The 4 Best Nike Running Shoes for Cold Weather
Buying Guide
These tractioned, water-resistant running shoes for winter will keep feet dry and comfy through rain, sleet or snow.
Cold-weather running conditions call for weatherproof footwear. For runners who plan to train outside all winter long, gear up with shoes that feature durable details like tractioned soles, waterproof fabrics and reflective design elements to help improve visibility on the roads.
And while enjoying snowy miles can be a motivator for some, running in any sort of inclement weather — blizzard, frigid temperatures or blustery wind alike — should be taken seriously. When considering going for a wintry run, be sure to keep safety top of mind and opt for bright colors and warm layers, or stick to the treadmill instead.
For those athletes itching to run outdoors in the winter, check out the best Nike running shoes for cold-weather conditions.
The 4 Best Nike Running Shoes for Cold Weather
1.For Snowy Conditions: Nike Pegasus Trail GORE-TEX
Key feature: an outsole designed to grip the road or trail with small, deep lugs
GORE-TEX material is the star of this rugged sneaker, providing extra structure and durability when conditions are slippery. The Nike Pegasus GORE-TEX sneaker also contains a series of lugs on the bottom sole that help improve traction.
A water-resistant outer layer keeps feet dry and warm, meaning runners can tackle tough training runs, even when the weather isn’t cooperating.
2.For Cushion and Comfort: Nike Pegasus Trail
Key feature: responsive foam cushioning
Although the Nike Pegasus Trail contains all the hallmarks of a sneaker able to withstand inclement weather conditions (lugged bottom sole and water-resistant fabric), it’s also particularly comfortable. The sneaker features Nike React foam to support that running-on-air feeling while remaining durable, rugged and secure.
3.For Reflectivity: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus Shield
Key feature: 360-degree reflective material
With a textured outsole inspired by all-winter tires and a special weatherized shroud to keep the forefoot dry, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus Shield is ideal for stepping out into storms. The sneaker also features reflective elements to help runners remain visible on the road in heavy rain or snow.
4.For Durability on the Trails: Nike Wildhorse
Key feature: multi-directional traction lugs made from high-abrasion rubber
On runs where you may encounter slippery rocks and mud, the Nike Wildhorse helps ensure feet firmly grip the ground with each step. That’s due, in part, to the shoe’s thick rubber outsole with multiple traction lugs for grip. The toe portion of the shoe contains a protective plate, and the ankle features a soft gaiter to keep debris from sneaking in.
Tip: Pair Winter Running Shoes With High-Quality Running Socks
A sneaker’s design, fabric and structure all play key roles in keeping an athlete’s feet warm and supported on a run — but don’t forget about adding a good pair of socks. Complement any of the shoes above with a durable sock made with sweat-wicking materials:
- Nike Multiplier: The sock’s special fabric wicks away sweat while mesh improves breathability, helping keep runners’ feet dry.
- Nike Spark Lightweight: In addition to sweat-wicking material, this sock contains extra yarn in the footbed and ankle for subtle cushioning and support.
- Nike Racing: These socks are designed to stay put on tough runs to help avoid the interruption of fixing a sliding-down sock in the middle of a workout.
Words by Julia Sullivan