When winter rolls around, trail running can present a whole new set of challenges. From icy paths to snowy trails, you need shoes that can handle the elements without compromising comfort or performance. In this post, we’ll look at some of the top winter trail running shoes for 2024, designed to keep you safe and comfortable through the coldest, toughest conditions.
How to Choose the Right Winter Trail Running Shoes
Choosing winter trail running shoes involves a few considerations that differ from picking shoes for warmer months. While you’ll still need to think about support for your feet, drop preferences, and size, winter shoes need to meet additional requirements like water resistance, warmth, and superior traction.
Water Resistance: Gore-Tex or Not?
Keeping your feet dry is a top priority in winter. Look for shoes with water-resistant features, like those with a Gore-Tex (GTX) membrane, which offers great protection from the elements while maintaining breathability. However, there’s a trade-off: waterproof shoes can sometimes trap heat, making your feet overheat during longer runs. If breathability is more important to you, you might opt for non-waterproof shoes and pair them with moisture-wicking, quick-dry socks.
Warmth & Protection
Thin, porous uppers just won’t do when temperatures drop. Instead, search for shoes with thicker mesh and extra protection in key areas like the toe box and around the ankles. Shoes that feature additional insulation or padding will help retain body heat and shield you from ice and debris.
Traction: Built-In or Add-Ons?
Winter running means dealing with slick surfaces, so you’ll need shoes with strong, grippy outsoles. Look for shoes with deep lugs (5mm or more) to ensure they can dig into snow, ice, and soft dirt. Many brands offer winter-specific rubber compounds, like Vibram, that improve traction on slippery surfaces. Some shoes come with removable traction devices, like spikes or cleats, to help when running on icy or mixed terrain. However, for easier, no-fuss options, shoes with built-in traction, like the Icebug Pytho6 BUGrip or Salomon Thundercross, are great for tackling snow and ice without extra gear.
Best Winter Trail Running Shoes for Snow, Ice, and Cold Weather
Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX
Best for off-road grip and waterproofing.
- Weight: 11.5 oz (Men’s), 9.6 oz (Women’s)
- Stack Height and Drop: 31mm/27mm (4mm drop)
Pros:
- Waterproof Gore-Tex membrane
- Vibram Megagrip outsole for great traction
- Max cushioning for comfort
- Spacious toe box
- Option with tungsten carbide spikes for icy conditions
Cons:
- Heavier than some alternatives
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 GTX is known for its impressive off-road traction, locked-in fit, and ample cushioning. The waterproof Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet dry while still allowing moisture to escape, making it perfect for winter conditions. The Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole offers superior traction on wet, dry, and icy surfaces, while the addition of tungsten carbide spikes gives extra grip for hardcore winter runs. The midsole absorbs shock well, and the roomy toe box offers extra comfort for long runs.
Inov-8 TrailFly G 270 V2
Best for minimalist runners who prefer zero-drop designs.
- Weight: 9.5 oz
- Stack Height and Drop: 12mm (0mm drop)
Pros:
- Graphene-enhanced rubber outsole for excellent traction
- Breathable upper, ideal for long-distance runs
- Flexible, durable design
Cons:
- Less underfoot protection
- May not suit runners who prefer more cushioning
For those who prefer minimalist shoes, the Inov-8 TrailFly G 270 V2 is an excellent choice. With a graphene-infused rubber sole, these shoes offer impressive traction on snow and ice. Though they lack a waterproof membrane, they are breathable, making them suitable for long-distance winter runs where moisture buildup isn’t a major concern. The shoe’s lightweight, flexible construction ensures comfort on longer outings, and the PowerFlow Max midsole provides a good balance of responsiveness and durability.
Saucony Peregrine Ice+ 3
Best for low-drop runners who need grip on icy surfaces.
- Weight: 10.6 oz (Men’s), 9.1 oz (Women’s)
- Stack Height and Drop: 25mm/21mm (4mm drop)
Pros:
- Excellent ice grip with a specialized outsole
- Water-resistant upper
- Responsive and lightweight
Cons:
- Cleats may outperform on extremely icy terrain
The Saucony Peregrine Ice+ 3 is designed with a tacky, durable rubber outsole that offers excellent grip on icy and snowy surfaces. The Pwrtrac Ice outsole, paired with 3.5mm lugs, makes this shoe perfect for slippery conditions. Although it doesn’t have a Gore-Tex membrane, it features a water-resistant upper that protects against winter elements. The responsive midsole ensures a quick and agile run, while the Formfit design offers a custom-like fit without being too tight.
Topo Athletic MTN Racer 3
Best for runners with wider feet looking for comfort and performance.
- Weight: 10.1 oz (Men’s), 8.3 oz (Women’s)
- Stack Height and Drop: 33mm/28mm (5mm drop)
Pros:
- Spacious toe box for added comfort
- Vibram Megagrip outsole with deep lugs
- Suitable for long-distance runs
- Gaiter attachments for extra protection
Cons:
- Large lugs aren’t ideal for road running
Topo’s MTN Racer 3 is perfect for runners with wide feet, offering a roomy toe box that allows for natural toe splay. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole features 6mm lugs, providing solid traction on snow and soft ground. The shoe’s ZipFoam midsole gives a balanced ride, offering just enough protection and responsiveness for long-distance trail runs. It also has gaiter attachments, making it versatile for snowy conditions.
Hoka Tecton X 2
Best for lightweight, fast winter trail runners.
- Weight: 8.8 oz (Men’s), 7.4 oz (Women’s)
- Stack Height and Drop: 32mm/27mm (Men’s), 30mm/25mm (Women’s), 5mm drop
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and responsive
- Vibram Megagrip outsole for traction
- Carbon fiber plates for added stability
Cons:
- On the pricier side
The Hoka Tecton X 2 is a lightweight, fast shoe designed for those who want a quick, responsive feel on the trail. It features carbon fiber plates that provide added stability, while the Vibram Megagrip outsole ensures great traction in a variety of conditions. The ProflyX midsole offers cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness, making it a great choice for dry winter runs or more technical trails.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to winter trail running, choosing the right shoe is essential for both performance and comfort. Whether you’re after waterproofing, extra traction for icy surfaces, or a breathable design for long runs, these shoes cover all the bases. With the right pair of winter trail running shoes, you can stay active and enjoy the outdoors all season long.
