Typical Run Score
68
Good
Chicago · December
Running in Chicago in December
Typical December running conditions in Chicago — and a live Run Score so you can see how today compares with the norm.
Avg temperature
33°F
Cold
Avg dew point
26°F
Comfortable
Best window
9 AM–11 PM
Local time
Chicago · today vs the December normTemperature · dew point · wind · timing
How December compares in Chicago
December ranks 10th of 12 months for running in Chicago, with a typical daytime Run Score of 68 (Good). For reference, the best month is May (score 81) and the hardest is January (score 61). The kindest window in December is typically 9 AM–11 PM. Precipitation falls in roughly 15% of hours this month. Use the live tool below to see how today actually compares with the December norm.
Running weather in nearby cities
Same engine, different climate. Check the best time to run in these cities too.
Running in Chicago in December: FAQ
Is it good to run in Chicago in December?
Generally yes, with sensible timing. The typical daytime Run Score is 68 (Good), with temperatures around 33°F (1°C) and comfortable dew points. The best window is usually 9 AM–11 PM.
How hot is it for running in Chicago in December?
Typical temperatures average 33°F (1°C) (Cold) with dew points near 26°F. Dew point — not the thermometer — usually decides how hard the run feels.
What is a good Run Score?
Scores run 0–100. 97+ is Perfect, 80–96 is Great — conditions are actively working in your favour. 65–79 (Good) is solid. 45–64 (Mixed) means at least one factor — usually heat or dew point — is taxing you. Below 45 (Poor), expect a noticeably harder effort or hold back for safety.
Why does dew point matter more than temperature?
Your body cools by evaporating sweat. When the dew point climbs above roughly 60°F, the air is too saturated for sweat to evaporate efficiently, so heat builds up even if the thermometer looks reasonable. That's why a 70°F muggy morning can feel harder than a dry 80°F afternoon.
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