This winter has been crazy in Portland! I grew up in Minnesota, so I am no stranger to ice, cold, and snow. When we moved to Portland a few years ago, I thought cold winter runs were behind me. Apparently not. This weather is incredibly annoying, but shouldn’t prevent you from being active.
Our first run of the season at Portland Brewing Co. was might cold. Many people couldn’t make it because of the impending storm. After the run, most people said it wasn’t too cold after they got going. This is why it’s important to wear the right stuff when you’re running in the cold.
If you have on the right clothing, winter running is actually pretty fun. Like skiers going out in fresh powder on Mt Hood, winter running exposes you to beautiful scenery you might not otherwise see in Portland.
You may already own many of the items below, but if you’re looking to become impervious to the elements this year, here are the four basic layers you’ll need. Pick them up at Portland Running Company, then get outside!
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The Feet
If it’s icy, which is most likely the case in Portland, get yourself a good pair of YakTrax. My first venture into Yaktrax’s was with the Pro Traction Cleats. After three seasons, they finally broke. I later bought the Yaktrax Run Traction Cleats ($40), which are fantastic. This combines a coil spring with a more traditional cleat in the forefoot.
These are solid for running over ice and snow, but running over dry grounds sucks. You can remove them mid-run should you find the roads clearer than anticipated (but carrying them is a huge pain).
The Base
This is perhaps the most important layer as it is the one touching your skin. I prefer synthetic materials for wicking moisture away from your body. Any sort of DryFit or Polyester should do the trick. I used Under Armour Coldgear for years, but really anything that is tight fitting like these will do.
Also, the men’s/women’s New Balance Wind Brief is critical. It will provide extra protection from the elements where it counts.
The Insulation
Depending on how cold it is (and personal tolerance), this layer may not be necessary for Portland. Once your base is on, look to find a second layer of insulation. This should continue to wick moisture, yet retain heat so you don’t freeze. Fleece is usually a good option. Sometimes simply adding an additional long sleeve shirt will be enough. Figure out your own cold threshold.
The Nike Dry Fit 1/4 Zip is a favorite of mine as it can help regulate your body temperature well.
The Jacket
This is your last line of defense from the elements. This layer is going to protect you from rain, wind, snow and sleet. The key here is getting something that protects from both wind and water. Full zip is nice, and ideally a little longer in back (to cover your butt).
Something like this off brand jacket for $18.99 is probably sufficient. Of course you can spend a lot more, but why? It’s quite versatile and can handle most PDX winter running situations. Because it’s so lite weight, it’s easy to fold and store when you inevitable warm up during a longer run.
The Head and Hands
If your hands are wet, cold, or both, you will be totally miserable. I’m also uncomfortable if my hands get sweaty. That’s why I often wear a 2:1 glove/mitten combo. For obvious reasons, you can regulate the temperature of your hands well. They don’t do much when it’s raining. For that, you’ll want a neoprene glove, with a liner. Those are amazing!
As far as a hat…of course I recommend our new Brewery Running Series beanie! Honestly, just put something on your head and go!
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Or Just Stay In
Even when you follow these basic ideas, sometimes, it still too horrible to go out. Find a treadmill, some YouTube workout videos, or another form of cross-training. The good thing about snow and ice in Portland is that it probably won’t stick around very long!
