WHAT TO WEAR FOR A TRAIL RUN IN THE RAIN?
Trailing is an extreme discipline and it's not uncommon for rain to get in the way. To make the most of your outings even when the skies are not kind, here are our tips for dressing for a trail run in the rain.
To run a trail in the rain, optimise your vision
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The first thing to do when dressing for a trail run in the rain is to optimise your vision. To do this, you can choose a cap or a visor. The latter, with an inner lining designed to encourage perspiration and prevent it from running down your eyes, has the advantage of providing some comfort when worn in good weather. If you're a regular trail running runner, this is an accessory that will be able to accompany you throughout the year.
No matter what happens, you won't be able to keep your head dry so focus mostly on the visor. You want it to be wide enough to protect you on the sides, but also fitted with a reasonable length. This way, you'll keep a clearer view of your route and gain comfort despite the inclement weather.
Don't forget that if your visibility is impaired, the visibility of the people around you will also be impaired. Consider making yourself visible to motorists by adding reflective elements to your trail running gear.
GOOD TO KNOW: THE NECKWARMER (OR BUFF), THE SOLUTION FOR LIGHT RAIN.
For light or occasional rain, a buff can be sufficient. Just wrap it around your wrist and wipe your eyes with it, as soon as the raindrops start to bother you.
The waterproof jacket, the essential
For the trail running or a run in the mountains, the must-have is the waterproof jacket in order to enjoy your passion in any season. Made of a technical material, it will protect you from the rain while allowing the perspiration induced by the effort to evaporate. Depending on the Schmerber measurement of your jacket, it will be more or less waterproof. These technical jackets are also windproof, a saving feature for long outings, especially for mountain running.
What to wear at the bottom for a trail running race in the rain
If you're running in the rain, to protect your lower body, there are waterproof overtrousers to put over your tights or shorts to protect you from the most drastic conditions. For footwear, although there is no miracle solution, brands have made some appreciable improvements. For this type of weather, choose shoes with aggressive soles and well-defined studs. This will ensure a very good grip on muddy and slippery terrain. For the membrane, choose a Gore Tex type, which, although it will not make your shoes waterproof, will protect you for longer than a classic mesh. Also think of equipping yourself with gaiters that will prevent a maximum of water, mud and debris from entering your shoes.
Beware of chafing
During long trail running, clothing can irritate the skin due to repetitive rubbing. This action is amplified when, waterlogged, your outfit becomes heavier. If you decide to go for it when rain is in the forecast, anticipate by protecting sensitive areas.
For most mountain runners, the areas of the body most often irritated during runs are the nipples. So before dressing for a trail run in the rain, you should protect them with plaster. You can also apply an anti-friction cream to the neck, armpits or crotch to limit the risk of injury. In addition, don't neglect your feet whose skin, weakened by water, can quickly see blisters appear, one of the main reasons for abandoning trail running.
THE THREE KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER WHEN DRESSING FOR A TRAIL RUN IN THE RAIN:
- Dressing yourself for a trail running in the rain, always goes with a waterproof and windproof jacket, it's mendatory.
- Visibility will be a major issue for a trail running outing in bad weather, so wear a cap and remember to make yourself visible with reflective clothing.
- Fragilised by the rain, the skin is more sensitive to rubbing, take your precautions before the start.