Written by Luke Green /
Whether you’re in the middle of a race training block or running purely to maintain a good fitness level, running in the rain is a very unique mental challenge. You’ll know that you need to just get out there and that you’ll feel great afterwards, but when it’s lashing down, lacing up your trainers is probably the last thing you can imagine doing.
While you’ll absolutely contend with wet conditions when running outdoors in winter, summer can still serve up its fair share of surprise showers to scupper your training plans. Running in the rain is an eventuality you need to be prepared for year-round, and having the right things to wear can make or break your willingness to suck it up and get the miles in come rain or shine. With this in mind, we’ve outlined our essential picks of what to wear for running in the rain.
A trusty waterproof outer layer is one of the most essential components of what to wear running in the rain. Layering properly is key when conditions are variable or if it’s particularly cold, and the finishing touch to any combination of layers for wet conditions should be a jacket that keeps the water out while letting your skin breathe. Without a waterproof running jacket, your other layers will quickly become heavy, uncomfortable and could even cause chafing (a surefire way to want to cut your run short).
The Red Equipment Active Jacket (men/women) is a great choice of jacket for running in the rain. With impressive waterproof performance thanks to a 5000mm hydrostatic head, you can count on it to keep you dry no matter your route. It’s also exceptionally lightweight and breathable, with underarm vents that help regulate your temperature as your heart rate starts to rise. Better still, reflective detail keeps you visible in dark clouds, while a clever stashing pocket ensures it’s not a chore to carry should the sun finally decide to show up.
Even with a waterproof jacket on until the rain stops, the layers underneath matter. Avoid wearing bulky cotton t-shirts and stick to moisture-wicking fabrics instead, as these will help to prevent chafing and a chill if your bottom layer does get wet.
A technical base layer like our Performance T-Shirt (men/women) is a great option for running in the rain. Made with advanced drirelease technology, it dries four times faster than cotton to keep you fresh even if the heavens do open mid-run and you’re without your waterproof running jacket. It’s lightweight, slightly stretchy, and soft against the skin, ensuring comfort whether worn solo or layered up.
Keeping your feet dry is key to enjoying running in the rain. As soon as your feet are wet, a good run becomes a bit of a slog, so opt for waterproof running shoes if you can. Most trail shoes will have some degree of waterproofing included, but you do have options even if running on roads or pavements. There are many road running shoes with GORE-TEX membranes or similar technology, offering full protection from them elements while still being responsive and suited to your preferred terrain.
Look out for running trainers that offer decent grip too, giving you peace of mind when it comes to slippery leaves or puddles on pavements. If you can keep the water out and land steadily, you might even start to forget it’s raining.
When running in the rain, do not underestimate the importance of a good pair of socks. Your best bet is a pair of moisture-wicking performance socks made from merino wool or a synthetic blend that dry quickly and regulate temperature, as wet socks are a breeding ground for blisters and problems like athlete’s foot.
If you know the conditions are going to be unrelentingly wet or you’re heading out for a longer run, you could even go for fully waterproof socks for added protection. Opt for a crew-length if possible to fend off debris, and, whatever you choose, change out of your socks quickly after your run to keep foot health in check.
A cap might be the last thing you associate with running in the rain, but wearing one brings benefits even on days with no chance of sunshine. The peak will do a great job of keeping the rain out of your eyes, helping you to stay comfortable, improve visibility, and allow you to focus more on the activity at hand.
While wearing the right things goes a long way towards keeping you safe in adverse conditions, it’s still important to make the right safety considerations before running in the rain. If heavy rainfall is paired with strong winds or the chance of thunder and lightning, it’s best to skip your workout and save it for a day when it’ll be both more enjoyable and less risky.
Remember also that wet conditions provide a whole host of extra hazards, including slips and trips. Adjust your pace accordingly and don’t be disappointed if your rainy run isn’t a PB chaser. Getting out there is the most important thing and you’d kick yourself if you caused an unnecessary niggle or strain. Enjoy it, feel proud that you went, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you need any more tips or information about our waterproof running clothing.
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