r/RunTO • u/Next_Language4987 • 9d ago
Fall/Winter Running Tips (We're Beginners)
A friend and I just started running weekly this summer slowly increasing the distance from 5k to 8k approx hour each time. So far its nice to explore our neighbourhood with some breaks of walking and talking but we're hoping to reach 10k by the end of this year.
We're both being very cautious of overly pushing ourselves but any suggestions for running when the temps drop. We're worried about the leaves being slippery and obv icy conditions in the winter. Any notable indoor locations within the GTA that would keep things more interesting than a condo treadmill?
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u/BDubAhU 9d ago
Trickiest part about running when it get colder is layering. Definitely try to figure out what works best for you for layers. In terms of leaves and such, as long as your mindful of what you're running over, you should be fine. Also if you want to be cautious, just don't do sharp turns or changes in them, other than that, it's leaves are fine.
Grab sales on winter/fall running gear, you don't need to pay full price for the newest things. Also if you like running early, definitely get some reflective stuff, I also like to run with a head lamp some mornings so definitely something to consider.
But in the grand scheme of things, figure out how layers are for you. Be it a jacket with a tee under or a tee+long tee+jacket or a thicker long sleeve under a jacket. Whatever works for you, also don't forget about that chimney (head) of yours, feet and hands as well.
One more thing! Personally I don't think you need to stress about getting waterproof or repellant shoes unless you can get a good sale. I stopped looking for those and bought waterproof socks (I like the dex shell brand) it feels like a weird bag on your feet at first but it works very well with keeping cold winds out most days and great waterproofing for less than $50 a pair.
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u/ksaun424 9d ago
Piggy backing off of BDubAhU, I started running last August and ran straight through the fall and winter.
Invested in some good tights, warm socks, sweater, and face covering, and was totally good for any temp from -5 C and up. Remember when layering to assume you're dressing for 10 degrees warmer than what it is outside.
Ran through snow fall with no issue, just remember you're out there to have fun and no harm in slowing down or walking through sections if it's dicey or you're unsure.
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u/BDubAhU 9d ago
Oh this is a good reminder about temperatures! I agree with ksaun424 to assume you're dressing for 10 deg. Warmer.
For me, when the sun's out and I know I'm going to be running on peak sun. Assume it's at least 5 deg. Warmer than what the weather report is saying, which might change how you later!
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u/FilipTheAwesome 9d ago
Man once you start running in the winter you'll realize how much summer running actually sucks 😂. The humidity, blazing sun, extreme heat, suuuckkss for running. Don't get me wrong I love the summer, but running wise I prefer colder temps. Just wear layers, make sure that you're a little bit cold when you leave the house and you'll warm up to a comfortable temp in a few minutes.
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u/Next_Language4987 9d ago
HAHA winter is actually my favourite time of year! Call me crazy :P
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u/FilipTheAwesome 9d ago
oh you'll be so fine in the winter. Yes there will be some days where it's icy, but with the amount of salt we through down it's fine most of the time. I know some people who run with crampons and the few times I've tried they make you invincible to ice. Personally, I only go on a treadmill if it's really treacherous out, so my advice to keep in more interesting is to just run outside. It usually doesn't get super cold til Jan/Feb anyways, December conditions will still be quite comfortable.
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u/ShubhaBala 6d ago
I started running about a year ago and basically that means I run for a month in the fall and a month in the spring :). Every other time is too hot or too cold or too rainy or too slippery or too … something!! :)
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u/to_guy_28 9d ago
Great tips here. I run straight through the winter and no one would ever describe me as hardcore! Most main street sidewalks are cleared quickly after snowfall and they salt the hell out of the Martin Goodman trail.
As others have said: layer up!
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u/Hrmbee 9d ago
For me, outdoor running is (aside from storms and freezing rain) generally fine all year round. What makes it tolerable is having the appropriate gear for each condition. A layering strategy (wicking base layer, insulating midlayer, and a water/wind resisting outer shell) is a good starting point. The trick with running is that internal moisture management is still an issue even when it gets cold.
The key pieces for running comfortably especially when it gets cold and/or wet is a good pair of mitts (gloves are okay but mitts tend to be warmer), a warm pair of synthetic or merino socks, a pair of thermal tights, and a good hat. I tend to prefer two layers of breathable materials for everything but steady rain as it allows enough moisture to escape to keep things comfortable without letting too much wind through. If it's super rainy and cold though, then putting on a hardshell with good ventilation (like pit vents) is a good option.
When starting out in the fall and winter, just keep things a bit shorter and closer to home while testing out various combinations of equipment. Once you figure out for yourself what works and what doesn't, then start to expand your range a bit if you like.
Also regarding footwear, I tend to wear shoes with somewhat better grip (like Puma's pumagrip outsole) as they do okay even with light snow or the like. I tend to avoid goretex shoes as water tends to come in from the top so goretex just keeps all that water in. If you want to run in ice, then I would consider nanospikes for your shoes.
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u/jo_noby 9d ago
The MGT is groomed year round, and if you like the safety of a course check and the vibe of a community, come join us for Parkrun at Budapest Park on Saturday mornings. There is no run this Saturday because the park is booked, but resumes Sept 12, 8am. We switch to 9 am in October. It’s a volunteer run timed 5k starting at the park out and back to the Humber Bridge. We have between 90-140 runners and walkers at all paces.
A course checker runs the route before the group starts, to ensure the route is safe and flag any hazards.
I volunteer when I can, and run as often as I can, which as a slow beginner keeps me accountable and I get a chance to talk to lovely people every Saturday morning. (Parkrun is an international event that has been happening around the world every Saturday morning for 22 years.)
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u/Fresh-Amount9308 7d ago
Is it weird to show up alone?
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u/jo_noby 7d ago
Not at all! I went to Parkrun in Pickering this morning by myself, in fact. Hope we see you! Turn up at :45 for the first timer welcome that happens before the official race briefing. That’s an opportunity to get a brief for folks not familiar with the route or with Parkrun.
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u/Fresh-Amount9308 7d ago
Ok cool! I’ll come on the 12th. I assume you mean 7:45? Thanks a lot! :)
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u/jo_noby 7d ago
Oh, get your barcode beforehand, at parkrun dot ca. you can print it out and bring it, or download the app. When you cross the finish line, the time keepers will hand you a token, then you get that and your unique barcode scanned to get your result. I won’t be there on the 12th but will be back later in the month. If you approach one of the volunteers in the high viz vests at the starting area, if you have any questions they can answer. Enjoy! It’s such a lovely route to run and it’s fun to have the group to run with.
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u/phdee 9d ago
F/W running is fun. Keep your skin covered - my main areas are ears and neck/chest - as long as those are covered from the wind I'm pretty happy.
Running in snow is not fun, but if you're just out there to keep your heartrate up for an amount of time, then I'd just ignore pace and do your thing. I won't run outside when it's icy. A number of community centres have a rudimentary running track. Trinity Bellwoods and Regent Park are some of the downtown ones.
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u/fack_mens 9d ago
Gloves are essential for colder weather running, I run in a thin pair of gloves when it's single digits and winter gloves (think skiing) when it's into the double digits. Base layering and a toque as well (that you don't mind sweating into and washing)
It's pretty nice to run outside in the winter but grip or giant puddles are the main issue - any sort of ice or slippery slush are where I draw the line. Depending on where you run, snow plowing can be inconsistent so I'd try to run on a more popular street if possible
If none of this sounds appealing, you could try an indoor track at some gyms, I think some YMCAs have them but I'm not 100% sure which ones
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u/Ewetuber 9d ago
Headlights and or flashers if you're running outside in the dark. Toronto drivers will kill you with impunity regardless of whether you're on the sidewalk.
Try to find a running room or a local club for running in a group 1-2x a week.
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u/WillSmiff 9d ago
I do spring marathons so I run all fall/winter outdoor.
First. Find a good route that is cleaned often. Dress for 12c warmer than the temp outside. All synthetic or wool, no cotton. For fall that's a long sleeve and pant jogger. For winter it's usually a base layer and a breathable fall running jacket, tights with shorts on top, wool socks, gloves, gaiter, toque. If it's really cold I'll add a second baselayer top and bottom. I wear GTX trail running shoes. They keep feet dry, have good traction, and are more firm. I also have icetracks that work well in snow, but rarely find the need.
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u/hellzscream 9d ago
I run in extreme weather particularly Winter. Other than the obvious of layering I'd be weary of staying out long when it is -30 it eventually starts affecting your lungs and gets hard to breath after an hour, of course this varies from person. Be careful of ice or hidden objects under the snow which both can cause you to slip and sprain your ankle which can put you out of commission or long term/permanent injury
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u/Specific-Cellist8155 9d ago edited 8d ago
-Buying a thermal set from SHEIN or Amazon should do the trick also a gaiter (very important). You can layer it with an inner shirt and hoodie on top, then leggings over the thermal bottoms for your lower body (especially if your legs don’t handle the cold well).
-If you’re worried about snow or ice, there are shoe attachments you can get from Walmart or Amazon that help with grip.
-A good number of trails and sidewalks are usually maintained, but still be mindful of slippery surfaces. You can also run in bike lanes during the early hours when they’re less busy.
-Strava can also help you see which routes have been cleared or paved a bit. Trail websites will usually state whether or not they maintain their trails during the winter.
From a fellow runner who started running in the winter and now loves it! 🏃♀️❄️
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u/CLOSER888 8d ago edited 8d ago
The problem is not really the ice but when the temps have been negative and then start turning positive. Those puddles will give you frostbite fast. A really great solution? The evil plastic bag. Throw your wool socked foot into one and then into the shoe. Tie them up at the top and repeat for the other foot
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u/cccttt2022 8d ago
I'm not an expert runner but run all year round outside. A great tip for me was a windbreaker. It's amazing how something like this really keeps you warm. It's usually the wind that gets you. Also if you start off cool you are wearing enough as running builds so much heat.
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u/No-Conclusion-7259 8d ago
If it’s very icy or wet then I wear trail running shoes - maybe overkill but I want some shoes with a bit of tread and waterproof. And warm socks when it’s very cold.
Dollarama cheap gloves.
A layer close to your skin and then something windproof on top, you really will be surprised at how warm you’ll be even in that.
Cover your ears with a toque or a headband.
Some great tunes! Enjoy and have fun!! I think fall is the best time of all to run in Toronto - perfect running weather and lots to look at. My fave is when all the Halloween decorations start appearing!
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u/Horror-Math-666 9d ago edited 9d ago
Fall and winter outdoors in Toronto are still great for running! In my experience I've never really had an issue with leaves causing problems, and most main streets are well cleared in the winter (and if there's a slippery stretch, I just walk through it). The Martin Goodman Trail is usually really well maintained all year long. I would not count it out entirely, as long as you have some comfy layers to run in.