Winter Running

I moved from Texas to Wyoming 3 years ago. I have struggled with how to safely run in winter months. Any suggestions?

I live in a rural area ( star valley, wy ) and winters are cold and long.
 
Todd, barefoot running in the winter is doable with some precautions - a lot of us Northerners do it.
My advice is to check out the forum threads about the Barefoot Winter Challenge. LOTS of good stuff in there related to cold weather running.
Much too much information to summarize, but here's a few tips:
  • Acclimate to the cold gradually.
  • Learn your own limits (what's doable and safe for one person may cause frostbite in others!)
  • Avoid salted roads - salt water can be significantly colder than the surrounding terrain. Dry surfaces are best for winter running.
  • Pay attention to your feet - learn the warning signs of frost-nip and frostbite
  • NEVER put yourself in a situation where you can't get someplace warm in a hurry if needed - your toes may depend on it
 
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Reactions: dharmadan
Well, as a Canuck, I can't do bare feet in the winter. At all! I use either my Arrow lace boots or Vivo Neo Trails. As for safety, I wear highly visible safety vest. For stability on ice...have fun with that one! Seeing how you are into martial arts, your balance should be better than most. Took a few headers myself that would make the Russian judges happy!!
 
@bfsailor
Thanks for the information. Perhaps we should have a forum devoted to Winter running?

I'll research your topics.

@Bill Brushey
Balance is decent. It's finding plowed roads that really difficult. The valley here is rural. Summers are awesome though! I'll look into those shoe ideas. I have the New Balance with the vibram soles - which I used in my last half-marathon.
 
@bfsailor
Thanks for the information. Perhaps we should have a forum devoted to Winter running?

I'll research your topics.

@Bill Brushey
Balance is decent. It's finding plowed roads that really difficult. The valley here is rural. Summers are awesome though! I'll look into those shoe ideas. I have the New Balance with the vibram soles - which I used in my last half-marathon.
I
What's a "plowed road"?? ;)) Dont get that here too much!