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Even if the weather is cold and the ground is covered with snow, you can still go out and get a good run. With the right winter running shoe, you’ll no longer be limited to the treadmill during the cold period of the year.
Unlike a standard running shoe, winter running shoes need to adapt to the winter climate. This means that they should be completely waterproof, have good insulation, and feature lugs that provide a good grip in the snow and mud.
To help you get on track, we’ve created a comprehensive buying guide and selected the best winter running shoes that will make snow runs safe and enjoyable.
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- Quicklace system makes fit adjustments quick and easy
- Contagrip TA soles with aggressive lugs for reliable traction
- Gore-Tex membrane keeps your foot completely dry
- 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop makes running smoother
- Pockets on the tongue for keeping the laces out of the way
- Exceptional traction on all terrains
Best For: Rugged Trail
Upper: Anti-Debris Mesh
Lining: SensiFit
Midsole: EnergyCell EVA Foam
Outsole: Contagrip TA Rubber
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex Membrane)
Weight: 1 pound 8 ounces
Gender: Men’s
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- OrthoLite footbeds provide comfort and stability when running
- PU leather mud guards make running on soft ground comfortable
- UltraTAC rubber outsoles for good traction on all surfaces
- ESS shanks and forefoot plates protect your feet from rocks
- Gore-Tex upper membrane keeps water out and allows the foot to breathe
Best For: Reliable Traction
Upper: Polyester, Leather
Lining: Tricot Nylon
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Waterproof: Yes
Weight: 1 pound 12 ounces
Gender: Women’s
Asics Gel-Venture 6 Winter Running Shoes
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- Gel cushioning system in the back completely absorbs shock
- Sock liner can be removed to create room for a medical orthotic
- Reinforced sides make the shoe more durable on rugged terrain
- Asics High-Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) grips well on slippery surfaces
- Reversed lug design for optimal traction when going uphill and downhill
Best For: Shock Absorption
Upper: Synthetic
Lining: SockLiner
Outsole: Asics High-Abrasion Rubber (AHAR)
Waterproof: No, Water-Resistant
Weight: 12 ounces
Gender: Men’s
New Balance 481 V3 Trail Winter Running Shoes
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- AT Tread outsole with a good grip both on asphalt and off-road
- Comfort Collar reduces the irritation and keeps your ankle secure
- NB Ultra Soft Comfort insert adapts to the foot for a better fit
- CUSH+ midsole absorbs shock and makes running in winter shoes smooth
- Thick side fabric protects your foot from low temperatures, snow, and ice
Best For: Mixed Surfaces (On and Off-Road)
Upper: Leather, Textile
Lining: NB Ultra Soft Comfort
Midsole: Cush+ Foam
Outsole: AT Tread Rubber
Waterproof: No, Water-Resistant
Weight: 2 pounds
Gender: Men’s
Salomon Women’s Speedcross 4W Winter Running Shoes
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- Speedcross lug pattern for a firm grip on any type of surface
- SensiFit upper provides a comfortable and snug fit around your foot
- QuickLace lacing system with convenient lace pockets on the sides
- Soft SockLiner makes the shoes incredibly comfortable
- Best shoes for running in winter for people who run almost every day
- Guarantee great traction on all terrains
Best For: Soft Ground
Upper: Synthetic, Textile
Lining: SockLiner
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: Contagrip TA Rubber
Waterproof: No, Water-Resistant
Weight: 9.8 ounces
Gender: Women’s
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- Contagrip rubber outsoles provide traction on snow-covered surfaces
- Gore-Tex layer blocks water to keep your feet dry
- EnergyCell foam midsole and 3D chassis give you good foot stability
- Molded OrthoLite footbeds give your foot ergonomic anatomical support
- SensiFit provides a snug and gentle fit for longer running sessions
Best For: Foot Comfort
Upper: Synthetic
Lining: OrthoLite
Midsole: EnergyCell EVA Foam
Outsole: Contagrip Rubber
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex Membrane)
Weight: 1 pound 10.1 ounces
Gender: Men’s
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- Excellent choice for snow-covered roads and light trails
- Textured TPU toe reinforcements protect you from injuries
- Early-stage meta-rocker makes the run smoother and faster
- HOKA EVA foam gives you incredible cushioning on uneven terrain
- 4-millimeter deep lugs grip well even if the ground is soft
Best For: Light Trail
Upper: Mesh
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex Membrane)
Weight: 1 pound 4.8 ounces
Gender: Men’s
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- Nylon mesh uppers with incredible breathability
- Gore-Tex layer under the upper keeps your foot dry
- Impact Brake System eliminates shocks and impacts
- Molded nylon shanks make the snow running shoe more stable
- Polyurethane reinforcements for better heel support
Best For: Snow Protection
Upper: Nylon Mesh, Polyurethane
Lining: Synthetic
Midsole: EVA Foam
Outsole: Rubber
Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex Membrane)
Weight: 1 pound 12.3 ounces
Gender: Men’s
Altra Women’s Lone Peak 4 Winter Running Shoes
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- TrailClaw outsole design for perfect traction on the trail
- Top-level performance whether it’s rain, snow, or mud
- Fit4Her technology provides an ideal fit on a female foot
- Footshape toe box allows you to spread toes more naturally
- eVent upper fabric blocks water while allowing air circulation
Best For: Female Runners
Upper: eVent Fabric
Midsole: Dual-Layer EVA Foam
Outsole: MaxTrac Rubber
Waterproof: Yes
Weight: 9 ounces
Gender: Women’s
Salomon Xa Pro 3D Water Resistant Winter Running Shoes
- What Makes These Shoes For Running In The Winter Stand Out
- Full-size protective toe cap makes running on mountain trails safer
- 3D Advanced Chassis keeps your foot stable regardless of terrain
- Heavy-duty synthetic upper resists tears and abrasion
- Best shoe for winter running for people with wide feet
- Quick lacing system for easily getting your foot in and out
Best For: Foot Protection
Upper: 3D Mesh
Lining: SensiFit
Midsole: EnergyCell EVA Foam
Outsole: Contagrip Rubber
Waterproof: Yes
Weight: 1 pound
Gender: Men’s
How To Choose The Best Winter Trail Running Shoe – Buying Guide
Traction
Traction is certainly the most important aspect when choosing shoes for running during winter. Winter trail running shoes need to come with a strong outsole that has deep lugs and an aggressive tread pattern so it can grip well whether you’re running in the snow, ice-covered ground, or mud. While crampons or carbide spikes work great for walking, you should avoid them in shoes for running in the snow and focus on finding a well-designed outsole.
Related Post: How To Choose Snowshoes
Stability
Alongside good and reliable traction, shoes for running during winter need to have good stability. Wet and frozen surfaces significantly increase the chance of losing balance, rolling your ankle, or falling and injuring yourself. Because of this, shoes for running in snow often have heel and ankle reinforcements that keep your foot firmly in place if you come across difficult terrain.
Support
The impact that your sole endures when running can be significant, which is why every running shoe needs to have good sole support. Sneakers for snow usually have a footbed that is similar to standard road running shoes and has an arch in the middle to follow the natural foot shape. An ideal midsole should absorb the shock while running and remain fairly soft to make long winter runs comfortable.
Insulation
Since you’ll be facing low temperatures, the best running shoes for the snow to provide a degree of protection to your toes and feet. Most winter running shoes come with a liner inside that will provide some insulation and reduce the cold. However, if this is not enough, you can always use thick waterproof socks as additional insulation in your winter running trail shoes.
Water Resistance
Winter running often includes going through puddles, mud, and snow. For this reason, the winter athletic shoes you’re getting need to be waterproof and prevent water from getting inside. A membrane made from Gore-Tex, eVent or TPU does a pretty good job at keeping your feet dry. In addition, make sure you know the difference between water-resistant and waterproof winter running shoes before buying them.
Comfort
Even though they are more rugged than standard running shoes, shoes for running in snow still provide more than enough comfort. However, this can vary from one model to the next so it’s useful to keep a few things in mind.
The best winter trail running shoes need to have a comfortable footbed that will absorb shocks and provide good support so your feet don’t feel sore. In addition, the upper should hug your foot and keep it stable. Getting the right size os trail running winter shoes is very important, which is why you should measure your foot and look at size charts before ordering.
Related Post: Snowshoe Sizing
Durability
Winter weather conditions are tough, so you need a trail shoe that can last through the snow, ice, and sleet. Your shoes for running in snow need to be durable in their design and construction. The best shoes for running during winter should have a strong rubber outsole, reinforced shanks, and a premium-quality waterproof upper that is resistant to tears and abrasion.
Style
With such a variety of options available in running shoes, even style-conscious road runners shouldn’t have issues finding a pair they love. We understand that personal style is important, which is why we’ve included many different trail running shoes for winter on our list. Keep in mind, however, that performance is a lot more important in this type of shoe.
FAQs
Q: Can You Wear Running Shoes In Winter?
Yes, you can, if the shoe has been designed to withstand that type of weather. Shoes for running in snow are made from tougher materials, have more insulation, and usually feature a waterproof membrane to keep your foot dry. On the other hand, summer running shoes are thinner and don’t have deep lugs so they won’t work well in the winter.
Q: Are Trail Running Shoes Good For Snow?
While it depends on the model, a trail running shoe is generally excellent for snow. The reason for this is that they have deep lugs and a good tread, providing traction on any type of surface including snow-covered terrain.
Q: What To Wear Running In Snow?
First and foremost, you need a pair of shoes that provide a good grip on snow-covered and slippery surfaces. In addition, you’ll need a pair of running pants, a long-sleeve shirt that wicks sweat away, and an outer layer to keep you insulated and warm. Finally, you should also get a hat or headband to protect your ears as well as a pair of lightweight running gloves.
Globo Surf Overview
Cold weather and a drop in temperature don’t have to end your running season. With the right equipment, winter running can become very enjoyable. A good winter running shoe will protect you from water, keep your foot warm, and give you a good grip on slippery surfaces. We hope that our guide and reviews helped you decide on the best winter trail running shoes so you can enjoy your favorite activity in mother nature year-round.
More Snow Reviews:
- Ski Pant
- All Mountain Snowboard
- Heated Gloves
- Beginner Snowboard
- Snowboard Gloves
- Kids Snow Boots
- Heated Socks
- Ice Scraper
- Splitboard
- Snowmobile Boots
Do you own a pair of shoes for running during winter that made it onto our list? Has it imporoved your winter training and performance? Let us know how it has enhaced your winter runs in the comments section below.