Winter Running in NYC: What to Wear and Where to Go
A temperature by temperature clothing guide, icy footing tips, and how to stay seen in the dark.
Winter in New York is when fitness gets built. The runners who show up in January are the ones setting PRs in the spring. Here's how to keep going when it's 25 degrees and dark at 5pm.
Dress for 15 degrees warmer
You should feel slightly cold for the first mile. If you're comfortable standing still, you'll be overheating by mile two. Layers work best: a thin base, a wind layer, gloves, and a hat you can stuff in a pocket.
What I wear by temperature
- 40s: long sleeve, shorts or tights, light gloves
- 30s: base layer plus light jacket, tights, gloves, hat
- 20s: thermal base, wind jacket, tights, mittens, buff over the face
- Below 20: all of the above, plus a second base layer and a windproof hat
Footing
After a snowstorm, check the footing before you commit to a route. Slip on traction spikes give you grip on ice.
Light up
Most of your winter miles will be in the dark. A clip-on light and a reflective vest make you visible to drivers and cyclists. Pick routes with streetlights and people around.
Run indoors without guilt
A treadmill on an icy day is still a run. Set it to 1 percent incline and treat it like a workout day. Your ankles will thank you.
Ready for the next step? Build your plan or get updates on training plans coming soon.
THE BROOKLYN RUN LETTER
New routes, race picks, and training tips. One email a week, no spam.