running layers that work from fall until spring

Though we’ve got our eyes firmly fixed on that big fall race, the weather can’t seem to keep the same focus. From record-high heat waves to spring-like showers, predicting what weather fall will throw our way can be quite the challenge during run training. Our legacy ambassador Sam Sykes shares her tricks to outsmart—or at least play nicely with—Mother Nature when it comes to dressing for running during the year’s most tempermental months, while our stylist Giulia shows how a few key pieces can take you from October right through til next spring.

Baby, it’s cold outside

Sam says: wear clothes that are designed for running. They are made of technical materials that keep you warm where you need it, wick sweat, ventilate properly and move with your body to help you perform your best. The right running gear lets you focus on your race, not what you’re wearing.

It’s kinda cold, but I’m tough

Sam says: dress like it’s 10 degrees warmer outside than what the thermometer says. You want to start your run slightly chilled because your body is going to heat up once you get going. Rarely do you hear a runner finish a race saying, “Man, I wish I had dressed warmer!” But it’s very common to see layers littered along the sidelines of the first few kilometres of a race.

I can’t see my breath, AND I can see the finish line

Sam says: clothing choice can outsmart bad weather. Races aren’t cancelled unless the weather is truly life-threatening (as in: earthquake, tornado, lightning, you get the picture). You need to practice running in the elements with the right gear so that you’re prepared to run your best race no matter what storms your way. Training in different weather conditions builds character and gives you experience to draw on when race day comes around.

Okay, so there’s a chill in the air

Sam says: accessorize for exercise. Pieces that can be added or peeled off and stowed in pockets easily are great for combating temperamental weather. Choose breathable, water-resistant pieces.

The mercury may be low, but that glorious sunshine is my friend

Sam says: You can’t predict what mood Mother Nature will be in on race day. View different weather conditions as an opportunity to train harder (not as an excuse to not train at all) so you’ll better prepared for whatever gets thrown your way.

Photography by Miles Clark
Styling by Giulia Halkier

Elim is a lover of all things fashion and style. When she isn’t championing our athletic style as lululemon’s Brand Stylist, she can be found wearing a lot of black, running, hitting the mat or consuming copious amounts of Vogue and Porter. She loves exploring whatever life hands over and captures most of these moments on Instagram.