8 Tips For Running In the Wind

A blustery day may not be your ideal weather for running, but when you have a training plan to meet and targets to smash, the conditions can’t hold you back. Fortunately, there are some ways to make these kinds of workouts a little bit easier, and once you’ve mastered battling with the wind, you’ll be prepared for whatever the weather throws at you at your next event. 

Can You Still Run in Windy Weather?

Of course, it’s just more difficult!  Marathons, ultramarathons, and long-distance endurance runs occur, rain or shine. So training in windy weather can be great preparation for these types of events.

When to Avoid Running in Wind

Be sensible and check the forecast. If there are weather alerts or warnings, avoid heading out and train indoors instead. Also, avoid training if you don’t have access to the right running gear. Cold chills can set you back, so if you’ve only got summer sportswear to keep you warm and protected, you may want to think again. Invest in appropriate windproof running gear to help keep you focused on form and achieving results.

How Does The Wind Affect Your Run? 

Depending on the direction of the wind, it can either be a help or a hindrance. There are many ways this weather can affect your run for both the good and the bad. 

Negative Affects:

• Requires using more energy

• Poor posture and stance

• Reduces visibility

• Risk of chilblains

• More challenging to maintain a core temperature

• Reduces concentration 

Positive Affects:

• Helps to increase speed in tailwinds

• Builds grit and strength

• Bigger sense of achievement

• Makes you a stronger runner

As with any adverse weather, be it rain, snow, sun or wind, there are ways to avoid it hindering your performance. You just need to prepare, have the right running gear for the conditions, and keep a check on whether the conditions will change during the distance you’re covering.

Our Tips for Windy Weather Training

To get all the benefits and no setbacks from running in the wind, follow the tips below. 

"I personally have never enjoyed running in the wind because something you can't even see is making the effort harder.  However, those are the runs that make you mentally tougher.  A good base layer is a must have as well!"

Michael Vollkommer - 6x Ironman finisher, 1x 100K finisher and Global Marketing Activation Leader at GOREWEAR

Invest in Windproof Clothing 

To block wind from getting to your skin and making you cold, you need long layers that protect your legs and arms. More importantly, you should have items specifically engineered for this purpose. WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX LABS Products provide complete protection from the harsh winds at any time of the year due to the membrane that blocks wind whilst allowing vapors to escape through microscopic holes.

Layer Up

Layers are essential whatever the weather conditions, but especially during extreme wind. Adding or removing layers is vital for your comfort as you clock up the kilometres. But which layers are best to choose?

Base Layers

Starting at the core, you need to consider your underwear and upper body layers. Whether you opt for long-sleeved, short-sleeved, or sleeveless, a base layer is a must-have for maintaining your core body temperature in adverse conditions and wicking away sweat.

It’s important that these base layers are able to wick sweat away from the body so that the wind doesn’t chill the skin after you begin to sweat. Some GOREWEAR base layers are available with WINDSTOPPER® Technology to further protect you from those chilly winds.

Windbreaker Jacket

For conditions that are more breezy than gale force, a windbreaker is the perfect layer. Although not windproof, it’s designed to block and protect against the wind. Making it a lightweight, packable option that is perfect for wearing or taking with you on long training sessions.

Protect Hands, Feet and Head

The wind can penetrate your core, but it’s important not to forget about your extremities. Hands, feet, face and head will feel the effects of cold winds, which can then travel through the rest of the body. So, what products should you be looking for?

Windproof gloves are a must-have for additional protection from the cold, even on sunnier days. Look for gloves that are windproof, offer lightweight protection and are breathable to prevent your hands from getting too hot and sweaty.

Balaclavas or face warmers can protect your nose from running, lips from splitting and cheeks burning in the wind. Designed to prevent the build-up of condensation and sweat, they offer protection on those particularly bitter days when the wind seems to cut through other fabric.

Socks made from thermal materials are a worthwhile investment. Merino wool sports socks have thermo-regulating properties, so they can be worn when the warmer weather arrives, too.

Find a Reliable Windproof Jacket 

A windproof jacket with the right features cannot be beaten on dry but cold and windy days. Look for jackets engineered with specific fabric technologies that allow breathability whilst offering complete protection against the wind. 

Products with WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX LABS Technology offer all of this. Plus, GOREWEAR jacket designs offer complete freedom of movement with stretchable cuffs and drawcord hems. This also prevents the wind from entering through traditional weak spots as athletes move.

Run with a Partner or Group

Running with a group or partner allows each person to take a turn at running at the front into the headwind, allowing others to draft behind. This gives each athlete respite time to focus on their posture and restore their stride before testing their fitness in tougher conditions for a short while.

Start into Headwind, End with Tailwinds

Headwinds are much harder to run in, so it’s advisable to start with your route heading into the headwind before fatigue sets in. This will minimize the impact on your pace. Tailwinds give you a bit of help and can actually increase your speed, so ending your run with them behind you will help on the final stretch. 

Pay Attention to Your Form

It’s natural to hunch your shoulders during windy weather as your body fights to protect against the chill. Unlearning this habit is tougher than you may think, but it’s essential for bettering your running performance. Rounding your shoulders or tensing your body will use more energy, make you sore, and eventually tired from holding an unnatural posture. 

Try to adopt a more aerodynamic position by tucking your elbows into your sides whilst consciously minimizing your profile. This will protect you against strong winds without affecting your form. It’s also key to not lean into the wind. Try to balance your body using your ankles or whole frame rather than leaning from your hips.

Head Home

As determined as you may be, knowing when to turn back and head home is better for your mental and physical health. If training in windy conditions is hindering your progress, then save your energy for a day when conditions are more preferable.

Explore GOREWEAR Windproof Running Gear

Discover our range of windproof running gear and make windy training sessions a little bit easier.