Layering and the winter season (YEG)

Gosh it was good to be back today. While I was gone only for a week there is nothing quite like a Weds morning at NP. It was extra exciting to me because we are back into the RG stair routine: the lights, the more intimate connection with folks, the burpees (yes I missed even those), and of course the high fives. It all felt just really satisfying. There is just something about it that feels comfortable.

Looking ahead we may be also be experiencing a classic aspect of RG stairs soon – snow. Yes I probably jinxed it but no two ways around it we’ll be dealing with snow eventually so now is the perfect time to plan for the cold stuff. After nine years I’ve learned a thing or two about layering from various people in the community so here’s the run down. Rob’s tips and tricks:

Reduce skin exposure. Buffs, hats, gloves, tights, ski googles – play around with what works best.
When I am running on my own my favourite phrase is ‘be bold start cold’ meaning that if you are at a comfortable temp when you start running you are going to be too hot while on the run. That said at NP everything we do is on a loop so layer up so you and take off layers as you need. Way easier to do so incrementally vs taking off one really warm jacket just to have your sweat freeze as you keep running.
When in doubt just double what you’ve got (two top layers, two bottoms, sometimes my bum is cold so heck two underwears works too). No, its not perfect but especially in these fall changing temps, it is going to work.
Socks/Shoes – There are some great water proof shoes out there and they absolutely work for many folks. For me I generally just use my used summer shoes and just put on better socks (or layers of socks) – any merino wool socks are my go to. It is just more comfortable for me as I find the waterproof ones have me running in a puddle since I sweat so much.
Shoes/ice – There is something to said about running and landing with your weight under you. Most of the time that is going to stop you from slipping. That said from a comfort/confidence standpoint, or for those super icy days, shoe spikes/grips are always a great thing to have. I’ve tried a few over the years and for me I had to find a brand that didn’t pinch my toes too much. Once I found that it was all smiles.
When things really get cold think about three layers:
- Base layer: The key to a good base layer is to have a material that will wick sweat away. Cotton does not wick sweat away, so you’ll want to avoid it. Merino or tech tees are your best bet here. Usually, this is a thin layer. If you sweat and you’re not wicking away the moisture on your skin, your body temperature will drop quickly. Don’t let that happen.
- Mid layer: This is your warmth layer. I have my thicker fleecier layers here. This is where I make my changes based on how cold it is. I’ll wear a thin mid layer, or a thicker mid layer, or even a double mid layer.
- Outer layer: This is the last piece you’ll put on. This is the layer that will protect you from the wind or the snow or water. Ideally, you a windproof, and/or waterproof layer that is breathable.
For lessons learned about materials and even more tips about running in YEG like weather, check out this blog that our amazing past co-leaders put together (the video is awesome) https://november-project.com/layering/