Running in the dark...: I saw some posts about... - Couch to 5K

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Running in the dark...

SusieBoots profile image
SusieBootsGraduate
11 Replies

I saw some posts about kit for running in the dark a while ago, but it wasn't until I went out this Wed morning at ~6am that I realised just how dark it would be in the mornings (and evenings too, soon!).

So, just wondered what people we're using to enhance their visibility to cars...reflective jackets, lights, etc?

I found running in the rain a bit miserable too...don't mind cold, but wet is off putting!

Thanks!

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SusieBoots profile image
SusieBoots
Graduate
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11 Replies
Beek profile image
BeekGraduate

Are you able to get to an Aldi store for their current sale of running kit? I bought 2 sets of strips of red LED lights on a Velcro band. You can join them together to go round your waist or just use them singly round your arms. Don't worry about looking like a Christmas tree!

The main thing is that you really can be seen in fog or dark. I think that Sports Direct also had them. The light weight kagools usually have reflective panels on them which reflect beautifully.

I found that running in the rain made it hard to see through my glasses and I have to wear a peaked cap to keep the rain off the lenses.

runningknitter profile image
runningknitterGraduate

I don't know if you have an Aldi nearby, but today I bought THE brightest fluorescent orange running jacket from there and a matching snood/buff/neckwarmer thing too. I am bright in it! It is part of the Thursday special offers they do.

SusieBoots profile image
SusieBootsGraduate in reply to runningknitter

Thanks both - I'm kicking myself...was right near an Aldi today, and didn't pop in! Wasn't impressed by what they had at Decathalon, but I was clearly in the wrong shop!

RE rain and glasses - yes, this was a nightmare for me too Beek. I ended up running with my glasses perched on my head (amazed they didn't fall off!) but then was really worried that in the dark and rain-impacted visibility I would twist my ankle on an uneven bit of ground (I've got form for this!). A cap is a very good idea...must invest!

runningknitter profile image
runningknitterGraduate in reply to SusieBoots

That's a shame. I wonder if you are near it again tomorrow if they will have any gear left?

helingmic profile image
helingmic in reply to runningknitter

Runningknitter, I like the snood and I don't run! I go tot he gym doing this C to 5K on the static bike. I hope you will forgive me for taking the warmer path! I do have lung problems!

AncientMum profile image
AncientMumGraduate

I have a hi viz armband with little flashing red LEDs in. I love it.

ju-ju- profile image
ju-ju-Graduate

I have a head torch and a buff, and reflective vest...its lovely watching the rain sparkle in the glow of the head torch :)

AncientMum profile image
AncientMumGraduate in reply to ju-ju-

Always so positive JJ! Love that you see beauty in the rain in the dark :)

coryluscontorta profile image
coryluscontortaGraduate

I live in deepest darkest Aberdeenshire, with narrow roads, no street lights, no pavements and homocidal farmers in massive land rovers. When they drive towards me, I'm convinced some of them aim for me. If they have full beam headlights on I can't see anything at all, and am so dazzled once they're past, I cant see for ages. I ran through a massive rain filled pothole last week because I was so dazzled I couldn't see where I was going, and it took ages to dry my trainers.

I maximise my visibility by wearing a reflective over-vest and two fluorescent, red led armbands. I picked them both up at amazon and they didn't cost me much at all. I wanted a light vest because I get really hot running and the thought of running in one of those cagoul type jackets makes me overheat just thinking about it. I think I'll get my little head torch out of the camping gear and wear that too. With Christmas fast approaching, I'm going to look like a smaller, redder, sweatier, Christmas coke lorry. Excellent!

poppypug profile image
poppypugGraduate in reply to coryluscontorta

Ha ha , oh I love that advert " Holidays are coming, holidays are coming....."

I also get very very hot when Im running, I need a lightweight top, oh I can feel a trip to Aldi/SD coming on :-) xx

SusieBoots profile image
SusieBootsGraduate

Loving that everyone is getting ready for Christmas already ('deck the runner with flashing arm bands, la-la-la-la-laaa la-la-la-laaa!)'

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