Tights and Vests?

Hi folks,

So I guess we actually get winters here in DC - okay, mild winters by some standards - so I might need some cold weather gear.  I'm looking for recommendations for tights and vests.  

I don't expect it'll ever be below 20 here - most of my running will probably be in the 30s - but it gets windy, or so I've been warned against.  I prefer to be cool rather than warm when running...  It's been in the mid-30s the past couple days and I've worn shorts, a cotton T, and arm warms (+ light gloves if it's windy).  Felt completely comfortable.  

Suggestions?  Thanks!

I like Brooks vests and they are also reflective.  We get colder temps up here than you do as the Lake does weird things to the weather and the ocean does other things, but it will get cold where you are.  Last year Chris, Lisa and I ran a 10K the day after JFK and it was one of the coldest races that I ever ran.

As for tights, I run in the CW-X tights all winter (Insulator model).  They are pricy, but I have had the three pairs I own for over 4 yrs and one is 10 yrs + old.  I also like Brooks and SportHill running pants, but they may be too warm for you.

Now I wouldn't recommend cotton as it gets colder since sweat will cause the cotton to freeze and become cold, wet, and heavy.  Take that from a New Englander who skated many a winter evening on a pond in the cold wearing jeans as a child and teen.

Nike has some decent tights as well, in various weights, so you can figure out which feels best to you.

If you like it cooler, you might not need wind pants (as a layer on top of tights) unless it gets REALLY cold and windy. But SportHill does make a good variety of those.

Also, I've seen some runners opt for more of a "manpri" tight instead of one that goes all the way to the ankles. That keeps the tender bits and major muscle groups warm without being too covered up.

Don't forget the hat and gloves - those can make a big difference.

I use a Nike jacket/vest, unless the wind or cold is near 10 degrees, then I have a GoreTex shell. The flexibility of zip-off sleeves has been great. An insulation layer (SportHill has good options) that wicks and stays warm when wet is also helpful not only when it's super cold but when it's 34 and raining.

Yeah, no on the cotton, it just gets wet and cold.  I just have a thin vest that is part of my Sugoi jacket (sleeves can zip off) but for just the 20s I'd think any decent jacket and non cotton pants would work. Oh and wool socks are great.