What do I wear for running in the cold and rain?

[Appervine]

So I've nearly finished C25K and am going to treat myself to some more clothes for running in. I thought about some sort of jacket for when it's cold and wet, but what kind of thing do I need? I know nothing about sportswear and there seems to be so much technical gear. Any advice on what I need please?

[iwantgin]

I have a couple of jackets but they aren't v waterproof
Will stand up to a light shower. But I don't care too much about getting wet.

For heavy rain my favourite item is a baseball cap. It stops the rain going into my eyes.

[Deianira]

I prefer a thin jacket and not really waterproof or you end up way too hot (and sweaty) inside it. But again, I don't mind getting wet, and water resistant seems to be enough to keep my phone in a pocket from getting very wet, so that's enough for me. When the weather is nasty I go for lots of layers so I can adjust easily - long-sleeve with t-shirt over (all wicking), say, or long-sleeve with jacket if it's wet (I like having the hood as it has a peak to keep rain out of my eyes). Then if you do get warmer as you go you can take something off and tie it around your waist or something. Also you might want to try the jacket in a larger size if it doesn't naturally come up bigger - I don't like them too tight, especially if you're wearing extra clothes underneath in the dead of winter! I buy most of my kit from Sweatshop as their sales are great!

[Dismalfuckers]

I have a lurid pink running jacket from sainsburys which is great, light and non sweaty. Yesterday wore it over a running vest.

I also have a long sleeved running t shirt (dorunning) which is good when it's really cold.

[Appervine]

Thanks, this is useful. When it was cold before, I was running with a fleecy hooded top which was too heavy and sweaty so will definitely treat myself to something more appropriate.

I'm not familiar with Sweatshop so will check it out.

[TriJo]

Light layers are your friend. Long sleeve running tops and full length running tights for cold and dry weather, then just add a barrier layer (showerproof or waterproof jacket?) for wetter days. Keeping your core and extremities warm is the most important thing - I tend to buy a stash of Primark hats and gloves for running in around October, they are so cheap they are practically disposable.

Jackets should be breathable - it's very easy to overheat and sweat a lot into one that isn't.

[ThursdayLastWeek]

I can't wear actual jackets - I gave one and it's just too noisy and sticky and baggy.

I just tend to wear long sleeved, slightly thicker running tops (neon if on roads) and if it's really cold a vest underneath.
Long trousers, but only rarely, and a buff to keep my neck warm before I warm up.

I live in the SW and it rarely gets that cold here so I'm probably to the best to advise!

[trixymalixy]

I wear long running leggings, a short sleeved top and a karrimor showerproof jacket. I live in Scotland and never get that cold running.

[museumum]

I prefer a shower proof gilet with long sleeve tops underneath.

[Flutterbutterfly]

I have two Aldi running jackets, well one is a cycling jacket.
The running jacket is really light and just used as a windbreak.

The cycling jacket is great, it's a wind break and warm in the depths of winter, it has a dipped back and keeps my bottom warm. It also vents well with pit zips, plus lots of high vis reflective stuff.

It's very, very cold and windy where I live and I like to be warm.

[MrsMook]

I've got a great, light and reflective hooded shower and wind resistant top from Decathlon.

A cap is also handy for keeping the rain out of your face. Also good for low sun in the morning and evening.

I second the other suggestions of layering tops, gloves and hats.