1. Not cotton!
Cotton soaks up the water and holds it there, becoming saggy, heavy & downright yucky in the rain. And it gets better - the seams can chafe more when wet.
2. Wickable, breathable, man made fibres
Kit made from fabrics designed to hold as little water as possible is a good thing for your legs and under your jacket on top. Look for words like "breathable" or "wickable". Running specific kit is often made from these fabrics - but so is much exercise and outdoor clothing.
3. Narrow legs
Bit of a personal preference, but I don't like soggy fabric flapping around my legs! Look for running tights that are fitted at the ankle, capris or even shorts (legs dry quickly).
4. Jacket
There are 2 options - a waterproof or a showerproof windproof. The former is better for staying dry in heavy rain - but you can get wetter on the inside. The latter won't stay dry in proper rain - but tends to be better for avoiding overheating. Look for "breathable" and as many vents as possible.
Many of us favour gilets - lack of sleeves makes for better ventilation and they keep the wind and some of the rain from your core.
5. Feet
Running shoes aren't waterproof. I do have waterproof socks (Sealskinz) for cycling but these are too bulky for running. Your feet will get wet. Sorry.
6. Head
Longer hair can get matted in the rain & wind. Tie it up & use a hat, headband or buff.
Two other things to mention about running in the rain - cold and dehydration.
Getting wet is unlikely to damage your health - but once wet, you will get cold very easily and quickly. Get warm & dry soon after your run - put a fleece in your car for afterwards for example.
Your body still requires extra water - but when its cold or wet, you may not be as aware of this as usual. Do make sure that you drink after your run!
So all I need now is for someone to invent specs with windscreen wipers & I'm sorted!
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