Running in the Rain! (Read 1182 times)

So, I have to run 20 miles tomorrow with a forecast that varies from 90% to 90% chance of rain. Promising. I've been fortunate so far and have only had to deal with the heat and cold extremes, but always dry. So, my question - what are your tips for running in the rain? I'm planning to hit the running store tonight for a waterproof jacket. I've heard to put baggies around your feet before you put your shoes on. I'm also going to plan to run by my car a couple of times to change if I need to. Any other advice? Like 20 freaking miles isn't bad enough, I'm really not looking forward to doing it soggily!

If it's not too cold, running in the rain is nowhere near as bad as you would expect it to be. If you ran 20 miles on a bright sunny day, you'd still get soaking wet, except from sweat. When you get soaked because of rain, at least you're staying cool, and you can skip taking a shower afterwards.

20 miles in the rain, is 20 miles in the rain. you will get wet, no matter how much waterproofing you do...just embrace it. If it's cold you might want a rain jacket to keep your core warm.

And if you don't believe her, look at her Soak City pic in Look What I Can Do. You rock, Lifesabeach!

Embrace the rain.

For me it really depends on the temperature. If it's warm I'll just go out and run with no rain gear. I'd rather get wet than have too much on and overheat. If it's a cold rain I like to cover with something. I don't own any rain gear so I just poke holes in a hefty bag and use that. I tie something around the waist to keep it snug. It looks silly, but it does keep my core dry. One thing to look out for if you're going 20 miles is chafing and blisters on your feet.

Just wear a non-cotton top, maybe two layers if it's cool. I did a 50k in a tropical storm last year, back when I was in shape, and there were a few runners who started out with waterproof jackets, but they had all ditched them within a mile or two.

One thing to look out for if you're going 20 miles is chafing and blisters on your feet.

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised after running a marathon in 47-52 degrees with rain the first 25 miles. My feet were soaked by mile 2 and numb by mile 5...but for the first time ever during a marathon, I didn't get a single blister and I didn't lose any toenails! My feet/toes felt fantastic after they thawed.

I have just got back from 11 miles in the pouring rain and I have to admit i really enjoyed it ! I think the best advice is dont even try and keep dry as it wont happen. I ran in shorts and a short sleeved top as anything else would just get wet , heavy and uncomfortable - after 2 miles you are as wet as you can get so just get stuck in and enjoy it. The only thing that did worry me is what will a good soaking do to my custom orthotics? - they seem to be ok. Get ot there and enjoy it. Nev