The choice of sneakers for running in winter should be approached with special care - not only comfort during training depends on them, but also safety. The onset of cold weather is not at all a reason to postpone jogging until the first buds. It is believed that running in winter is more effective both for weight loss and for training endurance, willpower, and health promotion. You must admit that it is much easier to study in summer - there are fewer clothes, and the track is smooth, and it is more pleasant to be outside. If you are not in the army of sloths, welcome to the opposite camp! You should be well prepared for running in winter, including getting a good understanding of how to choose winter running shoes.
There are a number of requirements for winter running shoes, and there is also a difference between men's and women's shoes. Experts recommend paying attention to sneakers with a studded sole - it provides more reliable grip. However, in addition to the pros, it also has disadvantages. In this article we will tell you how to choose men's sneakers for running in winter, as well as women's ones, and why they should not be confused. And also, we will give our rating of the best winter running shoes, and explain why a summer pair should not be worn categorically.
So let's get started!
Differences between women's and men's sneakers
First of all, let's see how women's shoes for running in winter outdoors, on snow and ice, differ from men's.
- The anatomical structure of the foot in the fair sex is more graceful - the female leg is smaller and thinner (of course, there are exceptions);
- Men's sneakers have a wider last;
- Most often, men are heavier than women, so their shoes cushion less when running.
- In women's sneakers, the heel is slightly raised, as if on a platform, this is due to the weaker Achilles tendon - so less pressure is exerted on it.
Please note that there are exceptions to all rules and you are not obliged to buy women's running shoes for winter running if your parameters are closer to the men's mesh. For example, you are tall, weight from 75 kg and foot size from 41. A lady can wear men's winter sneakers for running - the most important thing is that she feels comfortable in them.
Studded Sneakers
Now, let's talk about the spike sneakers for running on snow and ice in winter - there are a great many of them on sale today. There are removable and fused spikes, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. We recommend that you first think carefully about whether you really need studded sneakers. If you plan on running on tarmac or in a park where 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 arrange stressful training for yourself on snow, ice, an unprepared track, you cannot do without spikes.
Advantages of spiked shoes:
- They provide excellent adhesion to any surface, non-slip;
- They have a thicker sole, which means that their feet will definitely not freeze;
- If you buy boots with removable spikes, most of the disadvantages listed below can be discarded.
Disadvantages:
- Such boots are heavier in weight, which means that it is more difficult to run in them;
- The risk of injury from tripping increases;
- If the studs don't come loose, you'll have to buy a second pair when it's springtime outside, but it's too early for summer shoes.
How to choose winter boots
In this section we will tell you how to choose men's and women's winter running shoes, what you need to look for when buying. The most important thing is not to build on the price tag, design or brand promotion.
Of course, all this matters, but not as important as the following parameters:
- External material. It should be moisture resistant, breathable, lightweight. A dense membrane with additional insulation on the back is ideal. It does not release heat, while allowing air to circulate freely, so your feet do not sweat. The fabric should be moisture-tight so that the runner can go for a run in the snow and rain.
- The sole should be dense and thicker than that of summer shoes, while it should not be inferior to them in flexibility. If you live in climates that are characterized by very low temperatures in winter, choose a sole that will withstand them (read the model's specifications carefully).
- It is advisable to choose sneakers with reflective inserts, because visibility on the roads is usually worse in winter.
- If you specify in which sneakers to run on the street in winter, we will answer that they must be well insulated so that your feet do not freeze.
- Shoes should have tight lacing so that snow does not penetrate inside.
- We discussed the peculiarities of choosing shoes for winter running with spikes above - buy them only if you really need them. If you are going to train in special parks where the tracks are groomed, we recommend buying sneakers without spikes, but with good tread.
- Pay attention to the new models of winter sneakers, which are complemented by one-piece leggings - this is very convenient if you plan to run on loose or deep snow.
TOP 5 best winter running shoes
- Asics sneakers with spikes for running in winter - the Asics Gel-Arctic 4 model - have proven themselves excellently. They are not very light - the weight is about 400 g, but the spikes can be removed independently. The main advantage of the boots is heat resistance - you can run in them even in extremely cold weather. They are perfect for the harsh Russian winter. The price is about 5500 rubles.
- Pay attention to the New Balance 110 Boot - these are insulated running shoes for running in winter on asphalt, snow and even ice. The sole is equipped with high-quality protectors, the boots are well insulated, securely fix the ankle. Withstand severe frosts, light (about 300 g), with a high toe. Price - from 7600 rubles.
- The best men's running shoes for running in winter Asics - ASICS GEL-PULSE 6 G-TX, they are lightweight, non-slip, securely fix the foot, while not loading it. Absolutely do not let moisture through, while providing high-quality ventilation, do not accumulate condensate inside. Called legendary, this shoe is one of the brand's finest products in the winter running shoe line. Price - from 5000 rubles.
- The Nike Free 5.0 Shield is a unisex shoe with reflective inserts, lightweight, durable. They are famous for their water-repellent properties, they are well insulated, they breathe. Price - from 6000 rubles.
- The Salomon S-LAB Wings 8 SG has the most rave reviews. It has excellent grip and is suitable for both off-road running and training in a culture park. They are famous for their high wear resistance. Price - from 7500 rubles.
Our article has come to an end, we hope you now understand which shoes are better for running down the street in winter and you will be able to choose the right "all-terrain vehicles". Before buying, be sure to measure a pair - the leg should sit comfortably in it: the sock does not rest against the edge, nothing presses or interferes. The best shoes are those that are comfortable for you. Is it possible to run in summer sneakers in winter - yes, perhaps, but only if the emergency room and the pharmacy are located somewhere nearby. And if you urgently need a sick leave -)). Make the right decision!
