What to wear running in 25 degrees (a NYC Run)

Temps: 25 degrees
Wind: 5 mph
Humidity/Precip.: Big, wet snowflakes
Terrain: Rolling hills
Distance: 2 miles

What I Wore: Road Runner Sports t-shirt, Nike zip-up running jacket, heavy Road Runner Sports tights, gloves and hat.

Did It Work: Mostly yes. Except:

• These lined tights are so darn good, my thighs were sweating by the time I got home. A run that included a walk might have led to cooling down too much.
• My hat didn't cover my ears, so they were chilly

Do This Run: Whether you're a distance runner, a walker or just in New York, I strongly recommend this run. It was through Fort Tryon Park in upper Manhattan. Most New Yorkers rarely make it to this part of the island, but it is beautiful, especially early in the morning when it is more quiet than you would think NYC can be.

Order this print at www.brianskinner.net/ManhattanGroupPublishers/prod03b.htm#The%20Fort%20Tryon%20Series

What to wear running in wind

Temp.: 50 degrees (9C)
Wind: 15 mph and cold!
Humidity/Precip.: None
Terrain: Rolling hills
Distance: 4.5 miles

What I wore: Nike full-body sports bra (guys, substitute with a singlet), New Balance wick-away t-shirt, Under Armour shorts.

Did It Work: Yes. I was worried that I might have gone overboard with the under layer, but the strong, cold wind kept me perfectly balanced between cool and warm.

Note to self (and maybe you?): As long as key parts of me are warm enough, I am comfortable. Specifically, I hate having cold ears, hands and torso. When dressing for temps on the edge of cold, I always make sure I protect these parts first.

Happy running!

What to wear running when almost everything is dirty

You know you're a runner when one load of laundry per week is entirely made up of workout gear. Saturday's run hit on laundry day, so the outfit was not my usual for 55 degrees.

Temp: 55 (~12 C), sunny
Humidity/Precip.: High, none
Wind: Mild
Terrain: Rolling hills
Distance: 4 miles

What I Wore: Puma double-layer tank with built-in sports bra; generic-brand capris; running hat.

Did it Work: Yes. My hands were a little cold at first, but then the whole thing was perfect.

Keeping it fresh: Usually at these temps, I go with shorts and a T, but all 8 pairs of running shorts were dirty along with my 6 sports bras and the only tops were what I wore or a heavy pull over. This change of pace was comfortable and, because it felt new, added pep to my step.