While out on a morning long run today I realized my winter running advice was missing something very important!!
After the alarm went off I noticed it was snowing, and would continue snowing, the entire duration of my run this AM. When the snow is falling, there’s one piece of gear that has helped me enjoy winter running even more: eye protection!!
I toughed it out for several winters not worrying about my eyes when it was snowing. I would simply tip my head down a bit more and squint my eyes to prevent some of the snow from hitting my eyes. I quickly learned that technique after running with my eyes wide open during active snowfall…it was as if a bunch of little ice bullets were hitting my eyes! Not only did it hurt, it was also very annoying. Running is supposed to be fun and enjoyable, however, the snow bullets sucked the joy right out of it.
Well, I finally stopped trying to fight it and went to the internet for help. After trying a couple styles out, I landed on these goggles. These anti-fog goggles do a great job of staying put while logging miles amidst the falling snow.
As long as you clear snow from the top vents as you go, they stay nice and clear, allowing your eyes to enjoy the run without getting blasted by the snow!!! I can’t tell you how happy I was using them for the first time – it was amazing!
For anything over 60 minutes, and you have the ability to carry them with you, a second pair may come in handy as the eventual fogging will occur with enough snow build-up, combined with sustained body heat getting released. I do not have that elusive second pair yet, but may be making that purchase after today’s run š
These goggles also help with the whole winter-running-motivation-to-get-out-the-door factor. Without them, I may have been very tempted to just re-set my alarm for a couple hours later, or hop on the treadmill downstairs. But I know how great I feel after getting fresh air to start the day, and not needing to worry about my eyes getting pelted during my run helps me to get up and moving.
I enjoy a nice dose of hygge as much as the next person in this neck of the woods, sipping warm tea next to a cozy fireplace and so-on…I just like to enjoy it after getting outside for some exercise and fresh air!
Winter is here folks, we can’t let it get us down and prevent our adventurous spirit from enjoying everything this wonderful area of the world has to offer. So let’s embrace the cold, dark hours of a northern MN winter and continue to get outside!
See you out there š
NOTE: It is also a wise choice to wear some sort of reflective clothing or accessory. I like wearing this nicely-fitting Nathan reflective vest knowing it will help oncoming traffic see me a whole lot better vs. my standard all-black clothing choices!