The Best Winter Running Shoes for 2025, Tested by Editors and Marathoners

Hoka’s Clifton 9 is one of the brand’s most popular shoes, and for good reason—it’s our favorite shoe for daily training. It’s uppers are comfortable and fit most foot shapes, the midsole provides plenty of squish for walking or running, and the price point is comfortable for most runners. So it makes sense that the brand created a Gore-Tex version perfect for winter.

The Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane allows the shoe to stave off water while still feeling virtually identical to the non-waterproof version. Hoka also added weather-ready traction pods to the outsole for increased grip on wintry roads and 360° reflectivity for running in low-light situations. Overall, it’s an excellent shoe if you plan on sticking to your road-running routine throughout the wet, rainy season.

Read More: Best Running Shoes

Pros

• Extremely grippy
• Good comfort
• Gore-Tex weatherproofing

Relatively new to the world of trail running footwear, Arc’teryx has a surprisingly stellar winter shoe on its hands with the Sylan GTX. It’s fully waterproof, thanks to Gore-Tex uppers, and is designed to crush mountain trails regardless of the weather.

Like its non-waterproof sibling, the Sylan GTX has a plush, comfortable midsole that provides comfort across all types of terrain. It’s paired with a tough-as-nails Vibram MegaGrip rubber outsole that boasts 6mm lugs, perfect for keeping your feet when things get messy. Our tester loves the rocker-style sole that propels the wearer forward with each step, providing the momentum it takes to get through the slushy stuff.

Salomon is one of the best and biggest brands in trail running. It’s been researching, developing, and testing shoes in the French Alps for decades, pitting the designs against some of the most grueling trails in the world. The Thundercross Gore-Tex is its maximal-cushioned trail runner built for bad conditions.

The thick midsole provides comfort across everything from rocks and roots to steep gravel trails, and the Contagrip outsole is tailor-made for preventing slippage. We especially like the lacing system, which uses a minimalistic and strong lace for one-pull tightening, a godsend when your fingers are cold.

Much like the Hoka Clifton mentioned above, the Nike Pegasus is a reliable daily trainer that has been winterized for comfort in all weather conditions. They’re made with Nike’s signature AirZoom technology, meaning you get a comfortable, bouncy ride that feels great across any distance.

The Gore-Tex-lined upper will keep your feet dry while still allowing for enough breathability that your feet won’t get overheated over the course of a run. The outsole has been upgraded for better grip on wet roads and sidewalks, and the various reflective panels allow for visibility when it’s dark out.

The Norda 001 is the Land Rover of trail runners, a premium-priced pick with all the bells and whistles. The G+ Graphene model is like the Land Rover with upgraded heated seats. Norda took its already-stellar shoe and lined it with graphene to keep your feet warm, even when things get cold. And the brand would know, as its home base is just outside Montreal, where snow hammers all winter long.

Along with the added warmth, this shoe uses Dyneema-infused laces for durability in adverse conditions and a bombproof Vibram sole for ample grip across all kinds of trails (our tester has run hundreds of miles on his Nordas and hasn’t lost virtually any rubber off the bottom). Plus, the Norda 001 earns major style points when added to any outfit, running or otherwise.

The Adidas Terrex Agravic 3 is a go-to pick for runners who need extra grip for winter but don’t need waterproofing. Where some waterproof shoes can lead to immensely sweaty feet, the Agravic has a highly breathable upper that will keep your feet cool as cucumbers, no matter where your winter runs take you.

The shoe uses a tacky, lugged outsole made by rubber experts Continental (like the tires). They’re also highly cushioned, giving you a comfortable ride that can endure frozen ground, rocks, tree roots, or anything else you encounter when conditions get tricky.

Pros

• Great for winter road running
• Can handle light trails
• More breathable since they’re not waterproof

Brooks running shoes are always the sexiest pick, but thousands of runners swear by them, returning to Brooks for shoes across all disciplines, from recovery runs to the track to the trail. The Divide 5 is a trustworthy shoe that is made for road-to-trail situations, which is why we think it’s perfect for winter.

The outsole is made to excel on various surfaces, so if your runs take you out your front door, down the block, then onto some light trails, you’ll be cooking in these. They’re not waterproof, but this means they’re more breathable than most of the shoes on the list.

Do I Really Need Waterproof Running Shoes for Winter?

Waterproof shoes are recommended for winter to keep your feet dry in snow, slush, or rain. While not always essential for shorter runs in dry conditions, waterproofing adds significant comfort and protection during longer or wetter runs.

What Type of Grip Is Best for Icy or Snowy Conditions?

For icy or snowy terrain, look for shoes with aggressive tread patterns or specialized rubber outsoles for traction. Some shoes even feature metal spikes or studs for enhanced grip on slippery surfaces.

Can I Use My Regular Running Shoes For Winter Running?

Regular running shoes may work in mild winter conditions, but they often lack insulation, waterproofing, and proper traction for ice or snow. Winter-specific running shoes are designed to handle cold, wet, and slippery conditions, making them a safer and more comfortable choice.