December 1, 2000


What are some good outer layers for cold-weather trail running?

What are some good outer layers for cold-weather trail running? Here in Oregon the trails are covered in mud or snow this time of year, and the conditions are usually wet and cold. Thanks,

— Dan Wright Dallas, Oregon

Hmmm. Snow, rain, mud. Sounds like such fun!

Still, I shouldn't think it would be too hard to dress comfortably. I'd start with Gore-Tex socks on your feet ($40), as these will keep your feet much warmer and of course dryer than socks alone. Under the GT socks, wear Smart Wool running socks ($8) -— not cotton. Tights are mandatory, of course. Probably a mid-weight tight such as a pair of Power Stretch Tights ($56) from Road Runner Sports, or the Men's Innova Tight from Performance Bicycling ($79). These aren't waterproof, but will keep you warm when they're damp and resist rain adequately for an hour or two of running.

For my top, I'd probably start with a Patagonia Lightweight Capilene Zip-T ($43); this is really a cast-iron skillet of a piece, useful for all sorts of things as a base layer. Over that, wear a water-resistant but breathable shell—if you can fine one, get an Activent shell. These aren't being made any longer, but you can find closeouts (example: a Moonstone Activent Shirt that sold for $115 new was recently listed for $57 at www.rei-outlet.com). I like Activent more than the new-generation fabrics that are replacing it, such as Nextec's Epic, a fabric made of silicon-coated threads. But, some people swear by Epic, so there you go. L.L. Bean makes a nice Epic jacket called the Ridge Runner ($79), which is designed specifically for running and other activities.

Finish your ensemble off with some light polypropylene or equivalent gloves ($8-$10), then add an Outdoor Research Gore-Tex Cloud Cap ($26). And you're all set!

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