Vaseline can be a runner's best friend (2024)

Now that we are in the grips of a more typical Ontario winter, what better time is there to write about outdoor winter running?

Over the years I have been asked on many occasions, "How can you run outside in the cold and snow?"

It can be one of the most gratifying and exhilarating experiences provided you are prepared and dressed for the occasion.

I have endured many enjoyable long runs outdoors in the winter finishing with icicles hanging from my chin, eyelids and ears or with my face mask completely covered in ice from the warm moisture of my breath freezing against the cold outside temperature. There is also something unique when your footsteps are the first to be left in fresh fallen snow on one of the trails around our city and county.

On the flip side, winter can be treacherous and risky for runners under the worst conditions, such as freezing rain or extreme cold weather alerts. So, a level of common sense should always prevail.

Let's start with the shoes. Many runners stick to the same shoes year round but there are models today that have studs or deeper cut treads to offer more stability on slippery surfaces. When you see an icy surface, you can tip toe around it but if the ice lay hidden beneath a blanket of snow, this type of shoe may avoid a nasty fall. Some brands also provide running shoes constructed with a water-resistant fabric for the uppers. This is particularly invaluable on those wet cold slushy days. Inside your shoes, you will want to wear good quality sport socks. If you layer them for extra warmth, ensure they are not too thick to cause pressure and blood flow restriction to your toes.

One of my rules with clothing is that you can always remove layers but you can't always add them once you are running. A common rule of thumb is that you should feel slightly cool when you first start since you will warm-up quickly. Layers are best with a loose fitting fabric that wicks sweat away from your body for the first layer. I prefer turtlenecks over open-neck garments as they do provide protection for your throat and neck area against the cold.

An alternative is a turtleneck dickey. Depending upon the outside temperature and your own tolerance to cold, a subsequent layer, or layers, of cotton or fleece should suffice. An important final touch is a layer of breathable wind and water resistant outerwear to help block the elements and keep you dry.

Fingers are susceptible to the cold when running outdoors since the main blood flow is being directed to your working legs and inner body core to keep it warm. I prefer mitts over gloves as the touch of your own fingers together provide greater warmth. As an extra safeguard on those really chilly days, I add an inexpensive hand warmer to each mitt.

Hats are a personal preference but remember that a substantial amount of heat and energy is lost from the top of your head and your ears are susceptible to frost bite so a good tuque is advisable.

One final touch that I learned many years ago is to apply a thin layer of Vaseline or similar petroleum jelly to the exposed portions of my face. Not only can it help avoid the skin damage caused by wind burn, it acts as an insulating factor to keep the skin on your face warmer.

I have actually gone as far on occasion in outdoor winter competitions to layer my bare legs with Vaseline. I was surprised to find it added just enough of an insulating factor that my legs did not feel the cold, even in sub-zero weather.

Now that you are all layered up, get out there and enjoy the wonders of safe outdoor winter running.

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The countdown is down to eight weeks remaining before the second event of the Brantford Tournament of Races - the 31st annual Brantford Rotary Classic on Sunday, April 28, at W. Ross Macdonald School. Visit www.likerunning.ca for more information on the series or registration.

If interested in volunteering at the race or with the series, contact organizers through the website. In the meantime, smooth and safe running.

Former international class marathon runner, now coach, Rick Mannen of Brantford offers running tips and general interest stories in a monthly column.

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