Spring Transitioning Tips for the Runner

Okay, at the risk of totally jinxing the recent nice weather, I'm gonna say it...

Spring temps are (finally) here!

In Iowa, that does not mean a smooth (or quick) transition to Summer. Although the threat of snow is sequestered in the lower single-digit percentages, the temps are still gonna be roller coaster-like. There's also gonna be cold rain on occasion. And, rest assured, there will be plenty of wind.

Ugh. What's a runner to do?

Answer: Go with what Momma N serves up, but here's a few Spring transitioning tips you can consider...


First off, there's your head. Chances are, it's a bit too warm for winter hats, or even a fleece headband. It may be too windy for a cap to stay put. But what if you still want a little "something" over your ears? Consider a "summer" headband, but pull it down over your ears. It will not give you a lot of warmth, but just enough cover to give your ears a bit of a wind barrier.

Then there's your neck. Many of us have an ample supple of mock-turtlenecks. Those work great for neck coverage, but if you get a little over-heated, you're stuck with that around your neck for the duration unless you lose the whole shirt/jacket. My preferred option is a buff. A buff is especially handy right now, given our awareness of masking. You can leave the buff around your neck, and quickly pull it over your mouth and nose if need be. If your neck gets too warm, the buff can also do double-duty as a headband and still be accessible for masking.

My arms are probably my most high-maintenance body part when it comes to staying warm. My favorite gear combo, for tricky temps, is a tank top with arm warmers (instead of a long-sleeved top). The advantage to wearing a tank (or even a short-sleeved top) with arm warmers is the convenience of taking off (or rolling down) the arm warmers if one overheats. After all, if you're wearing a long-sleeved top...again, your're stuck with the entire top. Even hiking up the sleeves, above one's elbows, is no guarantee those sleeves will stay put (mine never do, just saying). Seriously, whoever invented arm warmers was on to something big!

How about the legs? Some mornings (and entire days, for that matter) may require full tights, but you probably can put the fleece-lined ones in storage. Often times, though, the temps are too warm for full tights, but not quite warm enough for completely bare legs. Alas, there are options aplenty:

First, there's the standard capri-length tights. These are often my preference if it's really windy. My lower legs don't seem to mind the cold wind as much as my thighs. Here's a hint...if you're a size medium or smaller, you may be able to fit into a girls size XL (and will save a few dollars on the price).

If the temps are moderate (cool, but not uncomfortable...with mild/no wind), I'll usually be in shorts. I find, in this instance, if I'm covering my lower legs, my thighs can withstand most anything. This is when I'll pull on a pair of compression sleeves (or full socks). What can I say? They not only feel good, but they also make me feel #badass.

Not everyone is a fan of compression, though. If you fall into that category, have you ever thought of taking an inexpensive pair knee socks and cutting off the foot portion? That will enable you to wear your favorite running sock AND still have part of your legs covered (You're welcome).

And, a bonus hack? Those cut-off knee socks make great arm warmers, and will probably be warmer than actual arm sleeves, for a fraction of the price (You're welcome again).

 Anyways, those are a few hacks that work for me. I didn't list any specific temperatures because we all have different comfort zones when it comes to the weather. What feels cold to me usually will feel much warmer to someone else. Remember, I'm one of very few runners who actually prefer the heat of summer (#totaltruth).

Does it feel like Spring has officially arrived in your area? Does your weather keep you guessing on what to wear for running? Do you have any favorite transitional hacks to share? 

I'm linking this with Kim and Zenaida for the Tuesday Topics Link-Up

I'm also linking with Debbie,  Rachel, Deborah, Lisa, Sandra and Jenn for the Runners' Roundup

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