Total Basset Case: 5 Tips for Running in the Dark

Feb 20, 2014

5 Tips for Running in the Dark

Much to my mother's dismay, sometimes I run in the dark.
But only when I'm with a group, I promise!

As I was gearing up for my weekly nighttime run earlier this week it dawned on me how much gear I was actually putting on and that it took to run at night.

I did not start out with this much garb but thankfully I received a few pieces for Christmas.

The bottom line and most important part of running in the dusk/dark is to BE SEEN
Duh, right?

1. Bright clothes : I wish I could have gotten a picture the other night of our running group leaving with everyone's bright attire.  Neon yellow, orange, pink and green are definitely the way to go in this department.  I've found great, BRIGHT pieces at Target, Marshalls and the Nike outlet.
I used to buy all black and gray running gear but quickly realized this was not the way to go, the brighter the better!

Even though it's a bit out of my price range, you can not be missed in this New Balance jacket.
New Balance also makes some pretty sweet glow in the dark shoes which would be perfect for night time runs. 

2. Reflectors : These come in a variety of forms and I say, the more the better.
I have these arm reflectors but they also make belts, ankle reflectors, vests, etc.
Look for reflective items on clothes as well.  It seems like most running gear has at least some reflective quality to it, even if it's just a logo.  A little bit goes a long way.
(told you we don't make our bed often)

3. Lights : This headlamp is my light of choice but you have a few options.
I've seen a lot of people carry a small flashlight in their hand or these blinking lights/safety strobes that attach to your clothes are great as well.   All you need is something that is going to project light out for you to see where you are going and for others to see you coming.

4. Run into traffic : but not literally.
As a general running rule, you want to run into traffic to be well seen.  But in the dusk and dark this is even more important.  And definitely run on the sidewalk when you can, especially near very busy streets.  There is a good chance you will see the cars much earlier than they see you.

5.  Grab a buddy : Remember when I said I only run in the dark with a group?  This is vital! You should not be heading out in the dark of the night by just yourself, no matter how familiar the area is to you.  I guarantee the drivers saw our group coming at them the other night.

Safety first, people!

Linking up with The Lady Oakie

14 comments:

Caitlin said...

I live so far out in the sticks that I don't even have streetlights out here. The first time I tried to go for a run in the dark I got maybe a quarter mile and got so creeped out in the pitch black that I booked it home and ran up and down my driveway (.2 miles) for like half an hour. I think I need to find a running group :)

Kait said...

That safety headpiece is amazing

Lisa @ Naptime Chai said...

Reflector vests are SUPER cool (despite what they may look like).

The Lady Okie said...

Daylight savings time!!!

Megan @ Lush to Blush said...

These are really great tips - all so important, especially the last one!!

xo Megan, Lush to Blush

Because Shanna Said So said...

You are hands down the cutest little lady with a headlight on your head!!! I just want to squeeze you!!

Anne said...

Night-time running is not a territory I've ventured into (thanks to my flexible work schedule it's not a necessity!). I can see it actually being kind of fun when you're out with a group (and it's not insanely cold) - but it's good you have all this gear for safety first!

Jen said...

I haven't ran very much since it started to get dark earlier. Being out in the dark creeps me out more so because I swear someone crazy is going to come after me. But I do love all of your bright fun running clothes. Can I pretend that I'm running in the dark and purchase some for myself :)

Amanda C. said...

Found your blog over at Living in Yellow. I'm a new follower. I am so envious that you can run. I have tried but I have ITband issues. Your basset is precious!

Andrea H. said...

Those reflectors are great! I need to get some of those. I live in NYC so the areas I run at night are pretty well lit, but my mom would probably still feel better if I wore one of those. Thanks for sharing!

Laura said...

I never even think to wear bright clothes when running in the dark, as I run in London I always just assume the area will be well lit, but actually maybe bright clothes would be a much more sensible idea. Time to start keeping my eyes peeled for some new kit I guess! :)

Daleian said...

I never tried running in the dark! :)
But it must be fun, especially in a place where temperatures tend to rise during the day. It must be perfect at night!

The Lady Okie said...

Good post to link up. I remember this from whenever you wrote it originally. I need to get some good night running gear.

Beka @ Sunshine to the Square Inch said...

I used to run with my head lamp at night too. Sad to admit, but i think I would run alone. I'm not sure I'd do that now!

I love that your gear is about safety and being seen. That's an aspect most of us runners don't consider like we should.

Thanks so much for sharing and for linking up.