How GoodDayTo judges walking weather
Walking is flexible, but the most enjoyable window can move quickly when a shower band, strong wind, heat or cold passes through. GoodDayTo compares the hours ahead instead of judging the whole day from the current sky.
- Apparent temperature
- Rain probability and precipitation
- Wind and gusts
- UV exposure
- Time of day
🚶 Make the result practical
- A shorter walk may still fit into a WAIT day if a dry gap is coming.
- On hot days, a cooler morning or evening can score much better than midday.
- After dark, route lighting, visibility and personal safety still need your own judgement.
Why a simple walk still benefits from timing
Walking does not need perfect weather, so the model is deliberately less strict than it is for activities such as tennis or motorcycling. Mild apparent temperature, low rain risk and manageable wind help the score. Higher UV, stronger wind and heavier rain pull it down. A WAIT result often means the day is still usable, just not at the current hour.
How to use the suggested window
The result shows the strongest upcoming three-hour stretch and labels the day clearly. If today's best time has already passed, the app will not recycle that expired time; it will show Tomorrow or the relevant weekday. That makes the walking result useful for both spontaneous plans and planning the next day.
What the walking score cannot know
GoodDayTo does not know whether your route is shaded, steep, muddy, icy, busy or well lit. It also cannot see pavement condition, pollen, air pollution, temporary closures or personal mobility needs. Use the score to choose the weather window, then apply what you know about your route.
What the score means
GO means the weather factors GoodDayTo measures look favourable for this activity. WAIT means conditions are mixed or a better upcoming window is available. NOT TODAY means the forecast currently contains enough unfavourable signals that this is a poor weather choice. These are planning recommendations, not guarantees or safety clearances.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still walk when the result says WAIT?
Usually, yes. WAIT means the conditions are mixed or another time looks better. A short local walk may still be reasonable if you are comfortable with the current weather.
Why does apparent temperature matter?
Wind, humidity and cold can make the air feel different from the measured temperature. GoodDayTo uses apparent temperature because it is closer to how a walk may actually feel.
Does the score assume I am walking in a park?
No. Walking does not require a special mapped venue. You can use the result for your neighbourhood, a known trail or any route you already have in mind.
Why can evening score better than afternoon?
Rain can clear, wind can ease and UV can fall later in the day. The app compares future hours rather than assuming midday is best.
Does GO mean the route is safe?
No. GO only describes the weather factors the app measures. Lighting, traffic, pavement or trail condition and personal safety remain separate decisions.