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.

Last updated: 14 November 2024
4 min read
The best Nike running shoes for winter

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.

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 front of mind and opt for bright colours 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. 1.For wet weather AND for cushion and comfort: Nike Pegasus 41 GORE-TEX

    The best Nike running shoes for winter

    Key features: durable traction and responsive foam cushioning

    The Nike Pegasus 41 GORE-TEX is designed to protect runners from moisture. It also offers durable traction to help prevent slipping, thanks to an all-new Storm-Tread outsole designed to handle wet and slippery surfaces

    This sneaker is also particularly comfortable, with excellent support and a springy ride thanks to Air Zoom cushioning. The Peg 41 GORE-TEX also features Nike ReactX foam to support that running-on-air feeling.

  2. 2.For muddy terrain: Nike Pegasus Trail 5

    The best Nike running shoes for winter

    Key feature: extra grip for both the road and the trail

    Whether you're running on wet trails or on the road, Nike's Pegasus Trail 5 is as versatile as it is durable. Its traction pattern combines with rubber in the forefoot to offer extra grip. Thanks to its full-length ReactX foam midsole, the shoe also boasts extra cushioning.

  3. 3.For reflectivity: Nike Pegasus 41 Premium

    The best Nike running shoes for winter

    Key feature: reflective design details

    For those looking for an energised ride to help combat the chill, the Nike Pegasus 41 Premium—which features a ReactX foam midsole that is more responsive than previous React technology—is a great option. The sneaker, which will be released in January 2025, also features reflective design details.

  4. 4.For durability on the trails: Nike Wildhorse 8

    The best Nike running shoes for winter

    Key feature: midfoot saddle to secure your foot

    On difficult or lengthy trails, the Nike Wildhorse 8 helps ensure feet firmly grip the ground with each step. That's due, in part, to the shoe's thick rubber outsole with abrasion resistance. The midfoot saddle keeps your foot contained and the shoe's forefoot contains a protective plate for a cushioned experience.

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 from sweat-wicking materials:

  1. Nike Multiplier: The sock's special fabric wicks away sweat while mesh improves breathability, helping keep runners' feet dry.
  2. Nike Spark Lightweight: In addition to sweat-wicking material, this sock contains extra yarn in the footbed and ankle for lightweight cushioning and support.
  3. Nike Trail: Sweat-wicking and supportive, these socks are designed to keep you dry and comfortable.

Words by Julia Sullivan

Originally published: 1 November 2024

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