Best top for winter running but doesn't get runner hot for Xmas

[Naughtynovembertree]

Hello does anyone know of a good material /brand /company for a runner for winter.
Hates cold and wants long sleeve but then doesn't want to heat up as running!

This company has the best cold weather running gear I've ever owned.

janji.com/

The gear is really well made and they were fine when I needed to return something. They are US-based but will probably ship overseas.

Thank you. I'm a little nervous ordering from the the states.

Budget?

Do you think they would want compression?

Also, might sleeves (aka arm warmers) be something they'd like?

@AuntieStella

It's for Xmas and I'm struggling to buy for dh so I'm happy to spend ££££ on something really good

What's compressions?

I've just got a lovely pair of Rockay arm sleeves - keep arms warm at the start then can be peeled off and put in a pocket when your friend is warmer. Lovely and soft and all made from recycled ocean plastic.

UnderArmour cold gear is good - sweat wicking but keeps the chill off. Ultimately nothing prevents runners getting hot during a run, but as long as the sweat is wicked away by appropriate clothing it’s not uncomfortable. I also rate Ronhill for winter running gear.

Compression is the squeezy stuff (meant to be good for recovery, but also useful if you do really long runs)

I agree that UnderArmour is good for that, as is 2XU - a favourite brand of mine, who also do sleeves.

Or you could look here and be spoiled for choice

baselayer.co.uk

Or try here

www.wiggle.co.uk/base-layers

dhb is Wiggie's own brand - I've not had a base layer from them, but I've had other stuff and it's been very good. Their merino ones look tempting

Inov8 are the best ones but they're pricey (I buy them in the sale!) Ronhill are also v good.
Most others either seem to be too hot or too cold. Though Decathlon are decent for the price.

Brilliant thank you.

It's base layer I'm looking for??

I just wear layers. Ronhill/whatever race t shirts/london marathon consolation tops are lying about . My Helly Hansen top with stripes on the sleeves is a favourite, as are nike cold weather tights. And double layer socks, hat/headband and gloves.

Depending where you live it really doesn’t get cold enough for long enough to need long sleeves in my experience. As others have said - sleeves, gloves, hat are easier to remove and store whilst running. I wear gloves in the winter and if I get too hot can take them off and keep them tucked in my running tights waistband. I look a bit lumpy but it’s easier than carrying around a long sleeved top.

@Naughtynovembertree

It's base layer I'm looking for??

Well it could be!!

Or it could be sleeves/arm warmers, or it could be a long sleeved t-shirt.

Do you have any idea which he'd prefer?

My favourite long sleeved tshirts are by Adidas and also one from an event that was made by Scimitar, who I think retail as funkysportswear.shop as well as the more obvious scimitarshop.co.uk

Merino.
This stuff is pricy but very good quality, ethical, eco and a small biz. Www.findra.co.U.K.

Sorry findraclothing.com/

If he wants to be warm but not sweaty, Merino wool tops are the way to go.

The make matters less than the material.

Decathlon is usually a good shout for cheaper ones, or I've bought some good ones of various brands at TK Maxx before now.

I tend to prefer the ones with thumb holes in the cuffs because my wrists get very cold otherwise.

Also if he hasn't already got one, a Buff makes a great present for a runner, they do good service as scarves, headbands, ear warmers, hats, snoods etc, (they do Merino ones for winter and UV ones for summer so make sure you choose the Merino)

I only know he didn't like running in the cold, he does feel the cold.
Maybe I'll get the Ron Hill top and a merino one

Any thing else I should look at for runners?
I'm thinking of the inja toe socks

How far does he run? Is it road or off road? At night or during the day? Does he do races or runs for fun?

Bamboo stuff is lovely and soft.
Long tops with thumb holes.
Is he running at night? The proviz high viz stuff makes a lovely present.

Toe socks only if you know he likes them

If you think he might like frivolous, bright socks which also have excellent performance try stance.eu.com

Other things to consider:

• does he run at early morning or at night? If so, try body borne LED lights (arm band, belt, etc)
• does he race? Vouchers entries for company that has lots of events near you (one example is www.runthrough.co.uk )
• trying to improve? A running journal - lots of types available thewiredrunner.com/best-running-journals/
• books about running?

Just thought of one: get him a 1-1 coaching session to have his running analysed. If he’s part of a running club another member might be able to recommend someone.

Or: sports massage!

get him a 1-1 coaching session to have his running analysed

Hmm... depends on the individual there. A new runner might love that; but any of the experienced club runners I know wouldn't appreciate it. Generally, when you've been running a fair while you know what your gait is like already!

It’s not just getting your gait analysed (which many running shops do) but an all round assessment. Working out weaknesses, suggesting exercises to strengthen, correcting posture, foot positioning etc. Definitely worth doing if you can find a good coach!