Running in the winter/snow?

I just wear my winter running gear. Shoes can be an issue if there's actual snow you're running through, but I usually run on cleared paths...but we also don't get a ton of snow in my neck of the woods.

I have the same fear! I live in Newfoundland..and I would love to run outside in winter, but am always too afraid to slip and fall.

I have the same fear! I live in Newfoundland..and I would love to run outside in winter, but am always too afraid to slip and fall.

I'm in Ottawa and worry about the same thing - ice and snow - we should move to Bora Bora where it's nice and hot - no snow

I just wear my winter running gear. Shoes can be an issue if there's actual snow you're running through, but I usually run on cleared paths...but we also don't get a ton of snow in my neck of the woods.

Same. I wear different shoes in the winter if/when conditions warrant it, but otherwise it's the same as running during the summer, just with more clothes on.

I'm guessing you get more snow than I do, so something like Microspikes might be a good option for you. Or maybe some dedicated winter running shoes.

Do they make studded shoes? I'm sure someone does...

They make these things called Yak Tracks for running on ice and they make running snow shoes for running on snow but both are overkill if you're running on mostly clear pavement. Just watch your footing and if you fall, it's usually an embarassing but not harmful slip 'n' slide.

Try the following tips to run safely and avoid falling on ice and snow this Winter.

Wear trail shoes or a traction device like Yak Trax. They will give you better traction and stability in the snow.  Note: Avoid wearing the Yak Trax indoors or roads without snow.  Keep them in your pocket until you hit the snow.
Choose fresh snow over ice or packed snow.  You will get better traction on fresh snow and reduce the chance for slipping.  Watch out for snow-covered cracks and holes in the road. 
Shorten your running stride and keep your feet lower to the ground. You
will run more efficiently and reduce the risk of slipping, falling or
straining muscles.
On challenging weather days, throw your planned pace out the window and slow down.
It is better to focus on getting in a solid run safely than to hurry pace and risk getting hurt.  It's also okay
to cut your mileage short in snowy conditions. You'll be working a
lot harder than your normal runs and the intensity will be much higher.
You may be sore in muscles you didn't even know you have.  Running in snow and ice requires your stabilizing
muscles on the inner and outer legs to work twice as hard as they work to keep you upright.
Focus on full body flexibility exercises and ease
your way into snow running.  Alternate an outdoor snow run with an indoor treadmill run for a few weeks until your body adapts to the  greater demands.
When in doubt, walk through an icy stretch. It beats getting hurt slipping on ice.  You can also slow down and use a gliding skating step as well. 
Relax and focus on the road ahead. Part of the tranquility of running in the snow is that it requires you to be in the moment and focus on every step you take.
Happy Trails

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