Running shoes for winter: 4 tips on how to find the perfect model

Well equippedYou don't even think about stopping jogging in winter? Stay on the safe side with these shoes.

By Vogue.de and Beatrice Graf

Running shoes in winter: what really matters

Snow, ice and wet weather – the winter running season has begun. Even in the dark months of the year, the jogging trails are teeming with people who are freshly motivated to exercise. The right equipment is essential for them, but also for experienced winter sports enthusiasts. The basic rule is: Wet paths and dangerously slippery surfaces require a solid basis. In a robust running shoe for the winter, the wet and cold weather cannot harm you. But how do we find the ideal winter running shoe? These are the most important rules.

Do we need special running shoes for jogging in winter?

Winter running shoes are the foundation for successful running training in sub-zero temperatures. In contrast to summer, the requirements for sports shoes differ significantly. When it's hot, breathability is paramount. In the cold season, protection from moisture and stable traction have top priority. Sure: Feet have to stay warm and dry even in rain and snow, damp shoes are a popular breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

Tip: If you go running several times a week, you should also invest in a second pair of shoes for the winter. Different running shoe concepts put different demands on our bodies. Different brands can have different stabilizing or dampening effects. If you combine different variants, you avoid a one-sided load. This also gives enough time for daily laps for the shoes to dry completely. You should never use winter running shoes when they are wet. Allowing time to dry is an absolute must!

Running shoes for the winter: follow these 4 rules

While mesh ensures good ventilation in summer, the upper material should protect against moisture from the outside in winter. Already knew? Winter running shoes are usually flatter so that you don't twist your ankle even in difficult conditions. Good processing of the upper and tongue makes the shoe cold-resistant so that no air can penetrate. Spikes and snow chains are fun gimmicks, but only useful in extreme cases. However, you should not make any compromises when it comes to these requirements for winter running shoes:

1. Waterproof: Dense synthetic material protects against moisture and makes the running shoes waterproof for winter. A membrane in the outer layer limits breathability, but protects against rain and snow. On the other hand, if you are exposed to dry terrain, you can do without the protective layer.
2. Pronounced cushioning: jogging in winter when temperatures are below zero is comparable to running on asphalt, even outdoors. A higher impact load from frozen ground puts immense strain on the joints and should be compensated for with sufficient cushioning.
3. Sufficient grip: slippery surfaces seem to be the enemy of all joggers. A coarse tread increases bottoming resistance for better grip. Special rubber compounds offer additional grip on frozen or wet floors, putting an end to slipping.
4. Protection against the cold: Cold feet are actually a rarity when jogging, as blood circulation is already stimulated by jogging. Summer models made of airy mesh are not recommended, but lined shoes are only necessary in rare cases.

Shopping tip: Winter running shoes with a membrane are usually a little smaller. Therefore, as always: try it on!

Favorite: Definitely waterproof running shoe -Cloudflyer Waterproof by On Running

The "Cloudflyer Waterproof" by On Running is ideal for long winter runs in wet weather. It is also ideal for road running. This is ensured by the maximum cushioning of the running shoe and the moisture protection. The fact that it is also used for regeneration runs has been tried and tested by professionals. The founders of the Swiss brand On Running are all athletes. With the idea of ​​"running on clouds" they strive for the ideal running feeling with their designs. Also available in black.

All-rounder running shoes for amateur athletes: Adidas Ultraboost Winter.Rdy

The Adidas Ultraboost Winter.Rdy winter running shoe impresses with a wind- and water-repellent upper material that can still score with breathability. The shoe is not recommended in deep snow and heavy rain, unfortunately it is not completely waterproof. For hobby runners, this shoe offers a very well-rounded initial equipment. Roughened inner lining is used for better heat insulation and the comfortable cushioning remains unchanged even in sub-zero temperatures. Practical: You can choose between classic shoelaces and the speed lacing system.

Running shoe made of water-repellent merino wool and sustainable sugar cane by Allbirds

The "Wool Dasher Mizzle" by Allbirds is not just a running shoe for the winter in terms of looks. Made from merino wool, it keeps your feet warm. A bio-based technology makes the wool water-repellent. Numerous athletes have also tested the sole profile made of natural rubber for slip resistance in the rain. Characteristic of the brand is its focus on sustainability: primarily environmentally friendly materials made from sugar cane and castor oil are processed. The running shoe is machine washable and available in many different colors.

Dynamic running shoes for the winter: AWL-Cumulus from Asics

The AWL-Cumulus from Asics is less breathable but largely water-repellent thanks to special impregnation. The update of the normal Cumulus is significantly warmer and therefore also suitable for icy temperatures. Thanks to a strong cushioning foam, a comfortable running feeling on icy ground is guaranteed. The flexible material helps the winter running shoe to have the best running properties - in contrast to stiff, water-repellent versions.

Practical trail shoes: Peregine by Saucony

So-called trail shoes with dense and stabilizing upper materials and pronounced sole profiles have proven their worth off-road. With toe protection and a flexible plastic plate in the midsole, the Saucony Peregine is designed for off-road use. Thanks to strong cushioning, the running shoe can also convince on asphalt. Bonus points: The drop is only four millimeters, so the foot is very close to the ground - this protects against twisting.

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