The Yorkshire Dales offer a challenging but scenic environment for runners. If you’re a lover of nature and enjoy pushing yourself a bit on your runs, the Dales are an ideal stomping ground for you. However, given the area’s temperamental weather and physical demands, it can be tricky to know what to wear for a run here. So, to help you out, here’s some practical clothing advice.
Appropriate Running Attire
For starters, it’s a good idea to use breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to help you stay dry and reduce chafing, such as men’s tech running shorts. These are lightweight, dry quickly, and often boast anti-chafing features, which add to their practicality for long runs. For women, compression shorts or running leggings made from tech material work as great alternatives. You’ll also benefit from a quick-drying top, preferably with long sleeves to protect against unpredictable elements – wind, rain and possibly even hail.
Layering for Protection and Versatility
Layering will help you to stay comfortable in a range of weather conditions – vital for visiting the Dales in any season, even if you’re not running.
Start with a base layer that wicks sweat away from your body. This could be a simple technical fabric t-shirt or long-sleeve top. As a mid-layer, opt for a lightweight, breathable fleece for insulation. Finally, a waterproof and windproof outer layer is crucial—ideally, one that’s fully breathable and lightweight.
If you start your run in bright sunshine but then, halfway through, a rain cloud descends, it’s simple to de-layer and either tie the removed garment around your waist or stash it in a lightweight backpack.
Footwear Essentials
When running on the undulating terrain of the Yorkshire Dales, it’s very, very important to have the right footwear. Hardwearing trail-running shoes are a good choice, with durable grips to handle mixed, often slippery surfaces. Look for shoes that provide support to your arches and good damping to help absorb the impacts of those rocky trails. Waterproofing is a consideration, but remember that if water gets into waterproofed shoes, it stays in.
Weather-Specific Accessories
It’s the little additions that can make a vast difference to your comfort levels when running in locations like the Yorkshire Dales. Gloves are beneficial in chillier weather, as they help prevent your fingers from going numb and losing dexterity. A lightweight, breathable running hat is also a good addition. This helps keep your head warm on colder days and provides shade on bright, sunny days.
For running on sunnier days, sports sunglasses help reduce glare and protect your eyes. Look for polarised lenses and a frame that fits snugly without bouncing as you run.
Safety and Visibility
It’s important to stay safe when in the Dales. Unpredictable weather can rapidly decrease visibility. As such, it’s a good idea to invest in gear with reflective strips, especially if you’ll be running in the early morning or evening.
Brightly coloured clothing isn’t just an aesthetic choice but doubles as a safety feature, making you more visible to others. Consider also carrying a lightweight torch or a headlamp if you anticipate running in poor light.
Remember – the best running gear for the Yorkshire Dales is that which prioritises comfort, weather-readiness and safety. Equipped with the right attire, you are now ready to embark on gentle runs along riverside routes or more strenuous fell running, while taking in the breathtaking landscapes.
