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: 7 December 2023
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 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 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 Snowy Conditions: Nike Pegasus Trail GORE-TEX

    The Best Nike Running Shoes for Winter

    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. 2.For Cushion and Comfort: Nike Pegasus Trail

    The Best Nike Running Shoes for Winter

    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. 3.For Reflective Design: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus Shield

    The Best Nike Running Shoes for Winter

    Key feature: 360-degree reflective-design material

    With a textured outsole inspired by all-winter tyres and a special weatherised shroud to keep the forefoot dry, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus Shield is ideal for stepping out into storms. The sneaker also features reflective design elements to help runners remain visible on the road in heavy rain or snow.

  4. 4.For Durability on the Trails: Nike Wildhorse

    The Best Nike Running Shoes for Winter

    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 grip the ground firmly 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 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 subtle cushioning and support.
  3. 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

Originally published: 29 September 2022

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