Rainy Runs Don't (Always) Have to Suck: Tom's 5 Tips for Conquering the Berlin Autumn

Hey Community, it's Tom here.

Let's be honest for a brief second. The Berlin autumn is upon us. The glorious days of iced matcha lattes are being replaced by their hot, steaming twins. And of course, the pumpkin spice smell is just around the corner. While I love a good cozy sweater, there's one thing about this season I truly dread: the cold, wet, and relentlessly grey running weather. 😭

If there's one thing I dislike more than packed U-Bahn with strangers and weird people, it's the feeling of a cold, wet sock squishing in my shoe mid-run. It's the worst. Not to forget the wonderful cold wind.
But, as your dedicated Running FOMO guy, I can't let our vibe die just because of a little (or a lot of) rain. Over some time, I've collected some recommendations on how to make these runs not just bearable, but... well, almost enjoyable.

So, for everyone who feels that little pang of despair when they see rain in the forecast (better don't check the one for next week), this one's for you. Here are my five key tips for gearing up and getting out there.

Tip 1: Master the Outer Layer (Your Shell Jacket)

This is your single most important piece of equipment. Forget about that old cotton hoodie. You need a proper running jacket that is, at the very least, water-resistant and windproof.

• Why it's a game-changer: A solid shell jacket keeps the rain off your core, which is crucial for preventing your body temperature from dropping. It also blocks the wind, which is what makes being wet so miserably cold (my personal nightmare).
• Pro-Tip: Look for something "breathable." A completely waterproof jacket that doesn't breathe will turn you into a walking sauna, and you'll end up just as wet from your own sweat. It's a delicate balance, but a modern running jacket nails it. Trust me, I need to find the perfect solution for myself. So if you have recommendations for this season, let me know!

Tip 2: Cotton is Your Enemy

This one, I can't stress enough. When it comes to running in the rain, cotton is not your friend. It's that friend who cancels plans last minute. Ditch it. This goes for your shirt, your shorts, your underwear, and especially your socks.

• Why it's so bad: Cotton acts like a sponge. It absorbs water and holds it against your skin, making you heavy, cold, and a prime candidate for chafing.
• What to wear instead: Opt for synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, or a high-quality merino wool. These materials are hydrophobic. That means they don't absorb water. They wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you dryer (!!!) and much more comfortable.

Tip 3: Protect Your Head and Your Feet

Your extremities are the first to suffer. A wet head and wet feet can make an otherwise okay run feel terrible.

• For your head: A running cap is a secret weapon. It keeps the rain from dripping into your eyes, which is incredibly annoying and can mess with your vision. You'll be able to see where you're going without constantly wiping your face.
• For your feet: As mentioned, wear non-cotton, moisture-wicking socks. This is non-negotiable. While your shoes will likely get wet, the right socks will prevent that dreaded squishing feeling and help reduce the risk of blisters. To be honest, there are some waterproof shoes on the market, but I do not have any experience with them, and my bank account is against me buying new running shoes AGAIN!!!

Tip 4: Be Bright, Be Seen

This is an important one, and I need to remind myself every time. This isn't just about comfort; it's about safety. Autumn in Berlin means it gets dark earlier, and rain seriously reduces visibility for drivers, cyclists, and everyone else.

• Dress bright: This is the time to break out your most obnoxiously bright running gear. Neon yellows, pinks, and oranges are your best friends. Sooo, this time no Berghain outfits!
• Get reflective: Many running jackets and leggings have built-in reflective details. Make sure you have some. If not, consider a cheap reflective vest or armbands. Being visible is way more important than looking cool and mysterious in all-black. But, let's be honest, in Berlin nobody will give a f**k about you anyway. :)

Tip 5: The Post-Run Ritual is Everything

The run isn't over the second you stop your watch. The 10 minutes after a cold, rainy run can be the most critical part. Your mission is to get warm and dry as fast as humanly possible.

• Don't linger: As soon as you get home, get out of those wet clothes. All of them. Don't check your phone (maybe even skip the Strava Run description), and don't make a snack. Strip down first.
• Warm up from the inside out: Have a plan. A hot shower ready to go, a cup of tea, or a warm meal. Getting your core temperature back to normal quickly will stop you from feeling chilled and miserable for the next hour. This is the reward you've earned.

So there you have it. Running in the rain doesn't have to be a sentence to misery. With the right gear and the right mindset, it can even feel a little bit epic, like you're Rocky, or whoever your childhood hero was.

But that's just my two cents. What are your secret tips for rainy runs? What piece of gear has saved you? Share your wisdom in our WhatsApp community or during our next community events!

Stay dry (ish) and see you out there!
Tom