If you’ve lived in Oregon for any length of time, you’re probably used to running in the rain. From October through May (with that one weird week in February), you can count on at least a light drizzle during your run. It can be hard to motivate yourself to get out there when the sky is falling (who wants to be wet and cold?) but it’s important to learn how to embrace the elements.

Since we never cancel our events due to rain, I though it would be helpful to share a few tips for making the most of a wet run. Learning to train outside in all conditions is a good life skill to learn. If you were at the starting line of the 2016 Shamrock Run, you no doubt have some pretty awesome pictures of yourself soaking wet. While it’s cold and a little miserable at the start, you eventually get used to it…sort of.

Running with a smile makes it not so bad!

Running in the rain does not have to be completely miserable. As someone who has run through all types of weather (I used to live in Minnesota, so…), I’m here to tell you that running in the rain can be fun! Below are my best tips to hopefully keep you happy and dry(er) when you’re running. If you’re participating in one of our events, at least there is beer at the end to help you warm up.

TIPS FOR RUNNING IN THE RAIN

Wear a hat or visor – This is super obviously, and if you only do one thing on this list, wear a brimmed hat or visor. The brim will keep water out of your face and make the run more comfortable – no one wants to run with rain splashing in their eyes!

Dress in tight-fitting clothing – This may sound counter-intuitive, but wearing loose, layered clothes will undoubtedly become soaked, heavy, and miserable. In my experience, when running in the rain, less is always best. I typically choose spandex-y shorts and a fitted t-shirt or tank top. If I’m wearing anything more and the rain is persistent, I end up shedding layers and am forced to carry something sopping wet. Don’t carry something sopping wet.

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Wear a rain-resistant shell – If rain is misty or light, opt for a breathable, rain-resistant shell like this Oiselle Wallace Jacket or Brooks LSD Running Jacket. (Bonus: both jackets fold up into their own small pouches.) Breathable and rain-RESISTANT, which means not waterproof. In our persistent Oregon misty showers, a light jacket will help keep you warm and dry. However, if the rain is in a downpour, most jackets are better left at home (re: don’t carry something sopping wet).

Apply bodyglide or vaseline – If you’re prone to chafing or blisters, and even if you’re not, it’s a good idea to apply bodyglide or vaseline to toes, legs, underarms, and any place that may become problematic. Rain traps moisture between your clothing and skin, which makes you more prone to chafing and blisters. Avoid the pain game, and lube up!

Protect electronics – If you run with a phone or fancy music player, first consider leaving it at home when weather is bad. If this isn’t an option, throw electronics into a ziplock bag for extra protection. Water tends to find it’s way into everything when I’m running, so I try to run “naked” or without music. Don’t forget about your fancy GPS watch, too! If the product isn’t completely waterproof, leave it at home.

Plan your route accordingly – Do you typically run on trails in forest park, or over lots of elevation changes? Heavy rain and rushing water could turn your route into a waterslide (or mudslide!) When weather is particularly bad, choose a route on flat(er), paved roads, ideally away from bodies of water.

Just Do It! – the best part about running in the rain is running in the rain! Sure, it can be hard to get yourself motivated, but once you’re wet, you’re wet, so embrace it! Running through particularly bad weather has a way of making you feel unbeatable (rain can’t stop me) and especially badass.

AFTER YOU’RE DONE RUNNING IN THE RAIN

Once you get back inside, be sure to change into warm, dry clothes. A good beer also helps, and we have a few suggestions for that! For soaked shoes, loosen the laces and stuff with crumpled newspaper to help draw moisture away. If possible, leave them to dry for a day or two, and whatever you do, don’t stick them in the clothes dryer!

Are you a pro at running in the rain? What other tricks have you learned for running in the rain? Share them below.