13 Essential Tips to Running in the Rain

Running in the rain is an exhilarating experience for many. It creates a feeling of invincibility and turns the regular run into a thrilling adventure. Many tips exist to help people run in the rain, but the best way is to finish the run in a good mood and plan for victory rather than a defeated mentality. 

Having the right shoes, carefully planning the route, and wearing the correct clothes all help ensure a person ends the run with a superb smile. So, preparations are necessary to change challenges into potential opportunities, whether a person is in an unexpected downpour or embraces the rain intentionally. 

Below, we have described some tips for the best chance of a successful rain experience. Some suggestions relate to what to wear while running in the rain, route selection and planning, and others to the right mindset and eventual post-run tips. Continue reading to learn more. 

Rain is not about thrill and adventure. Some people experience intense fear and dread of thunderstorms and lightning. This condition is known as brontophobia or astraphobia. Visit our informative article to learn everything about it. 

Invest in waterproof running shoes

Soggy feet make running miserable and can prevent a person from getting the most out of this exciting experience. So, if a person regularly experiences wet conditions, investing in waterproof running shoes is a worthwhile option. These shoes ensure that the feet remain comfortable and dry during running. 

To select the best shoes, go to the local shoe shop and choose the one that fits your preferences. During running in the rain, mud builds on the shoe's bottom, causing a loss of impactful grip, treading, and adding extra and unnecessary weight to each stride. To avoid slipping and improve traction, check the sole regularly and scrape any mud if present. 

Choose a waterproof running jacket

A waterproof jacket is a must-have while running in the rain. Choose a jacket that breathes well and ensures dryness. Its compact design and easy storage in pockets or hydration vests make it a versatile and practical solution for rainy days. 

A good design also ensures the best temperament and adaptability to match the constantly changing climatic conditions. In addition to waterproofing and breathability, other features to check are sealed seams, packability, lightweight zipper pockets, comfortable fit, and durability.

Choose a running cap

A breathable visor or running cap helps shield the eyes from the rain. It ensures better visibility and enables a person to stay more focused on the path without risking rain getting into the eyes and making a person squint. 

As most of the body's heat escapes from the scalp, it is advisable to select a cap that uses breathable material on hot days to avoid overheating. It is also essential to ensure a comfortable fit that is neither tight nor loose, as both conditions add extra stress to the body.

Choose dryable clothes

Wearable items that contain cotton absorb more water and become heavy in the rain and trash over time. Choosing quickly driable clothing ensures better and more comfortable wear in the rain. It helps regulate the body temperature and is lightweight for a better running experience. These clothes dry and become lightweight quickly. Likewise, choose socks made of technical fabrics to ensure that wet feet are not made worse by chaffing and adding weight. 

Use a body glide to prevent chafing

Chafing is highly risky, particularly in wet conditions. Before running in the rain, it is advised to apply anti-chafing products, such as body Chafing, to areas prone to friction. Although chaffing is uncomfortable, easy solutions help ensure better comfort. 

The best anti-chafing products to try are balms, roll-on gels, powders, chafing sticks, seamless underwear, athletic tape, hydration belts & packs and specialised clothing. Choose the products according to personal taste and likeness.

Regularly change the wet clothes

Many people feel warm when they complete the first run or cross the finish line. However, it is necessary to change wet clothes regularly, as being continuously wet for a long time increases the risk of lower body temperature or hypothermia, which is a potentially dangerous condition. 

If one is continuously racing, it is necessary to bring an extra set of clothes to put in the checked bag or, preferably, in the car so that one can easily change the wet clothes with the dry ones after crossing the finish line. The storage bag must be waterproof, as it is often not placed in a sheltered space. 

Carry extra socks while running

If extra room is in the fanny pack or running belt, try putting an extra pair of socks in the plastic bag. It takes some time to change the socks, but dry socks provide more comfort and prevent blisters on the feet. The extra socks are particularly needed if it starts raining at the beginning of the journey and a person needs dry socks during the race. 

Always prioritise your comfort and ensure it by always selecting dry socks while running.

Closely watch the steps

Running on a slippery path or wet road in the rain requires extra care. A helpful tip is to pay special attention to the footing and take small rides, just like running on the trails, keeping in mind that there are many rocks, roots, or branches on the roads that a person needs to trip over. 

It is necessary to avoid stepping into the puddles as much as possible. Running shoes will likely be wet well before the rain, and feet can become soaked while stepping into a big puddle. So, it is advisable to watch the steps while running in the rain closely.

Choose the correct shoes

It is advised to keep the best shoes for a dry day and rely on older shoes while running in the rain. Older shoes are better adjusted to the feet than new ones. The choice of the best running shoes in the rain depends upon the type of run. For example, waterproof sneakers are the best choice to run on the roads in extremely wet conditions. 

Likewise, winter running shoes are appropriate for icy conditions. A pair of running shoes, e.g., Adidas Terrex Soulstride Trail, is the best choice if one engages in puddles and creeks and does trail running. Having flat feet is a susceptible issue. We have described the 13 best flat-foot shoes in an informative article. Visit our page to read it. 

Don't overdress 

Overrunning is a big mistake people make while running in the rain. Dressing for the dry temperature and dry day is advised. Wearing many layers is ill-advised as it doesn't keep a person dry. A person often becomes wet while running in the rain unless an umbrella is on the head. So, looking for materials that quickly dry and stand up to various elements is advised. Overdressing and underdressing are not advised, and it is necessary to choose a balanced approach.

Make it visible 

It is necessary to choose outer layers that are extremely light or brightly coloured and have many reflective strips. These choices increase the visibility of the runner to the other people. Increasing visibility is essential as drivers need better visibility while on the road and are not expecting a person on the road. It increases the risk of serious injuries. 

Carefully pick the track

Consider the impact of the rain on the roots, and proper pre-planning helps prevent unexpected changes in the roots. Choose well-drained areas to avoid excessively muddy water-logged trails and regions, and steer away from major roads with cars and other motor vehicles splashing on the clothes. 

Trails that are effectively drained and well-paved make rainy days more enjoyable. Another helpful tip is to choose a track where one knows how to change the root in case of unexpected happenings. 

Embrace useful experiences

Reframing the conditions in the rainy season according to your character and adventurous nature helps you take it on and take it to the chin when it feels rubbish. It is expected to avoid running when the season is not regular, and the conditions are harsh. But, it is equally important to celebrate the wins if one gets out while the others don't dare. So, make yourself habitual of the win. 

This part of the story builds mental toughness and prepares a person for many curve balls on race day. A man who can conquer the race in the rain will likely adapt to everything on race day. So, embracing the experience, adjusting the pace, equipping oneself with the right gear, and planning the route carefully is necessary. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why is running in the rain a more challenging step to take? 

Running in the downpour improves physical performance as the body works harder to keep itself warm. It is one of the most severe workouts. So, for better speed, focus more on time and distance. 

Is running in the rain a healthy one? 

The results are controversial. Many studies show that running in the rain has few physical benefits, often decreases sports performance, and burns only a few calories. Nevertheless, it is perfectly safe to run in the rain, and there are no side effects. Many people make it a healthy workout choice through careful choices.

What are the disadvantages of running in the rain? 

There are only a few severe side effects. Running in the rain makes it difficult to achieve personal health goals, as one uses the most energy to keep the body warm. It is advised to warm up and layer up properly for exercise to avoid unnecessary fatigue. 

How do you keep your feet completely dry while running in the rain? 

Dry and thin socks are excellent choices for this job. Wearing dry socks while running slows people down monetarily, but their added comfort makes them worthwhile. Socks that dry quickly are necessary.

Is it possible to run in the rain with the phone? 

Remember to keep mobile phones and other non-waterproof electronic gadgets safe while running in the rain. A helpful tip is to place them in a plastic bag while running or keep them safe in a waterproof jacket. Switch them off in the heavy rain and wash them using a dry cloth before using them again.

Is it OK to practise jogging in the rain? 

Running or jogging in the rain is generally fine, particularly in light showers. Rain sometimes avoids overheating in warmer temperatures, allowing a person to lock into the exercise rhythm at a given pace. 

Bottom-line 

Running in the rain is the most challenging part when the rain is just starting. After a proper warm-up, it becomes an enjoyable experience. The 13 essential tips for better running in the rain enhance the experience and comfort. It is advised to avoid puddles, but it is an equally great tip to get in touch with the inner child while splashing through the puddles. 

Also, running in the rain causes badass and hardcore feelings. While the rain hits the face, a person feels mental toughness and develops the sense that he can handle all life challenges. From right wearing to choosing the right gear, these strategies allow a person to get the most while running in the rain. 

Finally, it is advised to stay focused, embrace the rain, allow nothing to stop you from reaching the goal and care little about the forecast. If you are stressed for any reason, we have summarised the 13 best ways to manage stress in another article. Visit our page to read it. Our healthcare professionals are always available for you in case of any queries. Visit us to consult our professionals.