Adrian Dimakis
When the winter cold starts to bite and sink deep, most people hibernate to their shelters, and this means abandoning most of their activities. For runners — folks who love to take on the challenge — they have to face sub-freezing temperatures and face-numbing winds. If you possess that extra fortitude to get outdoors and continue with your exercises, even when it’s dead cold, you need to invest in the right gear first.
Snow and ice will linger on your trails. You need to get shoes that are specifically designed to accommodate such terrain, keeping you warm and your performance at peak levels. These shoes come with increased grip and traction to help you cut through fresh ice, snow, and the frozen ground. Most of them also feature a waterproof design to keep you dry during those cold mornings.
So, how do you know you are getting the right shoes? Well, don’t worry — that’s why we are here. We have invested in a considerable amount of time, sifting through dozens of shoes to find the best winter running shoes for your needs. We also have some helpful tips to get you going.
Let’s find out:
Top 10 Winter Running Shoes of 2020 Reviewed
1. Yaktrax Run Traction Cleats for Running on Snow and Ice
[wt_products id=”2901″ template=”5″]2. Adidas Originals Men’s NMD_xr1 Winter Running Shoe
[wt_products id=”2903″ template=”5″]3. Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoe
[wt_products id=”2905″ template=”5″]4. Adidas Men’s Terrex Tracerocker Trail Running Shoe
[wt_products id=”2907″ template=”5″]5. New Balance Men’s 481V3 Water Resistant Cushioning Trail Running Shoe
[wt_products id=”2909″ template=”5″]6. Saucony Women’s Razor Ice+ Trail Running Shoe
[wt_products id=”2911″ template=”5″]7. Altra Men’s Lone Peak 4 Low RSM Waterproof Trail Running Shoe
[wt_products id=”2913″ template=”5″]8. Merrel Kid’s Moab FST Low Waterproof Sneaker
[wt_products id=”2915″ template=”5″]9. Dabbqis Hiking Shoes for Men Trail Running Sneakers
[wt_products id=”2917″ template=”5″]10. Under Armour, Women’s Charged Lightning Running Shoe
[wt_products id=”2919″ template=”5″]How to Choose the Best Winter Running Shoes – The Ultimate Buying Guide
When the cold weather comes, you need to be prepared on rough trails full of snow. If you have been running in the summer of springtime, winter comes with a completely new set of challenges. For most people, adding layers of clothes to the wardrobe is easier. When it comes to choosing winter running shoes, for the need to know exactly what you are looking for. The following are some of the things you need to consider in your quest for the perfect winter shoes.
Shoes with Good Traction are Always the Best
In winter, the ground can be very slippery. That’s why traction is an important consideration since you need a shoe able to grip the wet surface. Don’t be fooled that you can use your summer running shoes in winter. For once, their design doesn’t allow them to tackle harsh, slick terrain. So, you must just buy dedicated shoes for running on snow.
Traction essentially means the shoe has a good outsole. Essentially, the outsole should have deep lines and grooves for it to provide the perfect traction. With that, it is possible to run on ice and snow with ease. While running, the line and groves dig into the snow providing grip to secure your step and push you forward. Where that’s not the case, you might be forced to include additional gear in the form of shoe spikes or crampons. The thing with additional gear is that it makes it impossible to run.
You Need to be Stable when Running
To effectively run in the winter, you need shoes with high levels of stability. Since the terrain is slippery, you may end up with rolled ankles or falls. To avoid unnecessary injuries, you should ensure you have the right shoes. By and large, stable winter running shoes are designed with a reinforced arch for additional support to the ankle and foot.
While most winter shoe brands would incorporate some form of stability in the design, not all of them are good for people with under-pronation or over-pronation. If you have any of these conditions you require more stable shoes. Any shoes with “motion control” should be avoided since they are heavier and inflexible. Hence they are not as stable as you would expect. If you are a flat-footed runner, you are also likely to benefit from shoes with higher stability.
Think about the Support
The most comfortable winter running shoes also have high levels of support since they enhance your running experience. It ensures you remain comfortable from the beginning of the running session to the end. Support also prevents any form of soreness to your back of feet. Choose winter running shoes with strong support to prevent any twists in your ankle or foot. If you were to twist your foot, you will end up with a fall or injury.
Usually, the support is incorporated in the heel counter and midsole. Ideally, the midsole needs to be rigid and stiff so as not to twist. An overly twisting shoe means it doesn’t have the necessary support for winter running.
Check that the shoe has a heel counter, which is a piece of plastic, incorporated in the shoe material to reinforce the heel. It plays an important role when it comes to the support levels. If the heel folds easily when pressure is applied on the heel cup, then it may not provide enough support. A rigid heel cup works in tandem with the midsole to support you while running in slick conditions.
Insulation is Key!
In winter the cold can be extreme. That’s why insulation for the winter running shoes is an important consideration. However, there needs to be balanced between the insulation and the weight of material used. As a rule, avoid wool-lined or fleece-lined shoes. Look for material that provides insulation while remaining dry. You don’t want to be soaked in your own sweat while running, do you? Breathable shoes are able to wick away any moisture, leaving you dry. Which means creating a balance between insulation and ventilation.
However, you can enhance the insulation of the shoes by putting on the right socks. You may want to wear waterproof socks while ensuring that you do not compromise on their breathability. So buy a pair of running socks designed to insulate you while wicking away any moisture. Socks also work very well when it comes to cushioning your steps.
Water Resistance – Is the Shoe Waterproof?
Winter weather means there is a lot of wetness, thanks to the ice puddles and snow. Could be you won’t be running through the ice and snow. However, having waterproof or weatherproof shoes is just a must. If you insist on using just any shoes, then your training session will be cut short when your feet get wet. So, the importance of having waterproof or water-resistant winter running shoes cannot be gainsaid.
The difference between water-resistant and waterproof shoes is the degree to which they are able to ward off water. On the market, you will find cheaper brands of shoes treated with waterproof or water-resistant material. Alternatively, you may buy shoes made of neoprene, rubber, polyurethane or other synthetic materials. Even though expensive, Gore-Tex is undoubtedly the best shoe material when it comes to protection from water. But you shouldn’t only base your search on finding waterproof shoes. Essentially, the material should also be capable of wicking away moisture when you begin to sweat.
Comfort is Paramount!
Running in itself can be very tough on your body. So, if you add onto that sore feet, you will find your training sessions to be very frustrating. That’s why your winter running shoes must just be comfortable. Comfort tends to encompass all the other factors including water resistance, stability, insulation, and support. However, the shoes also need to fit properly. If it is ill-fitting or too tight, it can cause blisters, cramped toes, and chaffing. Also, an overly loose shoe will not give you enough support. You will end up slipping and tripping in the shoes.
Winter running shoes need to have some wiggle room for your toes. As such, your toes shouldn’t be cramped up into a tiny space. However, space shouldn’t be too much. Be very careful when picking the right winter running shoe since a small mistake will leave you with the wrong one. Be careful when choosing the shoe size.
However, the insole needs to be soft so as to keep you comfortable while pushing forward. To find a comfortable winter running shoe, read online reviews by previous users. If the insole is the issue, then replace it with a more comfortable one. In that case, you will need to try gel insoles. Alternatively, enhance your comfort with the right socks.
Durability – The Shoes Have to Last Many Running Sessions
In the tough winter conditions, you need a running shoe with the ability to withstand sleet, ice, and snow. As such, the design and construction of the shoes should be durable. The first thing to look at is whether the shoe has a strong outsole capable of withstanding scrapes, bangs, collisions with debris, as well as the snow. When running on slick terrain, you need a comfortable and supportive insole. Also, shoes with a protective waterproof layer tend to last longer.
To find durable winter running shoes, also look at the materials used to make it. If the material is of the highest quality, then the shoes will last longer. If cheap, then don’t expect to use it for longer. The good thing is that the best winter running shoe brands use premium material to avoid giving you shoes that easily fall apart.
Are You Style Conscious?
Winter running shoes exist in different styles and the one you choose will largely depend on your personal preferences. From the wide pool of styles, you will definitely find one that works for you. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for an athletic or sleek style. There is something out there that actually works for you. However, style shouldn’t be the only consideration. Make sure the shoe you pick ticks the right boxes when it comes to the other features discussed here. If you get blinded by the color of the shoe, you may end up with one that cannot perform as expected on the trail.
Conclusion
The fact that it is winter doesn’t mean you stop training until the weather clears up. With the right winter running shoes, you will find your training sessions in winter to be very easy. Instead of concentrating on the brand, pick a shoe with features that enhance your performance. Importantly, it should be one you can wear comfortably while running. To find the right winter running shoes, the reviews considered here as well as the buying guide should come in handy.
