After suffering through a hot, humid summer, fall temperatures are quite a relief to most runners. Instead of having to leap out of bed at 5:00 a.m. just to get your run in before the sun rises and scorching temperatures take over, you can run at almost any time of the day without having to worry about heatstroke. While time constraints are less of a worry for runners in the fall, a new challenge arises: What to wear for the chill in the air?

 

Fall dressing can be a tricky thing. Usually, the mornings and evenings are quite brisk, but the day can become warm. Follow these tips to stay comfortable and dry for optimal performance on your next fall weather run.

 

Layer Up!

Layering is the top strategy for dealing with the often tricky autumn temperatures. With various layers of clothing, you can take things off as needed and add them back if necessary. Think a lightweight jacket over a long sleeve tech shirt, or arm warmers with a moisture wicking tee or tank. Some runners prefer to wear little more than shorts and a tank even when it's nearly freezing outside, but if you are a fan of keeping warm, opt for this layering strategy.

 

Try it: For women, wear a short sleeve shirt like the Nike Relay Short-Sleeve Women’s Running Shirt under a lightweight jacket, like the Sugoi Versa Women’s Convertible Jacket. Wear with shorts or capris for a complete fall look.

 

For men, wear the KOAR Regular Fit Long-Sleeve Men’s Running Shirt with a tank like the Nike Miler Men’s Running Shirt and shorts for maximum comfort.

 

Keep Your Core Warm

Keeping your core warm is a vital component of late fall running clothing. To keep your body at the optimal temperature, make sure to wear close-fitting, compression clothing as a base layer. Add light jackets and shorts on top.

 

Try it: For women, Nike Filament Women’s Running Tights have a sleek, compression fit to keep your legs toasty no matter how much chill is in the air. Wear shorts or a running skirt on top for modesty and extra warmth.

 

For men, the 2XU Men’s Short Sleeve Compression Shirt paired with CW-X Insulator Pro Men’s Compression Tights creates an ideal warm base layer.

 

Cover Extremities

Much of your body heat is lost through your head and hands. Keep these important extremities covered on chilly fall mornings and you’ll stay at a comfortable temperature.

 

Try it: Gloves, like the Brooks HVAC Running Gloves, keep hands warm and dry. These also feature 3M reflective detailing to get you noticed and a flip-back thumb pad so you can easily adjust your MP3-player on the run.

 

If you prefer mittens, the Asics EcoLine Fleece Mitten has an advanced dual chamber to regulate warmth, along with interior mesh for breathability.

 

Don’t forget a hat! The Brooks Vapor Dry Racer Hat is made of moisture-transfer polyester to keep your head dry. For women, the Brooks Infiniti Women’s Beanie uses the same moisture-moving fabric and also has a ponytail opening in the back for a secure fit.

 

Gear up right this fall and you’ll stay cozy on your run, regardless of the outdoor conditions.