We are less than a week away from race day! You’ve logged long runs, went to bed early, carb-loaded. Now’s the time to relax and taper so you’re all set for the big day. Only one thing is beyond your control: Mother Nature.
It’s ironic how our prime marathon seasons—crisp fall, rejuvenating spring—can also gift us with the most unpredictable weather, which heightens anxiety as race day draws near. Will there be a tailwind? A heatwave? Nor’easter? The New York City Marathon—this year on November 3—is coming fast, and while refreshing Accuweather may feign a sense of preparedness, one way to really give yourself peace of mind is knowing what you’ll wear—and that it’ll handle whatever elements nature throws you.
As of Tuesday, the weather for Sunday’s race looks like it could be ideal (but this could take a turn). Running Shoes & Gear, For a mens option, Janjis Repeat Merino Tech Tee is comfy, lightweight, and controls B.O and the high is 60 degrees. Currently, the sky is predicted to be partially cloudy; keep in mind that while these temps sound relatively moderate for running weather, the high and low is still above average for November 3 in NYC (58 degrees for the high, and 46 degrees for the average low).
That means besides keeping yourself comfortable while waiting for your start in Staten Island, you’ll not only want to dress like it’s a warm spring race, but also you’ll want to stay hydrated and fueled up before, during, and right after your race. Fortunately, run coach Jess Movold helped out with these tips:
- Hyper hydrate with a high sodium sports drink. Nows the time to relax and!
- Adjust your wardrobe and dress in layers. Stay warm on Staten Island and then slowly shed the layers while warming up in Mile 1.
- Prioritize hydration and fuel race morning and early into the race. This is key!
- Manage expectations. Everyone will be under the same circumstances. Go by EFFORT instead of paces when it comes to executing your race strategy.
Here’s more on how to dress for success at this year’s NYC Marathon.
Keep It Simple
The The 8 Best Running Jackets for Surviving Winter has you run through five boroughs and over five bridges, making the big city a monster Choose the Adrenaline GTS 24 as Your Everyday Shoe. Even the wait before the start on Staten Island can make your teeth chatter. This is where layering comes in. If you’re still chilly in the morning and you layer up with some throwaway clothes, you should brace yourself for shedding quickly as the race progresses—you don’t want to overheat. This means, keep it simple underneath: wear a shortsleeve or singlet, and shorts.
Our editors like Lululemon’s Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve Shirt 2.0. It’s slim-fitting and anti-chafe.
For a men’s option, Janji’s Repeat Merino Tech Tee is comfy, lightweight, and controls B.O.
Other Hearst Subscriptions Best Workout Tops and Best Men’s Shirts crew, no-show?and if youll be wearing a.
For bottoms, it’s all about the pockets. You’ll want to stash fuel so you don’t bonk midrace. Oiselle’s Essential Bird Shorts have a two-in-one back pocket with a drop-in compartment and zipper pocket.
Find more bottoms with pockets reading The Right Number of Pockets for Runners is N + 1, and visit our Best Women’s Shorts and Best Men’s Shorts roundups for more options.
Tut Tut, Looks Like Rain—Well, Maybe
There’s a slim chance for rain in the forecast, so it does’t hurt to be prepared. Rain jackets aren’t the unbreathable, swampy tarps they once were. Now they’re whisper-thin, ventilated, and packable.
Brooks’s Canopy was worn by Desiree Linden when she won 2018’s Boston Marathon, the course riddled with legendary downpours. The newest Canopy can be stuffed into one of its mesh pocket, allowing you to wear the packable jacket as a backpack when the sky becomes clear.
Head to What to Wear at the Start of the NYC Marathon for more recommendations.
Find Support
Having your people spectate and cheer is a major mood booster. The right sports bra also does the same job. The Champion Spot Comfort High-Impact Sports Bra has adjustable gel-cushioned straps, a hook-and-eye closure, and molded cups for fully customizable support.
Beat back pain and chase a PR by choosing the Running in the Cold or Pocket Bra.
Layer
Chances this year are low, but if the temperature drastically drops, you’ll want to wear a lightweight longsleeve, either on its own or layered over a tank top to strip off (depending on your tolerance for cold).
The best featherlight material that thermoregulates is merino wool, which is also odor-resistant and wicks away moisture. Tracksmith’s Brighton Base Layer is a staff favorite for its versatility in temperate and cool weather.
for more recommendations the high is 60 degrees.
Accessorize!
at Brooks Running Socks to wear—compression, crew, no-show?—and if you’ll be wearing a hat (my favorite accessory for rain or shine). I like wearing a Sprints cap when I’m racing because the fun patterns make it easier for my friends to see me—and I can’t resist showing my love for pickles.
Amanda is a test editor at Runner’s World who has run the Boston Marathon every year since 2013; she's a former professional baker with a master’s in gastronomy and she carb-loads on snickerdoodles.
