After long summer evenings where you can train and play sport to your heart’s content, the arrival of winter is often a bit of a shock to the system. The temptation is for runners to go in to hibernation mode and to hit the streets again when the clocks change in the spring.
As a runner it’s vital to have your wits about you; observing traffic, cyclists and pedestrians at all times is key, even more so in poor weather or low light conditions where you can’t always be seen. However, observation alone is not always enough and being seen is vital.
Whether you are running on city pavements or country lanes, getting the right kit is a must. On the 27 of October, it’s that time again, the clocks will go back but Oliver Carter from Ron Hill tells us why you don’t have to hang up your running shoes for the winter with their high visibility, high performance running apparel…
“As the nights draw in and the weather becomes more inclement, there is no reason to hang up your running shoes and hibernate. Ron Hill offers a great range of running clothing and accessories to help protect you from the elements, keep you visible and looking and feeling great when out on those dark, gloomy winter runs.
“Two key elements to running in the dark are conspicuity and reflectivity. Conspicuity comes from bright coloured fabrics, like fluorescent yellow’s and pinks. Reflectivity comes from strips of tape and trim on clothing and accessories that is lit up by light sources such as car headlights. It is important to think about both of these elements when choosing a running outfit that you might use when its dark outside. We’ve all been in cars where you see a runner or cyclist not wearing the correct attire and it is easy to miss them all together.
“Another feature available is LED for extra illumination. Here the LED light is attached to the jacket or accessory aiding visibility and has different modes like on/off and flashing. These are detachable so you can wash the item without damaging the LED.
“The “Ronhill Vizion” Hi-Visibility clothing and accessory ranges are made using a number of technical fabrics to regulate body temperature, and to keep the wind and rain from cooling you down excessively. Along with the bright fluorescent colours and reflective detail, some with LED features, assist with keeping you visible. This range is designed to keep you running through the winter day or night not matter what the weather or light conditions.”
Oliver Carter, Ron Hill