8 Tips for Running in the Rain
Do you enjoy running in the rain? Minnesotans are tough! We run through snow, ice, harsh temperatures, humidity, and yes, rain. 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 races are hardly ever canceled due to rain, training outside in all conditions is useful and beneficial for race day. (What if it’s 80 degrees and sunny? Or 45 degrees and pouring?) If you were at the starting line of Grandma’s Marathon in 2015, maybe you remember a fun little downpour that soaked us all before the race even started.
Running in the rain does not have to be completely miserable. As someone who has run through nearly all types of weather, 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).
Tips for Running in the Rain
Wear a hat or visor - 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 close-fitting clothing - This may sound counter-intuitive, but wearing loose, layered clothes will undoubtedly become soaked, heavy, and miserable. In my experience running in 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.
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.) Remember, I wrote breathable and rain-RESISTANT, which means not waterproof. In 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 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.
Feel the fear and do it anyway - 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 or hop into a warm shower immediately. 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!
What tricks have you learned for running in the rain? Share them below.
Here are five tips for running in the rain from CTolleRun.
