Embracing the Elements: Running Through Inclement Weather with Your Cozy Co-Pilot
FIT4MOM x Cait Bourgault
From experienced runners to those just trying to squeeze in daily steps, it isn’t always easy to stay active outdoors as a new mom. And when seasonal shifts bring colder temperatures, rain, and wind, stroller runs can feel even more complicated.
There might be a temptation to stay indoors when conditions are less than ideal, but with the right mindset and the right equipment, inclement weather doesn’t have to mean a missed run. Runner and mom Cait Bourgault, a Thule ambassador, makes a point to stay active outdoors with her daughter Fiona all year long.
“Living in Maine has taught me that weather is just a part of the adventure,” Cait says. “Getting outside, even on cold, gray days, reminds me that movement is a gift. Some days it’s hard to find that motivation, but I know that when we’re finished, I’m so thankful that we bundled up and spent time outside.”
Here is the ultimate guide to mastering the miles when the weather turns, ensuring both you and your little passenger remain safe, dry, and comfortable.
Why the right gear matters
An old Scandinavian saying is, "there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear," and it applies perfectly to jogging strollers. Running in the rain, wind, or light snow requires a stroller that can handle rugged terrain and provide a cozy sanctuary for your child.
“The Thule Urban Glide 3 all-terrain stroller gives me the confidence to head out the door knowing Fiona is secure and content.” Cait says, “She joined me for some of my very first runs postpartum and building that foundation of shared joy was really important.”
Thule Urban Glide 3 is engineered to take on all kinds of conditions, thanks to some standout features:
Integrated twist hand brake: When pavement is slick from rain or slush, the twist brake helps maintain speed on descents, preventing the stroller from "running away" on steep roads and paths.
Superior suspension: Wet roads often hide potholes or debris. The high-quality suspension system ensures your child enjoys a smooth, vibration-free ride.
Large air-filled tires: The 16-inch rear wheels provide the necessary "float" over rough terrain or muddy paths, where smaller, plastic wheels would dig in and get stuck.
How to dress: Runner vs. passenger
The most common mistake parents make when running in the cold or rain is dressing their child the same way they dress themselves. As a runner, your heart rate is elevated, and you are generating significant body heat. Your child, however, is sitting stationary, often facing into the wind.
Base layer: Start with moisture-wicking wool or synthetic materials. Avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture and can make a child dangerously cold if they get slightly damp.
Insulation: A fleece or down jacket is essential. For the Thule Urban Glide 3, the all-new Thule Elements high-performance footmuff is a game-changer. It acts like a high-end sleeping bag that stays anchored to the stroller, providing a cozy cocoon that won't slip out and get caught in the wheels. Plus, the Thule Elements footmuff features PrimaLoft insulation for a sustainable, comfortable feel.
Outerwear: Even if it isn't raining, a windproof layer is vital. The wind chill created by your running speed can significantly lower the temperature inside the cockpit. And for those frigid days, opt for the Thule Urban Glide 3 Rain Cover to provide much-needed protection from the wind, but also a shield to trap in your child’s body heat.
Staying safe and seen
Now that your little one is dry and warm, the next priority is the runner. Inclement weather almost always means lower visibility.
Be a beacon of light: Even if you are running at noon, if it’s overcast or raining, use active lighting. Using a headlamp and wearing reflective tops helps add some visibility to yourself. The Thule Urban Glide 3 features reflective rims on the wheels and a reflective edge on the canopy, but in heavy rain, more light is always better.
Traction is key: Invest in running shoes with a "winter" outsole (like those with Gore-Tex or specialized rubber compounds). Your connection to the ground ensures you stay upright and the stroller is stable.
Adjusting your running style
Running with a stroller is already a unique challenge, and bad weather demands even more careful technique.
The "two-hand" rule: On dry summer days, many runners use a one-handed method for efficiency and comfort. However in wind or rain, keep both hands on the handlebar to ensure a safe ride for your child and avoid any big gusts that might alter your pace.
Shorten your stride: To maintain better balance on slick surfaces, shorten your stride and keep your feet under your center of mass. This prevents the "slipping out" feeling that occurs when you overstride on wet leaves or ice.
Cornering: Slow down significantly before turns. The front swivel wheel of the Thule Urban Glide 3 should be locked forward while jogging or running, but take into account slick surfaces when the temperature dips below freezing.
Make it fun
If your child perceives the weather as an adventure rather than an inconvenience, they will be much happier passengers.
The "Puddle Hunt": For toddlers, the sight of you splashing through a puddle is hilarious. Use the stroller’s durability to safely hit small puddles (at a safe speed) to keep the mood light.
Post-run reward: Establish a tradition. "When we get back from the Rainy Run, we have hot cocoa." This builds a positive association with exercising in difficult conditions.
Audiobooks: On long, gray runs where the view isn't great, a favorite audiobook or story podcast can keep a child engaged while they are tucked away behind the rain cover.
Protecting your investment
Inclement weather is hard on gear. To ensure your Thule Urban Glide 3 lasts for years, you should perform a 5-minute post-run reset.
Dry the fabrics: Never leave the rain cover on the stroller when you bring it inside. Moisture trapped between the cover and the seat can lead to mildew. Wipe down the seat and canopy with a dry towel.
Rinse the frame: If you run on salted roads or through mud, spray the frame and the braking mechanism with a hose or fresh water. Road salt is corrosive and can eventually affect the smoothness of the twist brake or the folding joints.
Check the tires: Wet roads often bring out sharp debris like glass or thorns. Do a quick visual check of the tires to ensure you aren't storing the stroller with a slow leak.
Reward the hard miles
There is a specific kind of satisfaction that comes from finishing a 5-mile loop in a steady drizzle while the rest of the neighborhood is huddled indoors. When you unbuckle your child and find them warm, dry, and perhaps even asleep, you realize that the weather didn't beat you—it challenged you.
“Running with Fiona is important for both of us,” says Cait. “It’s my time to care for myself while sharing the outdoors with her. Our conversations on our runs are so special. Knowing she’s along for the journey makes every mile feel more meaningful.”
By embracing the features and testing of the Thule Urban Glide 3, you can turn a potential chore into a high-performance training session. You aren't just getting your miles in, you’re showing your child that the world is worth exploring, regardless of the weather. So, grab the rain cover, lace up your shoes, and head outside to run your next adventure with your favorite co-pilot.
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