The transitional season is just around the corner. Opportunities abound, and you might have already signed up for the season's first race. You may be uncertain about which transitional clothes to wear as the season shifts from winter to spring. In this article, you'll get a complete overview of what to wear for comfortable runs this transitional season.
Firstly, a good rule of thumb is to dress in layers. You'll warm up as you go, and that's why layers are ideal, allowing you to shed a jacket or vest depending on what you choose and how your workout looks.
The intensity of your run
It's important to consider the intensity you plan for your workout when dressing. I think higher intensity means less clothing because the body generates more heat when running fast. Conversely, lower intensity requires more clothing. A good idea is to think of the weather as being about 10 degrees warmer than it is when planning to run fast, as your heart rate rises and your body generates more heat.
Base Layer
Base Layer is, in my opinion, the most essential go-to garment. Both wool and polyester work here as they insulate and wick sweat away. The key is that your base layer is form-fitting, mainly because you often have another layer on top. The reason base layers are my go-to is that I can use them year-round. They work under my shirt, jacket, vest, or as a standalone layer on a spring day when the sun is out.
Mid Layer
Mid Layer is known as the insulating layer. Its purpose is often to keep the body warm and dry. Many use the mid layer as the outermost layer, especially in the transitional season. It's often designed with a half-zip and in a material that allows freedom of movement, is airy, and breathable, so you can have the base layer underneath.
Vest
Together with the base layer, the vest is my clear favorite. Vest is an optimal choice if you find a running jacket too warm. It keeps your body warm but allows your arms to release heat. Overall, there are two types of vests: padded and shell. Padded vests often have front panels for extra warmth, are windproof, and have a thinner back material to release excess heat. Shell vests are made of thinner material front and back but are still windproof. It's very individual whether you prefer one vest over the other.
Running Jacket
The advantage of running jackets is that they are often windproof and water-repellent, which is a bonus for the transitional season where weather can be unpredictable. Many running jackets are designed in extremely lightweight, breathable, and comfortable material, preferred by many for their runs. Most running jackets have zip pockets with ample storage for gels, personal items, or your hat, headband, and gloves if it gets too warm on your runs.
Winter Tights vs. Regular Tights
Just like the base layer for the upper body, tights are essential for the transitional season to keep you running and warm. But what should you choose – winter tights or regular tights? The primary difference is often the material they're designed from. Some brands make winter tights from slightly thicker material with lining. With winter tights, you might lose some mobility, but they keep you warmer, whereas regular tights offer more mobility due to thinner fabric.
Headwear – Gloves
Many have experienced frozen fingers and cooler ears during their runs, which isn't pleasant. It can almost ruin the run due to irritation and distraction. Gloves, headbands, and/or hats are essential, but again, it's very individual from runner to runner if it's comfortable. It's about experimenting with what feels right.
Socks
We now come to socks. Personally, they must be light, absorb sweat from the knees and lower legs, and fit snugly to avoid blisters or irritation. But again, it's very individual what works – my best advice is to try different types and see what socks work best for you.
Sports Bra
It can be uncomfortable to run without a sports bra, and in the long run, it can weigh your breasts down. A good sports bra offers great support and is made from functional material with breathability and good sweat-wicking properties.
Support and adjustability are the two things I focus on when choosing a sports bra. These features mean you can adjust the sports bra to your bust. For women with a larger bust, the support and adjustability of the sports bra are crucial. Strap adjustability is useful for high-intensity training as you can tighten them. For me, closure adjustability works best, allowing me to tighten/loosen the sports bra as needed for comfort.
