Running outside in winter brings a few unique challenges: the cold air makes it hard to breathe, the wind leaves your skin cracked and dry, and the need for layers might slow you down—but you can at least press on with supported, warm feet when you have the right winter running shoes.
That’s right, the kicks you run in when there’s snow on the ground should not also be your summer sneakers. And although it’s easy to lump all gym shoes into one category, some are better fit for inclement weather than others.
How to shop for winter running shoes
Mark Mendeszoon, D.P.M., a footwear and sports medicine expert based in Ohio says a good winter running shoe should feature three crucial attributes:
✔️ Traction: A weighty rubber outsole will help you trudge through slush and snow, and keep you from wiping out on slippery sidewalks.
✔️ Insulation: Materials like wool and Thinsulate lining will trap in body heat, keeping your feet warm and nimble.
✔️ Water-resistance: No sneaker is 100% waterproof, but you can look for moisture-wicking materials like nylon and latex that will repel melting snow and ice.
A few more winter runners tips from Mendeszoon: For extra warmth and dryness, pick up some wool socks. “Wool manages moisture the best and is naturally anti-microbial,” he says. Lastly, make sure the shoes you choose fit well. “Most important is making sure that your feet are properly measured not only in length, but in width,” he urges. He suggests stopping into a shoe store to be sized by a pro. After all, if the fit is off, your runs will be, too.
Here are some pairs that meet the mark for podiatrists, and some best sellers to fill out your cold weather running collection.
1
Best Overall
Peregrine ICE+ 2.0
Saucony
amazon.com
$149.95
Dr. Mendeszoon says these are not only water-resistant, but have “the best ice traction available in the running shoe category.” They also have special cushioning that is soft, yet springy and responsive—perfect for staying on pace.
2
Best Water-Resistant
Ghost 14 GTX
Brooks
amazon.com
$159.95
Another pick from Mendeszoon, this pair is great for its water-resistant Gore-tex liner that will keep your feet dry and warm. They also have great traction and a well-cushioned insole that will keep your runs consistent and distraction-free.
3
Best Traction
Speedgoat 4 Trail Running Shoes
Hoka One One
dickssportinggoods.com
$144.99
Mendeszoon says these have great traction for mud, snow, slush, and ice all thanks to zonal rubber placement on the outsole. Their lacing eye-rows also contain a small winged component to ensure a secure fit.
4
Rave Reviews
Speedcross 5
Salomon
moosejaw.com
$129.95
A stitch-free, welded upper construction provides a smooth, secure fit and feel in this shoe. Plus, a Gore-tex lining keeps the elements out and warmth in, and the large, separated lugs provide ultimate trail-running traction. “This is my 3rd pair of these shoes,” one reviewer writes. “Excellent fit, traction, and comfortable.”
5
Best for Night Runs
Gel-Kayano 28 AWL Running Shoes
A water-resistant seal on these sneaks will keep your feet dry, while reflective elements will make you visible to other runners and drivers in even the darkest, snowiest conditions.
6
Best Secure Fit
Pegasus Trail 2
Nike
backcountry.com
$159.95
These sleek sneakers feature a stretch collar that stops slush and debris from entering around the ankle, and the sole lugs are tire-inspired, giving them weather-worthy traction while remaining lightweight. Lastly, a Gore-tex liner keeps moisture out for good.
7
Best for Trail Running
Flight VECTIV Guard FUTURELIGHT
The North Face
backcountry.com
$249.95
Multiple layers of protection and a secure, ankle-wrapped fit make this an ideal winter running shoe. The chunky lugs give them a trail-running boost, and VECTIV technology within the midsole maximizes energy transfer, always propelling you forward.
8
Most Breathable
Lone Peak 5
Altra
altrarunning.com
$130.00
If your feet stay sweaty no matter the season, you’ll like these breathable trail runners that feature a back loop for attaching an optional debris-blocking gaiter. Plus, laser-cut drainage holes provide slight circulation and keep you from getting waterlogged in wet conditions.
9
Best for Snow
Wildhorse 7
nike
backcountry.com
$64.98
Dig into compact snowbanks with the Wildhorse’s impressive lugged outsole that extends through the back of the heel.Paired with wool socks, they’ll be your winter go-to, but are also great for maintaining traction on hiking trails in summer.
10
Best Lightweight
Challenger ATR 6
Hoka One One
dickssportinggoods.com
$129.99
Many thick lugged running shoes tend to weigh you down, which is how the Challenger ATR sets itself apart. It features grippy four millimeter lugs but remains lightweight, keeping your run times down and fatigue at a minimum. Plus, the midsole cushioning is super supportive and great at absorbing impact.
Kayla Blanton
Kayla Blanton is a freelance writer who reports on all things health and nutrition for Men’s Health, Women’s Health, and Prevention.
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