Don’t be that person who runs in shorts outside all winter long.  That is not cool; well, actually, now that I think about it you would be quite cool.

Since the quads are the largest muscle group of the body they provide some heat, making it easier for runners to potentially get away with running in cold weather with shorts or thin tights.  However, this isn’t usually the best thing to do.

Since it is harder for your muscles to loosen up when it is cold outside, keeping your legs warm could also prevent muscle cramps or strains.

Curtis suggests wearing “pites” when running in the cold, his coined term for a combination of pants and tights.

Like pants, your “pites” should be wind proof to keep you warm in the chilly winter winds, as well as durable enough to protect your legs if you should happen to fall on a patch of ice.

Like tights, your “pites” should provide the benefits of wicking sweat away from your body to keep you warm and comfortable.

New Balance, Mizuno, Saucony, and Sugoi are the major brands that carry “pites”.  Once you compare a good pair of “pites” next to a pair of regular running tights you will clearly see and feel for yourself how these will be useful for running in the cold.  Stop in Complete Runner to see and feel the difference for yourself.