Question 1

Is WeatherToRun free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Free to use, no ads, no account required. Just check conditions and run.

Question 2

Where can I use the Apple app?

Accepted Answer

WeatherToRun is available on iPhone and iPad with iOS or iPadOS 18 or later, and on compatible Macs. The app adds planning and widgets on top of the same hourly run scores and gear picks: Hour-by-hour run scores from temperature, wind, dew point, rain, and UV Tap-through gear stickers with what to wear each hour Runs tab for upcoming and past sessions, swipe to edit or delete Home and Lock Screen widgets for your best run times Daily reminder at your chosen time

Question 3

Is there a mobile app?

Accepted Answer

Yes. WeatherToRun is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Question 4

Can I suggest features or report bugs?

Accepted Answer

Please do. This app improves through runner feedback. If something isn't working or you have an idea, reach out.

Question 5

How does the app know where I am?

Accepted Answer

Your IP address provides an approximate city-level location so you see local conditions right away. You can search for any location or enable browser geolocation for more precision. Your IP is never stored.

Question 6

Where does the weather data come from?

Accepted Answer

Weather forecasts come from Apple Weather via WeatherKit on iOS, web, and Android. Air quality (AQI) comes from Open-Meteo on all platforms. Both are established providers.

Question 7

Why might my running score differ from another weather app?

Accepted Answer

WeatherToRun uses Apple Weather via WeatherKit on every platform. Other weather apps use different forecast models, so hourly temperature, wind, dew point, precipitation, and UV can differ slightly for the same place and time. The running score formula amplifies those small input differences.

Question 8

How is the running score calculated?

Accepted Answer

The score blends temperature, dew point, wind, precipitation, and UV based on how much they affect running performance and comfort. It also applies stronger penalties for hazardous conditions like thunderstorms, snow, freezing rain, and severe wind.

Question 9

What do the scores mean?

Accepted Answer

Scores range from 1 to 100: Bad (below 50) - Challenging conditions. Expect the run to feel harder than usual. OK (50-70) - Manageable. Not perfect, but solid running weather. Good (above 70) - Great conditions. Get out there.

Question 10

Does the app show severe weather alerts?

Accepted Answer

Not yet. Severe weather alerts aren't displayed or factored into scores. Always check your local forecast for warnings before heading out in questionable conditions.

Question 11

What is the AQI warning?

Accepted Answer

AQI (Air Quality Index) measures air pollution on a scale from 0 to 500 — lower is better. When data is available, AQI is weighted into your hourly run score (10%) and can lower it on smoky or polluted days. When air quality is unhealthy (AQI above 100), Insights explains how it affects this hour. Especially important for runners with asthma or respiratory sensitivities.

Question 12

What is climate acclimation?

Accepted Answer

Runners adapt to their local climate. If you train through hot summers or cold winters, conditions that would challenge others feel normal to you. Climate acclimation tells the app what weather you're used to, so scores adjust accordingly. Set this in Settings.

Question 13

What acclimation options are available?

Accepted Answer

Four options based on conditions you've adapted to: Cold weather - You handle low temperatures better than most Hot weather - Heat that slows others down doesn't faze you Humid weather - You're used to running in thick, sticky air Rainy weather - A little rain doesn't change your plans

Question 14

What's the difference between Gear Preference and Climate Acclimation?

Accepted Answer

They solve different problems: Gear Preference adjusts what you wear. Do you run hot and shed layers, or get cold easily? Climate Acclimation adjusts your score. Are you used to conditions that would bother other runners? Example: You might be heat-acclimated (85°F feels fine) but still run hot (you sweat a lot and prefer less clothing). These are independent settings.

Question 15

What are the extreme weather training settings?

Accepted Answer

For ultramarathoners and extreme weather athletes, two settings under Extreme Conditions expand the scoring range. 'I train in extreme cold' extends down to -20°F / -29°C, and 'I train in extreme heat' extends up to 104°F / 40°C. When enabled, you'll see calculated scores instead of an automatic 'Bad' rating.

Question 16

Why does the app show 'Bad' for extreme temperatures?

Accepted Answer

Temperatures below 0°F / -18°C or above 95°F / 35°C get an automatic 'Bad' score because they pose real safety risks. Frostbite risk climbs rapidly in extreme cold, and heat stroke becomes a serious concern in extreme heat. These thresholds come from ACSM and sports medicine research. If you regularly train in extreme conditions and understand the risks, enable the extreme weather settings to see calculated scores.

Question 17

How does the app know what gear to suggest?

Accepted Answer

Gear recommendations factor in temperature, conditions, and your preferences. Recommendations are based on real running scenarios and runner feedback.

Question 18

The recommendations feel too warm or too cold. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

Everyone runs differently. If you tend to overdress, set Gear Preference to "Lighter Layers." If you often get cold, choose "Heavier Layers." Adjust this in Settings.

Question 19

How can I support WeatherToRun?

Accepted Answer

If the app has helped you plan better runs, you can buy me a coffee. Every contribution keeps the app free and funds future improvements. The Android and iOS apps offer monthly and annual Supporter subscriptions. On the web and in the Android app, you can also support WeatherToRun by using the Amazon affiliate links in Gear picks. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

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