices when choosing to brave the cold and get some cardio in.
Weinberg third-year Nico Bers loves running the five miles up north on Sheridan to Winnetka, or down to Calvary Cemetery and up around the Lakefill. He also occasionally runs along McCormick Boulevard. There are two levels to his exercise wardrobe: if it’s above 25 degrees, he’ll wear pants or layer shorts and long underwear, with a long sleeve shirt and warm hat. If it’s below 25 degrees, he’ll wear a full face mask and thick socks to run. “It’s really important when I’m wearing a balaclava that if I’m going to have it cover my mouth, the moisture needs to stay there the entire time or it can freeze…that’s the difficulty with sweating.”
Weinberg first-year Alexander Rahman also runs around the Lakefill, as well as along the Evanston Lakefront Trail through Centennial Park and Dawes Park. “By the lake, the wind factor is worse, but it is prettier and the sun is usually unobstructed,” said Rahman. He also bundles up when it’s time to work out with sweatpants, an athletic quarter zip, a hat and gloves. “I don’t sweat as much when it’s cold, which is nice,” said Rahman. “Even though it’s harsh, the air always feels really fresh on my lungs. It makes me feel more alive.”
For Medill third-year Ashley Kim, layering is of the utmost importance. When it’s cold out, she typically wears three layers—a tank top, a thicker long-sleeve and a hoodie. However, she does have a hard stop. “I like running outside when it’s cold out because the cold air is cathartic. But if I have to wear a puffer jacket on top of that, it’s not worth running outside,” she laughed. She half attributed that to her dislike of hearing her arms rub against the material of a puffer—if that becomes the only option, she’ll opt for the indoors.
After talking to these students, I’ve taken some of their tips: working out in layers and changing my route from running around the Lakefill in the morning. I’ve found that putting a light jacket (I recommend a Uniqlo light windbreaker) over my usual outfit helps with the temperatures but doesn’t weigh me down. I’ve discovered that switching my running route from time to time helps with motivation, and running through Centennial Park and seeing the lifeguard tower pass me by is such a beautiful view while jogging. With their help, I’ve been able to brave the cold and make it more enjoyable—and, personally, I would say that even a mediocre run outside is better than the best treadmill run. But when it comes to the rain, I head to the gym.