Running in the dark is an inevitable part of fall and winter running for most runners. As a New Yorker, who primarily runs in parks on running paths, I often don’t think much about needing to wear reflective clothing or worrying about being seen. However, I think this is something everyone should be concerned with no matter where they live.
For people like myself who live in a city and only run on the streets as a means to getting to a park, reflectivity is still important. How many times have you seen someone on a bike jet through a red light without looking left or right? On the other hand how many times have you sprinted across the street as the walk sign changed to red?
I won’t go into detail here, but a few years ago while walking to work at 5AM I saw a tragic accident that changed how I view running (and walking) safety during the dark hours of the day.
Tips for Running in the Dark from Brooks Running
- Run Against Traffic.
- Obey All Traffic Laws.
- Open Your Eyes.
- Keep Your I.D. on You.
- Carry your cell phone at all times.
- Stay on Well Lit Paths.
- BE VISIBLE.
I’d also add don’t run with music or earphones when it’s dark out. What tips would you add to this list?
Additionally, Brooks Running makes an entire line of reflective running gear that helps other people identify you as a runner this is how they differentiate their reflective gear from their competitors.
No matter what brand of running gear you prefer, make sure you have some sort of reflectivity on your clothing or wear a light so that you can be seen on the street.
Do you mostly run on the street with cars or in parks on running paths?
*I am a Brooks Run Happy Blog Ambassador for which I receive compensation.
I absolutely LOVE Brooks’ nightlife line. I have the jacket, the gloves, and the vest. So comfortable and also really cute. Even though I run on a running path, I get nervous about getting hit by the bikers who share the path. I wear reflective bands on my ankles to help!
http://nyviewsnikeshoes.com
I follow all of the tips you listed, but I can’t tell you how many times I see others cross the street when the walk sign is red. I may look silly for stopping even when there doesn’t appear to be any traffic that is a concern, but safety first! 🙂
I have never tried out their nightlife line but it looks awesome! I don’t run as much in the winter but sometimes when it is snowing I’ll go out and run a few miles. There is something so peaceful about running at night with snow coming down. I really need to invest in some night gear though it is SO SO important!
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