Running With Old Man Winter!
I have a unique approach to keeping warm on winter runs: I dress in thin, sweat-absorbent layers. The accumulation of thin layers keeps me warm, but doesn't add demobilizing bulk. For example, in order to survive blustery 25-degree conditions, I wear:
~A microfiber cap that covers my ears. Wearing a hat is critical to preserve body heat. Lululemon's microfiber caps hug the head tightly.
~A microfiber long sleeve tee with sleeves that cover my hands. I love the Lux Layer Oiselle tee. The tee is made of a soft, velvety fabric that hugs me in soft warmth, and the weave of the fabric diverts sweat from sticking to my body. See more at: http://www.oiselle.com/shop/running-tops/lux-layer#sthash.l75yDvCV.dpuf
~ A featherweight Lululemon down jacket designed for warmth but light enough to wear out for a run. Its material effectively repels light snow and rain.
http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/jackets-and-hoodies-jackets/Fluff-Off-Jacket?cc=12159&skuId=3517667&catId=jackets-and-hoodies-jackets.
~ Athletic gloves with reflective pads on the fingers.
~ An ID bracelet with an emergency contact number! If you don't own one, then check out this site:
http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx.
~ A couple of energy gels in my pocket, along with my cell (only if my runs take me far from home).
~Sunglasses, to avoid sun glare and a wind-chapped face.
~ Running tights and thicker socks that fit under the tights....no skin exposure!
I always toss my clothes in the drier before venturing out! It seems more bearable to approach the cold outdoors when my clothes are toasty warm.
If it's snowing, I always avoid areas of traffic and roads covered with ice patches, and try to stick to park areas that have clearly defined paths. I never wear earphones, especially while running on the roads.
Cheers to happy, safe winter running!