Quote Originally Posted by Jolt View Post
That does sound like you're describing the TFL, and your hypothesis about overusing it/underusing the glutes is probably right on. For running outside when it's cold, I'd suggest very minimal shoes to replicate as best as possible the barefoot running form. Not quite the same as actually being barefoot, but still helps.
I saw a lot of "barefoot" runners at our New Year's day race. It was about 20 degrees out, lots of snow and ice. They were wearing what looked like could be seal skin toe socks.

I think these were it:
http://www.barefootrunner.com/2009/0...ngers-classic/