Daily Walking Challenge Check In
We thought last week with rain and snow were going to be a tough test, how about single digit temperatures to deal with this weekend? I hope you all got out despite the cold and were able to power through to keep your streak going.
The key to having a good time on a walk on a cold winter day is the same as it is for all outdoor winter activities, layering.
The old hiking/running adage, be bold start cold, doesn’t apply to walking around the block though. The idea is that after hiking uphill or running for a while, you’ll warm up and start to sweat. Starting cold allows you to get started and get warmed up without getting too hot or having to stop and take off a layer (you’ll probably still need to, anyway).
But for walking, I find this doesn’t apply. I don’t want to be cold when starting a walk, in fact, I want to be comfortable and warm. My body temperature might rise during a walk, but not like it will on a trail run or venture into the mountains. Nevertheless, here are some strategies I use when venturing out in the cold, whether for a walk in the neighborhood with the family or a cold run up a mountain.
Warm socks, but not too warm. My extra thick, cozy socks are too much and my feet feel sweaty.
Neck/face covering. A gator/balaclava/Buff, whatever you call it, can seal you up and give your face protection from the wind.
Zippers! Be able to unzip for some air when you need it.
Mittens > Gloves when it’s really cold.
Good hoods. I love a hood that I can tighten down so I can still move my head around and see.
How did you layer up for your walks this weekend?
Justin Miner
@justinminergain
