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What to wear on a run/walk
There are plenty of tricks to staying comfortable as you head out for a jog or a walk—here are a few
by Lindsey Drake
Spring has sprung and summer is around the corner. We’ve had a few showers already and I’m sure we’ll see some more through the season, so what should you wear when you still need to get your run in? Whether it is blistering hot or cool with showers, be ready to run comfortably.
Socks.
After footwear, socks are the most important things that you wear while running or walking. You’ll hear a common phrase through these next few paragraphs: Stay away from cotton. This is most important concerning your socks. Cotton will absorb moisture and keep it next to your skin causing friction, thus blisters. Alternatives may be more expensive, but prove to be worth it. Best alternative: merino wool socks. They are efficient in evaporating and wicking away moisture, regulate body temperature, and being that wool is a natural fiber, they are odor free (a definite plus!). Next best is a sock made of synthetics. Synthetics (polyester, nylon, acrylic) will help move moisture away from your skin, helping keep your feet blister free.
Baselayer.
This is the layer that goes next to your skin, another important layer that should preferably not be cotton. You want this layer to move moisture away from your skin, keeping you cool, dry and comfortable. Pick a baselayer that is snug but not restrictive (the closest to the skin, the better it will work). This keeps the microclimate next to skin cool and dry and prevents chaffing. Merino wool is my top choice. In these summer months, micro-weight (or the thinnest weight the wool comes in) short sleeve or sleeveless is the best. It has the same benefits of the merino wool sock. If you get caught in the rain it will dry quickly, while still being able to regulate your body temperature, keeping you comfortable. A synthetic top also does well, drying quickly and keeping your skin dry. It will not, however, regulate your body temperature quite as well as merino wool.
Outerwear.
Usually this time of year outerwear is nearly non-existent, or so we hope. April is supposed to get all that rain and wind out of the way, but we know better than to count on that. If you need to weather the storm a nylon/polyester shell is always a handy piece to have. You want this piece, whether it’s a vest or jacket, to be breathable—wind resistant or proof and water resistant. Waterproof will not breath as well, which may result in a steamy run.
As unpredictable as Michigan can be, you’ll be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Rain or shine, you’ll be running or walking comfortably!
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