SAYSKY Layering Guide
Are you one of those dedicated runners who won’t let the weather stop you? Well then you probably recognise the struggle of finding the right outfit for winter running.
The ongoing problem is that either you are wearing too much clothes and overheating or not wearing enough and risk getting cold. So, what to do? Well, the keyword is layering when dressing for winter running. You’ve probably heard this before, but there’s a method to this madness.
Continue reading and we will guide you through how to deal with the biting cold and changing temperatures:
- Finding the right clothes
- How many layers to wear
- Layering extras
Finding the right clothes
It goes without saying that the most crucial thing is your outfit. The reason why layering works so well is that when wearing multiple clothing layers, warm air is trapped between the different garments, and this works as natural isolation. Layering also gives you the opportunity to adjust your outfit while running – so, forget about using your dad’s worn out college sweat. It may be comfy while you are watching Netflix, but we can tell you already now, it won’t add the same comfort and warmth as layering in the right way will do.
So how many layers should one wear?
When going for a run you should think your outfit into 3 different layers (of course look at temperature and weather condition as well, if it’s a warm winter day, there’s no reason to suit up for an artic expedition). We will go through the 3 layers below:
- Base layer: moisture managing
- Middle layer: insulating
- Outer layer: weather protection
1. Base layer: moisture managing
The base is the first layer and is actually not meant to keep you warm, but meant to keep you dry, as it’s the layer closest to you skin. When you sweat the evaporation will cool you down if you are not wearing anything that transports sweat away from your body. This is why it’s important to wear something moisture-wicking in order for you to keep you dry and comfortable. You can check out our base layers, where you will find both mesh and merino styles that will help you regulating your body temperature. It can even be a good idea to use mesh layers in the summer, as this will prevent your body from overheating.
2. Middle layer: insulating
After you’ve put on your base, it’s time to add a middle layer. This is the insulating part, which is meant to retain your body heat and actually provide you with warmth while at the same time move moisture away. As opposed to base- and outer layers, it can be necessary to wear more than just one middle layer if the temperature is dropping hard – or none if it’s getting warmer. Mid layer tops should be adjustable, lightweight and have different ventilation options. We have thought this factor into our styles and this is why our SAYSKY fleeces or t-shirts work great as your middle layer.
3. Outer layer: weather protection
After you’ve put on your middle layer, it’s time to add something that will protect you from the harsh elements of nature. The outer layer works a barrier against these forces by being waterproof, windproof and breathable.
When running a soft-shell jacket is optimal as it will provide flexibility, wind resistance and breathability. A breathable jacket means everything when doing high intensity activities as this function will allow sweat vapors to escape and provide ultimate comfort. Luckily, we have many great breathable, wind and waterproof jackets to choose from.
Weather is not all
When deciding on the layers you will of course have to take the weather into consideration. But also think about the purpose of your run. If you a going for a slow jog, your body won’t generate as much heat as it would on a high intensity run. So, for those chill jogs it makes sense to add an extra middle layer.
Is that all?
No – because don’t forget your hands, feet, neck and head. Your ice-cold fingers and ears will thank us if you equip yourself with some of the essential Saysky winter accessories. We have a wide range of gloves, hats/scarfs, beanies, underwear, socks and performance tubes. Check out the winter accessories.
