Cover Your Head - Running in the Cold

"Disclaimer: I received a BUFF DRFLX Hat and Neckwarmer to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!"

Running in Texas is very one sided when it comes to the weather. During the summer, I run in extreme heat, Fall running may last a couple of days, and then it's winter running. I'm a morning runner, so during the Fall and Winter, the morning temperatures are always cool, which causes me to run on my Nordic Incliner, which I love (but I'll save that review for a different day).

Since not running is not an option, and who wants to spend the whole winter on the treadmill, what can I do to conquer the cold? Just like running in the heat (refer to those tips in Beat the Heat), there are tips for running in the cold.

Warm-up

Move around in the house before opening the door or garage to run in the cold. There are various activities that you can perform in the home, such as stretching, jump roping (this will get the blood flowing), run a mile on the treadmill (this might send you flying out the door to beat the boredom of the mill) or jam out to your favorite tune ( I listen to Bad Habits by Usher, Love It)

Winter Wear

I typically miss the mark because I want to put on too many layers so that I'm warm when I leave the house, but the rule for dressing to run in the cold is to dress as if it is 10 to 20 degrees warmer, which means you will start the run slightly cold. When I was a kid and wanted to play outside in the cold, my mom would always tell me to cover up my head, put on a hat, or keep my neck warm; where is your scarf? Why? If your head and neck are warm, you will be warm and prevent catching a cold. These same principles apply to runs in the cold, cover up your head, keep your neck warm. I was able to follow these simple rules with the BUFF USA DRYFLX Hat and Neckwarmer.

If you follow me on Instagram, you will notice that I always run in visors because my head is too big or my locs are styled in such a way that I can't fit a hat on my head. This was not the case with the Buff hat; the ultra-stretch fabric was able to stretch over my locs comfortably and stayed in place during my runs. I would begin to warm up and maybe even sweat during the run, but the breathable fabric dries quickly and pulls the sweat away for me. I was also able to wear my Aftershokz headphones comfortably. Remember, I run in the morning, and sometimes it's still dark, so the reflective design allowed me to be visible to others, which is always an added safety bonus.

Neck Warmers are new for me, but this garment is a much-needed addition to my cold-weather run gear with the pandemic. The neckwarmer fits snug around the neck and extends over the mouth and nose, which is a plus with the new running guidelines concerning masks. It provides warmth in the needed areas and breathability in the areas that require less heat. Overall, I would recommend this product to anyone, not just runners, the fashionable colors are perfect for shopping or running errands on those cold days. Don't just take my word for it; try for yourself. Discount code: https://buffusa.com/bibrave: Sign up for BUFF® newsletter & get 15% OFF.

Alright, there you have it, a few tips to help you stay warm on the pavement. With the right head and neck gear, you're ready to continue training.