MCM Tip #2: Get Dressed!

You might think that it’s a little early to plan what you’re going to wear on October 25, but actually, this is the best time to think about your marathon wardrobe. Now is the time to be certain you have the right clothing on hand, to buy or borrow any items you need, and then to test the gear so you know it will be comfortable during your 26.2-mile effort.

Planning what to wear in the Marine Corp Marathon can be a challenge, as autumn weather in DC is fickle. The current predicted temperature for the week leading up to the dace are lows in the 40s and highs in the low 60s. This would be perfect, but will almost certainly change. Remember, two years Chicago had a heat wave, and this year there is a chance of snow flurries. . . you don't know what you will get until race weekend!

There have also been rainy and very windy days. With a chance that it could be anywhere from 33 to 80 degrees, it’s best to have a variety of options on hand, ranging from shorts and a singlet to tights and a jacket. Consider bringing a wind-resistant jacket; a pair of tights or wind pants; long-sleeved and short-sleeved technical shirts ; running shorts; technical running socks; mittens or gloves; and a fleece pullover. Avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture and swells, causing blisters and other problems. If you need any new cold weather gear, get to Raleigh Running Outfitters now. Jim has lots of new merchandise in stock.

Part of the reason to do long runs is to make sure that your gear works during long runs. Fortunately, October tends to dish out a little of every type of weather, so you’ll probably have the opportunity to test every item. This testing should include not only your apparel, but anything you might be wearing or carrying, such as a fuel belt, water bottle, or gel pinned to your shorts. If it is something new. . . wash it a couple of times to make sure it is broken in.

Now is the time to express your own style. They don't discount your time because you had a matching outfit or looked cute. Find out what works and use it! What’s comfortable for your friend might not be comfortable for you.

Follow the guidelines below when testing possible race-day outfits:

• Practice adding and removing layers while you’re running. Can you comfortably go for miles with your jacket tied around your waist, for example, or is it too bulky?
• Be certain that nothing is rubbing, even a little bit. Rubbing and chafing might be uncomfortable or annoying on a short run. During a marathon, an irritating sock or sleeve can rub your skin raw.
• If it can’t be fixed, don’t use it. A bouncing zipper pull can be removed or pinned down; clothing that bunches on runs should be dispatched.
• Test different ways to carry whatever you’ll want on you during the race (gels, other snacks, etc.): in pockets, a waist pack, or pinned to your waistband.
• If you pin your number to your shorts, can you still get them off to use the bathroom?

Keep in mind that you can put extra clothing in your baggage for after the race, but those clothes won’t be available to you in the staging area after you check your bag. Many runners wear throwaway clothing to the start; as the start cannon fires, they peel off the old sweatshirts and coats that have been keeping them warm. If that’s your pre-race plan, stock up on items you can use to stay warm and dry but don’t want to see again. All discarded items will be collected and donated to charity.