Sometimes, we find the words we are looking for in the strangest places; this phrase was actually in my head, after reading a post from our good friend over in Fun Beyond... Beachcomber66
My Nan had so many sayings that she shared with me, through my entire childhood and beyond... and they remain with me to this day.
This phrase sums up the CUC chat today..
The last couple of days of October, and the season of Autumn, well established, in some areas, anyway, is moving on and creeping towards the door, where all too soon, Winter will be waiting. With this comes a change for we runners... and that change is a very basic but very important one...
It is getting colder... and wetter... what on earth shall I wear? Just idle thoughts!
It is a tricky one especially right now, where one day, we are in unseasonably warm conditions,( ask MissUnderstanding ), and the next day, cold and wet!
But as the weather does settle in.. we need to think a bit about our gear!
Okay... in an ideal world .what basics do we need?
First off... it does not have to be the named, top of the range stuff... BUT it does have to serve the purpose and there are so, so many retailers out there, offering great gear for reasonable prices... okay, so, I 'm the Sale Queen but, the gear is out there, just seek it out!
Shoes
Trail runners, Road runners, wet or dry running, Muddy puddles, slippery surfaces, pavements or grass !
The surfaces we run on, can dictate our need, There are waterproof ones and there are high-viz ones too.. ( I have little lights that fit on my shoes).
Breathable fabric can be a great idea, with airflow vents and may help with blister risk and soggy feet!
Main point here... they have to FIT...Properly! Gait analysis could eb the way to go for you!
Socks
Many of us forget the importance of the correct socks...the correct sock, a technical sock will go a long way to keep our feet cool; sweat-wicking fabrics, great ventilation flat, no rubbing, seams and a fit that is right for you. Loads of brands out there and we all have our favourite ones..
Trainer socks or full ankle... I chose full ankle mainly, as I get cold ankles in colder weather and I get bitten by things in summer!
NOW !!!!
Clothing.
Tops
Base layers:
It is suggested that they should be, seamless, no buttons, or zips and a snug fit, close to our body.
Mid layer
Again, it is suggested that they be, lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking, fabrics which help to prevent, overheating, over -sweating. They could be a lightweight fleece jacket, insulated vest, or even a lightweight thermal tops.
Jacket:
This one is contentious, because some of our forum friends are really not jacket wearers!
I do have them, for inclement weather. I always think if I fall or get injured, I do want a top layer, that I can slip on to stay warm and dry,
So... aim for, a jacket to keep the rain and wind out, look for waterproof and windproof running jackets. Sweat-wicking and breathable, ( ventilation ), and taped seams... Reflectivity too... worth thinking about for the darker mornings and nights
Bottoms
Underwear
No chafing please...cotton, sweat-wicking and breathable.
Leggings
Lightweight and of course warm; thermal are always an option when it gets really cold! And yes, I know Some folk wear shorts all year around ! 
Hats, gloves etc... all personal choices...I wear a cap and in colder weather, a thermal beanie or a cap with warm ear flaps!
So over the next day or two.. maybe you will pop in and tell us if you've started thinking about warmer gear., or not. Favourite items...and essential items ?
Next month, I shall be around, but the Corner is going to be opened by nine other than our own Annieapple please call in and say hello... I know she has some great recipes!
Looking forward to see anyone, who has time to call in to share their thoughts... and , I will be back to stoke the fire up in December!
Happy running everyone !
Oldfloss x
