WHAT TO WEAR RUNNING IN THE RAIN

Ensuring you own a versatile running wardrobe is integral to having a kit designed for year-round running adventures, whether on the road, the tracks, the gym, or the trails. If you’re looking for running gear specially built for the wet and rain, ensure you choose clothing layers that are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable to keep you comfortable and dry while out for long periods.

Top tip: Avoid wearing fabrics such as cotton as these natural fibres act like a sponge, soaking up all the water, weighing you down and making you cold.  Learn more about fabrics here.

No matter if you’re running on the trails or running on roads, slippery conditions on mud and tarmac can slow down your pace and without heeding the proper precautions, could even result in injury. Add to that puddles, dewy grass, muddy, uneven trails, and suddenly wet, uncomfortable trainers and sore blisters on your toes and heels can become a concern too. 

We recommend shopping for trainers with a GORE-TEX upper like Brooks’ Cascadia GTX Shoes or waterproof versions of popular running shoes – these are the ideal choice for keeping your feet dry in all conditions. 

Top tip: Ensure you choose the best running shoes for you by understanding when and where you’ll be using your running shoes and getting your gait analysis results from your local Runners Need store. Using the latest video technology to analyse how your feet respond to every step, our in-store running experts can assess your biomechanics and running style to ensure you're running in the perfect trainers for you.

Always invest in a good pair of running socks for your workouts and runs with Runners Need's fantastic running sock collection. Designed to keep feet cool and moisture away from your skin, these technical running socks prevent rubbing and blisters and are made with moisture-wicking fabrics with mesh ventilation under the arch, flat seams, and a snug, athletic fit.

Top tip: Make sure you treat your feet to comfortable and breathable running socks, whether you're going for a short or long run - good trainer socks are a running essential in all weather.

The go-to companion for rainy weather, wearing the right coat can make or break your trip outdoors – and running jackets are no different. Made to be water and windproof to keep you dry, warm, and on the move, look out for running jackets with features like taped seams, reflective taping, ventilation to keep you from overheating and moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics.

Top tip: For more help finding the right running jacket for you, click here.

Wearing a hat with a brim or visor helps keep the rain off your face and water out your eyes, helping you see even in a downpour. So you can focus on the route ahead.

Top tip: Many running hats and headbands come with high-visibility detailing, a great way to be seen and keep safe during night and winter runs.

Be safe, and be seen! – Rainy weather often means low-light conditions, so ensure you’re wearing bright outer layers and accessories with high-visibility and reflective details to help you be seen by other pedestrians and vehicles. Check out the Runners Need hi-vis collection here.

Prevent Chafing – Although a risk whatever the weather, chafing is much more likely to occur if you and your clothes are wet from the rain. Providing protection and relief from friction and rubbing, use anti-chafe gels such as Body Glide to reduce the risk and keep comfortable – especially on long off-road runs.

Remove Wet Clothing – As soon as you get home, take off your wet clothes and change into something dry to keep warm.

Dry out your footwear – When you return home, remove your running shoes and stuff them with crumpled paper to help keep their shape and draw out moisture. Try to avoid putting them close to a heat source or in a dryer as this can cause them to shrink and warp their shape.

Keep Your Shoes Clean – Keeping your shoes clean can uphold any waterproof coatings such as Gore-Tex and ensure they're in perfect working order every time you leave the house. Never put your shoes in the washing machine - It can damage the foam that makes up the midsole, reducing its cushioning effect. Instead, here are some easy ways to keep your shoes clean and ready to go:

• Use a light scrubbing brush such as a toothbrush to gently remove dirt and grit
  
  
• Soak shoes in lukewarm water. Where possible, remove insoles and laces and add a dash of detergent to remove sweat and dirt
  
  
• Once soaked, gently brush off any excess mud and dirt and rinse in cold water
  
  
• Shake off excess water and tightly stuff with balled newspaper to soak up the remaining moisture
  
  
• Allow 12-24 hours for shoes to dry naturally – NEVER place them directly on a heat source.

• When there’s a risk or danger of thunder and lightning - Always think twice before going out for a run. Take care of your safety.
  
  
• If there are adverse wind conditions like extreme winds or heavy rainfall – Wind and rain can be a dangerous weather combination at any time, especially if it’s cold. Your body can cool down quickly, putting you at risk of injury and illness. If gusts are higher than 40mph, we suggest rescheduling your run to another time and keeping safe indoors.
  
  
• You’re aiming for a PB – Never push it. Slippery roads and trails can be hard on your muscles and joints, changing your form, so don’t expect to run your fastest in pouring rain and be careful of unnecessary injuries for the sake of speed. It’s not worth it.