These All-Star Winter Sneakers Can Really Handle the Elements

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DRESSING FOR winter makes a lot of sense until you get to your shoes. Add an extra layer of Heat Tech, throw on a puffer jacket, top off with a winter beanie, and wrap yourself up in a scarf. But things get tricky when it comes to choosing the proper footwear to ensure that your extremities stay warm and dry. Truly, there is nothing worse than getting stuck in an unexpected sleet or snow situation and realizing your everyday kicks just aren’t going to cut it.

Whether you’re planning a workout or just getting from point A to B, having a strong pair of winter sneakers in your arsenal is your best bet for avoiding slip-ups and general malaise during poor climate conditions. The weather can suck, but that doesn’t mean your shoes have to suffer.

What should you look for when selecting a winter sneaker? First, make sure there’s a water-resistant–or ideally, waterproof–finish on most of the upper. Gore-Tex is celebrated for its signature waterproofing, optimized breathability, and insulation technology, and can be found in several of our featured selects. Equally as important is traction. Opt for a thick rubber sole that provides mobility and grip for even the toughest terrains.

Below, you’ll find twenty of our favorite winter sneakers–including hiking boots, walking shoes, and running shoes–to help you brave the elements in style.

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React SFB Carbon

The React SFB Carbon combines elements of a tactical boot with a comfortable sneaker to optimize your stride. Regardless of wherever your mission or adventure takes you in the winter, this pair packs durability, support and serious traction all in one.

Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes

These hikers marry the lightweight feel of a trail runner and strength of a boot. With an abrasion-resistant mesh upper and a Gore-Tex membrane, it'll be easy to weather any storm in them. We also love its signature Boost cushioning, which feels like a cloud on our feet.

Cloudroam Waterproof

The versatile Cloudroam Waterproof model from On is more of a sneaker boot style. Nevertheless, it won't look out of place with your daily wear. Thanks to its breathable waterproof membrane and street-ready flair, we can guarantee this will be your go-to for bad weather as well as casual outings.

Read more: Best On Running Shoes

Kaha 2 Low GTX Hiking Shoe

As one of the most supportive footwear brand on the planet, Hoka doesn’t mess around when it comes to preparedness for tough winter climates. The Kaha 2 Low GTX Hiking Shoe provides offers a seamless blend of peak performance and plushness in the perfect weight-to-cushion ratio.

Read more: Best Hoka Running Shoes

Grandview GTX Waterproof Sneaker

Winter sneakers need to have at least some sort of waterproofing feature. How else would you safeguard your feet from rain, snow and puddles? Teva takes care of that matter with their Gore-Tex waterproof protection and quick-dry webbing. We found these to be the best pick if you want total waterproof protection.

Trail Runner

If you're ready to face all the elements in any wintry conditions while training outside the gym, then opt for these sneakers. Beyond that, the trail runners have wearability for all seasons and can transition from tackling tough terrain to slushy sidewalks and everything in between.

Speed Eco Waterproof

Behold, a winter sneaker made from recycled materials that will keep all elements at bay. Not to mention, Merrell integrate pro-biotic technology to supply a method of odor control.

X Ultra 4 Low Hiking Shoes

For our outdoorsmen who often take the beaten path, Salomon has the perfect hiking shoe for your journey. With features like grippy outsoles and stable platforms, powering through a variety of surfaces will be a breeze.

NC.2 High Sneakers

These leather sneakers with neoprene lining and shock-absorbing rubber soles are an easy way to shake up your winterized style. The high-top design from A-Cold-Wall gives more coverage and warmth.

Peregrine 13

Tired of the same dark options? These Peregrine 13 by Saucony are a cool color-blocked take on the durable winter sneaker. And for those with wide feet, you have a chance to take your pick also.

Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex Waterproof Trail Running Shoes

Sorry, more Nike. But if you wish to prevent any moisture from seeping in your socks—these winter sneakers are ideal for runners. When the weather turns, the waterproof Gore-Tex layer will help keep your feet dry from precipitation.

Fresh Foam X Hierro v7

The Fresh Foam X Hierro v7 features a Vibram Megagrip outsole to create a protective shell of durability and keep you nimble on any uneven terrain.

Vectiv Fastpack Mid FutureLight Boots

If we're going to trust anyone with winter gear, it's going to be North Face. The brand may as well be synonymous with stylish winter-ready footwear as this silhouette is equipped to take on frigid temperatures much like their universally-loved puffer jackets.

Therma

Thanks to its cozy, ultra-plush vegan shearling lining, the Therma shoe by Cariuma feels like a hug. Additionally, the winter sneakers are water-repellent and slip-resistant, so your feet will be in good hands.

GrandPrø Ashland Sneakers

Go for a winterized version of the classic running style to match the Cole Haan aesthetic with cold weather comfort. Make no mistake, this model is an everyday sneaker with modern engineering.

Cloudbust Thunder High-top Sneakers

Looking for a luxury winter sneaker? The Cloudbust Thunder High-Top model from Prada are first in its class. They're made from recycled nylon and feature a three dimensional effect on the upper.

Why Trust Us

At Men’s Health, our testing editors and writers always make sure to actually test and use the products ourselves before considering whether to include them. Therefore, rest assured that our product recommendations derive from first-hand experience, and you can read more about our testing process here.

In addition, we have a whole fashion closet in our NYC office dedicated to calling in, trying out, and selecting the best and newest menswear products. We put them on stylish guys to hear their opinions and see how the winter sneakers look on them before making our final decision. And as style editors, we constantly go into the fashion closet to test out the products.

Lastly, you can trust our opinions on shopping recommendations, whether it’s the products, styling tips, or trends. Not only do we have Fashion Director Ted Stafford and Deputy Editor, Commerce Christian Gollyan, but we also have a panel of style experts—including stylists, fashion influencers, designers, etc.—whom we regularly seek shopping guides from.

Shop More Winter Gear for Men

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