This morning I had a great trail run in the powdery snow.  The key to a happy run in the cold and snow is wearing the right gear.  Here's what I wore:

Base Layer:  This is the layer closest to your skin.  It should be lightweight, breathable and made of synthetic fabric (no cotton!) that moves moisture away from your body to your outer layers where it can then evaporate.  Depending on the weather, this layer can be short or long sleeve.  My favorite base layers include my X-Static top from New Balance (X-Static is an amazing fabric with thermoregulation and anti-odor properties - it's used in astronauts clothing!), Mizuno's Breath Thermo (heats up when you sweat), Pearl Izumi's Barrier top, and Icebreaker wool.  The X-Static top was perfect for this morning.

Outer Layer: Your top layer can be a jacket that is wind and water resistant or an insulating piece with either a half or full zipper (allows you to regulate your core temperature better) like the Brooks Vapor Dry top (made with X-Static), Saucony DryLete Sporttop (features a light on your sleeve) or an Icebreaker wool half-zip.  Of course, when it's cold, I go for both the insulating top and the jacket.  I like wearing outer layers with bright colors so I am more visible (today I wore my bright yellow Brooks Nightlife jacket).

Pants/Tights: When it's below 30, I reach for my tights that are fleece-lined.  My hands-down favorites are CW-X's insulator tights featuring a support web that mimics kinesio tape to support joints and muscles, fleece lining and a front wind panel, and Pearl Izumi's Infinity tight made of ThermaFleece and Ultra-Sensor fabrics that keep me dry and warm. 

Wool Socks:  The secret to running outside in winter is warm, dry feet.   As much as I love my Balega socks, winter runs make me reach for my wool socks from Darn Tough Vermont.  Super cushy and ultra soft (not scratchy!).  Despite shoes that were soaked, my feet were toasty.

Traction Aids: Like snow chains for your shoes, these aids slip over your shoes to give you a better grip on snow and ice-covered roads and trails.  We carry two kinds: one from Due North that is great for road running, snow shoveling and walking across icy parking lots and, my new favorite, Kahtoola MicroSpikes which look like crampons.  No diggers in the snow for me this morning!

Post Run: There is nothing better than putting on some cozy gear after taking a hot shower and refueling with a tasty sandwich.  Today I put on my fleece Fleet Feet Hoody and a pair of CEP compression socks to help soothe my aching legs (my calves were toast after running in all that powder!).  Slide my cedar Stuffits into my shoes so they will be dry in time for tomorrow morning's run and, thanks to the Orchen-Baker family, enjoyed a delicious peanut butter and homemade peach jam sandwich. Ahhhh!

Congratulations to Ann Bouchard for winning our Mizuno "Predict the Snow, Win Breath Thermo" contest.  Ann's guess of December 10 at 10:35am was the closest prediction to our actual first inch at the store on the morning of December 9. 

For her prize, Ann receives a Breath Thermo top from Mizuno.  Breath Thermo is a unique material that generates heat from the absorption of moisture (i.e. when you perspire or run in the rain/snow, the fabric gets warm).  It's perfect for runners, skiers, walkers and other winter outdoor adventurers.  It's one of my "go-to" pieces when it gets cold!

 

Are you ready to start something new in 2010?  Consider joining our No Boundaries beginning running program sponsored by New Balance.  In just 10 weeks, you'll go from the couch to crossing the finish line of the O'Hartford 5k on March 14.  Don't think about it any longer.  It's time to DO IT!

No Boundaries is designed for people who don't run, those who have a hard time sticking to a running program or are unsure what to do.  We use the "Galloway Method" which includes run/walk intervals and slowly ramps-up the time spent running and distance covered.  Last January, we had over 40 people participate in the program despite the cold and snow.  Friendships were made, traditions formed and several even loved running so much that they ran their first half marathon in October.  You can do the same! 

Thanks to our partnership with New Balance, the $95 registration fee includes a moisture-wicking shirt ($35 value), a FitBook training log ($20 value), a low coach-to-participant ratio, a proven training plan, weekly group training runs, a weekly motivational newsletter with guidance and advice on topics like proper nutrition, stretching and choosing the right gear, 8 valuable coupons to use on new shoes and gear and other surprises along the way.  Our goal is to introduce you to the lifetime fitness activities of running/walking and encourage you to live a healthier lifestyle in a fun and supportive environment. 

 
No Boundaries kicks off with an information session on Wednesday, January 6 at 7:00pm.  We will be offering two sessions: Tuesday mornings at 9:30am (baby-jogger friendly) and Saturday mornings at 9:00am.  Our first practice is on January 9 (Saturday session) and January 12 (Tuesday session).  Practices begin and end at the store. 

For those who have successfully completed a 5k before, we will offer a "Next Steps" training program for you within the Saturday morning program that is designed to help you run faster and more comfortably.  Don't let the fitness that you worked so hard to build go to waste.  Run strong in 2010!

Use the coupon below to save $10 on your registration fee. 

 
For more information, email Coach Renee.

Coaches Needed!  If you are an experienced runner and want to share your passion for running and inspire others, please contact Coach Renee about being an assistant coach.