Now that the clocks have gone back, there is no denying that winter is well and truly on its way.
With daylight hours reduced and a definite nip in the air, it’s by no means time to put your trainers away, but a reminder to get prepared for the season ahead!
How to Prepare for Winter Runs
First thing’s first, you need to be safe while out running, and with darkness settling in not much after 4pm, many of us will find ourselves having to run in the dark.
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Of course, this is not ideal but there are many running products out there which will help keep you visible to others, as well as lighting up the ground which can stop you from taking a tumble.
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Our Recommended Head Torches for Running
Head torches are a night-runner’s best friend, but with so many on the market, how do you decide which one to go for?
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The main things to consider when buying touches and lights is how bright the light is, how heavy the kit is and how long the battery lasts.
Get the Right Light for Running
Brightness is measured in lumens and where you are running generally dictates how many lumens you will need in order to see and be seen.
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If you are running on street-lit pavements, around 50 lumens will be adequate, whereas if you are running on pitch-black trails or in thick woodland you are going to need many more; think numbers larger than 100.
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If trail runs in the dark are your thing, you might want to consider this heavy-duty torch from renowned manufacturer Petzl:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Petzl-Mixed-Headlight-Unisex-Actik/dp/B01KYTRJ8C/ref=sr_1_9?crid=37TTB7IQ8DTY7&dchild=1&keywords=running+head+torch+petzl&qid=1604337730&sprefix=running+headtorch+pe%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-9
Whilst it’s not the cheapest model on the market, it does offer 300 lumens and weighs in at 92 grams.
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You can choose from replaceable batteries (potentially useful if you are heading out on a long ultra-race), or can be used with rechargeable batteries.
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For a lighter and more affordable option, the Karrong Ultralight weighs only 42 grams, and is fully waterproof too:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Karrong-Ultralight-Induction-Headlight-Rechargeable/dp/B07RL6BM17/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=running+head+torch&qid=1604346536&sr=8-6
Our Recommended Reflective Running Equipment
Reflective clothing is important when road-running, particularly at dusk or in the early morning when you might not necessarily need a head-torch, but visibility is lower and motorists might be less likely to see you.
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Investing in a reflective vest which can be worn on top of your usual running gear is a sensible idea. We like this one by Firefly Buddy which also comes with free reflective armbands:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reflective-Running-Visibility-Reflector-Adjustable/dp/B0192RFUXS/ref=pd_bxgy_img_2/262-3083533-4674058?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0192RFUXS&pd_rd_r=8684dec4-686f-486f-b406-233c425e7f61&pd_rd_w=j9sKc&pd_rd_wg=btXRy&pf_rd_p=dcf35746-0212-418b-a148-30395d107b2d&pf_rd_r=E59E1FFYG5G7ZEEDH5CM&psc=1&refRID=E59E1FFYG5G7ZEEDH5CM