Tips & info

Outdoor sport: remember to equip yourself properly

running in front of the sea

You like to exercise more than anything and for that, nothing better than an activity in the great outdoors. Resourcing and refreshing are on the menu, but be careful to equip yourself well during these training sessions.

Equipment is a second skin

When sport can be done anywhere, moving indoors can be an easy solution. It is also not a surprise to see a large number of athletes every winter, favor the treadmill or the home trainer. The climatic conditions are not changeable, the temperature is pleasant, the wind does not blow at full speed and the night does not fall under the blow of the schedules. Many advantages that are understandable, but which still do not offer the same sensations as usual, when you ride your bike or go for a run on the trails.

But since there is no better feeling than the call of the open sea, a lot of you brave the wind, rain and cold to quench your thirst for endorphins. Your choice is undoubtedly the best, but it is still important to have proper equipment in place when you leave ...

Everything differs depending on the activity, length and conditions of your session, but some basic principles are always evident.

To cope with the cold and inclement weather you might encounter during your run or bike ride, the key is to protect your extremities as much as possible. Those who are used to winter trails will be able to tell you this better than anyone and it is not for nothing that we see them running simply dressed in a tank top but equipped with waterproof hats and gloves. They therefore protect you in all conditions and allow your head and hands to always stay warm and dry, while at the same time eliminating perspiration as well as possible when the technologies applied are of quality.

Quality or quantity, what to choose?

It is also important to prioritize quality over quantity. Fortunately, the days of hot and nasty sweaters tucked under ski coats or water-repellent jackets are over. Technologies have given way to textiles that play their role much more in your body while keeping you warm. It is therefore no longer the thicknesses that are authentic but the first layers slipped on your skin (see the 3-layer system). From those on your bust and legs, not to mention socks (see waterproof socks), they play a key role in keeping you warm and allowing you optimal ventilation.

Indeed, these first layers must be effective to guarantee you comfort that in no way affects performance. Perspiration must escape perfectly from these layers to avoid any buildup of stagnant moisture. Thanks to microfibers, your first layer should also retain heat and avoid having the effect of a traditional cotton fabric that only retains heat by transforming that of your body into stagnant water.

If the sweat is still wicking on the new technical layers, you must be careful with the product as some prefer use in hot weather and others in cold weather. The different assembly techniques wander and exercise their power in different ways.

So remember to favor thin technical layers when dressing for a running, cross-country skiing, trail or cycling outing. Adding a thin jacket can also be extra security, especially when it is dark during your activity. The windproof effect can also protect you from the different winds of freshness encountered during your outing.

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