3 Best Snow Running Shoes

In our extensive trials, Speedcross 6 GTX keeps our winter runs warm, agile, and secure. Our lab confirms its reliability across diverse terrains, boasting adhesive traction and a protective build that instils confidence on icy paths. With this Salomon pair as our top snow running shoe, there is no excuse to skip winter training.

As we navigate corners, melted snow, and hills, we maintain control, all thanks to the shoe's impressive traction. Its 5.0-mm lugs, 1.4 mm deeper than average, provide extra grip, especially on softer ground. With chevron-shaped lugs spaced strategically, it effectively sheds snow underfoot.

The tightly knit upper has a Gore-Tex membrane that feels warm and safe, blocking off moisture and cold air. Our breathability tests confirm its impermeability with the lowest 1/5 score, making it perfect for winter. 

With speed in its name, it handles fast paces well with its agile and supportive nature. The midsole combines gentle and rigid elements for a balanced ride. The cushion provides ample protection while increasing its density for stability. Our durometer confirms it’s 23.7% firmer than average. On the other hand, its flexible midsole flows with our feet for a more natural feel.  Unfortunately, its heavy weight of 11.5 oz (325g) is hard to ignore, especially during tempo sessions.

Hoka Challenger 7 GTX has a winter-ready construction, unwavering traction, and abundant cushioning which us feel right at home even during extended runs in sub-zero temperatures. No doubt, it’s our top cushioned snow-running shoe as our lab confirms its supreme comfort and protection for any weather and terrain.

Beneath our feet is an enormous gentle foam that keeps us chasing the miles. Our calliper reveals a mega-stack of 39.2/28.1 mm, delivering excellent impact absorption and bottomless cushioning. The shoe's cloud-like comfort is emphasised by its 19.5 HA reading on our durometer. In cold conditions, it only firms up by 9.7% vs. the 27.0% average increase, maintaining consistent comfort regardless of temperature changes.

The upper effectively shields us from cold winds, falling snow, and debris. Our shoe dissection uncovered multiple protective layers, including a Gore-Tex membrane, contributing to its perfect score on our Dremel test (5/5). With its low ventilation score in our breathability test (2/5), it ensures warmth and waterproofing, ideal for winter running. 

This hybrid shoe shines on ice thanks to its 3.8 mm lugs, providing reliable traction for safe snow running. Our durometer reveals the Durabrasion rubber measures 81.0 HC, striking a balance between grip and durability.

Regrettably, this already stiff shoe becomes even more rigid in cold conditions. Runners who prefer more agility and a natural feel should bid this Hoka goodbye.

Winter running has never felt more effortless and secure than when wearing Merrell’s Agility Peak 5 GTX. In our lab tests, this shoe proved to be extremely protective against elements typically encountered on icy runs—slippery surfaces, cold weather, and discomfort. It features the stellar Vibram outsole and boasts the best grip among snow running shoes.

The Vibram outsole displayed reliable and confidence-inspiring traction during testing. The deep 4.4 mm chevron lugs offer secure grip on slippery ice and are well-spaced to handle soft ground and more challenging conditions.

The shoe's upper features a waterproof GTX membrane that shields us from moisture and chilly winds. In our lab, the dense upper barely exhibited any airflow, scoring a mere 1/5 for ventilation which is perfect for winter. We never had cold feet during our sub-zero temperature runs.

The midsole is generously cushioned, notably its 37.3 mm heel that erases landing impact. Our durometer shows it’s a near-average 21.3 HA, offering a well-balanced and comfortable experience. This shoe also features a rock plate that shields our feet from underfoot hazards.

However, we cannot recommend AP5 GTX for those with wide feet because the tapered toebox may feel constricting.