Do you skip your morning jog when it’s raining? Well, you don’t have to. Running in a completely waterproof dress sounds unrealistic and running in a rubber suit is not comfortable. So, in this situation you must look for a suit that is made of quick drying and breathable fabric.

I’ll give you some dressing tips for running in the rainy season. So, keep reading and choose the layers wisely.

Opt for Thermal or Quick Drying Headwear & Eyewear

First off, it is impossible to run if you cannot see the path properly. So, protecting your eyes and face from the rain by wearing a cap can help you overcome this issue. There are many brands that offer running caps made of quick drying fabric with anti-bacterial, odour control properties and are very lightweight, too. Even though it is very unusual to have sun and rain together, it does happen. It could be very irritating when sun rays reflect your eyes through wet surfaces. A pair of sunglasses can help protect your eyes. When it rains during winter, keep yourself warm by wearing a thermal hat.

A pair of clear-lensed or light-tinted glasses may help you in case the thermal toque does not give sufficient shelter to your eyes and face. You can pick a pair of glasses with anti-fog lens that enables you to run without being concerned about getting them foggy.

Wear, Breathable and Quick Drying Running Suit

Selecting perfect layers for running during rain is very important. It is best to choose running suits that are made of quick drying fabric as they have moisture wicking properties that protect you from blisters and chafing.  It is advisable to wear tight fitting layers as it protects from painful chafing.

The colours of your running suit matters a lot in the rain. Choose darker colours as it eliminates the problem of see-through on getting wet. Though the issue of colours may not be that serious if you are running in the rain in cold days as an additional layer such as jacket eliminates this issue. Go for garments with bright colours or reflective detailing to increase visibility at night.

Opt for a Lightweight and Waterproof Top Layer

Pick a waterproof and lightweight jacket as a top layer while running in the rain. Generally, these types of jackets are designed with runner specific characteristics. Lightweight and waterproof jackets are extremely comfortable to wear and keep you protected for longer period of time respectively.

Pick Quick-Drying Socks and Waterproof Shoes

When it is raining, it is impossible to save your feet from getting wet and keep them dry & warm. It is best to opt for a pair of socks with quick drying fabric that wicks the moisture away from your feet and helps you stay drier. This will resolve the problem of soggy feet. You can opt for GORE-TEX® upper. The mesh vents in the socks make it breathable and enhance their moisture wicking performance which prevents blisters and keeps your shoes odour free.

I feel that socks with synthetic or wool fabric are more suitable in the rainy season as cotton socks increase the chances of getting blisters when they get wet. An ideal pair of running socks must have features such as quick drying fabric, flat seams; mesh ventilation under the arch and a close-fit.

Having a pair of shoes with accurate size is extremely important. A shoe that is too tight or too loose can result in feet discomfort and blisters. To pick a correct size of running shoes, carry along those particular running socks which you are going to wear during running. I always select a pair of shoes by putting on those socks which I wear while running as this ensures a perfect fit making it easier for me to choose the right size of the shoes.

Tips for Running in the Rain

  • Above are the tips that can help you select layers while running in the rain. Scroll down for some more tips that can make you experience more enjoyable.
  • Use of petroleum jelly or anti-chafe balm on the body parts is recommended to prevent chafing
  • Always carry a waterproof bag with you where you can stash your electronics such as cellphone, iPod & mp3 player and protect them from getting waterlogged
  • A headlamp can help enhance visibility during low light conditions or when the sun sets before you come back.
  • Change your clothes as soon as you’re back home to avoid getting ill
  • Put squashed newspaper inside your shoes that helps dry them by absorbing moisture and maintain their shape. If you don’t take care of your shoes then they’ll start smelling
  • Avoid drying your shoes with the heater or dryer as this will shrink the fabric and deform the shape of your shoes. Allow them to dry naturally