COLD COMFORT

Whether you're going out in snow or rain or at the crack of dawn, there's never been cooler gear to keep you warm. Here, the best way to dress for each condition you'll face.

Wool for Winter

Wear wool socks for cold winter days, especially in snowy, sloppy conditions. Why? Wool retains its insulating properties even when it's wet, thanks to air pockets in the fiber that trap warm air. Socks made from merino wool, like these from Smartwool, won't make your feet feel itchy.

Protect the Goods

There are few more miserable experiences for male runners than having to run home with gloves stuffed down their tights. Wind robs your body of heat by literally blowing it away. That's why briefs or boxers with a nylon wind barrier are so important for guys on cold days. The nylon panel on the front of these boxers keeps the heat in and the wind out, making for more pleasant cold weather running.

Cold Truth

Why do women's hands get so cold? When the temperature drops, blood vessels constrict, diverting blood away from your extremities, hence cold feet and hands. Experts suspect that the "cold threshold" for women's blood vessels is higher than men's. Fleece mittens with a nylon shell or a pair of glove liners under a pair of mittens are your best defense. If your hands become numb and pale, however, take steps to warm them as soon as possible, as these are warning signs of frostbite.

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