Running in the Snow: The Top 5 Pieces of Gear You Need

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About VJ Shoes

September 19, 2020 4 min read

We use running as a de-stressor, there’s nothing better than that feeling after a great run. But as the days get cooler and snow is right around the corner, our runs look different. Your smooth stride turns into a slippery slope as your feet hit the ground filled with ice. But, just because it’s snowing out doesn’t mean you can’t run outside! You just need some prior planning and preparation; here are our best tips, tricks and gear for you to tackle this tricky terrain.

It’s important to note that running on the snow will be different than running on ice or slush. Both require more energy, so you need to be proactive about your route, stride, and pace in order to run and train effectively. Runs in the cold and snow are not going to be as fast as your regular training sessions. But the up-side to running in the snow is that it will test your strength, balance and focus as an athlete. Be careful when approaching runs where the snow turns to ice, as this could be dangerous.

While on your snow run, you should pay attention to detail and look ahead at your route to see where the twists and turns are, and where any holes in the trail might be. Focus on your stride for quicker steps to stabilize your stance and gain traction against the terrain. But all in all, do what feels right for you without risking an injury!

Here’s our reference guide for layering your running gear in the cold and snow:

40–49 degrees: A long sleeve shirt, shorts or leggings

30–39 degrees: A long sleeve shirt, leggings, gloves (optional), a hat to cover your ears (optional)

20–29 degrees: A long sleeve running shirt layered with a jacket, leggings (potentially thermal), gloves, a headband or hat to cover your ears

10–19 degrees: A long sleeve running shirt layered with a jacket, thick or thermal leggings, gloves, a headband or hat to cover your ears, sneakers with extra tread (optional)

0–9 degrees: Two-layered workout shirts, a windbreaker jacket, thermal leggings, gloves, a headband or hat, a ski mask or layer to cover your face

Best Winter Running Gear: Our Top 5 Recommendations

Even though you might need to switch up your stride or the route you take, don’t let those obstacles stop you! Here’s our ultimate guide for the best gear to use trekking through those training sessions.

1) Best Jacket

Vigor Hybrid Hooded Jacket: Women's, Men's

This jacket is ideal for really cold weather, with wind/water-resistance on the chest, and sleeves with a heavy and durable material for optimum warmth. But the best part is the hood stays in place for the whole run and provides neck protection as well. The fit is snug to the body- you can layer this jacket with a base layer and second shirt.

2) Best Hat

Asics Fleece Beanie

This hat is made of fleece fabric that rests softly against your head while regulating body temperature. It has that perfect stretch fabric to secure a fit without slipping around. There’s also a reflective logo on the front to increase visibility in low-light conditions.

3) Best Gloves

Venta Mitten

This pair of mittens is essential for the snow- this company uses Infinium material to provide a windproof barrier that’s breathable, lightweight, and exceptionally warm. This mitten has a polyester lining that keeps the outer, colder air from going in. It keeps the warm air in and is touchscreen-compatible so you’ll be able to change your playlist no problem throughout your run.

4) Best Tights

When it comes to running in the snow, tights are a must. You can layer them or wear them by themselves, when it gets to the extreme freezing temps you’ll want to add an additional layer.

Fleece-lined tights: This is a great option if you would just want to wear them as themselves or under a pair of running shorts. The fleece lining helps you keep warm and keep the sweat away.

Nike Women's Pro Hyperwarm Training Tights, Nike Men's Base Layer Training Tights

Layering tights: A base layering tight is usually very thin and lightweight. They are different from compression tights because they are designed to help keep you warm and fit a bit looser. Some runners prefer to wear them under a wind-pant or under another pair of tights.

CW-X Women's Stabilyx Joint Support 3/4 Capri Compression Tight, CW-X Men's Stabilyx Joint Support Compression Sports Tights

5) Best Winter Running Shoes

VJ Shoes: XERO 5

This is the best winter running shoe, made for snow, ice and sloppy mud. This all-terrain studded shoe is your new go-to for winter running. Twenty carbon-carbide star studs guarantee your grip on all surfaces. The sole has Poron cushioning and just the right amount of support to give you the best feel for the terrain. The uppers have a water-repellent membrane to protect your feet even in the harshest weather!

VJ XERO 5 FEATURES:

For Winter and Trails
Medium width
Cushioning units in front and heel.
FitLock - instep connection/protection system
20-star studs, made with carbon carbide #THEBESTGRIPONTHEPLANET
Sizes: US W 6-10.5
Drop 8 mm
Stack height 19mm/11mm
Weight (US W 7.5): 8.1 oz (230 g)

About VJ Shoes

VJ shoes are designed for your best performance in outdoor adventures like Trail Running, Obstacle Course Racing, Sky Running, and SwimRun with comfort, durability, and stability, all with #TheBestGripOnThePlanet. VJ shoes began in the forests of Finland about 40 years ago, from needing a better shoe for the rough slippery terrain. The shoes were perfectly designed for Orienteering and other extreme athletes and VJ shoes were there to perform durability, grip and the best quality. Now you can find VJ Shoes in North America to continue to lead the way for athletes training in any terrain, while uncompromising values to produce shoes with the best grip on the planet.

Ready to try #TheBestGripOnThePlanet? Get your pair today.