What to Wear for Running in the Rain | Heartbreak Hill Running Co.
- anastasiabrett0
- Feb 11, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 12, 2023
We’ve all been there. You check the forecast for tomorrow’s run and sure enough - there’s a 100% chance of rain. The treadmill is always an option, but you don’t need to let a little rain interfere with your training plan.
While there are no running clothes that will keep you completely dry, you can make strong clothing choices to keep you more comfortable.
Until the sun comes back out, here are a few tips for choosing the perfect run-in-the-rain outfit. After all, there is no such thing as bad weather - just bad gear.
CHOOSING YOUR FABRICS WISELY
Everything you wear in the rain will absorb water, adding extra weight. Choose clothes made from moisture-wicking fabrics that pull moisture away from your body and repel water.
When it comes to rain, cotton is not your friend. Cotton is water-absorbant and has a slow drying time, meaning that a rainy run in cotton clothes will cause the wet, cold fabric to stick to your skin.
Alternative materials like nylon, merino wool, or polyester won’t leave you soggy as these fabrics aren’t as absorbent. Clothes made from these fabrics keep moisture away from your skin, making for a warmer, more comfortable option.
If you’re looking for some new tops to add to your rainy run rotation, check out these merino wool options to stay cool and dry during the warmer rains.
OPT FOR A LIGHT-WEIGHT RAIN JACKET
It’s always tempting to grab a waterproof jacket on your way out the door. However, jackets that aren’t breathable keep out the rain but trap sweat, making them more of a hindrance than a help.
Choosing a lightweight, water-resistant jacket as an outer layer is a better choice. Opt for a breathable, running-specific model that offers some protection without leaving you feeling clammy.
Both of these jackets feature wind-and-water-resistant technology to help keep you warm and dry.
If you’re looking for warmer options, these jackets have wind-and-water-resistant technology paired with an adjustable hood feature to keep you dry.
KEEP YOUR HEAD WARM
As if rain wasn't bad enough, rainy runs in the cold are even tougher to brave. To face the cold prepared, use a hat to keep your head and ears warm.
For double coverage in colder conditions, pair a headband on top of your hat to keep it from falling off in a downpour or windy conditions.
As always, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool, polyester, or nylon.
Speaking of nylon, this headband and beanie are both 90% nylon and 10% spandex for a comfortable, breathable fit.
... AND YOUR FACE DRY
Running with rain pouring into your eyes is never ideal. Throwing on a brimmed hat can keep raindrops from getting on your face, freeing up your vision.
It’s best to take into consideration the temperature when selecting a hat. Warmer conditions call for high breathability while chillier runs are better suited to insulated features.
These brimmed running hats utilize a nylon-and-polyester blend that’s moisture-wicking, making either one a perfect choice for warmer runs in the rain.
CONSIDER A PAIR OF WATERPROOF GLOVES
While definitely a cold-specific accessory, gloves can be a lifesaver for running in those odd seasonal rainstorms.
Although nearly any type of glove will keep your hands warm on a dry day, avoid running in the rain with gloves made out of water-absorbent materials, such as fleece, that will leave your hands soaked.
If you’re looking for a pair of waterproof gloves, look no further. Both sets of these gloves utilize a wind-and-waterproof cover to keep your hands warm and dry.
GOOD SOCKS ARE ESSENTIAL
It’s worth repeating - cotton is not a rain-friendly fabric, especially not when it comes to your socks.
Always choose socks made from quick-drying fabric blends that are guaranteed to keep your feet more comfortable and your shoes squelch-free.
Grab a pair of either of these merino wool socks for a moisture-wicking option.
COSNIDER LOW VISIBILITY HAZARDS
Low visibility isn’t just a traffic hazard. Running in a downpour can also cause tripping hazards if you’re stumbling around in the dark.
To make sure that every sidewalk crack and pothole is dodged before you twist an ankle, strap on a headlamp, hand torch, or other type light to ensure your run is fall-free.
If you’re not a fan of headlamps, check out this water-resistant hand torch for a more “hands-on” lighting option.
WEAR REFLECTIVE GEAR
When running in the early morning or late evening, you’ll most likely end up running in the dark.
If you’re having a hard time seeing through the rain, drivers probably can’t see well either. To keep yourself safe in traffic, choose some type of reflective gear that increases visibility.
For clothing, choose bright colors or light colors that have reflective strips. Alternatively, you can clip on a flashing light around your arm or headband to be seen from a safe distance.
If nothing in your wardrobe is eye-catching, take a look at this reflective streak vest that can be layered with any top.
DON'T FORGET CHAFING BALM
Anti-chafe balm is a must for stopping chafing in its tracks. With wet clothes rubbing against your skin, you may be faced with rashes and irritation.
Keep the chafe at bay by swiping an anti-chafing balm over problem areas, such as your thighs and upper arms. The balm creates a barrier to protect your skin against rubbing and friction from clothing.
For a sweat and water-resistant balm, this Body Glide anti-chafe stick protects your skin for a chafe-free run.
CONCLUSION
Soaked clothes and soggy shoes are the enemies of rainy runs. By utilizing a strong layering system and choosing moisture-wicking fabrics, you can ensure your runs in the rain are more comfortable, less wet, and dare we say, more enjoyable.
No matter what you wear, every mile is still a mile worth counting.
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