This weekend I’ve got the Love Run Half Marathon in Philly and the forecast isn’t looking so great. With a high of 48 degrees and a 70% chance of rain, I’m preparing myself for a wet and chilly run. Here’s what I recommend to do and wear for the best possible race on a rainy day:
Stay dry as long as possible: Bring the appropriate layers so while you’re waiting for the race to start you don’t get soaked. Assume you’ll get wet as you run but often times you have to wait at the start for over an hour; it’s best to be as comfortable as possible until you hit the starting line.
Avoid chafing: The rubbing of wet clothes on wet skin and even worse, wet socks on wet feet can lead to painful blisters and chafed skin. Prepare by applying Aquaphor or Vaseline over areas that might eventually rub. I recommend between the toes/on the sides of your feet and anywhere on your arms where your sleeves hit. If you have a pocket, toss in a mini Aquaphor and if you have any major pains during the race, you can always re-apply on the go.
Pack extras: If someone is cheering for you along the course, give them an extra pair of socks to carry around. If your feet get totally soaked, swap them for your dry pair mid-race. This will add time of course but if it helps you keep blisters away it might be worth it.
Protect your tech: I can’t imagine running without music so I’m planning to bring an iPod nano and will put it in a plastic bag (not just my pocket) for extra protection.
Readjust expectations and relax: With poor weather conditions you might not get a PR and that’s ok. Take it easy, enjoy the race and make sure not to tense your shoulders as many of us tend to do so while trekking through the rain and cold. Stay relaxed and go with the flow.
Here’s what I’m bringing & wearing: cheap plastic poncho for before the race starts (throw it out as you line up) / Nike hat to keep rain out of my eyes / Lululemon Bang Buster headband (if I ditch the hat) to keep wet hair off my face / 2 pairs of Balega running socks / Sugoi Hydrolite waterproof jacket with hood for heavy rain or Fabletics Yalu jacket for lighter rain (will be a game-time decision) / Lululemon tank (in black because it’s bound to get dirty / 2XU capri legging / iPod shuffle in a ziplock bag / mini Aquaphor / older running shoes
