Tips For Running In The Rain (How to Prepare For Rainy Runs)
It can be incredibly annoying and inconvenient when you plan to go out for a run and find out that it’s about to rain. If you are really in the mood to get some exercise done, this can derail your whole plan, and it’s likely to put you in a bad mood.
Once you have accepted that it is going to rain, the next question you may be asking yourself is “can I go running in the rain?”.
While the answer is yes, you can, there are a few tips for running in the rain we have put together that will help you and keep you safe.
Running in the rain can be an incredibly exhilarating experience, but safety is always the number one priority, so read on to learn about the tips we have put together to help you run in the rain and still have a good workout!
Is It Safe to Run in the Rain?
As long as you use common sense, running in the rain is considered safe overall.
Are you worried about getting sick from running in the rain? In short, the water won’t cause your illness. You can read more from our other article.
You should be fine if you wear the appropriate waterproof clothing and shoes.
Make sure that your running shoes have a good grip (more on shoes later). This way you can avoid slipping and hurting yourself on wet surfaces.
The only time you should consider not running in the rain is during times when the weather is extreme.
If there is flooding, lightning, heavy storms, or debris, or the weather is incredibly cold, these are all times when you may want to consider going running another day.
That being said, you can still go out running in these conditions, but it is imperative that you check your route and make sure that it is clear.
You could still go out running if there is flooding in the area and your route isn’t affected.
As for things like lightning and very cold weather, while it is raining, it’s in your interest to stay inside because it will be more dangerous going out in these conditions. Read more: How Cold Is Too Cold To Run Outside?
Tips For Running In The Rain
Once you have worked out if running in the rain is a good idea or not, there are plenty of things you can do to make the experience more pleasant and enjoyable.
We have put together a list of tips for running in the rain that will help you have a better experience. So let’s take a look at them.
1. Wear The Right Shoes
Above everything else, wearing the right shoes is the most important tip we can give you.
You should be wearing the right running shoes in any weather. But when running in the rain, you need to ensure that you are not falling over and potentially injuring yourself in a way that could be avoided.
You should make sure that your running shoes are different from the ones you usually wear when running, so if they get damaged, this doesn’t affect your regular running sessions.
You can also look for waterproof running shoes with a Gore-Tex membrane (yes, waterproof running shoes do exist).
And for extra grip, you might look for trail running shoes (yes, you can use them on the road too). The better the grip, the less likely you are to slip on leaves or wet surfaces.
Brooks Ghost 14 GTX
The waterproof road-running shoe keeps you dry on rainy days. Comfortable cushioning ensures comfort in any weather.
Leg gaiters are designed to prevent dirt and grit from entering your shoes. This can occur when running or hiking through varying conditions and terrain. Leg gaiters from Moxie are lightweight and comfortable, and you can forget you’re even wearing them.
2. Dress In Layers
If it’s warmer rain and quite a light shower, you don’t have to worry about layers so much, even in the rain. If it is colder and raining quite heavily, layers are absolutely essential.
You may think that the outer layer is going to be the most important, but it is the layer closest to your body that you need to pay the most attention to.
The best materials to wear in these weather conditions are things like polypropylene or CoolMax. These materials will wick water and sweat away from your skin.
As for your outer layers, just make sure they are waterproof, wind resistant, and breathable. Wearing the right layers will ensure you can run for longer in rainy weather.
3. Wearing The Right Hat
When it is raining, it is in your best interest to wear a hat. The best kinds of hats will keep the rain off of your face and you will have better visibility. You really want to get a hat with a brim for this purpose.
If it is colder outside, wear a thicker hat, but if it is warmer, make sure that it is breathable and has plenty of venting.
4. Keep Yourself Visible
When it is raining outside, this usually means that drivers have much worse visibility than they would on dry, clear days.
This also means that it will be harder for them to spot you. It is incredibly important that you wear outer layers that are brightly colored.
If you can, get something that is made out of reflective material.
Wearing these incredibly visible layers will ensure that you are seen and accidents can be avoided.
5. Keep Your Electronics Protected
Most people will take their phones and/or headphones out when they go for a run, so it is important that you keep them protected from the elements.
If you are planning on going out for a run in the rain, make sure you take a waterproof bag or carrier.
This will stop your electronics from getting damaged and you can still listen to music and be contacted if anyone needs you.
The Bottom Line
While it is not advised to go out running in the rain, that doesn’t mean that you cant!
The most important thing to do if you are going out in the rain is to make sure that you are completely safe and prepared, so you may need to alter your attire and running routine a bit to cater to that.
As long as you follow the tips we have provided and use your common sense, you should be able to run in the rain with no issues!
Read more: Running Gear To Keep You Going In Cold Weather.
