Hi,
I spent the last 5 days in Salt Lake City and Powder Mountain Utah, for several community events and meetings with our running clothing company Path Projects.
 It was great meeting several Extramilest & PB Community members at the run as well. |
The temperatures were below freezing on several days and it was a good reminder to strategize accordingly for comfort and safety on these colder running days.
Truth is: Winter running can feel like a test of willpower.
You look out the window at the dark morning, feel the cold seeping in, and the temptation to stay in bed grows stronger.
Now pair that with icy roads and biting winds – and just thinking about running feels like a monumental challenge.
But with the right mindset and preparation, winter miles can be some of the most rewarding.
Here’s what I’ve learned over the years…
1. Master the Art of Layering:
The key is to stay warm without overheating.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer, and top it off with a windproof or waterproof jacket. For example, some of my favorite items for this are a Basis Long Sleeve T, a Lomond hooded shirt, and a Graves PX shell jacket.
Don’t forget gloves, a beanie, and socks that keep your feet warm even if they get wet.
2. Prioritize Safety:
Winter running demands extra caution.
Stick to well-lit, familiar routes to avoid hazards like black ice. A good headlamp is your best friend for those dark runs, and reflective gear ensures you’re visible to traffic. There are a variety of different headlamps out there, investing in a legit light can make a massive difference in your running experience. I use a PETZL, Swift RL Rechargeable Headlamp with 900 Lumens.
3. Warm-Up Indoors:
Heading straight out into the cold can feel brutal…
Instead, try a 5-minute indoor warm-up to get your blood flowing — flow rope, high knees, jumping jacks, or even a brisk walk around the house. (this is what I’ll do in very cold conditions)
You’ll not only feel more ready to tackle the chill… But your muscles will also be better equipped for your run!
4. Stay Motivated with Variety:
Not every run needs to be outdoors. Don’t try to go David Goggins and toughen out extremely cold weather runs, this can be very dangerous.
If conditions are too harsh, opt for an indoor treadmill session or swap a run for a cross-training workout.
The key is staying consistent while avoiding unnecessary risks.
5. Celebrate the Small Wins:
Winter running is less about pace and more about showing up consistently. Every run you finish in the cold builds mental and physical toughness.
Also, the satisfaction of sticking to your goals just hits different in the winter!
Or maybe that’s just me…
Anyway, reply to this email and let me know how your winter training is going — I’d love to hear what’s working for you!
Stay warm,
Floris Gierman
