Weather-Proof your Running Shoes for the Winter Season

(3 min. read)

A man and a woman walk through a snowy mountainous landscape


Winter weather is always something you need to be prepared for, especially when it comes to outdoor running. Running safely in cold weather just means different preparations. Here are a few quick tips to get you started:

Tip #1
Wear layers so you can remove a layer if needed. Try to underdress by a few degrees - your body temperature will increase when you start running.
Tip #1
Wear layers so you can remove a layer if needed. Try to underdress by a few degrees - your body temperature will increase when you start running.
Tip #2
Avoid wearing cotton because this fabric absorbs moisture. Instead, opt for dry fit or dry weave labels and wool-synthetic blends.
Tip #2
Avoid wearing cotton because this fabric absorbs moisture. Instead, opt for dry fit or dry weave labels and wool-synthetic blends.
Tip #3
Stick to running on cleared pavements and paths to reduce the chance of slipping on unexpected obstacles.
Tip #3
Stick to running on cleared pavements and paths to reduce the chance of slipping on unexpected obstacles.
Tip #4
Instead of sprinting, try endurance running. The slower pace of long-distance running will decrease your chances of slipping on icy patches.
Tip #4
Instead of sprinting, try endurance running. The slower pace of long-distance running will decrease your chances of slipping on icy patches.

Before you head out on your first frosty run, make sure your shoes are ready. HOKA has winter weather-ready shoes—or use the steps below to waterproof and weatherise your usual road running shoes. HOKA has shoes for women and men that will make your winter runs a delight. 

See below for some tips on how to prep your shoes for a winter run.

A woman stands below a waterfall


Clean your Shoes

Before winterising and weather-proofing your shoes, it’s best to clean them first. 

You will need: laundry detergent, clean microfiber cloth, water and a soft bristle brush

1. First, wipe off any grass, dirt and mud. Use a soft brush to help loosen stubborn debris.
2. Then remove the shoelaces.
3. Use a mixture of lukewarm water and laundry detergent to scrub away any stains with the soft brush.
4. With a damp, clean microfiber cloth, wipe the shoes clean.
5. Let your shoes air dry completely.
1. First, wipe off any grass, dirt and mud. Use a soft brush to help loosen stubborn debris.
2. Then remove the shoelaces.
3. Use a mixture of lukewarm water and laundry detergent to scrub away any stains with the soft brush.
4. With a damp, clean microfiber cloth, wipe the shoes clean.
5. Let your shoes air dry completely.


Use a Wax Treatment to Waterproof Shoes

This method allows the wax to seep into every microcavity of the shoe.

You will need: waterproof wax, soft brush, hairdryer, water

1. Use a soft brush to apply the wax to a small part of the running shoe.
2. Using the same soft brush, rub in the wax thoroughly. Put some extra wax on high-friction areas, like the heels, toes, laces and tongues.
3. You may see some discoloration, but it will disappear after the process.
4. Melt the wax using the hairdryer. With enough heat, the wax will melt and seep inside every microcavity.
5. Wait for the wax to harden. This will create a protective layer around the running shoe. At this point, any discoloration from the wax will disappear.
6. Test the effectiveness of the wax. Pour some water directly onto the treated area. If it rolls right off, the waterproofing works.
1. Use a soft brush to apply the wax to a small part of the running shoe.
2. Using the same soft brush, rub in the wax thoroughly. Put some extra wax on high-friction areas, like the heels, toes, laces and tongues.
3. You may see some discoloration, but it will disappear after the process.
4. Melt the wax using the hairdryer. With enough heat, the wax will melt and seep inside every microcavity.
5. Wait for the wax to harden. This will create a protective layer around the running shoe. At this point, any discoloration from the wax will disappear.
6. Test the effectiveness of the wax. Pour some water directly onto the treated area. If it rolls right off, the waterproofing works.


Use a Waterproof Spray to Waterproof Shoes

This is one of the most common methods of waterproofing running shoes. These sprays usually have silicone or acrylic polymers, which work great with absorbent fabrics.

You will need: water-resistant spray, clean microfiber cloth and a face mask

1. Be sure to put on a protective mask and work outside. Hold or place the shoe 6 inches away from the spray bottle.
2. Start by spraying evenly around the shoe. You want to get the heels, toes, laces and tongue.
3. Check the instructions on the bottle. You may have to do a second layer.
4. Repeat the process with the other shoe.
5. Wipe off any excess spray on the shoes with a clean microfiber cloth.
6. Let the shoes air dry overnight. They should be completely dry before use.
1. Be sure to put on a protective mask and work outside. Hold or place the shoe 6 inches away from the spray bottle.
2. Start by spraying evenly around the shoe. You want to get the heels, toes, laces and tongue.
3. Check the instructions on the bottle. You may have to do a second layer.
4. Repeat the process with the other shoe.
5. Wipe off any excess spray on the shoes with a clean microfiber cloth.
6. Let the shoes air dry overnight. They should be completely dry before use.


Wear Silicone Shoe Covers on Running Shoes

For a less permanent solution, shoe covers are the way to go. They're a simple and convenient way to upgrade your shoes in the winter. You can easily slip them on before your run and remove them afterwards. Look for silicone shoe covers with traction on the bottom for support.

A woman walks through a snowy forest


Traction for Running Shoes

You can use a traction attachment for runs on potential snow and ice. Yaktrax makes some excellent models. Just slip them onto the soles of your running shoes to get a good grip in winter’s slippery conditions.

For a DIY option, you can put sheet metal screws on the bottom of your shoes. This is likely the cheapest and most simple traction option. However, the steel screws will wear down quickly, especially if you leave the trail to run on bare pavement. 

A stronger option is to use screws made of tungsten carbide. It's the same material used to make machine-grade cutting tools—so you know it can hold up. You may also recognise it from other winter-weather solutions like studded snow tires or the tips of trekking poles.


 

Wear Waterproof Socks with Your Weather-Proofed Running Shoes

For even more protection, look for socks that are impervious to water. The best options have a three-layer waterproof construction. First, there's a knit or nylon outer layer, then a waterproof membrane and a final inner knit layer. Some brands use merino wool for the inner layer. It tends to be warmer and softer than synthetic materials or cotton. Plus, it doesn’t retain odours or moisture to the same extent.

A tight nylon cuff at the top keeps moisture from getting in. One important note: the waterproof membranes at the core of the sock can vary in their level of breathability. Some are better than others at wicking away sweat, like the proprietary Artex and Porelle fabrics. Others can turn your feet into tiny saunas after your feet get too warm. 

No matter which weather-proofing option you choose, make sure to stay safe in the cold weather. And most of all, have fun while you run through your very own winter wonderland.


 

Shop Waterproof-Ready Shoes and Boots

Fancy treating yourself to a new pair of winter-ready shoes and boots? Find a new pair of waterproof-ready shoes and boots with our shoe finder to get your personalised shoe recommendations in minutes. At HOKA, we offer a 30-Day Guarantee, so you can try any of our shoes for up to 30 days, and if they don't work for you, you can return them for a full refund.

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