Heat Dissipation

Mark Wilkinson · Jul 21, 2012

Lately I have been running shirtless, as I have issues controlling my heat level while running. When I wear a shirt I feel weighed down and hot. Is this because I bought crappy shirts, or is bare skin better at releasing heat? Also, I plan on running through winter, what options do I have for clothing? I am assuming that even if I do get hot enough to take my shirt off it may not be the healthiest option.

Thanks!

dutchie53 · Jul 21, 2012

Mark, when it is hot I run shirtless so the sweat aids in the cooling of things, in the winter my baselayer is of a wicking type because I want to stay dry. If I feel damp due to sweat on my winter runs I feel chilled all the time. Jason also commented that on long hot runs he prefers cotton shirts due to the fact that they stay damp and help keep you cool as well.

NickW · Jul 21, 2012

Could be both as I don't really know what kind of shirts you wear during the summer. My body tends to run very hot so I have to run in very thin and lightweight shirts. During the winter (mild winters here in OR, only down into 30's with rain) I wear shorts and same short sleeve shirts or sometimes if it's cold enough, low 30's, I will throw on a long sleeve lightweight shirt and a headband to keep my ears warm.

Mark Wilkinson · Jul 22, 2012

I guess a more general question would be: Is there any fabric that is more efficient at dissipating heat than sweat and bare skin?

DNEchris · Jul 22, 2012

Columbia Sportswear make some http://gearjunkie.com/columbia-cooling-fabric-omni-freeze-ice-t-shirt
as do Ex Officio in their Sol Cool collection - it looks as though they are sold out for the season but retailers will probably still have them.
I've used both and found them pretty effective in high heat and humidity.