An Expert Guide to Running in the Rain

It’s always nice to run when the temps outside are optimal, the sun is rising, birds are chirping, and you’re able to focus solely on your stride. But what separates you from the pack is your ability to unearth your motivation when the weather is less than ideal.

In addition to continuing to hit your fitness goals, you know the power running has on your physical and your mental health. If the forecast calls for a week of morning showers, you’ll be out there — wet pavement and all.

The key to a successful run in the rain? The gear you wear. We can’t hold an umbrella over your head while you job through the neighborhood, but Hibbett | City Gear can help prepare you for your next rainy day run with the right gear.

Technical Running Shoes

If you log multiple miles a week, you undoubtedly have a favorite pair of sneakers, but puddles, slick surfaces and mud can have you slipping and sliding if you’re not careful.

When shopping for technical running shoes, look for sneakers with breathable uppers. Though it may sound counterintuitive, avoid fully waterproofed shoes. It’s better to run in shoes that take in water AND let it out rather than running in sneakers that trap moisture. Plus, materials like Gore-Tex (the end-all-be-all of waterproof materials) is much heavier than mesh and similar materials. Look for shoes that offer both water resistance AND ventilation.

Next, inspect the treads on the bottom of your sneakers. Raised, grooved and grippy outsoles are essential to running in inclement weather. Consider your preferred running surface when comparing treads, too. Running in wet gravel requires a different degree of grip than running on a slick sidewalk.

Finally, don’t disregard your comfort for function when shopping for running shoes. To find the right fit for you, consider what your current running sneaker’s wear patterns say about how you run as well as where.

Try:

• Brooks Ghost 12 or 13 Running Shoes
• Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Trail Running Shoes
• Brooks Divide Trail Running Shoe
• adidas Ultraboost WINTER.RDY DNA Running Shoes

Supportive Running Socks

It’s tempting to put on plain ole’ cotton socks when heading out for a run in the rain. Light socks, less abosrption potential right? Wrong — cotton is actually super absorbant, whereas thicker socks made of materials like wool don’t soak up moisture as easily so your feet can stay drier for longer. The caveat to wool socks however is that they can become uncomfortable if you plan to run for an extending amount of time.

A good in-between alternative is socks with integrated quick-drying technology and ventilation that facilitates faster dry out (moist environments like soaked socks are breeding grounds for fungus — gross!) Also, look for running socks with flat seams that won’t rub against your toes when wet. Don’t skimp on arch support, either. You’ll want to feel supported and stable when running on potentially slippery surfaces.

Try:

• adidas SuperLite No-Show Socks
• Nike Everyday Plus Lightweight No-Show Training Socks
• Nike Everyday Plus Cushion Adult Ankle Socks
• Under Armour Men’s Phenom 2.0 Quarter Socks
• Under Armour Women’s 2.0 Essentials No Show Socks

Hat or Visor

Don’t love the feeling of rivulets of rain running down your face and drenching your hair? Any hat or visor with a brim will keep the rain off your face. Or if you want something more lightweight, go with a headband that has moisture-wicking capabilities.

Try:

• Under Armour Women’s Launch Run Cap
• Under Armour Men’s Blitzing 3.0 Cap
• Nike Swoosh Headband (Sweatband)
• Nike Women’s Swoosh Headbands

Weatherproof and Visible Running Apparel

The key to rainy day running is not wearing too many layers. A good rule of thumb is to dress for the temperature, but not to overdo it. If it’s cold AND wet outside, dress in a couple layers, with the most important layer closest to your body. Too many layers will absorb a ton of moisture, making it more difficult to move and causing discomfort (chaffing and blisters, no thanks!)

Instead, select light, airy, weatherproof layers. Look for weatherproof jackets that will repel raindrops and keep you moving effortlessly. Also, be sure to wear apparel that features reflective elements or bright colors so improve your visibility on the road or trail. Safety first!

Try:

• Under Armour Women’s Run Anywhere Storm Jacket
• Nike Windrunner Men’s or Women’s Jackets
• adidas Windbreakers in Men’s or Women’s
• Nike Air Women’s Coach Jacket

Head to your nearest Hibbett | City Gear before you check the forecast. Get your running-in-the-rain gear, along with a variety of running accessories from like armbands and waist packs to headlamps and reflective gear.