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Similar to how we prepare for winter storms with extra toilet paper, canned goods, and a couple bottles of our favorite wine, runners must also prepare for new hazards with the best winter running shoes. While you definitely need proper warm clothing like a hat, jacket, and gloves, the most important thing is your running shoes; so to help you out, we gathered up the best options for icy, cold conditions.
Although you may be thinking that winter running shoes aren’t a necessity, if you live in a climate that gets a decent amount of snow, sleet, and even rain in the winter, they may be worth a purchase. We reached out to experts Amanda Brooks, a Colorado based runner, coach, and author of “Run to the Finish,” as well as podiatrist Dr. Suzanne Fuchs for advice on how to choose the right running shoes for winter.
“If you live in a place where winters are harsh with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, then winter running shoes can be beneficial,” says Fuchs. “They can provide better traction, warmth, and water resistance.” Together, these features will help to keep your feet warm and dry, and help to give you a more secure foothold on slippery surfaces.
Watch on FN
When it comes to choosing a winter running shoe, they are not all made the same — you can opt for a Gore-Tex version of your favorite road shoe, a trail running shoe, or even get a heavy duty version with spiked outsoles that will give you grip on slippery ice. Like any running shoe, winter running shoes in cushioning, support, and fit, so there are options for all kinds of runners.
To choose these top winter running shoes, we asked our experts for advice and tested plenty of waterproof shoes, cushioned running shoes, and more. Ahead, the best winter running shoes for any pace, distance, and foot condition.
Colorways: 3 women’s, 3 men’s
Materials: Insulated knit upper, React foam and Zoom air unit midsole, rubber outsole
Special features: Water resistant, insulated upper
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “When compared to Gore-Tex or any other weatherproof shoe out their, Nike really out did themselves. Longevity and durability these shoes were meant to last and keep your toes dry. The surface is almost anti-everything when it comes to repellent. The continental treads are remarkably soft yet grip so well.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $145
Colorways: 2 men’s, 2 women’s
Materials: Water resistant mesh, Altra Ego foam midsole, Maxtrac outsole
Special features: Zero drop and foot shaped last
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I found this shoe excellent while hiking the Rockies. Like the wide feel and lower heel. Somewhat minimalist in design but plenty of substance to handle rough trails.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $180
Colorways: 1 men’s, 1 women’s
Materials: Gore-Tex upper, PWRRUN foam midsole, lugged rubber outsole
Special features: Plush foam feel built for the trail
Saucony Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: ”I like these a lot. Fits true to size. I use them as a winter walking and jogging shoe. Foam is bouncy, and the Gore-Tex is waterproof enough. Only caveat the toe box is a bit low, so you can feel the scratchy Gore-Tex on the top of your big toe sometimes, but this kind of goes away with time. Besides that, great shoe!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Colorways: 2
Materials: Gore-tex upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole
Special features: Tungsten spikes for extra grip
Salomon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What testers say: “I have several pairs of Speedcross that I love, and they are perfect for running in winter. The traction is great, the only point to improve in my opinion would be that they keep the feet a bit warmer.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $190
Colorways: 2 women’s, 2 men’s
Materials: Gore-Tex upper, Loft DNA foam, rubber outsole
Special features: Universal fit
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I wish I had these when I lived in the Pacific Northwest! Fits just like my other pairs of Ghost 15s. I was concerned because a review said they ran small. My toes had room to wiggle and my feet happier in the rain.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $170
Colorways: 1 women’s, 2 men’s
Materials: TPU upper, EVA footbed and foam midsole, Vibram outsole
Special features: high cut and zipper closure
Merrell Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “Just one word — PERFECT. It feels like walking on clouds.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $200
Colorways: 1 women’s, 1 men’s
Materials: Gore-Tex upper, fresh foam X midsole, Vibram outsole
Special features: Vibram outsole on a road shoe
New Balance Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $111
Colorways: 2 women’s 2 men’s
Materials: Gore-Tex upper, EVA foam midsole, rubber outsole
Special features: High cushion midsole and early stage rocker
Hoka Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
What testers say: “I live in the rainy Pacific Northwest and walking two dogs daily means I really need waterproof shoes. These are the first ones I have purchased that feel so good on my feet as well as keep them dry. Best purchase from Hoka yet!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Do I Need Winter Running Shoes?
So, do you really need winter running shoes? The short answer is yes. The need for winter running shoes is really dependent on your weather. If you live somewhere where it rarely dips below 45°F, you probably won’t need to get a whole other pair of shoes, but if you find yourself running through snow, slush, sleet and mud, you would do yourself a favor to invest in something more suited to that weather.
“If running in snowy conditions, most runners will do well with a trail shoe,” says Brooks. “This is going to provide a little bit more traction by digging in to the snow and quite often is waterproof so your feet will stay dry and warm for the duration.”
Brooks adds, “If runners are going to be spending time on ice, then they can buy special shoes with spikes, or opt for pull on ice cleats, which ensures they are running shoes they already know feel good, but now have added grip to help prevent slips.”
What to Look for in the Best Winter Running Shoes
- Cushioning: Cushioning is important in any running shoe, but it can be even moreso in the winter. Look for shoes that have ample cushioning, especially if you are used to running on soft ground as trails and grass harden up in the winter and become harder on the legs. Some cushions can also firm up a bit in the winter due to cold temperatures, so you want to make sure that you will still have the support and protection you need.
- Durability: Because you will be running through conditions like slush, mud, ice and more, your shoes need to be able to hold up against more than just asphalt. This means you need both a durable upper as well as a durable outsole. Opt for a waterproof upper as this will not only keep your feet dry, but also help preserve the integrity of your shoe. Also look for outsoles made from Vibram or thick rubber as they will give you both grip and durability.
- Fit: “Like any running shoes, they should be comfortable and fit well — snug and secure without being too tight or too loose,” says Fuchs. You can usually opt for your regular size, though some winter or Gore-Tex models will run a bit on the small side because they don’t stretch. Also if you have a wider foot or tend to wear a thicker sock, you may wish to size up.
- Grip: “If runners are going to be spending time on ice, then they can buy special shoes with spikes, or opt for pull on ice cleats, which ensures they are running shoes they already know feel good, but now have added grip to help prevent slips,” says Brooks. You can also opt for a trail shoe which offers more grips, thanks to lugs and higher density rubber. This is a great option if you mostly run in light mud and snow.
- Weight: Weight doesn’t matter too much with winter running shoes, as you should more be focused on water and weather proofing and proper traction. However, it should still be something that you consider. Once you start getting over the 13 ounce range for weight, the shoes may begin to feel a bit bulky on the foot, so staying between seven and 12 ounces is the sweet spot.
- Foot type and running style: Any time you are buying a pair of running shoes, you need to listen to what your feet tell you and take your own personal running style into consideration. If you need a stability running shoe, or a shoe that specifically addresses a medical problem like plantar fasciitis or knee pain in the summer, you need it in the winter as well. And if you’re known for logging long miles regardless of the season, you’ll want to consider a long distance running shoe designed for cold conditions.
The Different Types of Winter Running Shoes
- Winter running shoes for cold and wet weather: If the weather is cold and wet but there isn’t risk of ice, your main concern is a waterproof and windproof shoe. You can opt for a trail shoe if you would like some more grip, or stick with a Gore-Tex version of one of your favorites. Also consider an insulated model if it’s particularly chilly.
- Winter running shoes for snowy pavements: Snow on pavement is way different than snow on grass or trails. It can get slippery much easier, and tends to ice over faster. Opt for at least a well lugged trail shoe here, but maybe even get some pull on spikes to be safe. Just make sure that they have a rubber sole, as this will absorb shock better than the plastic or metal spiral ones.
- Winter running shoes for outdoor trails: When it comes to running trails in the winter, the requirements are a bit different than the roads. You will want a trail shoe with a lugged outsole, but depending on the type of trail and amount of snow and ice, you may also want to go with pull-on spikes. Also, trails can accumulate more snow than the roads, and it usually takes longer for the snow to clear — so make sure the shoe is waterproof, and you may even want a high top option to really keep the snow at bay.
- Winter running shoes for snow and ice: This is where the true slip risk comes in. When the ice comes out or snow melts slightly, make sure that your shoes either have spikes or that you are wearing a pull-on cleat. The metal spikes are what will actually dig into the ice and give you proper grip. Also opt for a waterproof shoe if possible to keep your feet dry and warm, and insulation isn’t a bad idea either.
How We Chose the Best Winter Running Shoes
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
In order to come up with the best winter running shoes of 2023, we researched some of the most popular models on the market. We also got in touch with experts in the running and health care field to determine exactly what to look for as well as how to help an individual choose a winter running shoe. We used our own expertise in using and testing running gear as well as referenced reviews left by customers that bought and wore these shoes in real life. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Suzanne Fuchs is a board certified podiatrist and podiatric foot surgeon. She is also a health and fitness enthusiast and her career is focused on reconstructive foot surgery and sports medicine.
Amanda Brooks is a runner, coach, and author of Run to the Finish, a guide for runners to reach their potential while remainin injury free. She is also a resident of Colorado and therefore deeply familiar with winter running gear.
Meet the Author
Gabrielle Hondorp has worked as a fitness and wellness gear reviewer since 2019. She has written for publications like Runner’s World, Health, SELF, Women’s Running, Sports Illustrated and more. She was a collegiate track and cross country athlete and remains an avid outdoorswoman. Her expertise in running informed the selections on this list of the best winter running shoes.
