Running shoes for winter: tips on how to choose shoes for exercise

An active lifestyle and morning jogging always give you good health and a cheerful mood. But with the onset of the cold season, many people stop outdoor training, one of the reasons is the difficulty in choosing suitable sports shoes. Today, designers have solved this problem by creating winter running shoes that are suitable for those who like to jog in the snow. A wide range of products from famous brands and mass market brands will allow you to choose the right option for yourself. But when looking for a brand new pair of running shoes, you need to be extremely careful, because even a minor design detail can radically affect the quality of your training.

General requirements for winter sports shoes

When choosing winter running shoes, it is first of all important to make sure that the shoes meet hygienic requirements. It should be different:

1. Convenience and lightness, the ability to retain shape and flexibility when exposed to moisture.
2. The strength of the material, low thermal conductivity, so that the feet do not freeze and do not suffer from mechanical stress.
3. Proper design and ventilation. This means that the product must be sufficiently ventilated to prevent overheating of the feet and sweating.

If winter shoes do not meet hygienic requirements, then during running sweat will accumulate inside them, which can lead to hypothermia. The shape of the sneakers should be such that they fit snugly to the foot and are comfortable to wear. Also important are:

• properties of the sole - it must be strong, flexible, complemented by an anti-slip coating;
• the presence of spikes - rubber or, as an option, completely removable;
• a high tongue and a special design of lace loops that prevent snow from getting inside the sneaker.

Winter running shoes should be light, have shock-absorbing properties, that is, absorb part of the load, and distribute the rest over the support area.

Secure fit in finger box

Soft and resilient midsole

Padded tongue eliminates pressure from laces

Asymmetrical lacing

Wear-resistant inserts on the sole

Split loops

Flexibility

Review of winter running shoes 2020

Winter makes its demands.
We have created a comparative table of sneakers that are positioned or based on their technical characteristics. The reason for this article was a heated discussion in our 42km group. When choosing models, we paid attention to such characteristics as the presence of an aggressive tread or a soft and elastic sole with grooves for snow, metal spikes for better grip on ice, water-repellent material, for example, Gore-Tex, the presence of an additional insulated layer, shock absorption, lacing, which holds sneakers and much more tightly.

Which model to choose depends on biomechanics, anatomical features, running technique, and also based on the tasks for these sneakers. We wrote earlier in our articles about what you should pay attention to when choosing sneakers.

Model	Weight	Presence of thorns	Approximate price (Yandex Market)	Comments
Asics Trail Lahar 4	Women's sneaker weight: 278 grams Men's sneaker weight: 315 grams	No	Light and flexible, very warm , do not get wet and hold the trail well. The lacing is not very comfortable: apparently, the model is designed for narrow feet. ASICS Gel shock absorption system (a special type of silicone) absorbs impact and reduces stress on the heel, knees and spine. The Trustik system lightens the weight of the shoe while providing better stability to the foot. The reversible outsole provides superior traction on all surfaces, including soft, wet, hilly and rocky terrain. The downside is slipping on ice. For a higher level of wear resistance, special ASICS High Abrasion Rubber is used in the manufacture of the outer sole, which significantly extends the service life of the shoe. Features a water-repellent and breathable upper to protect your feet in extreme weather conditions.
Salomon Speedcross 4 GTX	Women's sneaker weight: 280 grams Men's sneaker weight: 330 grams	No	11600	Powerful protector. The model is excellent for rough terrain and holds well on snowy, uncompacted snow surfaces, but is not suitable for running on ice. The model is available with and without GORE-TEX Depreciation is high. The midsole of the sneakers is made of EVA foam material of two different densities (Light Weight Muscle technology), which allows for good shock absorption and reduces impact loads on the joints to a minimum. Tread – aggressive Wet Traction Contagrip. Midsole - EVA. Textiles – dirt-resistant Mud Guard and Anti-Debris Mesh (protection against debris), Water Resistant Textile. Insole - Ortholite.
Salomon SNOWCROSS CS	360 grams	Yes	12900	Cuff that prevents snow from getting inside the sneakers . Water-repellent breathable membrane CLIMASHIELD . The upper consists of a membrane-protected sneaker and neoprene gaiters sewn on top. The latter get wet in the water, but protect against snow in deep snowdrifts and warm the Achilles and ankle joint. The sole is excellent for running on soft, dry or wet snow, and does not clog. Iron spikes hold on ice and heavily trampled snow due to 9 steel spikes on the sole.
Asics Gel-Fuji Setsu	285 grams	Yes	10990	An ideal choice for jogging in the park and around the city, where snow removal is poor and there are icy areas. Asics GEL FUJI SETSU replaced the legendary ASICS GEL-ARCTIC . The tread pattern of the shoe provides fairly good stability on slippery surfaces. The studs are positioned better than the Gel Arctic. The two rear studs are exactly where they need to be and will work much better. In the front part, two spikes are placed almost to the very cape, this will increase the repulsion force, practically reducing to zero the losses in speed and efficiency that inevitably arise when running on an icy surface. The upper of the sneaker is made with a minimum number of seams and has a GoreTex membrane , which will ensure dryness in any weather and prevent your feet from freezing, while providing good breathability.
Asics Gel Cumulus 17	No	7500	GTX waterproof membrane . The model is suitable for everyone: from beginners to professionals with neutral pronation. For professionals, Gel-Cumulus is suitable as a training model, and for amateurs, these sneakers can be universal and suitable for both training and competition. This model is also suitable for people with a lot of weight and those who experience joint problems when running. Gel-Cumulus suggest heel-toe or full-foot stance
INOV-8 Oroc 280	280 grams	Yes	Unisex model. The brand focuses on shoes for natural running. The model behaves well both on ice and in snowy conditions. At the same time, they are flexible, your legs should not get tired even during long winter runs. The OROC outsole with metal studs and water-repellent DWR coating on the INOV8 OROC 280 2 and INOV8 OROC 340 make them the ideal minimalist winter running shoe
INOV8 ROCLITE 312 GTX	312 grams	No	More suitable for slush and trampled snow. Light weight and excellent shock absorption combined with water resistance and excellent breathability. The use of a GORE-TEX membrane guarantees the maintenance of an optimal microclimate. Good damping with below average differential. The soft fit ensures comfort when walking and running long distances.
adidas Supernova Riot GTX	Women's sneaker weight: 320 grams Men's sneaker weight: 376 grams	No	9990	Very warm , ideal for severe frosts, and hold up well on snowy roads. They slip on ice, but are generally quite stable. The downside is that they are a little heavy and not flexible; after long runs, the foot starts to hurt a little.
adidas Terrex Boost Gore-Tex	No	11850	Suitable for running in the forest and off-road. They perfectly support the foot, protect the foot from moisture, and also lace up in a couple of seconds. The outsole is made of Continental™ rubber , which provides good traction in winter. GORE-TEX membrane
Saucony Progrid Xodus 4.0	Women's sneaker weight: 292 grams Men's sneaker weight: 318 grams	No	5900	Thanks to special Pro-Lock technology, the manufacturer promises reliable fixation of the midfoot. ProGrid technology , previously used only in the heel, now absorbs and disperses impact throughout the entire foot. GORE-TEX makes these sneakers waterproof, and the impressive tread should withstand even icy conditions
Reebok All terrain extreme	328 grams	No	10900	The midfoot cage improves stability and prevents wet snow from getting inside the shoe. Waterproof Gore-Tex membrane . The outsole is grippy and aggressive. Speed ​​lacing system. Terrain Skin technology and mesh upper for durable protection and maximum water drainage. Anatomical TPU heel cup for perfect fit, absolute control and stability
The North Face Ultra Guide GTX	Women's sneaker weight: 261 grams Men's sneaker weight: 301 grams	No	For added toe protection, the upper is protected with Gore-Tex to keep your feet dry. According to reviews, the sneakers are a little stiff, but this means that the foot will be reliably protected when running through the forest. CRADL technology absorbs vibration, gives the foot an anatomically correct position, and the Ultra Protec plate in the sole provides torsional rigidity and full contact with the surface. Vibram MEGAGRIP outsole for maximum grip
Mizuno Wave Cabrakan 5	Women's sneaker weight: 290 grams Men's sneaker weight: 345 grams	No	Breathable, waterproof NanoMesh , flexible outsole provides excellent traction during snowfall and when running on a slurry of snow and mud. Wave technology provides the foot with excellent cushioning. The sneakers hold the track well, but if you decide to run on ice, it’s better to choose models with spikes.
Mizuno Wave Mujin 2	No	Water-repellent impregnation . Suitable for heavier runners and has good cushioning thanks to the WAVE . XtaticRide technology provides confident traction and flexibility
Brooks Adrenaline ASR 10	Weight: 320 g	No	Waterproof and keeps feet warm for a long time. The hard, sharp heel edges and deeper tread provide good slip resistance while being quite soft.
BROOKS Ghost 7 GTX	Tread for off-road, asphalt, snow, adaptive DNA cushioning, adjusting to the weight and speed of the runner. Gore-Tex membrane
Haglofs Gram Spike I	265 grams ½ pair	Yes	7500	The Swedish company produces sneakers with ASICS soles, but with a more durable upper. Upper with Gore-Tex membrane
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor GTX	Pair weight: 820 grams	No	12900	Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane . The rubberized toe protects against impacts on rocks. The upper of the sneakers is made of breathable, wear-resistant material. Thanks to the Impact Brake System, good grip is achieved both on ascents and descents, and also reduces the load on the knee joint. EVA midsole with additional stabilization in the heel provides excellent cushioning and reduces impact during running
La Sportiva Akira GTX	Pair weight: 820 grams	No	13000	Upper: Air Mesh Ultra Comfort, plus TPU Microlite Skeleton thermal coating and Flex-Guard. Breathable Gore-Tex membrane lining The special MicroLite Skeleton thermal coating complements the upper of the sneakers with flexibility, greater durability, and does not hinder movement. The aggressive tread and Impact Brake System further reduces stress on the knee and ankle. The dual outsole with exclusive Trail Rocker tread provides maximum connection on any type of ground: soft and wet ground, rocky ledges or traverses. The red or gray tread areas are wear-resistant rubber, and the black tread area is a special rubber compound that provides maximum grip.
Saucony Peregrine 6 Ice+	276 grams	No	8000	One of the company's flagship models. Loaded with tech (Pwrtrac, Everun, Flexfilm, Rundry, Ebo Rock Plate) it's a 4mm drop shoe with good cushioning and Vibram's new Arctic Grip winter outsole . Arctic Grip is Vibram's development for cold weather and wet ice. These are inserts in the middle of the sole, made of a material reminiscent of rubberized floors. The sole has an aggressive tread with 5 mm studs. This will help not only make your way through snowdrifts in winter, but also confidently climb/descend wet slopes at other times of the year. On the heel and toe, the tread is directed in the direction opposite to movement for better traction.
Nike Pegasus 33 Shield	Male pair weight 306 grams Female pair weight 238 grams	No	6500	Durable water-repellent coating and water-repellent interior. Shield impregnation creates an invisible barrier on the surface of the shoe, which protects the material from getting wet and dirty. Reliable grip on the surface thanks to sticky rubber inserts. In the 32nd version, Zoom Air cushioning was only in the heel, in the 33rd version it was added in the toe. One of Mo Farah's favorite sneakers.

Alexander Ivakin, Salomon brand ambassador: “The previous winter I ran on summer tires. When I spent most of the winter in St. Petersburg, I ran Speedcross 3 CS in winter. However, I was constantly faced with the problem of ice. I really liked them in the snow. In my opinion, Snowcross 1 is ideal for snowy and icy winters, but I don’t have them. You definitely need spikes on ice, otherwise any training becomes torture. If it’s just snowy outside the city, then I would choose the Speedcross 4 CS. Now the non-studded Snowcross 2 has also been released, I would also try that, but again without ice. For training on snow, they are probably a good option, although they are heavier than many regular sneakers. For any mountain training with snow, I would again go with the Snowcross 1. Still a successful model.”

Ekaterina Mityaeva, Adidas brand ambassador : “I run in regular summer sneakers in winter, since I’m always in the southern region. These are the Adidas models for winter - Adidas TERREX TRAILMAKER GTX. Weight 290 grams, lightweight and breathable mesh upper, high-strength toe box for added protection and durability. Quick lacing system for perfect foot support and a comfortable fit. Waterproof lining with breathable GORE-TEX membrane. The lightweight, resilient EVA midsole retains its properties for a long time. Continental™ rubber outsole for optimal traction even on wet surfaces.”

Yuri Shtankov, Inov-8 brand ambassador: “In winter, I prefer to run in warm shoes with Gore-Tex. I take half a size larger, put on a wool sock and go on an adventure! Gore-Tex protects my feet from getting wet, which is very nice, especially when I walk for a long time in the snowy taiga. To ensure reliable traction on snow, slippery rocks and firn, I choose models with metal spikes. Now in my arsenal there is an Inov-8 Oroc 340 GTX model (metal spikes and Gore-Tex), but it is already pretty shabby and, as it turned out, is no longer produced, so I’m looking for something new. This will be a new model from last winter, the Inov-8 Arctic Talon 275 model with metal studs, but without Gore-Tex, and, most likely, one of the Inov-8 ROCLITE models with Gore-Tex, but without metal studs, so that there is plenty to choose from with changing weather and an endless variety of trails.”

Pavel Chernov, Asics brand ambassador : “To be honest, for me there is no fundamental difference in what shoes to run in different seasons. There are 2 points here - the warmth of the feet and grip on the surface. Regarding warmth, we can recommend choosing models with Gore-Tex; they are a little heavier, but they hold heat better. Regarding traction, there are models with metal studs, but I would not recommend it, very rarely there are problems with this, you can run on fresh snow in trail ones, but on clean asphalt it will be fine in regular ones. From Asics, I recommend the Fuji and Sonoma series.”

Design features

The criteria for choosing sneakers include not only financial capabilities and personal preferences. It is necessary to take into account other factors, first of all paying attention to the design features of the product.

Top

It is important that the toe portion of the shoe is appropriate in length and width, allowing free movement of the toes. Usually leather is used for the upper. It has a number of advantages:

• more durable;
• moderately soft;
• provides protection against mechanical damage;
• has low thermal conductivity, due to which sweat evaporates evenly.

But leather is not always suitable for winter sneakers, as it absorbs moisture well. Your feet will quickly get wet and cold in it. For the same reason, you should not choose models with suede uppers. Fur in such shoes will also be inappropriate. To sew the upper part, a material should be used that allows the legs to “breathe” while preventing exposure to moisture and cold.

Often, in the production of running shoes for winter, a special Gore-Tex membrane fabric is used. On the outside, it does not allow liquid to pass through, providing 100% waterproofness, but at the same time freely releases steam; it can be used for running in the most difficult weather conditions in the off-season. There are models covered inside with insulation, thanks to which they are completely resistant to snow, frost, and humidity.

Among winter sneakers, the most popular are high-top models or textile sock sneakers. They fit snugly to the foot, providing reliable protection from the cold.

The material used to make winter models differs significantly from their summer counterparts. To produce them, designers use denser, solid fabrics. However, no matter what fashion dictates, for winter jogging it is better to give preference to membrane insulation, avoiding options made of suede, leather, and fur.

La Sportiva Crossover 2.0 with high collar

Salomon SnowCross cs 2.0 with Climashield thermostatic membrane

Salomon Wings with Gore-Tex technology

Inov8 All Terrain Gaiter with Waterproof Gaiters

Sole

Winter running shoes require a strong, durable sole that does not bend and is resistant to low temperatures. If an athlete constantly moves in extreme conditions, protective elements are needed: supporting side elements and inserts, dense mesh, anti-slip coating.

For running in winter, sneakers are equipped with a sole made of special materials that prevent it from becoming rough and cracking when exposed to low temperatures. Shock absorption properties are also important. For this purpose, the base is equipped with a middle layer of silicone gel. It should be located under the heel and ball of the big toe, so the load on the knees and spine will be lower.

Shoes for running on flat surfaces in the cold season should have a strong, smooth sole. Typically this element is made from different materials, the most popular:

1. BRS 1000. This is carbon rubber, its disadvantage is that the raw material leaves dark marks on the floor, although it provides increased strength.
2. Clean rubber.
3. DRC rubber compound is a hard, wear-resistant, dense material.
4. Duralon is a special composition of synthetic rubber and air micropores. This material provides a light, smooth ride, but wears out quickly.

Nike Air Presto with BRS 1000 sole

Demix with rubber sole

Bona with DRC sole

Nike Air Presto with Duralon sole
Additionally, for running on snow and ice, you will need treads on the sole. It is worth choosing winter studded models, as they will provide a full workout and will also help to avoid pain in muscles and joints. According to the type of studs they are:

1. Built-in. They cannot be removed, which becomes a big disadvantage if the spikes break. Meanwhile, the fastening strength and reliability here are above all praise.
2. Removable. Suitable for regions with unstable weather conditions. The location of the spikes is variable; it can be adjusted depending on the specific load during the training process. The places where individual elements are removed are closed with plugs that prevent dirt from getting inside. Broken spikes can be easily replaced with new ones.
3. Invoices. These studded sneakers are also ideal for all weather conditions. They are not as comfortable as the previous ones, but they are useful for running on ice.

Salomon with built-in studs

Asics Gel-Arctic 4 with removable studs

Overhead spikes
Sneakers with spikes for winter training are equipped with a variety of protectors:

1. Herringbone - necessary for reliable adhesion to the running surface. These shoes are usually chosen by sprinters.
2. Needle-shaped - such spikes are also used during sprinting.
3. Pyramid - ideal for jogging and off-road.
4. With studs – these studs are thicker at the ends, so they are installed on models for obstacle racing.

If you take into account all these nuances and choose the right shoes, regardless of weather conditions, your workouts will be comfortable, easy and safe.

Women's winter running shoes

Many well-known brands offer consumers the best sneakers for winter running:

1. Girls who want to continue training in the cold season should pay attention to the SAUCONYPEREGRINE 8ICE + model. They are good because they will provide the necessary push, but will keep you on unpredictable winter surfaces. The manufacturer used PWRTRAC rubber for the sole, which has exceptional stability. The upper fabric is durable and the tread is 8mm wide.
2. MIZUNO presented no worse shoes. This is the women's model WAVERIDERGTX, in which you can run a winter marathon on asphalt. The sneakers have a GORE-TEX membrane that protects well from moisture. The protector will prevent slipping. The toe is reinforced with synthetic leather, so it is not subject to wear. The sole is made of two types of foam material. The shoes also feature proprietary MIZUNOWAVE technology. It helps you land softly and push off dynamically from the surface.

Sneakers with spikes for running in winter

For moving on slippery surfaces and difficult terrain, studded sneakers for winter running will be a real godsend:

1. Shoes are available with built-in or screw-in cleats. Among the first to receive positive reviews were the Haglofs Gram SpikeII GT winter running shoes. The Swedish manufacturer used the ASICS Gel-Fuji Setsu outsole and complemented it with an original last. The tread has 15 studs. The sole retains its properties even at low temperatures.
2. Sneakers with screw-in spikes are offered by the La Sportiva Tempesta GTX brand. The shoes stand out with their bright design. When worn, the products resemble slippers. They are suitable for running when the snow reaches your ankles. The downside is that the spikes need to be purchased separately; they are not included in the kit. But the shoe has a built-in Sock-Shield Gaiter, which is waterproof and softly grips the foot.

Waterproof running shoes for winter

In slushy weather, running sneakers with waterproof properties will come to the rescue in autumn and winter. This characteristic is achieved due to the special surface structure, which is characterized by increased resistance to moisture. Particular attention is paid to the stitching of the sole, which is tightly connected to the upper, which prevents getting wet through the connecting seams.

High-top sneakers for running in winter

High-top sneakers for winter running in the city are extremely popular. They are incredibly comfortable due to the fact that the foot is reliably protected not only from below, but also from above, since snow or moisture cannot penetrate inside. Often at the top of the products there is an imitation of knitted golf, which gives additional height.

Warm sneakers for running in winter

When looking for an answer to the question of what sneakers are needed for running in winter, it is recommended to pay attention to insulated models. They are characterized by the presence of inner fur or some other lining. This type of shoe will come to the rescue in severe frosts, when it is not possible to play sports in the usual models.

Popular models

For people who prefer road running, the eponymous road running sneakers are suitable. Such models are resistant to moisture and are optimal for jogging on compacted snow and cleaned asphalt. They are also not afraid of off-season rains. Typically, a membrane material made of polytetrafluoroethylene or Teflon is used for production - it is not blown, gets wet in exceptional cases, and the foot still does not freeze.

In addition to road bikes, there are other models for winter:

1. Trail running shoes. The rigid sole bends easily at the level of the toe joint. Dense material prevents foot contamination. A number of models have a special sock that softens impacts on stones and tree roots. A tongue sewn along the contour is used as another protective mechanism; it is additionally covered by an elastic insert. For soft, sticky surfaces (wet soil, clay), running shoes with aggressive protruding elements are suitable. To make it more convenient to run in the snow in winter, metal spikes are added to them.
2. Marathons. Officially, such a name does not exist. It means the lightest, most flexible sneakers possible. They are used for natural running. The essence of the model is to run as easily as possible, without making much effort. To do this, use shoes with low soles and minimal drop from heel to toe. The best winter running shoes for this kind of running should be lightweight and comfortable.

Today, sports shoes receive a lot of attention. This area is actively developing - manufacturers are constantly conducting research aimed at inventing new unique materials and technological solutions.

Road racers

For trail running

Marathons

Asics Sonoma – for parks and off-road

For everyday off-season training on soft trails, asphalt, loose or uneven ground, the Asics Sonoma winter running shoes are lightweight and durable. They have decent ride quality and adequate foot support for neutral and hypopronation. Designed for average weight athletes.

Don't forget to pick up thermal socks for running ↗

The Sonoma series includes 11 women's and the same number of men's models. The upper is made of a strong waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and eco-leather inserts that will not allow your feet to get wet or freeze while running in the snow or rain.

And although the low tread and shallow lugs in the rubber are not designed for difficult off-road conditions, the line is excellent for running on dirt roads without steep inclines. The silicone insert partially relieves the joints. A molded hard plastic element under the midsole prevents your foot from twisting as you run.

If you're going to run around the park, the Asics Sonoma is your shoe. Molded rubber outsole with multi-directional tread provides ample traction during ascents and descents.

Design and color

To make winter running more enjoyable, designers create sneakers in a variety of colors. The range of shoes is very wide. However, most often buyers prefer neon green, pink and blue models. In such options, sneakers for women and men are offered equally. Multi-colored models are more common than products in the same color scheme. Of course, for lovers of classic shades, there are sneakers for men and women in a laconic design in black and gray. White is not very popular for winter running shoes, as it simply blends in with the snow. Although many users consider this a plus - the runner is not distracted by bright elements in his peripheral vision during the training process.

It is better to choose models of rich colors with reflective stripes so that car drivers and cyclists can see the runner from afar.

Many runners who not only play sports, but also want to be trendy, choose the color of their sneakers that will be in harmony with the rest of their jogging equipment.

Winter models for children

Children's sneakers have a number of features that distinguish them from adult models and must be taken into account by manufacturers:

1. Additionally, the corners of the sole are beveled in the heel area, which will help avoid injuries.
2. Increased softness of the soles, which protects against the risk of unnatural foot placement, prevents the development of flat feet.
3. The presence of spikes on the sole.
4. Waterproof shoe material that protects from dirt and snow.
5. The presence of airtight insulation.

Thanks to the correct selection of the model, it will be possible to protect the child’s feet not only from cold and dirt, but also from all kinds of injuries on an icy winter road.

How to choose the optimal model

It is useful for everyone to know how to choose running shoes for winter, since a high-quality model will last a long time and give a lot of pleasant training experiences.

Insulation

When choosing sneakers with insulation, you should take into account your running speed and heart rate, since at a fast pace, blood circulation accelerates and hot blood flows to the limbs. Therefore, shoes that are too warm are not suitable for intense training. For slow running in winter, models equipped with insulation are optimal. For such cases, Gore-Tex material is suitable, which does not allow moisture to penetrate, but allows air to pass through and provides thermal insulation. Thanks to this combination, water and snow will not be able to get inside the sneaker, and the moisture evaporates out through special pores.

The longer the workout, the more attention should be paid to the thermal protective properties of the sneakers.

It is also important to pay attention to the duration of the workout. If you run in cold air for more than an hour at a slow pace, the risk of hypothermia in your feet increases. In this situation, shoes with membrane fabric will not be enough. Additionally, you should insulate your feet with a neoprene sock. It is easily inserted inside the sneakers, fits tightly to the foot, retains heat, and protects from moisture. Compared to a membrane, this is a more economical option, but it allows air to pass through worse.

Presence of thorns

In winter, runners face mud, snow, and ice, so they need shoes that will allow them to move freely on any surface. If an athlete plans to run on asphalt, preference should be given to road models. It is better to overcome mud and snow in trail models, and it is easier to run on ice in shoes with metal spikes.

Overhead, built-in or removable studs will make off-road running much easier and help avoid injuries and falls.

Sneakers with spikes

Now, let's talk about sneakers with spikes for running in winter on snow and ice - there are a great many of them on sale today. There are both removable and fused spikes, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. We recommend that you first think carefully about whether you really need spiked sneakers. If you plan to run on pavement or in a park where the treadmills are regularly cleared of snow, the need for them is minimal. On the other hand, if you are a supporter of natural difficulties and like to give yourself stressful workouts on snow, ice, or unprepared trails, you can’t do without spikes.

Advantages of studded shoes:

1. They provide excellent grip on any surface and prevent slipping;
2. They have a thicker sole, which means your feet will definitely not freeze;
3. If you buy boots with removable spikes, most of the disadvantages listed below can be discarded.

Flaws:

1. These boots are heavier in weight, which means they are more difficult to run in;
2. Increased risk of injury due to tripping;
3. If the cleats won't come off, you'll have to buy a second pair for when it's already spring, but too early for summer shoes.

Popular brands

To select high-quality models, you should first consider products offered by well-known brands:

1. Nike. The manufacturer produces models for different weather conditions. If winter is not accompanied by severe frosts, options with minimal insulation are suitable. For temperatures below minus 10, massive products with innovative systems with shock-absorbing properties are offered. This feature provides a light, springy step without putting pressure on the joints.
2. Reebok. To keep the products warm in winter, the inside is lined with nubuck and additional linings. The models are equipped with textile inserts, as well as a wide tongue that prevents moisture from penetrating inside. Sometimes a stationary spike is installed, useful for running over rough terrain.
3. Adidas. Thermal insulation, air tightness, and comfort level of these shoes are excellent. For winter, products are made with high tops, supplemented with linings. There are leatherette options, but such models are not very practical for daily runs.

Lunarglide 7 flash from Nike

Gore-Tex from Reebok

Terrex Boost from Adidas
To summarize, it is worth recommending that when choosing, first of all, pay attention to the thermal insulation properties, strength, and waterproofness of shoes. These properties will allow you to train on any day, regardless of weather conditions.

Running clothes in winter

An important principle is the number of layers. He shouldn't be alone. Two or three layers is optimal. No winter down jackets, knitted hats, wool sweaters or grandma's favorite cashmere scarf! Synthetics, high-tech moisture-wicking materials, fleece, windstopper are the key to good thermoregulation.

Thermal underwear

The second most important element of proper winter equipment is thermal underwear. Thermal underwear is special underwear that retains body heat. The fibers of high-quality thermal underwear are woven using a unique system, due to which moisture is removed without heat loss.

Thermal underwear, with its light weight, is equivalent in retaining heat to two or more layers of traditional clothing and prevents the athlete from sweating and freezing. Synthetic materials are used to remove moisture: polypropylene, polyester, lycra, microfiber, fleece, coolray.

With high physical activity, the skin releases a fairly large amount of moisture. Accumulating in the fabric of ordinary underwear, it sharply reduces its thermal insulation properties.

Regular cotton underwear continues to accumulate moisture, and you begin to feel very cold. Therefore, it is important to use professional sports thermal underwear. At the same time, you must pay attention to the fact that sportswear does not heat, it only maintains the natural body temperature.

Some of the most popular brands of thermal underwear are Swedish Craft, Finnish Noname, Norwegian Swix and Odlo. It is obvious that the Scandinavians know a lot about the cold and how to protect themselves from it.

Read on the topic: How to choose thermal underwear for running: a review of 10 brands

Jackets

Your favorite thick winter down jacket will not be suitable even for light jogging at low speed. In the first 5-10 minutes, you may feel like you are freezing, but then due to blood circulation you will become warm.

Light running jackets are produced by all well-known and little-known companies. Their cost directly depends on the manufacturability of the materials.

The Windstopper membrane will protect you from the wind - it is an ultra-thin protective layer laminated to a lightweight textile material that provides absolute windproofness. Clothing made from Windtopper Soft Shell fabric provides complete wind protection combined with perfect breathability, and is used as an outer layer.

Advanced runners who do high-intensity training outdoors should have two triggers in each workout: a warm-up and a lighter main.

Leggings

You can use the same leggings that you ran in in late spring, but in this case you should wear thermal underwear underneath. Or buy winter leggings with an inner insulated layer. Many women wear three layers: thermal underwear, cycling shorts (short tights), leggings.

When caught in the rain, remember that tight-fitting sportswear will keep you warm longer than heavy, thick brushed cotton pants.

Accessories

Always wear a hat, regardless of possible warming. It is better to have several hats of different densities in your arsenal: one lightweight, the other with an additional layer of fleece.

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