Gone are the days of looking high and low for a shoe that will let you get outside in winter cold and slop in comfort. Virtually every brand has introduced multiple snow-, cold-, and water-shedding running shoes this year.

The season鈥檚 top picks range from impressively comfortable, cushy neutral road runners lined with protective Gore-Tex, to super burly, toothy, waterproof snow hogs with built-in ankle gaiters. With so many options available, this guide no longer includes water-resistant models鈥攋ust fully waterproof road and trail shoes.

Why Winter Running Shoes?

Winterized shoes help keep feet warm as they block wind and cold with their thicker, less-breathable uppers鈥攁 benefit even in dry cold-weather conditions. Despite improved, somewhat breathable materials, most runners find their feet overheat in winterized shoes in temperatures higher than about 30 degrees. But the best ones vent just enough to not get clammy inside, and they don鈥檛 feel stiff and buckle at the toe flexion point due to waterproof layers or treatments. (That鈥檚 the worst.)

Waterproof shoes also keep feet dry by blocking out snow, rain, splashes and slop. Besides reducing cold and wetness, winterized shoes are hydrophobic, meaning, they don鈥檛 hold water and add weight.

Granted, if you run in the rain, or through puddles or snow deep enough, waterproofing becomes rather moot due to that big hole in the top of the shoe鈥攜ou know, where your foot steps into it. In these conditions, a high-top, built-in gaiter will make a world of difference in keeping you dry and comfortable.

How We Tested Winter Running Shoes

During the late months of fall, I vetted and tested this year鈥檚 offerings in a variety of Colorado terrains and winter conditions to find the best of the bunch and compared them to what I and a small fleet of testers landed on as the best of last season. I then made sure the good ones from last year are still available. (Sadly, some are not鈥擨鈥檓 hanging on to my discontinued carbide-spiked La Sportiva Blizzards for life.) Here are our favorites in four categories. We also listed several other available models in each category that may work better for you, especially if you are a fan of the non-waterproof version of the shoe.

At a Glance

Winterized Road Running Shoes

• Other Winterized Road Running Shoes

Winterized Road to Trail Shoes

• Other Winterized Road to Trail Running Shoes

Winterized Trail Running Shoes

• Other Winterized Trail Running Shoes

Shoes for Deep Snow

• Other Winterized Trail Running Shoes for Deep Snow

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Winterized Road Running Shoes

Roadies who get after it no matter the weather have more options than ever to help keep their feet from turning into painful blocks of ice.

Saucony Triumph 22 GTX

Some Gore-Tex running shoes can feel stiff and uncomfortable, a sacrifice for warm, dry feet. Not these. The Triumph 22 GTX is the most plush, comfortable weatherproof shoe we鈥檝e ever run in. The PWRRUN PB (engineered PEBA) midsole foam feels ample, smooth, and springy. The upper鈥攚eatherized via a Gore-Tex Invisible Fit construction that integrates the waterproof material directly into the upper鈥攆elt seamless. 10.6 ounces (men鈥檚), 9.1 ounces (women鈥檚); 10 mm drop

Hoka Clifton 9 GTX

This is the lightweight, smooth-running, highly cushioned Clifton you know and love鈥攂ut with a fully waterproof upper constructed with comfortable Gore-Tex Invisible Fit and an outsole built for winter conditions. What Hoka is calling 鈥淭raction Pods鈥� on the Durabrasion rubber outsole create more ground contact and extrude a tad (not as much as trail shoe lugs), doing a decent job of gripping on snow. This is a good choice for roadies needing a little extra traction through winter, without going the full trail running shoe route. 9.6 ounces (men鈥檚), 8.3 ounces (women鈥檚); 5 mm drop

Other Winterized Road Running Shoes Available this Season

Winterized Road To Trail Running Shoes

For messy roads or minimally technical trails, these shoes provide secure footing and smooth rides while keeping feet comfortable and protected from the elements.

Nike Trail Pegasus 5 Gore-Tex

This winterized version of the Trail Pegasus 5, with its lively ReactX foam midsole that delivers a versatile ride on road or trail, features a Gore-Tex-lined upper, high-ankle cuff, and reflective detailing. We wore this shoe on sloppy gravel roads four days after a snowstorm and loved it for its comfort both underfoot and around the foot. The waterproof upper flexes easily with the foot while protecting from cold, snow, and general muck. 10.5 ounces (men鈥檚), 8.9 ounces (women鈥檚); 9.5mm drop

Merrell Morphlite Gore-Tex

One hundred thirty dollars is a steal for a pair of Gore-Tex shoes, and the fact that the Morphlite Gore-Tex can transition between road and trail makes it even more of a value. We found that the wide outsole of this shoe paired with concave sections underfoot made us feel stable and successfully 鈥渕orphed鈥� over obstacles like small tree roots in the Maryland woods. The midsole foam felt a bit firm, especially under the forefoot, which made us lean more trail than road in this shoe. Still, it鈥檚 capable of both, well waterproofed, and lightweight, to boot. 9 ounces (men鈥檚), 7.6 ounces (women鈥檚); 6.5mm drop

On Cloudsurfer Trail Waterproof

On鈥檚 CloudTec Phase midsole technology runs soft and smooth on roads yet isn鈥檛 too mushy on light trails, making this a versatile shoe. The outsole鈥檚 rubber compound and tread design gripped a smooth gravel road with occasional patches of ice and provided sure footing on a road-to-trail route. The upper delivered enough support for rocky singletrack while flexing enough to run comfortably on roads, even with its waterproofing layer (seam sealed Cosmo Hydroguard). 11.3 ounces (men鈥檚), 9.2 ounces (women鈥檚); 7mm drop

Other Winterized Road to Trail Running Shoes Available this Season

Winterized Trail Running Shoes

These trail running shoes are designed for wet muck, packed snow, and sloppy terrain in general, with their traction adding necessary grip and rugged uppers protecting from punctures and penetrating cold and moisture.

Topo Athletic Terraventure 4 WP

The Terraventure 4 WP has stellar traction thanks to its entire outsole, made out of tacky, rock-grabbing Vibram Megagrip. The four-and-a-half-millimeter lugs take hold in snow, and the somewhat firm cushioning, low stack height (25mm/22mm), and wide forefoot base (a design feature of all Topos) add stability on all surfaces. A full bootie construction made out of eVent is meant to be both fully waterproof and breathable; I found the upper to effectively block out snow and moisture but my feet felt a little clammy at times. Still, I鈥檒l be reaching for this versatile, protective shoe often this winter. 12 ounces (men鈥檚) 10.1 ounces (women鈥檚); 3 mm drop

Icebug Arcus 2 BUGrip GTX

With an outsole equipped with carbide spikes that provide solid grip on ice and retract on hard surfaces (like rocks), Icebug running shoes are in a class of their own. The grip on the Arcus 2 GTX allowed us to tackle the slickest of surfaces, like a north-facing, ice-covered singletrack that doesn鈥檛 see the sun all winter (a trail we happily had to ourselves), as well as riding nicely on the slippery road to and from the trail. This shoe鈥檚 Gore-Tex Invisible fit upper proved comfortable around the foot, and the cushioning is ample. One ding: Our 125-pound tester found it rode a bit stiff and wished it flexed more. Heavier runners may have more luck. 12.9 ounces (men鈥檚), 10.3 ounces (women鈥檚); 6mm drop

Other Winterized Trail Running Shoes Available this Season

Shoes for Deep Snow

With protective booties that seal out moisture and major traction that grips even in unstable terrain, these shoes are ready for winter fun.

Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra G

Underneath a winterized outer softshell hides a low-volume, mountain-capable Scarpa Ribelle Run trail shoe, letting this shoe handle all kinds of winter adventure. Testers appreciated the ability to secure the inner shoe without having to dig inside the shell, thanks to an external BOA dial that tightens and loosens with precise clicks, and found the water-resistant softshell gaiter cut cold, biting winds and shed moisture. The interior shoe is lined with a waterproof membrane to ensure nothing gets in to freeze your toes. The outsole鈥檚 sticky rubber grips rocky sections of trail for confident maneuvering, and a band of rubber-like TPU wraps the shoe鈥檚 perimeter both for durability and to allow you to 鈥渟mear鈥� (climber talk for pressing rubber against rock for traction) should the need arise. 13 ounces (unisex); 4 mm drop

La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX

Like the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra G, the Cyklon Cross GTX features a stretchy, breathable softshell gaiter that extends past the ankle bone for charging through deep snow and slop. Underneath sits the La Sportiva Cyklon running shoe which was built for speedy mountain scrambles. The shoe鈥檚 BOA lacing, accessible from outside the shell, effectively secured our feet on off-camber terrain and slippery trails. The Cyklon Cross GTX has a 28-20mm offset for a slightly more cushioned ride, while the Ribelle Run GTX sits at a svelte 26.5-22.5. Another difference: The Scarpa鈥檚 gaiter has a Velcro-adjustable closure around the ankle above the angled zipper, while the La Sportiva鈥檚 zipper at the front of the ankle goes all the way to the top (and some find the fit too tight for their lower leg). Both shoes proved capable in burly winter running conditions. 12.5 ounces (men鈥檚), 10.5 ounces (women鈥檚); 8 mm drop

Other Winterized Trail Running Shoes for Deep Snow Available this Season

The post Brave Snow, Ice, and Slush with These Top Winter Running Shoes appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

In my late-20s, I moved from San Francisco into a ski-lease cabin on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe with just my yellow lab, Hannah. I鈥檇 left the comfort of roommates and city life for a quieter existence that better-suited my inner mountain girl (who had yet to fully emerge from my Southern California upbringing and post-college urbanite self). I鈥攚e鈥攍ived alone most of the time, though there was no telling when one or more of 16 lease-mates might drive up from the city to stay a night or two (or more). It was December. I was a loner. And I was suffering from acute tendonitis in both of my feet and ankles, as well as a mild case of PTSD from an adventure race gone bad (long story).

As my achy lower legs started to heal, I craved the thing that always made me feel better about everything: running. But I couldn’t figure out where and how to get into the rhythm I so desperately needed. The roads were icy and not well maintained. My only options for running on pavement were to hoof it along the busy, two-lane highway around the lake, or string together uninspiring loops around small neighborhoods.

Read more: 5 Cold-Weather Trail Running Tips

On top of that, it was an El Ni帽o year, and the local trails became buried under feet of snow. With running outdoors seemingly off the table, I succumbed and ran on a gym treadmill once or twice. That鈥檚 all it took for me to decide I was not cut out to be a hamster all winter long. Then I had an epiphany: snowshoes made specifically for running.

I discovered the existence of running snowshoes while lingering in the local outdoor shop, a place I鈥檇 go when I either needed something or felt lonely, which was often. I鈥檇 talk with the shop guys and look at all the winter outdoor gear, which, besides the snowboards (I鈥檇 been riding for a few years), was fairly foreign to me. I鈥檇 occasionally rent Nordic skis for adventures with Hannah, but I didn鈥檛 know how to skate or classic ski and really, I just wanted to be able to run. I spotted a pair of small-looking snowshoes with tapered tails on the wall and asked the guy behind the counter about them. He explained that they were made for running, and that you wear regular running shoes with them, not boots. My eyes widened and my head spun with possibilities.

This was a long time ago, so I don鈥檛 remember if I bought those snowshoes on the spot. But I vividly remember my first time running on snowy trails with snowshoes underfoot. When I put those things on my feet and ran with my dog on wide, snow-covered trails that had been packed down by snowmobiles, or on fresh, snowy singletrack routes through the woods, I fell in love鈥擨 fell in love with winter, winter sports, and with the mountains.

Related: A Head-to-Toe Guide to Dressing for Winter Trail Runs

On my first Christmas in Tahoe, I walked across the street and put on my enablers (my term of endearment for snowshoes). I started running in soft, fresh, deep snow and Hannah jumped around like an ecstatic bunny. With every stride I kicked snow on my butt and laughed at my dog before connecting to a more well-used trail system where I could really get into my running groove. We returned to the cabin happy, tired, and at peace, ready to enjoy the day with the ski lease roommates who鈥檇 decided to spend Christmas in Tahoe.

All winter long, I ran on those snowshoes. I ran where I wanted, whenever I wanted鈥擨 could go anywhere covered in snow, which was anywhere besides the highway and neighborhood roads. Most often, I鈥檇 head to a trailhead nearby and venture into the woods. I found a few routes I loved, a mix of untracked or barely tracked trails and packed-down fire roads. There was the time Hannah and I had a scary鈥攂ut exhilarating鈥攕tare-down with a gorgeous coyote in a snowstorm. And there was the time I stopped in a meadow when the snow fell lightly, not another soul in sight. My dog stood still with me, and I marveled at the utter silence It was an amazing moment I still haven鈥檛 forgotten.

Snowshoe running was good for my healing body as well as my spirit. The greater surface area of the snowshoes dispersed the impact of every step, giving my still-healing tendons a lower-impact workout. The soft ground underfoot also helped. I got to run without pounding, sweat without hurting.

Snowshoe running saved me that winter and nursed me back to health. By the time the snow melted, I could run without pain on the dirt trails. I got back into adventure racing and volleyball, my other passion. I made some friends and found a boyfriend. That first winter in Tahoe convinced me to stay for two more years. I raced on snowshoes the following winter, a new endeavor that led to me joining a snowshoe racing team (long live Team Atlas) and a community of like-minded people.

Decades later, I live happily in Colorado and have a stack of snowshoes in my shed. I鈥檝e since learned to Nordic ski, which draws me more often than snowshoeing. But if I lived in a mountain town like North Lake Tahoe, with trails that are buried under snow for months,, I鈥檇 put those snowshoes on my feet and fall in love with snowshoe running all over again.

The post This Obscure Piece of Gear Made Me (a SoCal Gal) Fall in Love with Winter appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

There is no such thing as the single best road running shoe for everyone. Every runner鈥檚 body, gait, speed, experience, and ride preferences are different, so every runner will interact differently with each running shoe. The shoe that your best friend or your sister-in-law loves may be uncomfortable for you and make running feel slow, sluggish, or even painful. Finding the perfect pair of road running shoes is a seriously personal affair.

While we 肠补苍鈥檛 tell you the definitive best shoe, we can steer you toward models that have impressed a variety of testers with their comfort, support, protection, and ride, and tell you where they excel. From this list you will need to select which shoes best complement and enhance your running stride and experience.

The Winners At-A-Glance

The Best Road Running Shoes of Winter 2024

• Best Carbon-Fiber-Fueled Speed Trainer: Asics Magic Speed 3
• Most Versatile Cushioned Trainer: Saucony Kinvara Pro
• Best Distance Trainer: Adidas Adizero Boston 12
• Best for Cushioned Everyday Runs: Skechers GO RUN Ride 11
• Best Plush Stability: Asics GEL-Kayano 30
• Best Lightweight Daily Trainer: Brooks Hyperion GTS
• Best Recovery Shoe: Nike InfinityRN 4

The Best Road Running Shoes of Summer 2023

• Best Daily Trainer: Tracksmith Eliot Runner
• Best for Plush Stability: Puma ForeverRun Nitro
• Best for Carbon-Fiber-Fueled Speed: Hoka Rocket X2
• Best Combo of Cushioning and Connection: Topo Cyclone 2
• Best for Smooth Cruising: Adidas Ultraboost Light
• Best for Comfort Junkies: Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
• Best for Longer Races: Saucony Endorphin Elite
• Best for Nimble Versatility: Brooks Levitate 6
• Most Forgiving: Nike Invincible 3
• Best Cushy Uptempo Shoe: On Cloudsurfer

The Reviews: The Best Road Running Shoes of Winter 2024

Best Carbon-Fiber-Fueled Speed Trainer: Asics Magic Speed 3 ($160)

Weight: 7.7 oz (men鈥檚); 6.5 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 36鈥�29mm (men鈥檚); 35鈥�27mm (women鈥檚)
Drop: 7 mm
Sizing: 惭别苍鈥檚 6鈥�15; 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚: 5鈥�12
Strengths: New bouncy, snappy midsole, breathable mesh upper
Weaknesses: Not as adaptable to different strides as some super trainers

The Asics Magic Speed 3 proves that low cost and high performance aren鈥檛 mutually exclusive. Priced nearly a hundred dollars less than many carbon-fiber super shoes, these are 鈥渢he best bang-for-the-buck 5k-to-half marathon racing or speed workout shoe on the market,鈥� said one tester. Asics swapped the carbon/TPU blend plate in the Magic Speed 2 for a full-length carbon fiber plate that鈥檚 noticeably more snappy and forward-propelling. That, coupled with a soft and responsive double layer of Asics鈥� top EVA-based midsole foam, results in a 鈥渓ight and bouncy ride鈥� that 鈥渋nspires speed,鈥� noted one tester, while not feeling overly bouncy or unstable. Complementing the magic in the midsole is the same form-fitting, airy, lightweight mesh upper material seen on the brand鈥檚 top-tier, carbon-fiber, marathon-racing models.

Most Versatile Cushioned Trainer: Saucony Kinvara Pro ($180)

Weight: 9.5 oz (men鈥檚), 8.5 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 42鈥�34尘尘
Drop: 8mm
Sizing: 惭别苍鈥檚 7鈥�15; 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 5鈥�12
Strengths: Combines cush, support, and performance in one package
Weaknesses: Lack of durable rubber on the outsole

While the Kinvara has meant minimalist speed for over a decade, this 鈥淧ro鈥� version adds oodles of cushioning and a teardrop-shaped (tapered at the heel) 戮-length carbon-fiber plate that delivers soft landings and extra snap. The cush comes from a layer of Saucony鈥檚 resilient Pebax superfoam over a firmer, more stable slab of an EVA-blend that doubles as the outsole, all topped by a responsive, TPU-based insole. The combination results in a fun, versatile, mega-cushy-while-still-slightly-stable shoe that can handle anything from easy recovery runs to long tempo efforts. Testers raved at the 鈥渞esponsive, snappy, poppy鈥� ride that, one said, 鈥渁llowed me to run faster with less effort.鈥� One tester felt that the shoe not only did a great job of absorbing impact, but that it transferred the load of each step toward forward propulsion.

We love the combination of comfort and performance of the Kinvara Pro, proving you don鈥檛 have to sacrifice one for the other. The ride is springy, energetic, and downright lively. Suede-like (it鈥檚 vegan) paneling around the heel collar and a stretchy, slightly padded tongue add to the deluxe feel.

Best Distance Trainer: Adidas Adizero Boston 12 ($160)

Weight: 9.5 oz (men鈥檚), 8 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 37鈥�30.5尘尘
Drop: 6.5mm
Sizing: 惭别苍鈥檚 4鈥�15; 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 5鈥�12
Strengths: Grounded feel with extra pop, durable traction
Weaknesses: Upper can feel firm around the heel collar

Unlike many plated super-trainers that produce a hyper-cushy turbo boost, the Adizero Boston 12 allows a stable, connected ground-feel, delivering a more traditional running shoe vibe with a little extra pop鈥攚hich some testers found preferable when putting in training miles. The shoe鈥檚 smooth roll comes from curved, glass-fiber-infused rods that parallel the foot鈥檚 metatarsal bones from heel to toes, sandwiched between a thick top layer of Adidas鈥檚 premium, bouncy, TPE-based foam (tuned softer than previous versions) and a bottom layer of a more-stable EVA blend. 鈥淚 felt light on my feet and able to move and react quickly wearing these shoes,鈥� said a tester.

The mesh upper is minimal and racy, which made us feel like going fast, and the Continental rubber outsole provides great traction for quick cornering and secure footing even on wet roads. This is a fun shoe to push the pace in, and a solid training partner for marathoners. Note: The fit is wide in the forefoot, leaving some testers craving a more secure foothold.

Best For Cushioned Everyday Runs: Skechers GO RUN Ride 11 ($125)

Weight: 9.9 oz (men鈥檚), 7.6 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 38鈥�32尘尘
Drop: 6 mm
Sizing: 惭别苍鈥檚 7鈥�14; 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 5鈥�11
Strengths: Responsive midsole, comfortable upper, great price point
Weaknesses: Lacks breathability

If you think Skechers is predominantly a walking and lifestyle brand, think again. Since the brand introduced the Hyperburst midsole in 2018, we’ve praised any running shoe featuring the ultralight, responsive foam. The newest formulation of the supercritical, gas-infused EVA foam found in the GO RUN Ride 11 is softer, and was 鈥渁s well-cushioned and lively as any running shoe I鈥檝e tried,鈥� according to one tester. Embedded in the forefoot is a carbon-infused, H-shaped plate that鈥檚 not too stiff, allowing for a more natural forefoot flex while enhancing stability and speeding the roll off the toe. 鈥淚t allows me to run freely, using my foot as it was meant to be used,鈥� noted another tester.

Despite being advertised as a neutral everyday trainer, we applaud its versatility and ability to perform at any pace. From recovery to tempo runs, the GO RUN Ride 11 is remarkably smooth and bouncy. 鈥淚 feel like I could run all day in them,鈥� one tester raved. The plush, well-padded engineered mesh upper is one of the more comfortable uppers we tested, but we found it does lack adequate breathability when it’s hot. Bottom line: A modern, comfortable, versatile everyday trainer at a bargain price.

Best Plush Stability: Asics GEL-Kayano 30 ($160)

Weight: 10.6 oz (men鈥檚), 9.2 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 40鈥�30mm (men鈥檚); 39鈥�29mm (women鈥檚
Drop: 10 mm
Sizing: 惭别苍鈥檚 6鈥�16; 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 5鈥�13
Strengths: Well-cushioned, smooth rolling, stable without being firm or stiff
Weaknesses: Heavy

As running shoe brands begin to rethink the traditional strategies of using stiff midsoles and firm posts under the arch to control foot movement in stability shoes, no other flagship shoe has embraced this departure more than Asics GEL-Kayano 30. Every single tester, including our most prominent critic of stability shoes, applauded the now softer, newly refined model.

Asics created plush stability in the GEL-Kayano 30 by means of a wider midsole with an increased heel bevel, a flared sole under the forefoot, and, most surprisingly, a softer, high-energy foam under the arch where we鈥檙e used to finding a firm medial post. Rather than attempting to block rotational movement, Asics says the bouncy insert, in combination with the shoes鈥� geometry, is designed to reduce the time at peak pronation and gently guide an over-rotating foot back into a more neutral position as it transitions from heel to toe-off. Combined, these elements 鈥渄elivered a smooth, comfortable ride that is stable without any hint of control,鈥� said a neutral tester.

The stack height is also four millimeters higher than the previous GEL-Kayano, and the gel insert is 65 percent softer. The result is a shoe with softer cushioning that鈥檚 more 鈥減rotective, responsive, and smoother,鈥� as one tester described. Asics also added a steeper toe spring to help maintain a smooth toe-off from the thicker, more voluminous midsole. The plush persona continues throughout the engineered mesh upper that鈥檚 simple and heavily padded around the heel counter.

Best Recovery Shoe: Nike InfinityRN 4 ($160)

Weight: 12.5 oz (men鈥檚), 9.9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 39鈥�30尘尘
Drop: 9mm
Sizing: 惭别苍鈥檚 6鈥�15; 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 5鈥�12
Strengths: Plush, comfortable platform that works for all gaits
Weaknesses: Laces and tongue can dig into narrow feet when cinched

Since its inception, the InfinityRN has aimed to ward off injury with its soft-but-responsive foam, wide base, and unique heel shape with a deep groove on the lateral (outside) edge, encouraging a fluid landing and smooth transition through the stride. This fourth iteration maintains those characteristics, while getting an even wider base and losing its firm heel clip. While there is scant evidence linking any , testers universally reported the InfinityRN 4 didn鈥檛 make any aches worse. In fact, one found that this shoe helped relieve her achy knee. Our test team also unanimously appreciated the InfinityRN 4鈥檚 comfortable ride, which made us want to run in the shoe regardless of its injury-prevention powers.

The latest InfinityRN uses Nike鈥檚 ReactX foam, which is cushier and springier than the original Nike React. A more energy-efficient injection-molding process makes the new foam more environmentally friendly, too. The new foam is not as explosive as Nike鈥檚 Pebax-based ZoomX, but delivers a smoother, more stable feel underfoot, and testers confirmed it does seem livelier than the original React blend. The knit upper, which is soft and stretchy, is also new, and fits more like a sock than a traditional running shoe. Said a tester: 鈥淚t checks off every box for me in a good road shoe: comfortable, lightweight, well-cushioned, and supportive to handle the miles.鈥�

Best Lightweight Daily Trainer: Brooks Hyperion and Hyperion GTS ($140)

Weight: 7.6 oz (men鈥檚), 6.8 oz (women鈥檚); GTS: 7.9 oz (men鈥檚), 7.3 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 28尘尘鈥�20尘尘
Drop: 8mm
Sizing: 惭别苍鈥檚 7鈥�15; 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 5鈥�12
Strengths: Lightweight, low-profile, agile-feeling, breathable
Weaknesses: Slightly firm, more ground feel than some prefer

We loved both the Brooks Hyperion and Hyperion GTS for their lightweight comfort and springy, nitrogen-infused cushioning that one tester described as 鈥渇un and fast.鈥� The only difference between the two shoes is that the GTS version features segments of firmer foam on top of the midsole along both sides of the heel鈥攚hat Brooks called 鈥淕uideRails鈥濃�攖o help reduce rotation for runners whose stride strays excessively inward or outward, especially towards the end of their run as a result of fatigue. Both versions feature a lightly-padded, flexible, and super-breathable upper, which ranked high among hot-footed testers, but some felt chilly in winter conditions.

These shoes are ideal for any runner looking for a daily trainer or racer that gives them some feel for the ground. In an era of massive amounts of cushioning that can sometimes make us feel like we鈥檙e running on cushy platforms, the Hyperion and Hyperion GTS offer a lower-riding, more connected running experience without compromising rebound and comfort.

The Best Road Running Shoes of Summer 2023

Best Daily Trainer: Tracksmith Eliot Runner ($198)

Weight: 9.2 oz (men鈥檚), 8.0 oz (women鈥檚).
Stack Height: 33.5鈥�24.5尘尘
Drop: 9 mm
Sizes: Unisex shoe, M4/W5.5鈥揗13/W14.5
Strengths: Good looks, immediate comfort, wide versatility
Weaknesses: Can feel a tad soft for fast efforts

Earning the distinction of 鈥淏est Daily Trainer鈥� means this shoe cushions plenty for long runs, feels peppy and spry enough for tempo efforts, inspires quick quarter-mile efforts on the track, and can be worn casually on the daily. This trainer does it all.

Underfoot comfort and cush comes from a combination of a soft, super-thick (three times the norm) sockliner layered over a slightly denser midsole, both made of Pebax鈥攖he premier shock-absorbing compound of the hour, usually found in marathon-racing supershoes. The sockliner aims to mimic the feel of running on fall leaves or soft dirt (and does), while the firmer midsole is designed to compress just enough to encourage underfoot pop (and does). The fit leans low-volume from top to bottom, adding to a sleek feel, while a secure heel hold tapers out to a slightly wider toe box.

The engineered mesh upper sports soft and retro-stylish synthetic suede around the heel collar and lacing eyelets, and achieves structure with a simple sash at midfoot. This is a comfortable, capable, and great-looking shoe that we鈥檙e mildly obsessed with.

Best for Plush Stability: Puma ForeverRun Nitro ($150)

Weight: 9.7 oz (men鈥檚), 7.9 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 36鈥�26 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Sizes: 7鈥�14 (men’s), 5.5鈥�11 (women’s)
Strengths: Wide, stable platform with springy ride; secure, supportive upper
Weaknesses: Heel-toe drop felt high to some

It鈥檚 rare to find a stability shoe that feels like a soft, plush, daily trainer鈥攁nd also puts pep in your stride. With a fat midsole stacked with Puma鈥檚 nitrogen-infused, rubberized compound that absorbs and rebounds with aplomb, the ForeverRun Nitro is all that. The shoe creates subtle stability with a wide platform underfoot and a firmer-density foam frame topped by an external TPU heel clip, plus a sockliner designed to enhance forefoot alignment. 鈥淭his shoe delivers a smooth ride that made me feel supported without ever getting in the way,鈥� said one tester, who used them for everything from recovery days to tempo runs.

The ForeverRun Nitro also creates a great feeling of control thanks to excellent fit and traction. A secure heel hold gives way to a roomy toebox, while the tongue perfectly rides the line of minimal and cushy so that you don鈥檛 cause pressure on the top of the foot when you crank down the laces. The outsole鈥檚 traction, and slight flare of both midsole and outsole under the big toe, gave us great traction and security even on wet pavement.

Best for Carbon-Fiber-Fueled Speed: Hoka Rocket X 2 ($250)

Weight: 8.3 oz (men鈥檚), 6.7 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 36鈥�31 mm鈥攏ot including insole
Drop: 5 mm
Sizes: 5鈥�14 (men鈥檚), 6鈥�15 (women鈥檚)
Strengths: Phenomenally bouncy and explosive; comfortable, stretchy upper
Weaknesses: Heavy relative to other supershoe racers

After three years of being all but absent in the carbon-fiber supershoe game, Hoka finally lined up to compete with a top-to-bottom redesign of their first carbon-fiber racer, the Rocket X. The new tall, squishy, and energetic Rocket X 2 is nothing like the firm, low-profile original. Thanks to an all-new midsole using dual-density PEBA-based foam, the resulting ride is bouncy, explosive, and forward-propelling, one of the peppiest midsoles we鈥檝e tested. Running in the Rocket X 2 felt like we were effortlessly bouncing from foot to foot. A steep, late rocker under the forefoot gives the Rocket X 2 what testers described as two distinct gears: At slower paces, the underfoot response feels like it comes mostly from the midsole鈥檚 bounce. But as soon as you hit faster paces and get up on your toes with a more powerful, forward-pressing push-off, the rocker aggressively slings you forward, like a sudden downshift in a Porsche 911 Turbo. The remarkably comfortable upper, made of a stretchy technical synthetic mesh with an internal midfoot cage attached to the tongue, is form-fitting and secure without undue pressure. Hats off to Hoka for creating a legitimate contender in the carbon-fiber supershoe race. The wait has been far too long, but it was worth it. Read our full review on the Hoka Rocket X 2.

Best Combo of Cushioning and Connection: Topo Cyclone 2 ($150)

Weight: 6.9 oz (men鈥檚), 5.5 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 28鈥�23 mm
Sizes: 8鈥�12 (men’s), 6鈥�11 (women’s)
Drop: 5 mm
Strengths: Comfortable cushioning with an ultralight, flexible, close-to-the-ground feel
Weaknesses: Too minimal for some

For some runners, today鈥檚 supershoes feel overbuilt鈥攖he plate鈥檚 too stiff, the midsole too tipsy, and the rocker too aggressive. The Topo Cyclone 2 presents an alternative formula, combining today鈥檚 cutting-edge foam technology with a simplified, minimalist underfoot experience. One tester described the Cyclone as 鈥渁 shoe that moves like a minimalist model and provides a stable, proprioceptive ground connection while cushioning and bouncing like a supershoe.鈥� Despite the low, flexible, minimalist feeling, the midsole still provides plenty of cushioning underfoot for effective shock absorption. Even one tester who favors thick-soled, stiff, maximum-cushioned shoes appreciated the lightness and high-energy rebound provided by the full Pebax midsole. Sitting atop the super-powered sole is a thin, airy, engineered mesh upper that鈥檚 tailored for a secure midfoot wrap and a wide anatomical toe box. 鈥淭he fit is comfortably snug and welcoming at 5k pace or slower,鈥� praised one tester, who also noted, however, that he found the wide forefoot felt slightly 鈥渟loppy鈥� as he approached top-end speeds. One tester summed up: 鈥淭he Cyclone 2 is a lightweight speed and race-day shoe that lets your foot control the shoe, not鈥攍ike with so many of today鈥檚 carbon-fiber super shoes鈥攖he other way around.鈥� Read our full review on the Topo Cyclone 2.

Best for Smooth Cruising: Adidas Ultraboost Light ($190)

Weight: 10.5 oz (men鈥檚), 9.2 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 32鈥�22 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Sizes: 4鈥�18 (men’s), 5鈥�11 (women’s)
Strengths: All the Boost bounce at a lighter weight; snug, supportive fit
Weaknesses: High heel felt obtrusive to some

The Adidas Ultraboost Light embodies everything we鈥檝e come to love about the Ultraboost franchise鈥攁 soft, sock-like upper combined with a thick, luxurious slab of Adidas鈥檚 smoothly responsive cushioning鈥攁t a fraction of previous models鈥� heft. Credit Boost Light, a new foam formulation that weighs 30 percent less and gives four percent more bounce than the original Boost, while producing ten percent fewer carbon emissions in its production. On the road, we confirmed that the new midsole feels noticeably livelier than the foam in previous Ultraboosts. One tester noted, 鈥淭here鈥檚 still a ton of cushioning, but it feels light and responsive.鈥� 国产吃瓜黑料 the new midsole, the airy knit upper remains essentially the same, with a snug, stretchy booty locked down with plastic midfoot overlays. The best part鈥攖here鈥檚 no price difference between the original and this new lighter version.

Best for Comfort Junkies: Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 ($160)

Weight:10.3 oz (men鈥檚); 9.1 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 41.5鈥�33.5 mm (men鈥檚); 40.5鈥�32.5 (women鈥檚)
Drop: 8 mm
Sizes: 6鈥�16 (men’s), 5鈥�13 (women’s)
Strengths: Plush from top to bottom; superior cushioning without feeling squishy
Weaknesses: Upper is a bit thick and heavy for a performance shoe

For its 25th birthday, Asics鈥� franchise cushioned shoe lost its traditional, visible gel pod under the forefoot, and we don鈥檛 miss it. The new EVA-blend foam in the Nimbus 25 is light, soft, and springy鈥攁nd there鈥檚 plenty of it, as the shoe got a 20 percent increase in overall stack height. But it鈥檚 not overly squishy. 鈥淚 especially like its bounce-back energy return,鈥� said a tester. A flat, oval-shaped chunk of the company鈥檚 new gel (said to be softer and lighter than their previous formulations) sits within the foam under the heel and adds to the plush landing, while a late, steep rocker speeds toe-offs. Combined with the stretchy knit upper and well-padded heel collar, the new Nimbus delivers a supremely comfortable ride, ideal for high-mileage training, recovery runs, or just a soft, coddled feeling on daily outings.

Best for Longer Races: Saucony Endorphin Elite ($275)

Weight: 7.2 oz (men鈥檚), 6.5 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 39.5鈥�31.5 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizes: 7鈥�15 (men鈥檚), 5鈥�12 (women’s)
Strengths: Phenomenal bounce; quick-rolling ride
Weaknesses: Not as cushioned as some competitive super shoes

The all-new Endorphin Elite features a brand-new supercritical PEBA-based midsole called PWRRUN HG that Saucony claims is its most energy-efficient foam to date. The new midsole felt a tad firmer than the foam found in other Saucony supershoes, with one tester describing it as 鈥渨ell-cushioned but not overly soft.鈥� A little extra downward force, however, revealed its phenomenal energy return, and, with a slight step on the gas, testers said their stride fell into a powerful, rhythmic cadence that felt effortless. The full-length carbon fiber-plate embedded in the foam is forked to allow flex as the foot rolls inward, while its sharp upward curve under the toes creates a smooth, stable ramp for takeoff. 鈥淭he foam and plate seemed to encourage and enhance a quick turnover,鈥� said one tester. The upper may look funky, but the combo of a soft, stretchy inner sleeve and an external webbing that wraps around the midfoot and beneath the carbon plate cinched testers鈥� feet comfortably and securely, like the cockpit of an F-16 fighter jet.

Best for Nimble Versatility: Brooks Levitate 6 ($150)

Weight: 10.9 oz (men鈥檚), 9.8 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 33.5鈥�25.5 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Sizes: 7鈥�15 (men’s), 5鈥�12 (women’s)
Strengths: Sleek and quick-feeling, with a balance of cush and bounce
Weaknesses: Not as plush and overtly comfy as many cushioned models

This is the kind of shoe you wear day-in and day-out without having to decide what to put on. It鈥檚 comfortable on long, slow miles, but ready and capable to pick up the pace when you are. The polyurethane-based midsole foam, called DNA AMP v2, is 10 percent lighter than the original and emphasizes bounce over cush. Testers described the ride as 鈥渞esponsive,鈥� 鈥渓ight,鈥� and 鈥渟pringy.鈥� One even said she felt 鈥渆nergized upon each step.鈥� A wider midfoot platform, arrow-point grooves on the outsole, and what seemed like just the right amount of forefoot cushioning encouraged smooth transitions from touch-down to toe-off. It鈥檚 not the lightest shoe in this roundup, but it doesn鈥檛 feel heavy. On the contrary, the Levitate 6 (unlike early versions) made our feet feel quick and nimble. Bonus: The updated fit works for a range of foot shapes

Most Forgiving: Nike Invincible 3 ($180)

Weight: 10.9 ounces (men鈥檚), 9.1 ounces (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 40鈥�31 mm
Drop: 9 mm
Sizes: 6鈥�15 (men鈥檚), 5鈥�12 (women鈥檚)
Strengths: Unparalleled cushion-to-weight ratio; 脺ber-forgiving without being mushy or unstable
Weaknesses: Sluggish at speed

The bottom of Nike鈥檚 product info page for the Invincible 3 reads like something their lawyers made them post: 鈥淣ot intended for use as Personal Protective Equipment.鈥� That鈥檚 right, the company doesn鈥檛 want you to mistake this oversized shoe for a life preserver. Seriously, Nike appears to be avoiding any claims that the shoes are a protective medical device鈥攁nd rightfully so, given the linking any running shoe attribute to injury prevention. However, the Invincible鈥檚 maximum cushioning鈥攁 full 40 mm of Pebax-based Nike ZoomX superfoam鈥攁bsorbs the impact of each footfall and delivers a remarkably comfortable and forgiving ride. Yet it鈥檚 not a mushy cush; the ZoomX feels both energetic and gently supportive. The springy foam has a rockered shape, which seems to create a smooth toe-off and helps even fatigued runners propel forward.

A super-wide platform that flares out under the forefoot and tapers uniquely toward the toe and arch, and a firm plastic clip surrounding the base of the heel, together help guide feet toward a natural, supported stride without trying to control. For so much shoe, the Invincible 3 is fairly lightweight. We reached for the Invincible 3 while ramping up mileage, and for days where we just needed a little extra love鈥攍ike after doing a crap-ton of squats. Read our full review on the Nike Invincible 3.

Best Cushy Uptempo Shoe: On Cloudsurfer ($160)

Weight: 8.6 oz (men鈥檚), 7.2 oz (women鈥檚)
Stack Height: 32鈥�22 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Sizes: 7鈥�14 (men’s), 5鈥�11 (women’s)
Strengths: Soft, lively, smooth and comfortable ride; plush upper
Weaknesses: Cloudsurfer fans will miss the responsive, proprioceptive feel of previous versions

Some shoe updates are small, others so large they completely alter a shoe. The new Cloudsurfer falls into the latter category. In a radical departure from the external cushioning pods linked by a flexible Speedboard plate that has defined On鈥檚 DNA, the new Cloudsurfer introduces a new era in Cloud cushioning technology called CloudTec Phase. The 鈥渃louds鈥� are now holes carved through the 眉ber-soft midsole, angled like a string of falling dominos to allow the midsole to collapse as you move forward. The resulting ride is 鈥渟oft, lively, and unbelievably comfortable,鈥� said one previous On skeptic. Testers who have typically shied away from On running shoes for their stiff foam and firm underfoot feel absolutely raved about the new Cloudsurfer. However, our long-time Cloudsurfer loyalist missed the more stable, proprioceptive, and responsive ride of the original design. The new Cloudsurfer runs with a sense of freedom, plushness, bounciness, and flexibility that previous generations bound to the Speedboard platform could not. The heavily padded, soft mesh upper and tongue impressed our testers so much that one was inspired to run sockless. For those who prefer a lazyboy-soft ride and a flexible platform that moves with the foot, this is a fantastic lightweight, cushioned daily trainer, with enough pick-up-and-go for tempos and races.

Selecting a Road Shoe

If you鈥檙e looking for a road shoe, consider if you want a speedster or something that feels good on long, slow jogs. Do you like the feel of a soft, forgiving ride, a more bouncy, energetic sensation underfoot, or a firmer platform that provides more groundfeel? Given new foams and technologies, many shoes today provide cushioning without sacrificing responsiveness or stability. Each balances these characteristics differently, however, creating a spectrum of options. Feel free to choose from any part of the menu.

How to Choose the Best Running Shoes for You

Fit and Feel

Choosing the best running shoes for is a matter of finding the models that fit your foot and feel best when you鈥檙e running. To determine fit and feel, there鈥檚 no substitute for trying the shoes on and running in them.

Fit: Match Your Foot Shape

When assessing fit, first pay attention to length. You need room at the end of your toes as your feet lengthen during their dynamic movements on the run. A rule of thumb is to allow a thumb鈥檚 width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Runners often wear a running shoe a half or full size bigger than their street shoes.

Ensure that the shape of the sole and the upper matches your foot shape. The sole should be as wide or wider than your foot for the whole length, and match the curve of your arch comfortably. The shoe should hold your foot securely over the instep, while allowing the ball of the foot and the toes to splay and flex when you roll forward onto them. Your heel shouldn鈥檛 slip when you lift it, and the arch should be able to dome and lengthen naturally. Nothing should bind or rub as you roll through the stride.

Feel: Match Your Movement Path

If the shoe fits, it鈥檚 time to take them on a short run on a treadmill, around the store, or, ideally, down the block and back. Every running shoe has a unique ride created by the type and density of foam(s) in the midsole and the geometry of that foam: its thickness, width, heel-to-toe drop, and forefoot flexibility or rocker shape. Each of these elements interact with each other and your stride to determine how the shoe reacts on landing, how much it cushions, how stably it supports, how smoothly it transitions from landing to toe off, and how quickly and powerfully it rebounds.

The best way to choose the shoes that complement your body and stride is to find the ones that feel right on the run. Benno Nigg, the world-leading biomechanics professor who , calls it the 鈥渃omfort filter,鈥� but makes clear it is far more than how plush the shoe feels when you step into it. What you want to assess is whether the shoe allows and supports the way your feet want to move, what Nigg calls your 鈥減referred movement path.鈥� In the right shoe, while running at your normal pace, you will touch down where you expect to land, roll smoothly and stably through the stride without noticing the shoe, feel both cushioned from and connected to the ground, and push off naturally, quickly, and powerfully. When this comes together you鈥檒l know that you鈥檝e found your pair.

It鈥檚 likely that several shoes will feel good on your feet. To find the most comfortable, it helps to compare them back to back, like an eye doctor will do with corrective lenses: flipping between 鈥淎鈥� or 鈥淏,鈥� 鈥�1鈥� or 鈥�2.鈥� You may also find that different shoes feel better at different paces or level of fatigue, and you may want more than one pair. In fact, research shows that wearing a variety of different shoes is one of the few to reduce injury risk as it appears to vary the stresses on your feet and joints.

What About Injury Prevention?

Running shoes have long been marketed and sold as prescriptive devices to help runners stay healthy, but there is correlating shoes, or any specific shoe properties鈥攍ike cushioning or pronation control鈥攚ith running injuries. Medical professionals say that it is highly difficult to determine whether a runner needs a certain type of shoe, and studies have shown that prescribing shoes with traditional methods like treadmill gait analyses or wet-foot arch height tests don鈥檛 consistently reduce injuries.

Don鈥檛 assume that you need more cushioning or more stability if you have sore joints, or if you鈥檙e a heavier runner, or if you鈥檙e a beginner鈥攅vidence doesn鈥檛 support many common beliefs. The best way to prevent injury is to find two or three different pairs that feel right on the run, ease into using them, and vary your shoes, your running surface and your pace regularly (plus avoid rapid increases in your training load).

How We Test

Testing Stats

• Number of testers: 27
• Number of shoes tested: 72
• Number of miles: 9300+ over four months

To test running shoes, we begin by researching every brand鈥檚 upcoming offerings for the coming season. We wind up with dozens of samples of the models (70 this season) that are most promising鈥攏ot just for us, but for 25 testers that range in age, ability, running form, geographical location, terrain, and preferred shoe types. We try to put each tester in models from within the same category (all rugged, backcountry trail shoes, or all road-to-trail crossovers) so everyone can test apples-to-apples.

After three to six months of running in each model on varied terrain and in all conditions, our crew members report back with their assessments of fit, comfort, traction, cushioning, flexibility, stiffness, pop, what type of running the model is best used for, how the shoe compares to other models, and more. We also run in every shoe ourselves, and, combining all the tester feedback with years of personal experience, hone in on the best.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

passion for running started over 25 years ago in high school when he became the number six ranked runner in the nation at 3000 meters his senior year. After high school, he competed at Villanova University, earning two NCAA Division I Championship showings. Today, he鈥檚 determined not to let age slow him down and competes on the national master鈥檚 circuit, running a 4:12 (4:30 mile pace)) 1500 meters and 9:04 (4:52 mile pace) 3000 meters in 2021 at age 43. He prefers a hard track workout or tempo run over an easy long run any day but also appreciates a challenging trail or mountain run. His obsession with running shoes started in 2014 when he wrote his first shoe review for Gear Institute. Since then, he鈥檚 tested and reviewed hundreds of running shoes, clothing, and gear for 国产吃瓜黑料, Runner鈥檚 World, Footwear News, and other outlets. He has a soft spot for speedy shoes over heavy trainers but loves dissecting all shoes equally and thinking like a product engineer to explain the why behind every design detail. Cory is the Founder of , an online running coaching business, and since its inception in 2014, has coached runners鈥� to over 100 Boston Marathon Qualifying times.

Lisa Jhung

Freelance journalist, editor, and author has researched, tested, and written about running shoes for the past decade and a half, much of that time for 国产吃瓜黑料 and 国产吃瓜黑料 Buyer鈥檚 Guides. She coordinates a fleet of female shoe testers out of Boulder, Colorado, and says her home office is a perpetual obstacle course of cardboard boxes and piles of running shoes. Lisa鈥檚 written about gear of all kinds for numerous national magazines as both an editor and freelancer, including a stint as the Shoes & Gear blogger and trail running microsite editor for Runner鈥檚 World. A high school jumper and occasional sprinter/hurdler, she started running鈥攔eally running鈥攁fter walking off the collegiate volleyball team, and moved on to road and trail races of any distance, triathlons, adventure races, and mountain running. She鈥檚 happiest testing rugged trail shoes on gnarly terrain, and also loves a good neighborhood jaunt…but is almost always looking for ribbons of dirt. Lisa is the author of 鈥�Running That Doesn鈥檛 Suck: How to Love Running (Even If You Think You Hate It)鈥� (2019) and 鈥淭railhead: The Dirt on All Things Trail Running鈥� (2015).

Jonathan Beverly

Jonathan fell in love with running his freshman year of high school and quickly became fascinated with finding the perfect pair of running shoes. That quest got a boost when he became editor of Running Times in 2000 and started receiving every new model as they were released. The parade of shoes continued while he served as shoe editor for Runner鈥檚 World, then editor of PodiumRunner, and currently running gear editor at 国产吃瓜黑料. Having now worn nearly every running shoe created in this century鈥攁nd a fair amount of those dating back to the early running models of the late 70s鈥攈e鈥檚 given up on finding the one best and now relishes the wide variety of excellent options. Once a 2:46 marathoner regularly doing 50+ mile weeks, recent injuries and his age (58) have reduced his volume by about half and slowed his easy training pace to around nine-minute miles鈥攂ut he says he still enjoys an uptempo workout or two each week. Beverly wrote the book in 2017, which explored how each individual鈥檚 gait鈥攁nd thus shoe preference鈥攊s unique. He enjoys getting biomechanical researcher鈥檚 take on new shoe trends, and, as a tester, trying to describe the nuances of each shoe鈥檚 ride.

The post The Best Road Running Shoes of Winter 2024 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Winter running demands adaptability, from you as well as your apparel. For you, that can mean shifting planned workouts to different days, limiting yourself to several small loops of plowed road, or even, heaven forbid, scratching your run entirely. For your apparel, that means performing well in frequently changing weather, whether that鈥檚 day to day, week to week, or from the start to the last few miles of a run.

This winter running apparel guide accounts for all of those winter inevitabilities. Our team of testers put in almost 2,000 miles in every conceivable condition to determine the highest-quality, most versatile winter gear currently available. The 17 items below emerged as stellar in their category.

The Winners at a Glance:

• Editor鈥檚 Choice: Best Pants: Tracksmith Bislett Pants
• Best Base Layer Top: Pinebury Portland LS Performance Tee
• Best Top For Running and Everyday Life: Appalachian Gear Company 8020 Long Sleeve Tee
• MVP (Most Versatile Piece): Rabbit Cocoon 2.0
• Best Shell: Houdini The Orange Jacket
• Best Heavier Jacket: Fjallraven Keb Fleece Hoodie
• Best Underwear: Tracksmith Brighton Boxers Briefs
• Best Tights: SaySky Blaze+ Long Winter Tights
• Best Leggings: Minus 33 Woolverino Midweight Flyless Running Tights
• Best Thicker Socks: Walter Sky Merino Wool Athletic Sock
• Best Thinner Socks: On Performance High Sock
• Best Neck Gaiter: Skida Snow Tour
• Best Light Hat: Artilect Darkhorse Skully Beanie
• Best Heavy Hat: Ciele Athletics VNT Beanie
• Best Gloves: Soar Winter Gloves
• Best Mittens: Rab Xenon Mitt
• Best Gift: Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Merino Wool Hoodie

The Reviews: Best Winter Running Apparel

Editor鈥檚 Choice
Best Running Pants: Tracksmith Bislett Pants ($198)

Sizing: XS-XL

Sometimes the greatest isn鈥檛 the latest.

I bought the Bisletts when they first came out in 2014, and they鈥檝e been my main winter running bottoms since. I鈥檝e tried dozens of other pants and tights since then鈥攊ncluding the latest and greatest鈥攂ut none are better. The only real difference between the OG version and the current Bisletts is a thicker drawstring in the newer offering. So, kudos to Tracksmith for not pointlessly tinkering with an already superb product.

What鈥檚 so great about the Bisletts? I consider them do-it-all winter running bottoms. They combine the performance of a tight with the comfort (and modesty) of pants. They have just the right amount of looseness and stretch throughout to move with me no matter the run, from recovery jogs to repeats at 800-meter race pace. The four-way stretch fabric (63 percent nylon/31 percent polyester/6 percent elastane) is soft, wicking, and water-repellant. I鈥檝e worn them comfortably up to temperatures in the mid 40s Fahrenheit, and I turn to them in sub-zero conditions. On brutally cold days, they easily accommodate a pair of briefs and half tights underneath.

I also appreciate the pants鈥� practical details. The side seam pockets are stealth but are large enough to hold a car fob, credit card, or phone. The side zippers extend to the top of the calf, making it easy to remove or pull on the pants without taking off your shoes on cold days. Full-length lateral reflective piping adds utility.

Yes, the Bisletts are pricey. But consider this: After thousands of miles in all that Maine winters have thrown at them, my pair from 2014 is as good as the Bisletts I got almost a decade later. That鈥檚 my definition of a good value.鈥擲cott Douglas, category manager, lead tester

Best Base Layer Top: Pinebury Portland LS Performance Tee ($108)

Sizing: XS – XXL

If you鈥檙e a merino wool-lover who hasn鈥檛 yet experienced Nuyarn, here鈥檚 the lowdown: Nuyarn is a two-ply strand of merino spun around a nylon core. Because the yarn isn鈥檛 twisted, as with standard merino/nylon knits, the merino fibers are better able to insulate and wick. The construction also leads to fabrics with five or more times the durability of conventional merino yarns. This U.S.-made shirt is a great example of what this new wool-nylon technology delivers. At 145 grams per square meter, the Portland Long Sleeve Tee is lighter than most midweight merino tops, but just as warm. The shirt hits at or just below the belt line, with a close but not clingy fit that enhances its breathability. We comfortably wore it as a base layer at temps below freezing and as a solo top into the low 50s Fahrenheit.

Bottom line: A soft but sturdy, light but warm, functional but fashionable staple

Best Top For Running and Everyday Life: Appalachian Gear Company 8020 Long Sleeve Tee ($102)

Sizing: Women’s XS-XL, Men’s S-XXL

No shirt we tested better straddled the divide between great performance on winter runs and comfort and good looks in everyday life. (Great colors!) Steve and I generally wore this top for a few days in our non-running hours, then used it for running for several days before washing. The all-natural-fiber mix of 80 percent alpaca wool and 20 percent Tencel has a slightly heavier feel than most midweight merino wool tops, yet remains soft and non-itchy鈥攑lus, like merino, it doesn鈥檛 absorb odors, even after several sweaty runs. The fit is snug enough for the top to work well on its own, but loose enough for it to be worn without constraint over a tighter base layer and to drape well as everyday wear. I watched in wonder on one snowy run as the flakes slowly melted on the shirt鈥檚 surface, but no external moisture reached my skin.

Bottom line: A true daily life/running hybrid that鈥檚 warm, comfortable, and attractive

Sponsor Content
Seirus Men’s Mapped Base Layer Top ($129.99) and Bottom ($119.99)

Crafted with precision, this base layer uses three carefully selected high-performance fabrics to enhance your wear experience. It delivers targeted warmth precisely where you need it most鈥攁ll while maintaining exceptional breathability in heat-prone zones thanks to the strategically placed Max Wick fabric. To keep you feeling fresh, the Polygiene antimicrobial mesh is positioned in the highest vent areas to ensure breathability. What truly sets this base layer in a league of its own is our exclusive Heatwave heat-reflective technology, where heat reflection and amplification combine as an unmatched powerhouse. Experience the perfect fit and the power of performance on any adventure that comes your way.

MVP: Rabbit Cocoon 2.0 ($125)

Sizing: S-XL

That鈥檚 鈥淢VP鈥� as in 鈥渕ost versatile piece.鈥� If this top were on a track team, it would be the guy who鈥檚 not a star in any one event but can run a good 800 meters, hold his own in any relay race, and score a point or two in a field event. The aptly named Cocoon has a soft, loose, built-in turtleneck that can be pulled into a hood, a face mask, or both. The body of the piece is 77 percent polyester/23 percent spandex with a fleece lining and semi-relaxed fit. It performed equally well whether worn as my only top in temperatures around freezing, as an outer layer when temps were in the teens, and as a mid layer on the most bracing Maine mornings.

Bottom line: Versatile top that might be worn in three ways within a week

Best Shell: Houdini The Orange Jacket ($300)

Sizing: XXS – XXL

A $300 jacket from a company named Houdini better have magical qualities, and this one does. It鈥檚 soft, breathable, waterproof, and incredibly light (a men鈥檚 large weighs less than 7 ounces). I returned from one Maine run in heavy snow to find the shirt I had on under the jacket was completely dry. Conversely, on a dry day with temps in the 20s, I could see the sweat that had been wicked to the jacket鈥檚 exterior, but not feel it inside. The fit is generous enough to accommodate two layers beneath, but close enough to keep the jacket from billowing. This was also the quietest weather-resistant jacket in the test, with weather-resistant exterior treatments. (FYI: The name comes from the jacket鈥檚 ability to tuck into itself to citrus-fruit size, not from its color. You can also buy The Orange Jacket in black or blue.)

Bottom line: A highly-functional, superlight shell that will make you feel invincible to the weather

Best Heavier Jacket: Fjallraven Keb Fleece Hoodie ($210)

Sizing: XS-XXL

What Fjallraven calls a mid layer for trekking, we call a surprisingly awesome outer layer for winter running. The polyester/wool/elastane blend is warm and breathable without being heavy. The fit is snug but allows full range of motion. The brushed interior provides just the right touch of coddling in the cold. The hood slid perfectly over a hat for the opening minutes of especially cold runs, and stayed put once I flipped it back. Because of the wool, snow melted on the exterior, rather than permeated the tight weave. I wore the Keb comfortably over a light merino long sleeve in single-digit temps. I even got a little toasty on one below-zero-windchill 90-minute run with this as my outer layer. Bonus: It became a staple of my non-running wardrobe once wintry weather receded thanks to its warmth-to-weight ratio and sleek good looks.

Bottom line: A warm zip-up that you鈥檒l also want to wear for less strenuous activities in warmer months

Best Underwear: Tracksmith Brighton Boxer Briefs ($48)

Sizing: S-XL

Take it from someone who has endured frostnip down there: Nothing is more important than a good pair of underwear when running in particularly harsh winter weather. Merino wool is a no-brainer for warmth, comfort, and moisture management, but that should be the starting point. Where these Tracksmith boxers shine is the attention to detail. Seamless construction greatly reduces the chances of being rubbed raw and holes developing. Durability is enhanced by the merino/nylon/elastane blend. 鈥淭hey contour everything really well, nothing feels restricted, but everything feels secure,鈥� Nathan said. I even became a boxers convert, because there鈥檚 just the right amount of give in the thigh to provide extra coverage without being constraining. Nathan and I wore these almost daily, from sub-zero temps up into the low 40s.

Bottom line: Supremely comfortable guard against the worst kind of frostbite

Best Tights: SaySky Blaze+ Winter Tights ($156)

Sizing: XS to XL

Of the nearly 15 classic-profile tights we tested, these Danish ones most often hit the Goldilocks just-right mark. They鈥檙e snug but not uncomfortably so, and warm into single-digit temps, but not too hot in the mid 30s. Jonathan noted that, 鈥渄espite the thicker weave, the tights didn鈥檛 affect mobility, breathed nicely when I got sweaty, and provided some comfortable compression. Plus, the soft and warm feel of the interior against my skin helped me get out the door in blizzard conditions.鈥� The external side pockets are great for stashing a hat or gaiter mid-run.

Bottom line: Protective but not restrictive tights that perform well in a wide range of conditions and paces

Best Leggings: Minus 33 Woolverino Midweight Flyless Running Tights ($85)

Sizing: S-XXL

These no-nonsense leggings are one of the best values of any item we tested. For less than $100, you get as much quality, comfort, and performance as you would in bottoms costing twice as much. The 85 percent merino wool/13 percent nylon/2 percent spandex weave is soft but sturdy. 鈥淭he fit is loose and comfortable, but not baggy,鈥� Jonathan said. 鈥淭hey never got in the way, but my legs didn鈥檛 feel like constrained sausages like they can in tights.鈥� As for performance, I wore them comfortably on the coldest day of our testing, when the windchill was鈥攚ait for it鈥攎inus 33. Yet Jonathan also found them to be breathable up to 50 degrees if not working too hard. Our main wish for improvement is an outer pocket for stashing gloves, a hat, or phone. (There鈥檚 a small internal pocket that can accommodate a credit card or car fob.) But at this price point, it鈥檚 hard to complain.

Bottom line: Top performance and comfort at a moderate price

Best Thicker Socks: Walter Sky Merino Wool Athletic Sock ($23)

Sizing: Men’s 6-10, Men’s 11-13

It can be tricky to find the right socks for running on really cold days. Your inclination might be to wear the thickest socks you have. But those don鈥檛 always fit comfortably inside your running shoes. These Nuyarn socks (40 percent merino/20 percent nylon/40 percent Lycra) solve the problem: Extra cushioning in the heel and ball of the foot is offset by a lighter mesh elsewhere to produce a medium-thick fit with an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. The mid-calf length stays in place throughout runs. These were my go-to socks on the many single-digit-temp-or-colder days of a Maine winter.

Bottom line: Warm enough for the coldest days without confining your feet

Best Thinner Socks: On Performance High Sock ($25)

Sizing: S-XXL

Even when temps aren鈥檛 bitingly cold, most winter runners appreciate a little extra coverage from their socks. These beauties from On, made of a snug but uber-comfortable 90 percent recycled polyester weave, extend just over the bottom of your calves. They were our top choice for workout days, given that many racing shoes and performance trainers have a closer fit than standard running shoes. They kept our feet plenty warm down into temperatures in the teens. Finally, these are simply great-looking socks, with fun patterns and nice color combos, and we enjoyed showing them off when it came time to run in shorts.

Bottom line: A stay-put, partial-calf-covering sock you鈥檒l want to wear year-round

Best Neck Gaiter: Skida Snow Tour ($24)

Sizing: One size

A good gaiter is a godsend. It keeps your neck warm, of course (and therefore the rest of you, thanks to the carotid artery). It can also cover your lower face on especially brutal days, and can convert to a headband or open-top hat on mild days. Skida鈥檚 heaviest version is 92 percent polyester/8 percent spandex, with a brushed interior to prevent chafing. We happily wore it in every conceivable way throughout the winter. We also appreciated its UPF 50+ rating and that it鈥檚 made in Vermont.

Bottom line: Versatile neck chute that can fill many roles over the course of a winter

Best Light Hat: Artilect Darkhorse Skully Beanie ($35)

Sizing: One size

Many runners don鈥檛 need (or want) a thick, heavy hat for their winter miles. Even those in harsh climes like to have a lighter alternative on moderate days. This beanie kept us comfy in temps to the low 20s, but didn鈥檛 overheat us on sunny, above-freezing late-winter runs. The fit is dialed in鈥攕nug, but with just enough give that it doesn鈥檛 feel like a skull cap. The merino wool/nylon yarn is soft and smooth, quickly moved sweat to the surface for evaporation, and didn鈥檛 smell even when worn often enough to form salt lines.

Bottom line: Great fit, comfort, and warmth-to-weight ratio in a lightweight lid

Best Heavy Hat: Ciele Athletics VNT Beanie ($75)

Sizing: One size

鈥淭he Ciele thick-ribbed beanie was wonderful,鈥� Nicholas said, after wearing it through a Montana winter. I agree! Made of a 90 percent merino wool/10 percent silk knit, the hat is form-fitting, not bulky, and oh so soft. Nicholas and I felt invincible wearing it in temperatures in the teens and lower. The rib-knit construction has sewn-in vents that kept our heads from getting too hot and sweaty during harder runs. Nicholas described it as 鈥渙ne of the best hybrid items,鈥� that 鈥渃an work both as performance wear and something to take to the caf茅.鈥� Once again, I agree.

Bottom line: Great-looking, warm watchman鈥檚 cap that鈥檚 snug without being confining

Best Gloves: Soar Winter Gloves ($50)

Sizing: S, M, L

If your winter running doesn鈥檛 merit mittens, these might be the only gloves you鈥檒l need. The Soar Winter Running Glove has a fleece lining, breathable outer layer, cuffs that extend about an inch past the wrist, and touch screen compatibility. They鈥檙e plenty warm into temps in the low teens, but also not hot into the low 40s. 鈥淭he fit is really dialed in鈥攜es, even for a glove鈥攁nd the material is a great match between stretch and soft,鈥� Nathan said. 鈥淭hey felt like performance gloves and stayed out of the way while keeping my hands warm.鈥�

Bottom line: A versatile glove for runners in moderate climates

Best Mittens: Rab Xenon Mitt ($55)

Sizing: XS-XL

These are the best mittens I鈥檝e ever run in. Others that kept my hands warm enough were too bulky for normal arm action, bumping against my hips with each swing, and sometimes got too hot. Those that didn鈥檛 interfere with my form didn鈥檛 keep my hands much warmer than gloves would have. The Xenons are the best of both worlds in single-digit-and-below temps. PrimaLoft insulation is covered on the back by a weather-resistant Pertex shield. The smooth, palm-side fabric doesn鈥檛 irritate when you wipe your face with it. The mittens are pliable enough they can be packed into themselves, and conform comfortably to your hands when you run in them. I also appreciated how the elastic cinch at the wrist seals in warmth while making it easy to pull the remaining inch-plus of the cuff over garments or to peel the cuff back to check my watch.

Bottom line: A light but super-warm, comfortable mitten that allows normal running form

Best Gift: Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Merino Wool Hoodie ($85)

Sizing: 齿厂鈥�3齿尝

Our criteria for this category: Something you might not consider a core piece but that, once you have it, you find yourself wearing again and again. This thin, light (115 grams per square meter) Nuyarn top is made of a soft, 58-percent merino wool/42-percent nylon blend. It fits closely but not tightly. It鈥檚 great for running, either on its own on mild days or over a long-sleeve top on cooler ones. I also wore it often for daily life, both indoors in the winter or as a light pullover on warm spring days. Whether you gift it to someone else or yourself is up to you.

Bottom line: Who wouldn鈥檛 love to receive a versatile, high-performing, attractive merino hoodie?

How to Buy

Dressing for winter running can be tricky because of the great range of conditions you can face. Here are some tips on how to focus your wardrobe-gathering efforts.

Love the layers: Think in terms of layers of clothing that will wick sweat (base layer), keep you warm (mid layer), and keep exterior moisture from reaching your skin or block the wind (outer layer). Adjust as necessary for the day鈥檚 conditions. Here鈥檚 a detailed tutorial on layering.

Shop to your local norms: When I lived in Maryland, I focused on having a good collection of light- to medium-weight tops, and few thick, insulated shirts or jackets. I figured I could cobble together an adequate outfit on the handful of bitterly cold days. Apply that principle to whatever is typical for your winter running weather, rather than, for example, getting a blizzard-ready jacket or superlight gloves that you鈥檒l wear only a few times a year.

Invest in quality: If possible, be willing to spend more up front for top-quality construction and fabrics. Ultimately, you鈥檒l save money by having apparel that鈥檚 as good as new after several years instead of frequently buying replacements because more cheaply made ones keep developing holes or falling apart at the seams. Also, higher-quality materials will feel and perform better, and isn鈥檛 your running worth that?

Consider your colors: Many winter running pieces are dark, in part because they better absorb the warmth from weak sunlight. Dark colors also help you stand out in areas with months of roadside snow. But winter running can also mean more miles in the dark. If that鈥檚 what your schedule requires, look for apparel with reflective elements.

And once you鈥檝e shopped: Dress for how warm you鈥檒l be 15 minutes into your run. It鈥檚 better to be a little chilly for a little while than too warm for too long. An exception: If you鈥檙e planning to run for less than half an hour on a miserable weather day, pamper yourself and overdress if that鈥檚 what it takes to get out the door.

How We Tested

• Number of testers: 7
• Number of brands tested: 44
• Number of items tested: 135
• Number of testing miles: 1905
• Lowest testing temperature: -15 Fahrenheit
• Lowest testing wind chill: -33 Fahrenheit

We assembled a band of dedicated runners spread over a wide range of winter climates鈥擟hicago, Seattle, coastal Maine, the mountains of Montana, the high plains of Nebraska, upper Minnesota, and the middle of Maryland. (Sorry to our comrades in New Orleans, but 鈥淭his might be one of the five days a year I need long sleeves鈥� wasn鈥檛 the testing weather we were looking for.)

Our testers had a simple charge: Do as much of your running outside in this gear as possible. Be willing to get cold, wet, iced-over, and windblown. Report back on which pieces kept you the most comfortable while not interfering with your running form.

Versatility and durability were focal points. The items below performed exceptionally well in a great range of conditions and showed little to no signs of wear, which means you can wear them more often and have to buy fewer pieces.

While this is a running-focused review, many of our winners are great for non-running activities. Whether that non-running use comes in intense winter activities like skiing or climbing, or for more leisurely pursuits, every new use adds chits in the value and versatility score of the apparel.

Meet the Testers

Scott Douglas, Lead Tester:

I started running as a middle schooler in 1979 and have done more than 125,000 miles since. I was pretty good decades ago鈥�30:48 10K, 68:40 half marathon鈥攂ut have always run primarily because I love it. I run every day unless I鈥檓 injured, and I always run outside, either despite of or because of living in Maine. Even a slippery, sloppy, snowy run is more enjoyable to me than waiting out the time on a treadmill. In my late 50s, I run about 3,000 miles a year and am now most drawn to trail ultras.

I鈥檓 fortunate to be able to combine my love of running with my professional life. I鈥檝e held senior editorial positions at Runner鈥檚 World and elsewhere, and have written or co-written several popular running books, including Advanced Marathoning, Meb for Mortals, Running is My Therapy, and Strong Minds.

Our Other Testers Were:

Jonathan Beverly: Senior running gear editor for 国产吃瓜黑料, 40+ years running, lives in western Nebraska

Nathan Brown: Doctor of physical therapy and head of Pineries Running Lab, lives in Wisconsin

Greg Crowther: College instructor in anatomy and physiology, winner of JFK 50-miler and other ultras, lives in Washington

Steve Kartalia: Two-time Olympic Trials qualifier, 40+ years running, lives in Maryland

Matt Krecun: Marathoner since the 1990s, 3:31 at 2023 Boston at age 51, lives in Illinois

Nicholas Triolo: Senior editor for 国产吃瓜黑料 and Trail Runner, lived in Montana during winter testing

The post The Best 惭别苍鈥檚 Winter Running Apparel 2024 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Personally, I need a high dose of nature in every season, maybe even more聽during the short days of winter. I don鈥檛 despise the treadmill鈥攊t鈥檚 a great workout tool. I despise the notion that you 肠补苍鈥檛 run outside on trails in cold, windy, snowy, downright nasty weather. So I head out, regardless of the forecast.

Enjoying my Boulder, Colorado, trails in the cold months often means exploring winter wonderlands: snow-capped pine trees and open fields painted white where my dog and I can bound about, laughing in the face of adverse temperatures. It鈥檚 good for the soul. And when it鈥檚 not holiday-card perfect outside, it鈥檚 still worth kitting up and heading to the dirt. Gutting out a run under gray skies, amidst a dreary drizzle or headwind, can make me feel alive and strong enough to do anything.

Plus, there鈥檚 no bad weather, only bad gear, right? No bad gear, here. As the weather turned colder last fall, I gathered dozens of high-performance products from a range of companies that focus their running goods on trail runners. That鈥檚 not to say that roadies 肠补苍鈥檛 wear any of these items and benefit from their features, but some of their design elements are best appreciated when going off-road. Stretchy fabrics lend themselves particularly well to the ups and downs of trail running, durable materials fend off snags on rocks and branches, and versatility鈥攍ike a stashable shell or 2-N-1 gloves鈥攕erve the trail鈥檚 stop-and-start patterns and variable conditions. Plus, all these items have muted colors, styled more for outdoor sports culture than the often flashy road running vibe.

For winter trail running, long tights and/or pants are essential, and having both gives you three options: just tights, just pants, or pants over tights, depending on weather and conditions. On top, a wicking baselayer is key, as is a warmer, insulating layer, and an outer layer that protects from wet and cold weather. Note the multiple mentions of the word 鈥渓ayer.鈥� With the variability of trail running in particular鈥攊nto the woods, up on a ridge, out into a sun-exposed meadow鈥攂eing able to shed or don layers mid-run makes for a comfortable outing overall.

After running in all of the products on a variety of terrains and weather conditions, here are the pieces that rose to the top and will get me through this winter.

Icebreaker Merino Fastray High Rise Tights ($120)

Sometimes it takes a cozy pair of pants to get out the door, and these 97% Merino wool, 3% Lycra tights do the job. I love how I can wear them all day, for running errands or working, and for busting out a run, lifting weights or doing yoga at any moment. They keep me warm on their own in temps down to 20 degrees鈥攃older than that and the breathability begs for an outer layer. They鈥檙e slim enough to slide underneath a shell like the Craft Pro Hydro Pants (below) for extra protection from the cold.

Craft 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 Pro Hydro Pants ($140)

In rotten (aka: fun!) weather, these pants with their windproof and waterproof front side and elastic jersey backside shield the elements while also offering breathability. And when it鈥檚 single digits or colder, I layer the Icebreaker tights underneath these thin but protective pants for no-excuses outings. I love the flat, wide waistband, the loose-in-the-right-places fit, and the monochromatic styling. Plus, the Pro Hydro Pants, like the Rab jacket (below), stretch to allow full mobility over steep rock scrambles. Zippered side pockets make them look like casual pants, while stealth zippers at the leg openings add to their prowess as a layer.

Smartwool 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew ($110)

Part of the beauty of winter running apparel is that, if you shop wisely, your running clothes can do double-, triple-, or quadruple duty. This good-looking, versatile top works great on its own in temps up to 35藲-40藲 or so (depending on how hot/cold you run). It breathes and insulates well with temperature-regulating, 100% Merino wool. In colder conditions, it feels great under a jacket or a second shirt (like the聽 Stio hoodie below), as it鈥檚 soft against the skin and does that great breathable-wool thing. I鈥檝e also worn it as a snowboarding base layer, as a thin sweatshirt-like casual layer, and over a tank on runs that started cold and ended warm.

Stio 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 Freemont Stretch Fleece Hoodie ($169)

Part shirt, part midlayer, part casual-wear hoodie, this versatile stretch nylon blend piece comes in handy on multiple occasions. On a snowy run that started off at 20 degrees I wore it over the Smatwool base layer, then tied it around my waist when the temps increased. On a blustery run in the 30-degree range, I wore it over a thin synthetic baselayer and pulled the hood snug around my head to block the wind. The zippered pocket comfortably carries light items (like a car key or a poop bag for my dog), and the styling, paired with sweats or jeans, lends itself to lounging when not on a run. The brushed interior feels soft directly against the skin, allowing this piece to be worn on its own, to boot.

Rab 奥辞尘别苍鈥檚 Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Jacket ($200)

A waterproof, breathable outer shell is invaluable for winter running adventures. This one from Rab meets all the requirements and also has a few well-thought-out details that make me love it. The four-way stretch material鈥攁 three-layer recycled polyester stretch knit with a polyurethane membrane鈥攎oves with me (why 肠补苍鈥檛 all jackets be stretchy?), and the adjustable hood with a small visor protects from gnarly wind gusts and squalls. A cinch cord at the waist keeps cold air from infiltrating from the bottom, while a single snap closure and tab at chest-level allows unzipping and ventilating without the jacket flopping. At 9 ounces, I can stash the jacket in a pack without noticing the weight.

Ultimate Direction Ultra Flip Gloves ($40)

I love the instant and simple coziness of a straight-up mitten (like the ), but having a pair of dexterous, breathable gloves and weatherproof mitts all in one is highly functional for the variable needs of trail running. Nylon/polyurethane fleece gloves with finger and thumb pads allow touchscreen capability for mid-run pics, checking navigation, or answering the phone, and the material also provides warmth in cool to cold temps while venting excess heat and moisture. When the wind or cold kicks into high gear, the Cordura shell material stored away in the cuff pulls over the gloves for extra warmth. And while most 2-in-1 mitts only pull over four fingers, the shell on the Ultra Flip Gloves covers the thumb, too.

Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Pattern Cuff Beanie ($30)

For runs in rain or falling snow, I rely on the brim of a trucker hat like the under the hood of a jacket to keep my eyes clear. But for the majority of winter trail runs, I seek the lightweight, breathable warmth of a good beanie, like this soft, 100% merino pick. I can pull the cuff down low around my ears when I need the warmth, or fold it up when seeking ventilation. And when I don鈥檛 need it at all鈥攊f temps, or I, get too hot mid-run鈥擨 can easily stash it in my pack, the waistband of my pants, or even a (large) pocket. I also love that it鈥檚 reversible and that the styling doesn鈥檛 scream, 鈥淚鈥檓 a running hat!鈥�

The post Here鈥檚 the Running Gear That Keeps Me Comfortable in Colorado All Winter聽 appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Apparel made of 100 percent merino wool is great for winter activity鈥攗ntil it isn鈥檛. It insulates, wicks, and dries admirably, as well as mitigates odors鈥攗p to the day your fingers pop through the tops of gloves. Or shirts and leggings develop random holes and start opening at the seams. Even your favorite hat might sprout unwanted ventilation spots. Those wardrobe malfunctions can happen suddenly, and often too soon after purchasing.

But now that we鈥檙e several years into merino gone mainstream, brands have found creative methods to make it more robust. For the last three months I鈥檝e been running, hiking, canoeing, and doing yardwork in cold-weather gear that combines merino with other fabrics to increase durability. Here are five keepers.

Ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve 1/4 Zip ($135)

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A key way to improve merino鈥檚 durability is to wrap merino fibers around a nylon core. Doing so can increase abrasion resistance by 30 percent or more while maintaining merino鈥檚 moisture-wicking magic.

Ibex鈥檚 quarter-zip baselayer top鈥攎ade of 81 percent merino, 12 percent nylon, and seven percent elastane鈥攊s an exemplar of this approach. At 180 grams per square meter (gsm), it鈥檚 light enough for warmish fall and spring days, but heavy enough to wear throughout the winter. The fit is close, but not so tight that I couldn鈥檛 wear it as a midlayer over a tee shirt.

Kora Yushu Leggings ($130)

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These super-soft and toasty (230 gsm) leggings blend merino (40 percent) with yak wool (60 percent). The latter has an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio, while merino shoulders the moisture-management work. High-wear areas, such as the crotch, are made stronger by merino that鈥檚 spun around a nylon core. The seams, while double-stitched to enhance durability, are flat鈥擨 experienced no irksome irritations when running in the leggings.

Kora garments fit close to the skin, seemingly no matter how skinny you are. (I鈥檓 5鈥�9鈥�, 128 pounds.) They also tend to be long. With a 30-inch inseam, I had a couple of extra inches of leggings to account for, which I rolled up from the bottom.

Tracksmith Brighton Briefs ($48)

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This is my 19th winter as a Maine runner who doesn鈥檛 do treadmills. Translation: If there鈥檚 one piece of non-negotiable, gotta-be-merino apparel for me, it鈥檚 running underwear. Unfortunately, merino is especially vulnerable to developing tears at seams. All previous briefs I鈥檝e worn for this purpose have quickly disintegrated. I have three pairs of聽100 percent merino briefs that are almost literally hanging by a thread from the waistband.

These Tracksmith briefs avoid that drawback with a seamless construction. Durability is also enhanced by the 66 percent merino, 32 percent nylon, two percent elastane blend. I鈥檝e run as long as 34 miles in them and can pay them the ultimate compliment: I forgot I had them on.Tracksmith also makes a boxer version for men.

Artilect Eldorado Gloves ($55) and Walrus Beanie ($40)

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I became a Nuyarn devotee over the summer, when I learned how this innovative merino construction performs so much better in heat than conventional merino. Now that it鈥檚 winter, I鈥檓 appreciating other Nuyarn attributes, including its warmth-to-weight ratio and durability.

Nuyarn is an ingredient brand a la Gore-Tex fabric or BOA lacing systems. As with many other blends, Nuyarn consists of merino fibers spun around a nylon core. But there鈥檚 a crucial difference: In most treatments, single-ply merino fibers are twisted into a rope-like structure. But because merino fibers aren鈥檛 of uniform length, they don鈥檛 always align perfectly. This can lead to thin areas that are susceptible to abrasion. In contrast, Nuyarn is a two-ply yarn that isn鈥檛 twisted. In abrasion tests that simulate repeated wear, Nuyarn fabrics have had five or more times the durability of conventional merino yarns.

Over the years, merino gloves and mittens have frustrated me even more than merino underwear. Few have survived even one winter of snot rocketing, drip catching, mouth wiping, wet-mid-run-removal tugging, and all the other abuse that accompanies hours outside in the cold. Artilect鈥檚 Eldorado gloves, which I鈥檝e also used for extensive yardwork, appear up to the durability challenge. And they also perform fantastically in temperature management. My hands have stayed warm when temps were in the teens, thanks to the gloves being a hardy 310 gsm, yet didn鈥檛 overheat when I wore them on runs where the temperature climbed into the high 40s.

Merino hats are also frequently underwhelming. I鈥檓 a heavy sweater whose hats can get soaked even in sub-freezing weather; a few errant tugs can lead to moist merino ripping. I鈥檝e had no such issues with this 250-gsm, waffleknit beanie. As with Artilect鈥檚 gloves, it quickly dissipates perspiration and remains comfortable in a huge temperature range.

The post I Finally Found Merino Winter Gear That Doesn鈥檛 Fall Apart in a Year appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

I struggle running in circles, but I鈥檝e realized that says more about me than the concrete.

For a trail runner, someone who prides herself on exploring the expanses of the outdoors, I judge myself when forced to migrate out of the snowed-in high country like a migrating elk and succumb to the dry valleys below in search of safety and鈥he unsexy sidewalk.

Winter route choice is all about creativity. Not in the classic sense, as in Picasso or Proust, but in the manner that someone on a desert island might attempt to befriend a basketball. You work with, and celebrate, what you have.聽

My hometown of Carbondale, Colorado is buried in enough snow each winter to force most of us to become connoisseurs of concrete. Having spent the spring inviting peaking greens, all summer squinting across a singed expanse, and the fall celebrating the leafy explosion, each winter I relearn how to appreciate the gradations between smoke, cool ash, slate, pewter and pearl.

Socked in all winter aside from skiing, those snow-covered alpine ridgelines tug at my gut from afar. Though the grimy sidewalk might not celebrate as flamboyant, tracing the circumference of a hibernating manicured lawn an acute question stopped me in my tracks mid-run.

Why wasn鈥檛 I able to value this outdoor space for what it offers? What makes the sidewalk feel so鈥ost, compared to the scrub forest it used to be?

Possibly because these spaces are what poet/essayist Gary Snyder described as 鈥溾�榥atural鈥� but not 鈥渨ild鈥� in his essay collection, . They provide a habitat, but only for a very specific type of wildlife: humans.聽

鈥淲ilderness is a place where the wild potential is fully expressed,鈥� he asserted, 鈥渁 diversity of living and nonliving beings flourishing according to their own sorts of order.鈥�

We鈥檝e all known a 鈥渢rail runner鈥� who resolutely refuses to run on roads. If you don鈥檛 know that person, it鈥檚 likely you are that person. He is lurking in the comment section right now, ready to demonstrate the purity of his connection to the trail and vilify anyone who might dare to claim that fun, joy or even sublime connection can be found on the suburban sidewalk or bike path through the park. But aren鈥檛 there pitfalls in attaching an athlete鈥檚 identity to experiencing the 鈥渞ight kinds鈥� of wildness?

My first winter living in the Rocky Mountains, I scraped together enough money to join the Aspen rec center, a sheltered retreat from the blustering snowstorms that made this southern gal wonder why anyone would choose to live in such a place.聽

Unaccustomed to living in a town so snowy that avalanche charges regularly echoed through the narrow valley, I retreated to the warm, dry safety of the rec center鈥檚 treadmill. Situated near a wall-sized window that overlooked Maroon Creek, I plodded along to the smooth, artificial rhythm of the belt, gazing out at the beauty of that valley day after day.聽

Alone on my mechanized hamster wheel, I became keenly aware of the small comings and goings just outside that window. The regulars included a nuthatch, extravagantly puffed against the cold. He would flit across the thin branch of a pine tree, whose boughs waved in a friendly, constant hello. Deer would wander from the creekbed, their steady gaze an amicable acknowledgment. Occasionally, a pair of beady black eyes would wink in the bright snow, and the delicate powder would move just enough to trace the slender outline of an ermine.聽

I realized what made me feel part of the wild was not physical proximity, but emotional. The intimate connections I formed with my wintery tableau from the treadmill felt as real and important as any experience on the trail. I became more familiar with that patch of snowy creekbed than many people ever would, and even worried when my nuthatch friend failed to report for pine-branch duty (If you鈥檙e reading this, please reach out).聽

The treadmill window allowed me to become what Ralph Waldo Emerson called the 鈥渢ransparent eyeball鈥� in his essay, 鈥�.鈥�

I am nothing, I see all.聽

After Colorado thawed and I ended my brief but intense fling with the treadmill window, I was back on the sidewalks, resolved to run while more aware of the nature unfolding around me by collapsing the space between wilderness and me.聽

Now I see the bouquet of moss and fungi that grow in the cracks in the sidewalk. I make eye contact with deer when they scamper across the street. I befriend the spider living in the corner of my apartment because he鈥檚 wild too, and to deny the wild out there is to deny the wild in us as well, according to Snyder.

鈥淥ur bodies are wild. The involuntary quick turn of the head at a shout, the vertigo at looking off a precipice, the heart-in-the-throat in a moment of danger, the catch of the breath, the quiet moments relaxing, staring, reflecting 鈥� all universal responses of this mammal body.鈥�

We carry the wild with us, in us. Disconnecting from that led to the lack of wholeness I felt looking up at the Colorado wilderness from my sidewalk refuge.聽

Snyder would call the development of that humility a practice because it demands it. Similar to a new strength routine, or a pre-race visualization, cultivating the habit of noticing the confident posture of a rook on its telephone pole perch takes focus, intent and repetition.

This demands turning attention toward the rustle of grass that says you aren鈥檛 running solo or the shallow pawprint that shows you aren鈥檛 the only critter perfecting their strides. Each run offers an opportunity to broaden our understanding of what wildness is, and connect with it in and around ourselves.聽

Perhaps the sidewalk doldrums are due less to the monochrome concrete as the decline in our ability to appreciate the wilderness that exists between the cracks, and that exists in us.聽 It鈥檚 one thing to value a majestic vista worthy of posting on Instagram, something more subtle to celebrate the subtlety of snowy sidewalk.聽

My hope for this winter is that it unwinds the false dichotomy of what is tame and what is wild. That it collapses my sense of distance between intimate experiences of wildness in the woods and nature out on suburban daily runs.聽

The value of this practice less might feel less obvious than workouts intended to increase your aerobic capacity, but athletes, as animals, need seasons as well. Summer strength is harnessed through winter nadir.聽

Aldo Leopold famously highlighted the importance of considering all aspects of an ecosystem in his essay Thinking Like A Mountain, but I think it could also be useful to learn to think like a sidewalk. By discarding romantic ideals of nature, of what is natural, and instead simply trying and learning to connect with what is.聽

Sidewalks, treadmills and trails: all can be paths to connection if we鈥檙e willing to be open to the subtlety of winter.

Zo毛 Rom is Editor in Chief at Trail Runner.聽

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