What Should I Wear If I Run In The Rain?

When we are full of energy, we feel good, and even the most boring commitments become much more manageable. The reason is simple: the human body is meant to enjoy nature and exercising including walking and running. Running builds muscles brings happiness, and fills us with energy. Activities such as cycling, walking, and running are not difficult and can be adapted to suit everybody’s physical conditions.

Remember: if you only run for a short distance, you are still years ahead of someone who sits on the sofa, devours fries,  and stares at the TV.

Even though the process of getting your running clothes on and your feet out the door, you still have to consider other factors while running. Some of those factors include:

  • The running environment and terrain
  • Your physical condition (no injuries)
  • Seasons and weather

For an optimal run, you need to choose the correct gear for the correct weather and season.

There is no inappropriate weather for running, only inappropriate clothing.

Runners often joke that there is no awful weather, there are only poor runner’s clothes. Any weather is pleasant for a run if you are dressed appropriately, comfortably, and safely.

The golden rule is:

  • Stay dry when it’s raining
  • Keep warm when it’s cold
  • Don’t overheat during warm days

If you have waterproof shoes and clothing, you can look forward to running in the rain. If you don’t have proper waterproof gear then run indoors on a treadmill at home or at the gym. Good, functional running clothes improve safety, satisfaction, and comfort. Additionally, they reduce your chances of injury.

The prime goal is comfort

When running, it is unnecessary to pay attention to fashion guidelines (at least for some of us). Comfort is the key. If you’re not too picky about what you’ll need to wear to adjust to the outdoor elements you will make it easier to gear up. Avoid rain running gear that oppresses, tightens, burdens, or angers you. Choose footwear, equipment, and clothing that allow for optimal airflow, reduce friction, and give support while keeping you safe.

Related: Do you wear underwear under running tights? Will Chafing Occur?

The most important rain gear are your running shoes

Running shoes are by far the most important piece of your running equipment. With different models, runners have difficulties choosing the right pair of running shoes. Running shoes have to withstand an incredible amount of stress and be flexible at the same time especially trail running shoes. They must offer comfort, posture, and safety at every step.

In addition, they must ensure that the movement of the feet is stable and controlled in the rain. The feet should be dry, well placed on the floor, and the movement should be natural. There should be plenty of room for the toes to swing in the front of the shoe, and the back should grip the foot firmly. To run on wet surfaces, running shoes must have a non-slip sole to prevent injuries.

It is important to choose the model that suits you best from the extensive selection of running shoes. It is best to contact a running coach or running club or resort to a local running store for advice.

Always wear running socks when choosing your running shoes. For running socks, use fabrics that protect against cold or heat, and don’t absorb moisture. Sports socks should be slightly longer and thicker for running in the rain. They need to fit well on the foot and leg to protect us from blisters.

The right cut of the right clothes

Running T-shirts and pants come in long and short sleeves. For T-shirts, pants, and windbreakers, don’t choose a too-wide cut. There are not a few who run in impractical loose clothing because of fashion, or because they want to cover body parts. On rainy days, fluttering pants and windbreakers are disruptive and hinder body movement. Also, be careful not to wear too many layers of clothing unless it’s cold outside as well.

After running for about 10 minutes your body temperature will rise making you warmer (that’s why we call it warming up). If you dress too warm, you will feel uncomfortable during the run. It is best to warm yourself up and then recheck and adjust your running clothes for the rainy day this is especially true on race day. Consider wearing disposable clothes that you can ditch before you start your race.

Related: Running In The Wind And Rain – How Much Does It Affect Chip Time?

Cotton material running gear

Suitable clothing can protect the runner from the weather. Non-functional running clothes include cotton clothes. Dry cotton clothes work pleasantly, but cotton absorbs water and moisture. During the run cotton clothes become heavier and stick to the skin, leaving you to feel more and more uncomfortable. Soaked fibers swell and block skin aeration and absorption of sweat.

Water-resistant Fabric

Functional clothing should absorb as much water and moisture as possible. Today we know materials that meet these conditions. Mostly these are polyester fabrics. Two-layer fabrics are most suitable for most incremental weather running conditions.

Individual raindrops can penetrate the inside of a T-shirt or pants, but they don’t wet us, as the moisture-wicking fibers pull moisture off the skin and through the clothing while keeping the body heat inside the layer of fabric. Cheap running gear purchased at discounts often fails in the rain and cold.

Other running accessories

They also have special microfiber sports bras in sports shops. The whole bra will be wide because it gives better support.

Gloves, hats, and headbands made of water-resistant materials also serve well when it is raining and cold.

If you think that a rainy-day run is a perfect time to perform hard work such as speed drills, think again. Running in the rain can involve wind and a slippery road. So go for a slow run, jog, or a fast walk, to prevent injures. The slippery road also puts more demands on your muscles and connective tissues. Safety is paramount when running in incremental weather.

What Should I Wear When I Run In The Rain
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The best running gear for running in the rain:

– waterproof running cap

A waterproof running cap keeps rain, and any other precipitation out of your eyes so you can knock out your long run on poor weather days. Our suggestion is Sumolux Men and Women Outdoor Collapsible Portable Hat This cap is completely waterproof and breathable and collapses into a pouch the size of a smartphone.



For winter days here is a waterproof beanie,  DexShell Solo Beanie. This waterproof beanie will keep you warm and dry.

– waterproof running shoes

Breathable for when it is sunny and warm, and stormproof. Waterproof shoes are perfect for running all year round. Their no slipper technology, and quality fabric make them ideal for running in the rain, and when it is cold.

Altra Men’s Lone Peak 4 Low RSM Waterproof Trail Running Shoe

Altra Women’s Lone Peak 4 Low RSM Waterproof Trail Running Shoe

Women’s waterproof/windproof

Ideal when the weather is cold and wet. These mittens are ideal for both and will keep hands warm even when wet.

OZERO Women’s Touch Screen Gloves

Men’s waterproof/windproof

OZERO Men’s Winter Thermal Gloves

Women’s waterproof jacket

Layer up in lightweight comfort crafted with a breathable and waterproof coating. This piece is perfect for wet and windy days.

BALEAF’s waterproof running jacked is my best budget pick for waterproof rain jackets for runners.  For a complete detailed review of waterproof running jackets click below:

Best Waterproof Rain Jackets For Runners

BALEAF Women’s Running/Cycling Jacket

Men’s waterproof jacket

BALEAF Men’s Running/Cycling Jacket

Men’s water-resistant running pants

While I couldn’t find 100% waterproof pants, I came close with Inbike thermal running pants!

Women’s water-resistant running pants

Baleaf water-resistant running/hiking pants

– Randy Sun waterproof socks

Appropriate socks will support your feet over the miles. When it’s raining outside you want a sock that is 100% waterproof. Unfortunately, most major brand running socks aren’t 100% waterproof. After some research, I found a sock that is 100% waterproof – Randy Sun Waterproof Running Socks.

Remember, running in the rain is a benefit for your soul. Be mindful of the weather and your running environment. If there’s lightning outside you shouldn’t go run, instead hit your treadmill or head to the gym.

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Coach Scott's Credentials:
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  • RRCA Certified Running Coach (Level 2)
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He has published over 20 books including, Beginner's Guide to Half Marathons: A Simple Step-By-Step Solution to Get You to the Finish Line in 12 Weeks! (Beginner To Finisher Book 3), which has become an Amazon International #1 bestseller. Scott specializes in helping new runners become injury-free race finishers. He recently completed his 22nd half marathon race. 

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