If you are a marathon runner, you will most likely take part in as many marathons as you can. Usually, marathons take place in hotter temperatures, however, some marathons also take place during winter time.
This is a game-changer for some runners because if you don’t bring the right equipment, you will most likely get hypothermia. As such, it is best that you are as prepared as possible. Here are 10 pieces of equipment for marathon running in cold temperatures.
- Additional Layers of Clothing
If you are going to take part in a winter marathon, you should make sure that you have additional layers of clothing. By doing so you will be able to keep out the cold and avoid forming a layer of sweat under your clothes. If you fail to do so, you might run the risk of developing hypothermia in the long run.
- Insulated Pants
Aside from additional clothes such as sweaters or thermal hoodies, it is also important that you wear insulated pants as well. Remember that you are predominantly using your legs most of the time, and if they get cold during a run, you may run the risk of getting cramps.
So it is imperative that you keep your legs as warm as possible. Luckily insulated pants are capable of retaining heat throughout your workouts.
- Running Shoes with Cleats
One of the main dangers of running a marathon in the wintertime is that the roads could get slippery. The puddles on the streets could turn into ice and create a very difficult surface for you to run through. So it is imperative that you install cleats on your running shoes. By doing so, you will be able to keep your footing no matter how slippery the roads will get.
Aside from having cleated shoes, it is important that they are waterproof as well. The roads might get covered with snow and as you run through it, your shoes might get wet. This will ensure that your feet stay dry and comfortable during the marathon.
- Eyewear
Yet another hazard that you could face during long winter runs is the fact that the sun hits you in the eyes without you knowing it as it hits the ground at a shallow angle. With this in mind, it is imperative that you bring the right eyewear with you.
Companies like Fetop create products such as magnetic ski goggles that will protect your eyes from the sun’s glare. It will also provide your eyes with adequate protection against dirt and other debris that might hit you in the eyes during a run.
- Hats and Gloves
During a wintertime marathon, it is important that you wear hats and gloves. Remember that it is very easy to get frostbite during very cold weather. So it is very important that you have a hat and gloves with you. Your hat should be able to cover a majority of your face. Your nose and ears are particularly vulnerable to frostbite, so the hat should be able to keep them warm and covered.
Gloves are particularly important because you will be using your hands during the marathon. They may also be uncovered throughout your event. So it is imperative that you have cotton or wool gloves with you. This will ensure that your extremities are as well protected as possible.
- Insulated Water Bottles
One of the trickiest things about running in the wintertime is the fact that you might be using up fluids without even knowing it. When you run in cold weather, you don’t sweat as much. However, you will still need to replenish your fluids. So it is important that you bring insulated water bottles.
- Sunscreen
While running a marathon, it is very important that you have sunscreen with you. There is a misconception that because it is wintertime, you won’t really need to put on sunscreen. In truth, the sun’s rays could still shine through the clouds, and you’ll be surprised that you got sunburned. So as a precaution, it is best that you bring sunscreen with you.
- Fanny Pack
When you’re running a marathon, it is important that you have somewhere to store your equipment. Fanny packs are particularly useful, because they provide you with ample storage space, without having them getting in your way or weighing you down. All you need to do is sling them around your hips, and you could run without any fuss.
- First Aid Kit
During a marathon, there might be times where you’ll suffer an injury. You might slip on the ice, or get scratched or lacerated from debris littered on the road. So it is important that you bring a first aid kit with you.
The first aid kit does not need to be a big one. What matters is that your first aid kit is as complete as possible. It should have a good supply of bandages, antiseptic and medicine. If you have medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, you should bring your maintenance medicine as well.
- Heart Rate Monitor Watch
As healthy as you may think you are, it is still important that you monitor your heart rate during your runs. By doing so, you will be able to keep track of your heart rate and ensure that your pace is a safe one. So when you run, it is a good idea that you bring a heart rate monitor watch with you on your runs. These types of watches are designed to keep tabs on your heart rate and notify you of anything unusual.
Conclusion
Although running in cold temperatures may seem exciting for most marathon runners, it is also a lot more dangerous because you risk getting hypothermia if you are not careful. So it is imperative that you are as prepared as possible. By having these key pieces of equipment at the ready, you will be able to stay warm during cold marathons.
