The season of fall is upon us–meaning runners everywhere will be taking advantage of the crisp fall air and hitting their local trail. Whether you’re a rookie or a veteran, you may find yourself out of the loop when it comes to the newest tips and tricks and fashion trends this autumn. Here are some things you should keep in mind so you can focus on your running form, and not on your regrettable workout attire.
Avoid overdressing
You should always dress for a run as if it’s about 10 degrees Celsius warmer than it actually is. If you think wearing shorts in temperatures of 5 C is crazy, ask yourself if you’d wear shorts casually in temperatures of 15 C. (The answer is most likely yes.) This allows you to adjust for a spike in body temperature as you get moving.
Mittens
Being cold isn’t cool, but wearing mittens is–even while it’s still shorts weather. As someone with severe Raynaud’s (when your hands turn bright red/purple and turn ice-cold in temperatures below 12 C), I am a huge advocate for the mittens, shorts and sports bra look in the chillier fall weather. No judgment here!
7/8 tights
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: three-quarter-length tights are out of style. Seven-eighths-length tights are the more fashionable alternative, and with less skin exposed, will keep you warmer on those chillier fall days.
Phone sleeves
The first way to avoid hand cramps and minimize your bad form while running? Get your hands on an arm band or running belt to keep your phone secure when you hit the trails. I know phone sleeves aren’t super stylish, but squeezing your phone into the pocket of your jacket or tights isn’t always comfortable. Head to your local running store (and bring your phone) to test out a few options and find what works for you.
Crew socks
Crew socks are the hottest thing right now–running or not! Paired with either shorts or leggings (pulled over your leggings, of course), we have determined that these socks keep your ankles warm and make your legs look more muscular. Pair these with any running outfit to immediately spice it up.
Headphones
On a bustling fall running trail, the most stylish way to listen to music is with headphones that are not noise-cancelling, or by taking out one earbud entirely. Being aware of your surroundings and responding to passing runners by moving to one side is one of the top things you can do to give you and your fellow runners the best experience.
Ugly running shoes
Sometimes the best running shoes are the ugliest–and that means your cute fall outfit might be ruined. But all runners know and understand the struggle of finding good shoes that provide proper support, cushioning and comfort, so ugly shoes won’t be criticized. My teammates and I call these shoes our “clunkers” – not the aesthetic I go for in my day-to-day wardrobe, but they allow me to run comfortably!
