Running motivation can be relatively low in winter and fall. And that is because of the wetter/colder weather and shorter days. Running through blowing snow or rain can be quite challenging, forcing many runners to turn to treadmills. But, there is nothing like bad weather, only the wrong gear when it comes to working out.
With the right gear, mainly waterproof trail running shoes, you can jog outdoors during winter and fall. Other than keeping yourself warm, you need the right pair that can keep your feet safe. These shoes can provide you with the required traction and support to tackle challenging wet terrains.
However, with the numerous waterproof trail running options available, choosing the right one can be quite tricky. So, we have prepared this review of some of the best waterproof running shoes to help you choose an ideal option.
The Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoes Are…
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Salomon Speedcross 4 Trail GTX Waterproof Shoes |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Adidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX Running Shoes |  |
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| 3. New Balance 481V3 Running Shoe |  |
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| 4. La Sportivo Bushindo Shoes |  |
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1. Salomon Speedcross 4 Trail GTX Waterproof Shoes — Best Waterproof Running Shoes
Salomon is one of the world’s most respected brands when it comes to manufacturing athletic products. This company began as a ski firm; therefore, outdoor trail running is in their DNA. And Salomon Speedcross GTX 4 is one of their best winter and fall running footwear.
Speedcross 4 GTX was designed to tackle all the winter terrains and keep your feet safe. This shoe comes with a well-built gum rubber sole that provides superior traction, particularly on a slushy and soft surface. Its sole comes with a unique lug pattern that can handle both technical and soft trails.
It has a unique lacing system that wraps around your feet to deliver the needed stability and security when running. And the addition of the quick lace makes adjusting the shoelaces relatively easy. It has a unique upper that uses SensiFit technology to provide optimal foothold while making sure that you are comfortable.
Thanks to the Gore-Tex membrane, Speedcross 4 is a great waterproof shoe that can keep your feet dry. Speedcross GTX4 is available in numerous color combinations, so you can get a pair that matches your style. However, it’s not ideal for people with wide feet.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 4-15 (US)
Pros
- Comfortable
- Waterproof
- It provides the needed support
- Durable
- It can handle challenging terrains
- It comes with an easily adjustable lacing system
Cons
- It is not ideal for individuals with wide feet
Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5
Conclusion
Speedcross4 GTX is a reliable waterproof pair that can keep your feet warm in winter. This pair can also help you run in fall and winter.
2. Adidas Terrex Swift R2 GTX Running Shoes
Adidas has produced numerous running shoes over the years, and Terrex Swift R2 GTX is no exception. Besides its unique design, Terrex Swift R2 GTX is excellent footwear that can support you while running outdoors in winter. Terrex Swift R2 GTX comes with a unique Gore-Tex lining that makes it a waterproof shoe.
Internally, it has a mesh lining that serves as an extra layer of cushioning. It has a unique synthetic breathable upper that keeps your feet safe when running on wet surfaces. Terrex Swift R2 GTX comes with a lightweight EVA midsole that guarantees comfort.
To prevent slip-ups and injury when running on uneven terrains, Terrex Swift R2 GTX’s midsole features Adiprene. This shoe is the ultimate ventilation unit that keeps your feet dry and comfortable. Terrex Swift R2 GTX is a stylish and capable shoe that delivers high durability level and reliable performance. This shoe will support your feet on the most challenging terrains. However, it is quite an expensive pair of running shoes.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 4-13 (US)
Pros
- It is available in a wide range of color combinations
- It provides the needed grip on rough terrains
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Flexible
- Well-cushioned
Cons
- It is quite costly
Overall Rating – 4.6 out of 5
Conclusion
Terrex Swift R2 GTX is a stylish pair that delivers reliable performance while keeping your feet dry.
3. New Balance 481V3 Running Shoe
New Balance 481V3 is one of the best running shoes for rain. This pair can keep you safe while you run on a muddy forest trail. With a reliable water-resistance lining, New Balance 481V3 can keep your feet dry and comfortable when jogging.
New Balance 481V3 comes with a durable non-marking sole; therefore, they won’t leave markings on any surface when used indoors. New Balance 481V3’s versatile sole can handle a wide range of terrains. The AT tread sole offers proper traction on different terrains.
It features a Cush+ midsole that guarantees softness without compromising on stability. Its luxurious compound foam is breathable and lightweight; therefore, your feet will stay cool and dry. This shoe’s Ortholite inserts are effective, controlling, and targeting the odor-causing bacteria.
With all the comfort and support you can ever ask for, New Balance 481V3 is the best option for tackling challenging off-road terrains. For extra comfort and cushioning, this shoe comes with an ultra-soft comfort insert. However, it has poor quality and thin laces.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 4-14 (US)
Pros
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Breathable
- Proper traction
- Comfortable
- It is available in several color combinations
Cons
- It comes with poor quality laces
Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5
Conclusion
New Balance 481V3 comes with a water-resistant upper that offers the needed support.
4. La Sportivo Bushindo Shoes
La Sportivo Bushindo is an excellent running pair that combines comfort with stability and responsiveness. It is a perfect running shoe that provides adequate protection when jogging on technical terrains. It is also ideal for handling daily long-distance jogging during winter. La Sportivo Bushindo is a highly aggressive and super sticky shoe that is very responsive.
This lightweight footwear has a unique rubber sole with reliable lugs that create proper traction. Its lugs have round edges that overlap with the midsole to provide the needed grip and stability. It comes with a dual-density compressed EVA guard on the forefoot to prevent bruising. It stretches AirMesh upper, mesh inserts, and AirMesh upper works together to keep your feet dry and blisters free.
Even though La Sportivo Bushindo is highly breathable and durable, this running shoe offers plenty of protection. With this pair, you can confidently navigate through roots, rocks, and other obstacles thanks to its rubberized sole. However, many wearers have complained that it is quite heavy.
Specs
- Sole: Rubber
- Material: Synthetic
- Size: 2.5-14
Pros
- Reliable traction
- Comfortable
- It is highly breathable
- It is highly supportive
- It can handle a wide range of terrains
Cons
- It’s quite heavy for some wearers
Overall Rating – 4.4 out of 5
Conclusion
La Sportivo Bushindo is designed to push you beyond your limit and attack many challenging terrains.
Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
Running outdoors has numerous health benefits. However, during the cold months, many outdoor runners always start using treadmills. And that is because they believe that running in the cold rainy months can be quite challenging.
However, the only thing that should change during the cold months is the weather. You can stick to your usual training routine even in winter and fall, but you will need some new waterproof running shoes.
With the many options available, choosing the right pair can be quite tricky. Remember, the right pair should be waterproof and provide the needed traction. So, here are some key features to consider when selecting the proper footwear:
Breathability
Even though you will be training in cold weather conditions, your feet tend to produce a lot of heat and sweat. So, you need to look for a pair with a breathable upper. An upper made using nylon mesh and Gore-Tex membrane can keep your feet cool and dry.
Comfort and Cushioning
A great trail running shoe features EVA foam cushioning that prevents unnecessary strains while keeping your feet dry. The EVA cushioning can also help with shock absorption. However, the kind of cushioning used depends on the terrain you plan on tackling and the duration of your runs.
Support
If you love hitting the parks or sidewalks regularly, you need a shoe that provides more support. When it comes to the amount of support required, you must consider the anatomy of your feet. Look for a pair that is ideal if you have a low or high arch. Before investing in a proper pair of running shoes, you must have your gait assessed by a professional.
Durable and Tough Tread System
Depending on the terrain you intend on tackling, you need shoes with lugs or treads that can support you. Suburban runners need shoes with proper shock absorption for a smooth and steady ride. If you love going off-road, you should consider getting the right trail running shoe with more traction.
Final Thoughts
Running outdoors during the cold and rainy months can be challenging, especially if you don’t have the right gear. Besides keeping yourself warm, you must look for shoes that can tackle the rough and wet terrains. Other than being waterproof, the proper footwear should also have a breathable upper. After all, jogging with wet shoes can cause blisters.
The right pair incorporates a wide range of qualities that are designed to keep your feet safe. This shoe must also have proper traction and be flexible. We have created the above reviews of the best 4 waterproof trail running shoes for you.
From our research, we have concluded that the best waterproof running shoe is Salomon Speedcross 4 GTX shoes. This shoe can keep you safe while you tackle different terrains during the cold months.
