It’s that time of year again when you wake up in the dark and get home in the dark. The days of an evening run at dusk as the sun goes down are fast becoming a distant memory now and runners have no choice but to hit the streets in the dark.

If you’re training, running in the dark over the winter months will be second nature but if you’re new to the game I’ve put together some tips for keeping safe whilst running in the winter months, as well as some of the gear you may find useful. It could also help if you’re struggling for Christmas present ideas as well.

Jackets:
Without doubt the first essential you need for running in the dark is a reflective jacket.
Most running trainers have reflective strips on them somewhere but I find, for peace of mind if nothing else, a reflective jacket is much better.

Ladies Nike Vapor Jacket:
– £54.99
– Water repellent properties to keep you dry
– Perforated side panels
– Reflective strips
– Removable hood
– Machine washable 

Karrimor Running Jacket:
– £14.99
– Drawstring for a comfortable fit
– 2 pockets with zips- perfect for you i-pod, energy gels and other running essentials.
– Ventilated mesh panel
– Reflective logo and strips on the arms and back
– Machine washable

And if you’re feeling really fancy….

Nike M Allover Flash Jacket:

– £319.99
– Storm-FIT fabric which blocks out the wind and rain
– Dri-FIT fabric
– Laser-cut perforations for breathability
– Reflective detailing

Gloves:
Warmth is essential too during the winter months, you don’t want to find you’re having to turn home early because you’re so cold you can’t feel your limbs.

Gore MYTHOS SO Gloves – Neon Yellow
– £34.99
– Windproof
– Reflective material
– Fabric insert on index fingers and thumbs- meaning you can still work your touch screen phone or i-pod with them on.
– Fleece lining
– Silicone-coated palm for grip
– Absorbent material on thumb and back of the gloves for wiping away sweat

Head wear:

The majority of our body heat is often lost through our head so some runners find it beneficial to wear a hat or a headband of some kind. Personally, I prefer to run without but if you suffer with ear problems or headaches from the cold then a hat is definitely a must have for winter running.

Routes:
Stick to well-lit routes, especially if you’re running alone. Make sure you tell someone where you’re going and how long you roughly expect to be.

When you return, it’s inevitable that as soon as you enter your house and the warmth hits you you’ll want to strip off. Hold off until you have stretched though or you will find you’ll cool down extremely quickly and then be at risk of a sudden chill.

Got any winter running tips?
Share them here and comment below.