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Happy Feet: Review: Winter Running Shoes

To help runners navigate through the snow, slush and ice, we review nine pairs of running shoes.

Canadians running outside in the winter face a variety of conditions throughout the season, depending on where they live and what kind of running they’re doing. The weather can sometimes change in the middle of a run, going from soft-packed snow to deep slush. To help runners navigate through the snow, slush and ice, we’ve reviewed nine pairs of running shoes, each of which will suit certain conditions and specific types of runners. Choose the ones that match the weather in your area and the kind of terrain you’ll be covering. If you’re running on snow or ice, select a model with more traction. If you think you need protection against moisture, look for shoes with waterproof uppers.

::GEARBOX
MT910GT – $170
New Balance (Waterproof) Men’s 420 grams (14.8 oz) / Women’s 323g (11.4 oz)
37119

Canadian runners can take comfort that the shoe’s entire midsole is lined with Abzorb FL Anti-Freeze EVA foam that will maintain its cushioning in sub-zero weather. You’ll feel totally secure in the 910’s PL-1 last, solid heel counter, aggressive overlays, hard-rubber toe-counter and flexible Rock Stop plate underfoot. A Gore-Tex XCR lining will keep your feet dry while allowing perspiration to escape. This is a great choice for runners who want a good level of winter protection in a lightweight package.

::GEARBOX
Razor 3 – $180
Saucony (Waterproof) Men’s 394g (13.9 oz) / Women’s 354g (12.5 oz)
37122

Slip on a pair of Razor 3s for maximum winter protection right up above the ankles. No need to buy extra gaiters to keep out the snow and cold – these have an integrated, zippered, weather-resistant gaiter to keep out any wet snow or ice and the waterproof inner shoe prevents soakers while still letting perspiration escape. The Vibram outsole has an aggressive series of sharp lugs to keep your footing stable, but the treads still have a low enough profile for running on pavement. The interior features a pull-tab lacing system for easy adjustment with gloved hands. This is an excellent winter-specific shoe for runners who want to take their foot protection to a higher level.

::GEARBOX
Zoom Structure Triax+ 13 GTX – $165
Nike (Waterproof) Men’s 310 g (11 oz) / Women’s 281g (9.9 oz)
37120

These well-cushioned and supportive trail runners keep feet dry and comfortable with waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex uppers, while also delivering a plush and stable ride thanks to the generously cushioned midsole. The lugs aren’t too aggressive, so it’s not an ideal shoe for very rough terrain, but runners looking for a waterproof shoe with an exceptional combination of pronation control and cushioning will love the feel of the Triax+ 13 GTX.

::GEARBOX
XT Wings 2 GTX – $180
Salomon (Waterproof) Men’s 385 g (13.6 oz) / Women’s 348 g (12.3 oz)
37123

For the waterproof version of its vaunted XT Wings 2, Salomon adds a waterproof/breathable Gore-Tex membrane to this versatile trail running shoe. A gusseted tongue keeps water and snow from permeating the top of the shoe and the innovative easy-cinch lacing system makes it a breeze to fasten with cold hands. The new triple-density EVA midsole is lighter and offers more cushioning than what was found in the previous version of the XT Wings. The car-tire-inspired Contagrip tread provides extra traction in wet and sloppy conditions. With the XT Wings 2 GTX, you can enjoy winter running in a variety of conditions from road to trail.

::GEARBOX
Kanadia TR 3 – $130
Adidas (Waterproof) Men’s 335g (11.8 oz) / Women’s 335g (11.8 oz)
37116

The Kanadia’s rugged outsole draws immediate attention with a series of half-moon-shaped studs that provide superior grip on muddy or slushy roads or trails. The same lug pattern is cleverly reversed in the heel section, offering traction on slippery descents. A waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex upper keeps feet dry and warm, while the adiPrene cushioning in the heel and injected EVA in the midsole combine to offer durable and consistent all-weather cushioning.

::GEARBOX
Gel-Arctic 3 WR – $150
Asics (Water Resistant) Men’s 388 g (13.7 oz) / Women’s 309 g (10.9 oz)
37117

Forget about slipping on ice with these studded winter shoes from Asics. Ten stainless-steel pins protrude from the outsole to keep you on your feet, whether you’re running on soft-packed snow or a frozen river or lake. The addition of Asics’ GEL Cushioning System provides a smooth ride while the DuoMax midsole material corrects pronation depending on the velocity of impact. Water-resistant uppers keep the feet dry and allow perspiration to quickly escape. Run worry-free this winter with these shoes – just be careful wearing them inside if you have hardwood floors.

::GEARBOX
ProGrid Xodus 2.0 – $150
Saucony (Water Resistant) Men’s 345 g (12.2 oz) / Women’s 300 g (10.6 oz)
37121

An attractive and comfortable trail shoe, the Xodus 2.0 remains relatively unchanged from its successful debut last year and is worth considering as a winter training shoe. The upper is a bit softer due to the addition of welded overlays, but the rest of the shoe stays true to the original design. A grippy Vibram outsole delivers exceptional traction and some push-through protection against rocks or other objects that might be hidden under the snow. A road shoe-like upper and nimble ride make this a good option for runners who want a winter shoe with some grip and protection, but nothing too overbuilt.

::GEARBOX
isoSeek IV – $180
Pearl Izumi (Water Resistant) Men’s 363 g (12.8 oz) / Women’s 315 g (11.1 oz)
37124

With their smooth, responsive and stable ride weather-resistant uppers and grippy tread, the isoSeek IVs adapt well from trail to winter running conditions. The seamless upper repels snow and blocks wind and the shoe has a smooth friction-fighting interior for increased comfort on long runs. The new Ortholite sockliner makes the foot feel right at home, while crash pads at the heel cushion the impact of pounding down snowy roads or trails. A responsive trail shoe for runners seeking comfort and performance in the winter.

::GEARBOX
Adrenaline ASR 7 – $160
Brooks (Water Resistant) Men’s 323 g (11.4 oz) / Women’s 275 g (9.7 oz)
37118

A great trail shoe to take on winter runs, the ASR 7 has the same upper design as the Adrenaline road shoe, but with an added weatherproof upper for protection against and wet and windy conditions. The trail version is equipped with Brooks’s environmentally friendly BioMoGo midsole, while the outsole is beefed-up with moderately chunky lugs for stability in slippery conditions. The progressive pronation control runs from heel to midfoot with the softest material absorbing the landing and firmer inserts closer to the arch. This is an ideal option for runners who want to keep the speedy road shoe feel in the winter, but need a shoe with better traction and improved weather protection.

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