Tips for Running in the Rain

There is nothing worse than going out for a run and getting drenched in the rain. It can be demoralizing to have your clothes soaked through with water, not to mention how wet it makes your hair. But with the right equipment and preparation, you can still get outside and enjoy a nice long jog even when it’s raining. Here are some tips on how to keep your spirits up while running in the rain!

Avoid running during lightning storms

This is a no brainer, but runners need to be careful when running in the rain. It’s not worth it to get hit by lightning for the sake of completing one run. The best thing to do would be wait until after the storm passes before continuing with your run.

Wear the right shoes

The type of shoe you wear will depend on the surface that your running on. If it’s a wet road, then opt for shoes with a tread pattern to keep from slipping. If you’re running through tall grass or fields, make sure that your shoes have enough grip so that they don’t slip out from underneath.

Avoid wearing cotton

Some people might like to wear cotton shirts or pants when running, but this is not the best idea. Cotton absorbs water and becomes heavy, which will only make your run more difficult. Instead of wearing clothes made out of cotton for a rainy day jog, try something that’s synthetic instead such as polyester or nylon because it’s going to be lighter and more breathable.

Wear a hat with bill

If you’re going to be running outdoors in the rain, it’s always a good idea to wear a hat with bill. A hat helps protect your head from getting wet and can also help keep water out of your eyes when you’re jogging.

Stay visible on your runs

On a rainy day, it’s important to remain visible while you’re running. It is not as easy to see people when there is heavy rainfall or behind foggy windows and especially during the night time hours. Reflective clothing can be worn in addition to carrying around a flashlight so that drivers on the road are able to spot your presence.

Protect your electronics

It is not a good idea to run with your phone in the rain. It’s best to keep it out of your pocket and tucked away safely into your armband, zipped up inside of a water-resistant pouch. That way you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a downpour without protection for your valuable electronics.

Bring an extra pair of clothes

It’s a good idea to bring an extra set of dry clothes with you on your run. This way in the event that you are caught without shelter from the rain, you will have dry clothes to change into.

Embrace The Challenge

Rain is a mental challenge. It’s often more about fighting the elements than running in them. If you have to stop your run, try not to fret too much because rain can make for excellent motivation and training sessions.

Don’t be afraid to get wet. You can always use a towel at home or in the gym to dry off afterwards. Embrace the rain and the cool sensation of being out in it.