Don’t trip over the weather—you can still get your 50 miles a week in with the right pair of shoes. It’s important to choose wisely when it comes to trail running in slick, icy conditions, as one wrong move can send you tumbling and end up keeping you off your feet for months, and nobody wants that. You can always enhance a normal shoe’s traction with products like Yaktrax and Stabilicers, but the smart move would be to cop a pair that’s equipped from the get-go. Take a look at the best choices for this winter after the break.
Riley Jones is a freelance writer from Charlottesville, VA and a contributor to Sneaker Report. With an unshakable affinity for basketball and all things pop culture, he can be found on Twitter @rchrstphr.
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No. 8 - Dynafit Feline Gore-Tex
Ice-ready features: Vibram outsole, Gore-Tex membrane
Dynafit is best known for their ski products, which means they know a thing or two about snow and ice. Nearly every aspect of their Feline Gore-Tex model is winter-ready, from its CLAW lugs and Vibram outsole to its weatherproof liner. It’s also outfitted a Ballistic Bumper toe box for added protection on unpredictable terrains.
$170
No. 7 - La Sportiva Wildcat 2.0 GTX
Ice-ready features: Gore-Tex membrane
The La Sportiva Wildcat 2.0 GTX’s Gore-Tex membrane lines a breathable one piece mesh upper, allowing you to stay cool and dry while maintaining protection from the elements. It’s also got a grippy rubber FriXion AT outsole for enhanced control on slick surfaces.
No. 6 - Saucony Xodus 5.0 GTX
Ice-ready features: Vibram XS-Trek outsole, Gore-Tex membrane
When a sneaker’s outsole resembles a soccer cleat more than a trail running shoe, you know it’s got some serious traction. That’s exactly why the Saucony Xodus 5.0 GTX is one of the most well-equipped icy runners, and it’s lined with a full Gore-Tex membrane for further protection.
No. 5 - Brooks Adrenaline ASR 11 GTX
Ice-ready features: Gore-Tex membrane
At first glance, the Brooks Adrenaine ASR 11 GTX might not look like the most rugged sneaker out there, but like a classic muscle car, it’s more about what’s going on inside of this model. Its Gore-Tex lining pairs with one of the grippiest outsoles around for a winter-ready runner that will keep you safe and dry.
No. 4 - Nike Air Zoom Wildehorse GTX
Ice-ready features: Gore-Tex membrane, Rubber Waffle outsole
The Nike Air Zoom Wildhorse GRX has all the speed and responsiveness of the brand’s in-line runners, but is also loaded with waterproof protection to keep you going all winter long. Its Rubber Waffle outsole is an aggressive update to the traditional pattern, and a Gore-Tex liner adds protection without bulk, keeping the runner at a lightweight 9.6 ounces.
$130
No. 3 - The North Face Ultra Guide GTX
Ice-ready features: Gore-Tex membrane, Vibram outsole
Best for neutral runners, The North Face’s Ultra Guide HTX starts with a full length, trail-specific Vibram outsole and an EVA midsole for soft cushion. Up top, the reflective upper is lined with Gore-Tex for full waterproofing. As part of the brand’s Ultra series, this model puts an emphasis on protection while eliminating unneeded weight.
No. 2 - adidas Terrex Fast X GTX
Ice-ready features: Gore-Tex membrane, Continental rubber outsole
With its Gore-Tex liner and Traxion outsole with Continental rubber, the only thing that could make the adidas Terrex Fast X GTX even better is if they found a way to implement Boost cushioning. For now, it relies on a adiprene+ setup, which is more than suitable for cushioning your ride on the trails.
No. 1 - Salomon Spikecross 3 CS
Ice-ready features: Climashield construction, 9 tipped metal spikes
If the weather’s really beating you down, consider going all out with the Salomon Spikecross 3 CS. The sleeker, lighter brother of their Snowcross CS model is equipped with the same heavy duty technologies, but won’t hold you back with a boot-like fit. The outsole is specifically designed for mud and snow, and nine metal spikes ensure that you’ll dig deep into the toughest patches of ice.
$170
RELATED: The Best Trail Running Shoes Available Now
RELATED: The Best Running Shoes for Taking On Snow, Sleet, and Ice
