An ode to the Puffer Vest

Anyone who has ever seen a semblance of me in colder-than-summer weather has probably seen me in a puffer vest.

Hands-down, a cozy puffer vest is my first choice in winter running wardrobe must-haves.



Sure, I can dress them up with a funky scarf and they work for casual wear...

...but I especially LOVE to wear them with my running shoes.

They offer the warmth of a jacket without the "underarm" bulk of the sleeves. Also, they are a lot less expensive than a full jacket, so it's pretty affordable to add a few (in various colors) to your closet. Here's a tip: you can find them (usually) pretty frugally-priced at teeny bopper clothing stores (for example: Jean-Nicole, Aero, Vanity, etc.)

Puffer vests are also versatile. Not only can you vary the layering options (depending on the temps outside), but you can also play with numerous color combinations. In other words,you're not stuck wearing the same "winter running jacket" every time you head outside (did you notice I'm actually wearing the same vest in all three of the pics above?).

For example, if the temps are moderate (I use that term quite loosely), you can wear a light 1/4 zip jacket or long-sleeved top (ideally, flannel-lined) underneath. If the temps are flirting with below freezing, I add a fleece jacket (or even an additional layer underneath).

As most people know, I'm based in Iowa. I also run outside year-round, so my comfort level with winter temps (and weather conditions) will be quite different from those who live in warmer regions.

Although the puffer vest is my first choice of winter wardrobe necessities, there are several other favorites that deserve Honorable Mention status:

For starters- a 1/4 zip jacket. If the temps are approaching the high 40's or warmer, often times a 1/4 zip (or 1/2 zip) jacket is a great alternative. I usually still have a flannel-lined base layer (or two) underneath. This also depends on how long I plan to be outside.....a short run usually warrants warmer layers since I won't have as much time to thoroughly warm-up. Conversely, a longer run allows my body temp to stay elevated for an extended time, thus not needing quite as much warmth from clothing.

What else? It's no secret I love my fleece jackets! Often times, a fleece jacket is the perfect option (with a long-sleeved, flannel-lined under layer) if the wind is not a factor.

Of course, the head needs protection. I love fleece headbands for their coziness and wind-blocking properties. And let's not forget those shades! My skin is very dry (aka-wrinkle-prone) and my eyes are extremely sensitive...the cold air and wind turn my tear ducts into faucets. The sunglasses protect my eyes from not only the wind, but also from the bright sun reflecting off the snow. Less squinting = fewer wrinkles!

It should go without saying that gloves and socks (preferably wool) are also basic necessities. Often times, the gloves come off after the first couple miles (unless the conditions are especially cold and/or windy).

So, those are my main essentials. Additional info can be found here :For the Cold Weather Runner and here : Winter Running:101 (my version).

How about you? What is your #1 must-have necessity for winter running? Or do you stay inside? What's your preference...hat or headband?

I'm linking up with Marcia and Patty and Erika for their awesome Tuesdays on the Run link-up party, and also with Susie and Rachel and Debbie and Lora for the Running Coaches' Corner, and also with Nicole and Annmarie and Jen and Michelle  for the Wild Wednesday Workout. Head over and check it out!