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I am not a pro runner.
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I am not amarathoner.
I am not even a racer.
I am an I-need-some-time-to-myself-to-work-through-everything-in-my-brain kind of runner.
I run to metaphorically and literally put one foot in front of the other.
I run for emotional and mental growth.
Its extra uncomfortable, extra challenging, and just EXTRA.
Butextradoesnt have to mean that it sucks.
Theres another reason too: Sometimes running in the rain is just plain fun.
Yeah, I said it and I meant it.
Like most things in life, though, being prepared makes all the difference.
With rainy running, having theright gearcan turn a sopping, uncomfortable run into an epic adventure.
Just a note: My runningrain gearselections reflect the kind of runner I am.
Im not trying to P.R.
on mile timesIm looking to get out of my head for a bit.
That means, as Ivewritten before, my gear choices are made with comfort in mind.
What can I wear that will not impede my overall experience while out on the road ortrail?
And sometimes thats the best option.
(you’re able to file that under Things Ive Learned the Hard Way).
Ive run in tropical rain, cold rain, sorta rain, and oops-I-didnt-know-it-was-going-to-rain rain.
I start with solid basics that work for most weather.
My closest-to-the-skin layers for when it rains arent actually different from my normal-running base gear.
I know, gross, but also just incredibly real!
I need all the wicking, whether itshot and humidor dreary and dewy.
Watching the weather super closely is your first line of defense for any kind of rainy conditions.
It might also be a mix of all of those.
In these conditions I look for some slightly more specialized gear from my norm.
This is where the right gear is game-changing.
For one, safety first.
The skies are usually darker in these conditions andmaintaining your visibilityis incredibly important.
I opt for reflectivity and brighter colors so cars can see me.
These rain-specific options help me make the most of my super-rainy runs.
And if yourenotinto running at all, in any kind of weather?
Even just going for a walk in the rain can be enjoyable.
Again, its all about preparation (you have the benefit of anumbrellaif youre walking) and mindset.
