In the winter, should you run with sweats or shorts?

Answer 1

I've run in just sweats in the winter and it sucked. My legs still got incredibly cold. My solution was tights. I was shocked at just how warm they kept my legs. I wear pants over them, but that extra layer really makes a difference.

Answer 2

I guess it all depends on where you're running and how cold the winters are. If you run in Florida during daylight hours, you might be able to get away with shorts, whereas here in Ohio, there's absolutely NO WAY it would work.

Keep in mind that frost bite is very real. While you are running and your muscles feel warm and toasty, it's very possible that your skin is numb and you cannot feel the coldness settling in. Frost bite varies in extremes....a case of it could be as slight as red, irritated skin that looks overly dry to out-right cracked, sore skin.
I would avoid that it at all possible. After the cold weather sets in, wear some pants first. If you are too hot or the weather is pretty mild, then move to lighter pants and if the conditions are great, wear shorts. Otherwise, I'd bundle up.
Good luck!

Answer 3

sweats wont do much to warm you anyway, so the question should be tights or shorts. It's a matter of personal preference, but I generally will opt for tights if it's lower than 25 degrees, or 35 and wet.

Answer 4

Depends on the temperature, wind, rain, lots of things.
When you run you feel 40 degrees warmer than just standing around.

If it is very cold it is good to cover up your bare skin, but if it is just kind of cold then it isn't necessary.

Run so you are comfortable.
Here there are very few days that it is cold enough to require extra clothing. You should just dress for your weather.