Snowy trails demand more than ordinary running shoes. Waterproof protection, dependable traction, and a secure fit can help you stay comfortable and confident when paths become wet, icy, or uneven.
We compared 10 winter-ready options, from waterproof trail runners and hiking shoes to add-on traction cleats, so you can choose the right balance of grip, warmth, and running comfort.
Best 10 Trail Running Shoes for Snow Picks for 2026
Waterproof Grip Pick
- GORE-TEX waterproof protection
- Aggressive lugs for soft snow and mud
- Quicklace and Sensifit secure the foot
Best For: Wet, muddy, and soft-snow trails
Everyday Trail Value
- Carbon-rubber outsole lugs
- Moderate VERSARUN cushioning
- Supportive mesh upper with recycled materials
Best For: Dry or lightly snowy trail outings
Snow Traction Add-On
- Fits over running shoes
- Carbide-steel spikes and steel coils
- 360-degree cold-surface traction
Best For: Adding traction to running shoes on snow and ice
Best with Extra Features
- Carbon-rubber lugs for trail footing
- Moderate VERSARUN cushioning
- Not water resistant
Best For: Dry, packed trails and mild-weather hiking
Traction-Focused Performance
- ProTread rubber for traction and durability
- Responsive Profoam EVA cushioning
- Upper uses at least 30% recycled material
Best For: Dry fall trails where grip and responsiveness lead
Waterproof Grip Pick – Salomon Speedcross GTX
Salomon Women’s Speedcross GTX, Waterproof Trail Running Shoes - Black/Black/Quiet Shade - 7 Medium
Check Price On AmazonIf you need trail running shoes for snow, the Salomon Speedcross GTX is a strong option for wet trails and soft snow. Its waterproof GORE-TEX construction, debris-resistant upper, and aggressive Contagrip TA lugs are designed for changing outdoor conditions.
Best For: Runners and hikers seeking a secure, waterproof shoe for muddy trails, loose gravel, and soft snow.
Pros:
- Waterproof, windproof, and breathable GORE-TEX membrane
- Aggressive lugs provide traction on mud, wet ground, and soft snow
- Quicklace and Sensifit construction support a precise foothold
- Anti-debris mesh and ripstop fabric add trail protection
Cons:
- Moderate cushioning may feel less plush than maximum-cushioning options
- Designed with a low-top profile rather than added ankle coverage
The Speedcross GTX combines weather protection, trail-focused traction, and a close-fitting closure system. It is particularly practical for wet, muddy, or soft-snow routes where grip and dryness matter.
Everyday Trail Value – Saucony Excursion TR15
The Saucony Excursion TR15 is a straightforward choice for trail running shoes for snow when you want rugged footing and moderate comfort. Its carbon-rubber outsole, trail-specific mesh, and supportive overlays suit general trail use, though the supplied details do not indicate waterproofing.
Best For: Trail users who prioritize dependable outsole grip, moderate cushioning, and a lightweight-feeling upper.
Pros:
- Carbon-rubber lugs provide grippy, durable footing
- VERSARUN cushioning offers moderate underfoot comfort
- Supportive overlays help secure the foot and block debris
- Contains recycled materials
Cons:
- No waterproof membrane is listed in the supplied details
- May be less suitable for wet snow than waterproof models
The Excursion TR15 focuses on practical trail performance rather than specialized winter protection. Consider it for dry or lightly snowy routes, and choose a waterproof design when slush and precipitation are major concerns.
Adaptive Winter Trail Option – Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX
For trail running shoes for snow and wet mountain routes, the Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX pairs GORE-TEX protection with a grippy TrailTack Green outsole. Its DNA LOFT v3 cushioning and Trail Adapt System are aimed at comfort and stability across uneven terrain.
Best For: Trail runners who want waterproof protection, maximum cushioning, and an adaptable ride on rugged, wet terrain.
Pros:
- GORE-TEX Invisible Fit provides breathable weather protection
- TrailTack Green outsole supports traction on wet and dry surfaces
- DNA LOFT v3 cushioning delivers a soft, responsive ride
- Articulated Ballistic Rock Shield adds stability and adaptability
Cons:
- Its low-top design does not provide extra ankle coverage
- Maximum cushioning may feel less minimal than some trail shoes
The Cascadia 19 GTX is a well-rounded option for wet, uneven routes where cushioning, traction, and stability all matter. Its waterproof construction makes it more suited to snowy conditions than an unprotected mesh shoe.
Mid-Top Weather Shield – adidas Terrex Anylander
The adidas Terrex Anylander Mid Top is a practical alternative among trail running shoes for snow, especially for wet hikes and mixed outdoor use. It combines a waterproof RAIN.RDY membrane, EVA cushioning, and a multidirectional Traxion outsole with a mid-top profile.
Best For: Hikers and casual trail users who want waterproof coverage, lightweight cushioning, and added mid-top support.
Pros:
- Waterproof RAIN.RDY membrane helps keep feet dry
- Traxion outsole uses directional lugs for rugged terrain
- EVA midsole provides step-absorbing comfort
- Mid-top construction offers more coverage than a low-top shoe
Cons:
- Listed as a hiking shoe rather than a dedicated trail-running model
- The supplied details do not specifically describe snow traction
- At 390 g in a US 9, it may feel less performance-focused than lighter shoes
The Anylander is best viewed as a waterproof hiking-oriented choice for snowy or wet outings rather than a specialized racing shoe. Its mid-top build and directional outsole make it useful when coverage and general rugged-terrain grip are priorities.
Waterproof Trail Pick – Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX
The Brooks Cascadia 19 GTX is a practical choice among trail running shoes for snow when you want waterproof coverage, cushioning, and adaptable traction for rugged routes. Its GORE-TEX Invisible Fit upper, TrailTack Green outsole, and Trail Adapt System are designed for changing wet and uneven terrain.
Best For: Trail runners seeking a waterproof, cushioned shoe for wet-weather and rugged outdoor routes.
Pros:
- GORE-TEX Invisible Fit construction provides breathable waterproof protection.
- TrailTack Green rubber outsole supports traction across wet and dry uneven surfaces.
- DNA LOFT v3 cushioning and the articulated Ballistic Rock Shield provide a responsive, stable ride.
Cons:
- It is a low-top trail shoe rather than a higher boot for deeper snow coverage.
- The supplied details describe traction for varied terrain, but do not specify dedicated ice spikes.
The Cascadia 19 GTX is a strong all-around option for wet trails and moderate winter conditions, especially if you prioritize running comfort and waterproof protection over maximum snow-specific coverage.
Snow Traction Add-On – Yaktrax Run Traction Cleats
For runners looking to adapt their existing footwear, Yaktrax Run cleats are a targeted option for trail running shoes for snow and ice. They fit over running shoes and combine carbide-steel spikes with stainless-steel coils for traction on cold surfaces.
Best For: Winter runners who need added snow-and-ice traction over compatible running shoes.
Pros:
- Designed specifically to fit over running shoes for winter training.
- Combines 3mm carbide-steel spikes and 1.4mm stainless-steel coils.
- Provides 360-degree traction and includes reflective heel and side straps.
- Rubber framing and over-foot straps help secure the cleats to the shoe.
Cons:
- These are traction cleats, not standalone running shoes, so they require compatible footwear.
- Fit depends on selecting the correct size; this listing is Large for specified shoe sizes.
Yaktrax Run is the most snow- and ice-focused option in this selection. It makes sense when your current running shoes fit well and you want dedicated underfoot traction without replacing them.
Winter Hiking Boot – Columbia Transverse Hike Waterproof
The Columbia Transverse Hike Waterproof Boot is a sturdy alternative to low-top trail running shoes for snow, offering ankle-height coverage and seam-sealed waterproofing for moderate rain and snow. Its leather-and-mesh upper, Techlite cushioning, and Omni-Grip outsole suit hiking-focused winter outings.
Best For: Hikers who want waterproof ankle coverage and multi-terrain grip for moderate snow and wet conditions.
Pros:
- Omni-Tech construction is waterproof and seam-sealed while allowing the inside to breathe.
- Omni-Grip outsole is designed for traction on rock, dirt, and gravel in wet or dry conditions.
- Techlite cushioning provides lightweight impact absorption and energy return.
- Leather and mesh construction, metal hardware, and a cushioned collar support durability and comfort.
Cons:
- It is a hiking boot rather than a dedicated running shoe.
- The supplied information describes multi-terrain traction but does not specify ice-specific spikes.
The Transverse Hike is better suited to steady winter hikes than fast trail runs. Choose it when waterproof construction and ankle coverage matter more than a lightweight running-shoe feel.
Best with Extra Features – Saucony Excursion TR14
The Saucony Excursion TR14 is a practical option for trail running shoes for snow when conditions are cold but relatively mild and you value cushioned, neutral support. Its carbon-rubber lugs can help provide dependable footing, though the shoe is not water resistant.
Best For: Spring and summer trail running, hiking, and packed or mostly dry paths where moderate cushioning and debris protection are priorities.
Pros:
- Carbon-rubber outsole lugs are designed for solid trail footing.
- VERSARUN cushioning provides moderate underfoot comfort.
- Supportive overlays help secure the foot and shield against trail debris.
Cons:
- Not water resistant, making it a weaker choice for wet snow.
- Its listed seasonal recommendation is spring/summer rather than winter.
Choose the Excursion TR14 for dry, packed trails and everyday outdoor use. For slush, melting snow, or consistently wet conditions, its lack of water resistance is an important limitation.
Responsive Winter-Ready Pick – New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V6
The New Balance Dynasoft Nitrel V6 is a comfortable choice among trail running shoes for snow, particularly when you want a responsive ride and versatile traction for mixed off-road surfaces. Its notes list water resistance, but it is still a low-top trail shoe rather than dedicated winter footwear.
Best For: Fall trail running, jogging, and mixed on- and off-road routes where maximum cushioning, neutral support, and some water resistance are useful.
Pros:
- AT Tread outsole is designed for both on- and off-road traction.
- DynaSoft cushioning combines responsiveness with plush comfort.
- EVA foam insert adds comfort, while no-sew overlays help reduce bulk.
- Listed as water resistant for added protection in damp conditions.
Cons:
- Low-top construction offers limited coverage in deeper snow.
- The approximate 6 mm drop may not suit every runner’s preferred geometry.
The Nitrel V6 is the strongest fit here for damp, changeable trails when cushioning is a priority. For deep snow or highly technical winter terrain, consider that it remains a low-top shoe with no stated snow-specific insulation.
Traction-Focused Performance – PUMA Flare Pro Trail
PUMA Men's Flare PRO Trail Running Shoes, Dark Indigo-Cool Blue-Alpine Snow, 11
Check Price On AmazonThe PUMA Flare Pro Trail brings a traction-focused design to trail running shoes for snow, with a ProTread rubber outsole and responsive Profoam cushioning. Because it is not water resistant, it is better suited to dry or lightly snowy trails than wet, melting conditions.
Best For: Fall trail running and outdoor routes where durable rubber traction, moderate cushioning, and a responsive ride matter more than weather protection.
Pros:
- ProTread rubber compound is designed for traction and durability.
- Profoam EVA cushioning aims to provide a lightweight, responsive ride.
- Upper includes at least 30% recycled material.
- Closed upper material and an interest lacing detail add support and structure.
Cons:
- Not water resistant, limiting performance in wet snow or slush.
- Moderate cushioning may offer less underfoot plushness than maximum-cushioning options.
The Flare Pro Trail makes sense for runners who prioritize outsole grip and a lively feel on relatively dry winter trails. Its traction features are useful, but the lack of water resistance should guide your conditions and route choices.
How We Picked the Best Trail Running Shoes for Snow
We focused on the features that matter most in cold, wet conditions: outsole traction, water resistance, stability, fit, cushioning, and versatility. The lineup includes waterproof trail running shoes, mid-height hiking footwear, standard trail shoes for milder conditions, and traction cleats that can add grip to compatible running shoes.
Because snow conditions vary widely, no single design is ideal for every route. A lightweight shoe may work well on packed, shallow snow, while deeper snow, slush, and frequent ice call for waterproof coverage or additional traction.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Look For | Featured Type |
|---|---|---|
| Wet, snowy trails | Waterproof membrane and aggressive lugs | GTX trail shoes |
| Light snow and mixed terrain | Balanced cushioning and multidirectional tread | Trail running shoes |
| Deep slush or puddles | Higher coverage and water-resistant construction | Mid-top hiking shoes or boots |
| Icy sections | Metal or high-friction traction elements | Running cleats |
Key Buying Factors for Trail Running Shoes for Snow
Traction
Look for pronounced lugs with spacing that can shed snow instead of packing with it. Rubber compound and tread pattern both affect grip. For hard ice, ordinary trail lugs may not be enough; dedicated traction cleats can provide a more secure connection with the surface.
Waterproofing and Coverage
Waterproof membranes help block melted snow and slush, but they can also reduce breathability. A low-cut shoe may be sufficient for shallow snow, while a mid-top design offers better protection when snow is deeper or trails are brushy.
Fit, Cushioning, and Stability
Choose a secure heel and comfortable toe room, especially if you will wear thicker winter socks. Avoid sizing so tightly that your toes cannot move, since restricted circulation can make feet feel colder. Stable platforms and moderate cushioning are useful on uneven, slippery ground.
Weight and Flexibility
Heavier waterproof shoes and boots can feel more protective but may become tiring during long runs. Lightweight shoes are easier to move in, though they may provide less warmth and coverage. Match the construction to your route length and snow depth.
Who Should Buy Which Trail Running Shoes for Snow?
Choose a waterproof GTX trail runner if you regularly run through wet snow, slush, or rainy winter conditions and want a running-focused fit. Choose a standard trail shoe for packed snow, light winter use, and mixed dirt-to-snow routes where breathability and lower weight matter more than maximum weather protection.
Choose a mid-top hiking shoe or boot if you prioritize coverage, stability, and everyday winter versatility over speed. These are especially useful for snowy walks, hikes, and colder conditions. Choose traction cleats when your existing running shoes fit well and you mainly need extra grip on icy or compacted surfaces.
Before buying, consider your typical temperature, snow depth, route surface, sock thickness, and whether you need one shoe for both running and casual winter use. The best Trail Running Shoes for Snow are the ones that match those conditions without sacrificing a secure, comfortable stride.