Brrr! The temperatures have plummeted, the wind is howling, and snow has fallen eight of the past nine days at our Utah headquarters. I guess that means winter is on its way, if it’s not already here. With that in mind, we’re going to take this opportunity to highlight some of the winter running resources that can be found here on iRunFar.com. As a bonus, we gave away five pairs of YakTrax Pro, our favorite winter running traction device.
Winter Running Resources
If you stop by iRF looking for our latest winter-related articles, click on the Winter Running tab at the top of every page or bookmark our winter running tag URL. If you’re looking for some more specific winter running advice, below are some examples.
Gear Resources
Two winters ago, we pulled together a series of winter running traction device reviews. The series, which focuses on over-the-shoe devices, includes separate reviews of Kahtoola MICROspikes, Kako Ice Trekkers Ultra (discontinued), STABILicers SPORT, and YakTrax Pro – our top pick in the lot. Stay tuned for an overview of additional winter running traction methods this winter.
We’ve also reviewed some shoes that are particularly suited for winter, such as the Inov-8 Roclite 312 GTX, the Asics Gel-Arctic WR 2, the Inov-8 Mudclaw 330, the Saucony ProGrid Razor, and the La Sportiva Crosslite.
If you’re looking for ways to stay warm, take a look at our reviews of Moeben Arm Sleeves, the Original Buff, and the Merino Wool Buff. There are also multi-review articles on transition weather running apparel as well as running gloves and mittens.
Alternative Activities
Runners in snowy areas often engage in additional winter sports to maintain their endurance through the winter. Last year, we published articles on snowshoe running basics and snowshoe racing as well as my own 3-day snowshoe trek around Yosemite National Park. Look for more on snowshoe running articles this winter as well as information on other winter endurance sports.
Articles and Entertainment
We’ve also got a couple winter articles that you might enjoy. First off, there’s one discussing the merits (or lack thereof) of snowshoe running. Then there’s Kevin Sullivan’s highly entertaining Why I Hate/Love Winter Running. If you enjoy Kevin’s winter running article, check out his poignant Will Running on the Treadmill Make You Insane? Away from iRunFar, check out iRF writer Meghan Hicks’s Postholing Memories story. If you’re a fan of cross country running, consider whether it should be part of the winter olympics.
YakTrax Pro Giveaway!
We’re sure that you haven’t forgotten about about the YakTrax Pro giveaway and neither have we! [Unfortauntely for you, the contest has already closed.]
Stay Up to Date with iRunFar
If you want to read the latest iRunFar story about winter running or anything else, you can subscribe to iRunFar via RSS or via email.
I can't wait to start running in the winter. Last year I discovered how awesome it was; you have most of the trails to your self and the snow acts as great training because of the extra effort you have to put in. I also plan on running up and down my local ski slope. Yaktrax would come in handy considering Central PA is icey.
Jason
State College, PA
My winter running began this past winter. I used the stabilicer sport and they worked wonders. I would love to check out the yaktrax on these cold new england days coming up!
Justin
Holden, MA
I'm going to try to make it through this winter without resorting to the treadmill. Snow's supposed to be coming this weekend, traction control would be nice…
To all of you all Northern runners, good luck in this winters training. More reasons I am glad to live in Texas and can wear shorts year round and no snow. Good luck to all of you.
Winter running in Maine is a ton of fun, till now I've only relied on my low center of gravity to keep from slipping; YakTrax might just help me a bit more!
Zak-Portland, ME
Based on last year's winter in DC, I'm going to need a pair of YakTrax just run around in Rock Creek Park! Also, I'm sure they will come in handy when I'm in Colorado in a few months.
Dan
Washington, DC
Here in Bismarck, 'winter' running will begin next week with the Turkey Trot. AM temps are expected below zero, after this weekend's snowfall of a few inches. And then winter arrives in another! YakTrax are very helpful for my wife's walk to/from work and for running on the trails in town.
Randy
Bismarck, ND
I love running in the snow, hopefully we get more of it this year here in upstate NY. And I could use those YakTrax Pros this year. Last year I was running on the side of a trail to avoid some ice and rolled my ankle in a rut – I almost broke it. On top of that, I had to run 6 miles back to my car… I wasn't dressed warm enough to walk back, I would have frozen. If I'd been wearing some YakTrax Pros I could have run right over the ice.
*crosses fingers to win*
Jeff F. – Beaver Dams, NY
Netflix and DVR make the treadmill a lot more inviting. :)
Outside, I can't wait to try out my new thermal headband that covers the ears.
Training for my first 50k in February, I'll need some help on the steep icy hills. This will be my first winter running too…
They're saying we won't get another 'snowpocalypse' in DC, but it should be another snowy winter. Can't wait!
Jul – Washington, DC
I really only picked up running last February, but I've been putting in 40-50 mile weeks all summer. Running the trails in my area was a major find, since I'm never bored running through the woods, but I'm a little worried the winter weather will force me off of them. Some traction would be fantastic.
Aaron
Lakeville, MN
My winter plan's fairly simple: an uninterrupted streak of running every day until May 1. Then it's a (hopefully) fast spring marathon leading into specific prep for JFK or MMTR. Just relocated back to NYC from AZ and, while I do miss the desert trails, I'm quite keen on running through the jaws of winter.
And speaking of gear, I picked up a Buff based on your singing its praises. Great little piece of kit.
Would love to try out the yaktrax!
Why no mention of cross country skiing as a great winter cross training method? Yes, it is less like running than snow shoeing, but that's also kinda the point. It's different. Cross training is good for your running…
Here in Michigan I eagerly await the arrival of snow! Few feelings are better then cruising along in the early morning leaving fresh tracks (or YakTrax) in the snow.
plan to train hard this cold winter in NY to improve my marathon and 50k times
peter
harrison ny
YakTrax are on my wishlist! I do think my homemade screw shoes are pretty cool, but I don't want to have to do that to all my trail shoes this winter. It would be rockin' to be able to throw a pair of YakTrax on whatever shoes I feel like running in on any given day. As the colder/snowier weather is no excuse to skip out on running, I plan on keeping up my training all through the cold months here in Chi-town.
After spending all of last winter with the trails to myself in the Blacksburg VA area, I'm looking forward to running through another cold season, this time in the Arlington/DC area. Would love to try out some new gear and take the YakTrax on a few ski trips in the area.
Tim
Arlington, VA
It's almost winter here in NM as well. I'm hoping some of the more exposed trails remain runnable all season. — Tracy, Santa Fe, NM
This will be perfect for my winter goal: DONT STOP RUNNING..no matter how bad the weather is…so the yaktrax will be perfect for my winter arsenal…
Cheers!
Jorge Fernandez
Downingtown, PA
With work, school for my MBA, and twin 3-yr olds, most of my running is done early morning on the roads and neighborhoods around work. However, I do make sure to run the canyon behind my house when there is new snow on the weekends. The few snowmobilers look at me and my dog like we're crazy, but it is a beautiful 4-6 miles of pristine beauty. Those YakTrax would probably make it possible to run further up the icey canyon….. (Do they make YakTrax for dogs? We could run forever!)
Kaye, Tooele UT
Well, being a Central PA runner, we definately have some ice and snow issues. The last two seasons I have run in my trail shoes on the roads and the woods and have experienced some issues with the ice and snow. This year I am looking to move into a set of YakTrax or similar product to make my winter running even more enjoyable. The big test will be the Frozen Sasquatch 50K that I am running on January 8, 2011 in the mountains of West Virginia. Definately want to have something so that I can finish strong, and not on my ass.
I love running when it's snowing so I'm really looking forward to our first flakes here (usually occurs sometime in November). And after Thanksgiving break, I'll get serious about training for our winter trail extravaganza, the Post Oak Challenge: http://postoakrun.com/
I'm going to run one of the doubles this year but haven't decided for sure which distances.
Bill Day
Broken Arrow, OK
running in the winter. Its the best. Dealing with any kind of weather hot or cold always brings the challenge i love.
Whether the weather be fine,
Or whether the weather be not,
Whether the weather be cold,
Or whether the weather be hot,
We'll weather the weather
Whatever the weather
Whether we like it or not.
Supposed to be headed to Iowa this year for a couple weeks to visit my inlaws. Hoping to get out and put some miles on in the snow. Being a Texas Boy, we don't get much opportunity down here, so I'd figured I'd take it whilst I can.
Mannie
Round Rock, Tx
There are days when the wind is gusting, the snow is icy, and it's just a lot of hard work, that I understand why people workout indoors. But I could never do–I'm too stubborn. I love to be outside no matter how cold, awful, or uneven the footing is. I look forward to winter running. And you gotta have those traction devices for winter running. There is also a new YakTrax Extreme to be reviewed.
I absolutely hate the treadmill, and would rather bundle up and run in the snow any day. I love the yaktracks, one pair usually lasts a season, but I've had some break mid-season as well. They are well worth the money to be able to run outside without slipping. Have fun out there!
Michele
Littleton, CO
After spending basically the past 2 years pregnant my running has suffered. Doctor's orders prohibited much exercise. Now I plan on focusing this winter on increasing my mileage to reach my goal of 50 miles in the next race I do. YakTrax Pro would help immensley in the mountain area I live. I broke my last pair. Oops!! Thanks.
Jenny
Stanardsville, VA
I'm training for my first 40 mile race this winter, so I hope we don't have the crazy cold temps and snow in the south that we had last year! If we do the YakTrax would come in super handy!!
Brian
Thomasville, NC
Living in the San Francisco Bay Area, CA, winter running for me means mud, mud, and more mud! Rains are expected this weekend so I'll be pulling my rain gear from the closet and hoping to get down and dirty on the trails tomorrow morning. I'm running my first 50 miler next spring, so there's no avoiding the weather this year. I'll be out rain or shine.
Winter running (in actual snow) is so much better than cold wet late fall running. Can't wait to tackle the white stuff!
Living in the northern Pocono Mts. of northeast PA snow and ise are an issue. Last winter I took a hard spill on ice while on one of our local trails. It's so fun though running while the snow is falling. It is both calming and isolating at the same time.
Chris Freet
Honesdale, PA
Last winter, the snow kept me stranded to running endless loops of my neighborhood as the plowed snow kept me from venturing out onto the main roads. It was brutal. My local trails were inaccessible because I have no snowshoes or Yaktrax (who would have thought I would need snowshoes for running trails in Philly at Wissahickon… then again, who would have thought there were miles and miles of technical trails in Philly! :)
Please put my name in the hat!
Not looking forward to the winter… but gotta run, right? Have a feeling I could use those YakTrax on the Pere Marquette trail run in December…brrrrrr!
It's already icy on the Palouse. Jack Frost took a bite out of my nose last night. He's back for more today. Needs me some yaky-traky.
I look forward to the winter running. The white snow filled trails make the forest look so pristine and crisp, as if your the first to discover this land. I allways want to be the first on the trail after a days snowfall so I can hear the crunch and thumping as I'm stepping on the lighly packed snow. As the temps dip, you can feel your cheecks tingle from the sweat starting to ice-up on your face. The slipping with every step can be un-nerving at times, and when your done with the run you feel that you've had a full body workout. The woods enable me to go for up to a 2 hour run, as long as the wind is kept at bay. otherwise my seat filled clothes will full of ice. Can't wait for it to snow.
I plan to wear the Yaktrax while running on snow, and anytime I am riding a real Yak. They work for that too right?
Justin
Colorado Springs, CO
We don't get a lot of snow in Oklahoma, but we get a TON of ice. It's dangerous work running on ice, you end up trying to land in the puddles of melted ice so you don't slip. I thought about some Yak Trax last year, maybe this year.
I'm so happy winter is coming- no crowded trails, no ticks, no poison ivy. If there's enough snow, x-c skiing is a great way to train, but in southern Illinois snow isn't really abundant.
Hi all,
Montreal during the winter = Running in a lot of snow
The Yaktrx will definitely help.
Take care
YouYou
So far, its been a warm, dry Fall in the Front Range. There is almost no snow above 9000 feet! I'm thinking about summiting Pike's Peak tomorrow…
What I love about Colorado Front Range winters/springs
1) Days that are just cold enough to turn my cheeks rosy colored.
2) Running on a snow packed trail with maybe an inch or two of fresh snow.
3) Running on a snow packed trail with maybe an inch or two of fresh snow on a sunny warm day in shorts.
4) Snow Flurries. I cannot think of a more perfect time to run. Trails or roads, it does not matter.
5) When the sun catches the snow just right, the whole world is glitter.
6) My dog puts it in overdrive in snow.
What I dislike about Colorado Front Range winters/springs
1) Days that are just cold enough to turn my cheeks frost bitten.
2) Ice.
3) Putting my Yak Trax on, then off, then on again on lower trails with exposure.
3) Post-holing.
4) I can only run popular trails unless I want to post-hole.
Chris G
Colorado Springs
Eagerly waiting for Wisconsin winter, no snow yet but sure to come.
CJ LaFond
Madison WI
Mount Mitchell Challenge coming up in February! Would love the Yaktrax on that one!
Thanks,
Mark C.
Vale, NC
My winter fun: Snowshoe running the San Juan Mountains around Telluride over Christmas, then getting back to the Bay Area in time for John Medinger’s annual Epiphany Run ultra in the East Bay hills!
Sarah
Piedmont, CA
I've got a snowshoe race in January here in western Wisconsin and this would be great for training and the event. Congrats on your recent move, I'm jealous!
Doug
My winter running shoes of choice are the ADIDAS Raven. The fabric isn't as breathable as most, which is nice when it is cold and windy. The grip is great on snowy trails.
I live in Alaska and run on 100% snowed-in trails from October through April.
Nils
Talkeetna, Alaska
Living in SoCal, we don't get much of an opportunity to run in the snow, but with a pair of YakTraxs, I could tackle some of the peaks in the San Bernardino mountains.
Brrrrrrr Its getting really cold here in Phoenix I think today its only going to be in the high 70's. But the yaks could be usefull in flagstaff.
It would be nice to get out there in the ice and snow, rather than being relegated to the treadmill!
well, i plan to visit iRunFar headquarters next week — i hope that counts!
-weasel
boulder, colorado
I'm looking forward to another winter of running! After some fun thanksgiving and Christmas themed runs, I'll start my spring marathon training!
Yaks would be great to keep running on the prairie path during the winter!
MJ
SLC, UT
My New Year's Resolution for the last 4 years: NOT ONE STEP ON A TREADMILL. Winter, summer, rain or snow… all trails all the time!
Now that I'm running again, I'm hoping for another snowy winter like we had last year. My goal will be to see the cobwebs accumulate on our treadmill. Hoping to maybe try out some snowshoes … and Yaks!
Larry
Great Falls, VA
Was running shirtless at 7,800 feet yesterday. Will winter arrive this year?
Not only do I plan to tackle a midnight snowshoe race, but I'm also planning to train my most loyal running partner, my Siberian Husky to pull a sled that I can put my daughter in and I can run alongside. Fun for the whole family!
I don't plan on stopping during the winter. My group hits up the Iowa winters til it hits 0 or ice and then we think about coming inside.
Slipping, sliding and snow shoeing is how I usually train in winter. A pair of Yak Trax would certainly help reduce the element of danger. Happy Holidays…
Here is Missouri we get ice or if it snows it melts and turns into ice. Our solution has been to put screws in our shoes. These Yak Trax look like it would be much easier and not ruin our shoes.
Mark
KC Trail Nerds
yaktrax rock… don't have my pair for this winter yet… :)
kristin
eugene, or
would like a sweet pair of yaktrax yo
Jamie H
Lewisville, NC
I refuse to run on the Dreadmill! I'm going to be running outside! I could really use a pair of Yak Trax Pros!
Thanks for the winter articles, the index and the give away! They are all much appreciated!
I'm excited for my first winter out of Utah/Colorado. While I didn't mind the snow, it will be nice to not have to wear tights and warm hat/gloves all the time.
Oh yeah- Jon, Greenville SC
I really enjoy winter running although I tend to overdress
I got my 1st tracks in snow last week and unfortunately my shoe print did not show yaktrack markings, all my friends who were with me did have the yaktracks on. It made the 4k vertical descent in 2.5 miles quite slippery. I could have used the yaktracks then and I'm sure there will plenty more opportunities this winter when I'm sure I would wish that I had a pair.
JT, glad you like the multifaceted Buff. I wore mine in some blustery conditions today.
Why no mention of Nordic skiing? Because I've only been out once for a couple hours my entire life. That's about to change. I just picked up both classic and skate skis last week, am waxing them up tomorrow, and will be writing about this fine cross training option once I get some on snow time. :)
Sweet! I will be adding cross country to my winter training this year up in Tahoe. Being more like running than biking, but less like running than snow shoeing, I'm betting that it's really really good for your running.
Kim, I've got the YakTrax XTR and will be reviewing it once I get in some testing. :-)
Tony, I'm so excited for Park City, Utah's first big snow since I moved here that I literally can't sleep!
I just moved to Tacoma, WA, within striking distance of Mount Rainier and a bunch of other great running/snowshoeing areas in the Cascades and Olympics. I want to start snowshoeing right about now but don't have the cash to buy gear, so it would be super fresh if you could hook me up.
Thanks, Bryon, you're the dandiest.
I ran in the winter for the first time last year. I live in Wisconsin, and we were fortunate to not have too much snow (at least not on the roads by the time I could run on them) and there were only a couple days I had to miss my run due to weather. I'm always looking for ideas on good winter running gear. Thanks for the article!
Running in the winter is quite the experience. Especially when going downhill and you begin to almost skate ski. But I suppose that is one of the benefits of trail running as you never know what the trail will be like on any given day.
It's been winter here for one month. Using the old studs on the feet and really needing them. Glare ice the last week with temps hanging around 10 degrees for early mornings. But the full moon was out this morning and it was really beautiful. Gotta watch out for those wolves, though.
Living in Maine I find it fun to run the snowmobile trails once they are packed down. Sometimes I hit the trails in running snowshoes and other times I run in my usual running shoes with thick socks. HATE TO RUN INSIDE!
Steve, I, too, hate running inside. There aren't any snowmobile trails right where I live, but I might start grooming some running trails with a snowmobile in the near future.
A wicked cold snap last July kept me from what I hoped would be a 2-3 day through-run of western Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands Trail. Ideally, this would be done in snowshoes, but PA weather is fickle and, sadly, sometimes completely devoid of snow. Wish me luck and consider me interested in putting a pair of those YakTrax Pro to the test. Thanks, Bryon!
I thought you were a Kahtoola man, Leon? ;-)
Looking forward to a milder Denver winter compared to last winter in Leadville. Hoping to spend lots of time exploring the trails of the Front Range. YakTrax would make it much more enjoyable (and safer!).
Thanks,
Brenden
Denver, CO
Around 6 years ago, i had a nasty case of frsotbite on both feet that put my into a whirlwind of physical therapy, debriding and biofeedback to try to save my feet (mostly intact with a couple toe pieces that were sacrificed to the snow gods…)
SO, as I return to rmy former running form (well amost), I invested in some Icebugs to brave the elements. Felt like I was wearing concrete blocks on my feet-though the Gortex uppers did make my remaining foot parts feel snug, but the extra weight and not feeling the ground threw my already trashed proprioception even more off kilter. Tried screw shoes, but hate the sliding feeling that I have when transitioning back onto concrete from the trails.
This winter, I have to (gulp) brave the elements, as I coach HS XC, indoor and outdoor track and need to look as tough as my runners and not wuss out on the cold, icey days. (Though we raced up a canyon today –30 degrees at 5764 feet–and at the 7220 ft summit it was almost 60 degrees-took 2nd overall, first female BTW!!)
Plan to do many a snow-bound race this winter to help keep the kiddies motivated, so the YakTrax will work wonders in this part of Colorado.
Enjoy your winter running everyone!!
Karen, Morrison CO
Last year I stayed mostly on the roads, but am planning a lot more trail running for this winter!
I have used YakTrax Pro for a few tears now. While training for the ARROWHEAD 135 I found that it was not simple to pull a pulk while running on ice. I live in Wisconsin so in order to not let the weather control my running passion I must have gear that works well. The YakTrax Pro work good for traction and also help me hold down some home made gaitors.
I plan to sign up for the April 17th Trail Animals Don't Run Boston 50k. Living in NH, I'll certainly have to train outside on the roads and snow-covered sidewalks.
winter running in SE michigan is horrible. the only possible silver lining is that it makes you mentally tougher than all those guys up in the mountains with their vistas, breath-taking peaks, towering pines and the rest of it…we just get four months of bitter sub-freezing temps, lead grey sky and long flat roads covered in black slush. it's like living inside a dirty, smoke-filled icebox.
yak-traks? the name is just silly enough to work.
-patrick thurber
la salle, mi
I live in New York, cold and snowy. I have plans of running a spring 100, hopefully Massanutten. I could use the extra help a pair of Yak's would give to my Winter trail running.
Bill McGovern
Marathon N.Y.
I had my first shivers of fall running prior to the start of the NY marathon this year. I was conflicted – so nice to not sweat (as much) but all those additional layers…
Not to mention the extra laundry!
My goal is to run consistently throughout the winter, unlike years past when I've gone into partial hibernation mode.
I'm going to take your tips and reviews and put them into good use.
thank you
Plan on some outings to Mount Rainer, close to my home base in Puyallup, WA.
Thanks!
Bradley
Puyallup, WA
YakTrax are on my wishlist! I live in SF bay area but this winter I am moving for a couple of months to Germany!
My plans for winter running included easing into cold weather barefoot running, but we've had three days of -20 F weather that put those plans to a halt. Although my unshod feet are the most waterproof footwear I own, they still struggle at keeping my atop mounds of snow. For those colder, more snow-piled days, a pair of YakTrax could come in handy :-)
I was deployed last winter so I did not get to challenge the elements. I look forward to continuing my training this winter and try out all my new winter gear. It does get cold living near Lake Michigan. YakTrax would definitely help the snowy days, particularly the lake effect snow days.
Tony, Milwaukee, WI
My YakTrax Pro broke 2 years ago. Last year, I just used screws in the shoes, but I sure would like another pair. They're great for packed powder.
This year, I'll be training for a 1/2 marathon during the winter! Since running on a treadmill gets old quick, I'll be outside a lot. Just this last weekend, I picked up some nifty gloves and some tights…now, I welcome winter!
love training in chicago winters-so peaceful!!
ed werner
chicago, il
Would like e extra traction while preparing for my first ultra!
Jeremy D.
Jonesboro, AR
YakTrax Pro are on my christmas list. I run on trails and last winter got hurt trying to run without the proper gear. I have heard nothing but great things about your product from my ultra running friends. I hope to be the first person in my running club with a new pair of YakTraxs to show off :-)
Last year I was doing all treadmill runs during the winter- this year I vowed not to let that happen. First snow came yesterday, so it is just about time to get out there and go!
Randy Ehrhard
Woodland, WA
Kicking off my winter running with The Dirty Bird 15k at French Creek State Park, Birdsboro, PA on Thanksgiving Sunday. Next race, Snowfest in February at RB Winter State Park.
Perry
Harrisburg, PA
Looking forward to winter running here in Maine…can't believe I'm saying that! Training for some spring Ultra's and need to log those winter miles…OUTSIDE! The treadmill drives me crazy. YakTrax Pro would help me this winter and be a great Christmas present to me! :)
I am going to continue running up the mountain trails in the open space around Boulder. The trails are in trasition right now with some snow, and a bit of ice. Soon everything will be snow packed and easier to negotiate. The Yak Trax would be excellent for winter conditions here. Thanks.
Kirk Emry
Boulder, CO
Im going to be visiting the grandchildren a lot and they live in snow country. Yak Trax would be awesome for that!
snowing right now in Seattle! La Nina winter. Never tried them, but curious. Sign me up for a pair.
Hoping for a mild winter in Colorado so I can keep my mileage up for next years 100 miler. Some yak trax will come in handy on the snow packed trails!
Chris
I screwed my trail shoes for last winter's icey runs. They worked greated but left a bit to be desired in the noise department. I'd love to try Yak Trax for my trianing and two late winter Ultras!
I don't think I could make it through the winter without my Yaktrax! While others are droning along on the dreadmill I am out enjoying the winter air and snow, running through the trails with my pup. Love love love them! Oh, but they do wear out eventually and so I could use a new pair this year, hint hint :)
Almost all time, I love winter in Minnesota. I am planning to get new running shoes and get myself ready for running on frozen lakes.
It's my favorite time of year for running! Frigid starts, cold breaths…there's something about winter running that makes you feel alive!
Bobby
Kent, CT
I need good Karma with the YakTrax. In Oregon now hoping to move the family to Michigan for a new career this winter that I am waiting to hear back from. They will come in handy in the snow there.
I am moving from Virginia Beach to Lynchburg, VA specifically so I have mountains and snow to train in/on. I am getting SERIOUS this year!
Love to give them a try.
Greg
To the tune of Winter Wonderland, the Yaktrax version:
Cars honk their horns, are you listening,
In the lane, snow is glistening
A beautiful sight,
I'm still running upright,
Running in a winter wonderland.
Gone away is the sunlight,
Here to stay is frostbite,
Where is my power song,
My stride is too long,
Running in a winter wonderland.
I love yak trax
just finished up some beautiful fall ultras, vermont, JFK, and now gearing up for winter….
watchung winter ultra,
hopefully the snow will be gone by spring for Hat and umstead….
susan
would love yaktrax!!!!! we plan on doing lots of winter running as well as some beginning climbing such as the south sister in oregon, mt shasta( well that may not be beginner but we are going to attempt it) and any other mountains we can hike up. would love to win those!!!!!! love your website by the way, and my bumper sticker gets lots of comments!!
Plan on getting some snowshoes this winter for my Thursday night Mtb ride when there to much snow!
Spencer
Scranton pa
I can't wait to run in the snow!
Joey
Charlottesville, VA
After last years snow in DC and having to do most of my training on a treadmill (the worst for 20 miles) I'd love to get out when its snowy this year.
Love to run in the snow. These would definitely get lots of use.
Chris
NM
I just moved to Canada and this will be my first winter. I think it would be cool to run in the snow.
Armando. Montreal, QC
It is souch fun running in the snow. The cold air on your face that makes your cheeks turn red and the smell of being outside is wonderful!
I will be training for Boston through the NJ winter. Last year I used screw shoes.
I planned on attaching sheet-metal screws to the soles of an old pair of Asics–but if I win these Yaktrax I won't have too!
I am looking forward to running in the snow – over the hills and through the woods! So much running fun, which would be made even more fun with some YakTrax!
It's snowing in Seattle right now! looks like I could use them in the city this year!
Already had the opportunity for two great runs in the snow so far. I can't wait to see what the season holds!
Have been running in my YakTrax since mid-October here in Alaska- paired with a bottle/camelbak of warm water (takes about 20 min to get drinkable cold, right around the time I need it). Sprinkle on a good attitude and that's all you need for winter running!
Suzy
Fairbanks, AK
It's gonna be an El Nina winter in Oregon! Coming off my first 50 miler, I hope to get some of these to get me excited about winter training!
PDX, OR
Winter running in these parts means that the seasonal dirt roads will be covered with snow and the occasional snowmobile/jeep track – the quiet white woods will be disturbed only by the crunching of my shoes on the crusty surface. I look forward to the cold temps and soft footfalls.
There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear…
It will be fun to win a pair!! Big Bear, CA is waiting…
It does not snow enough in Oklahoma to have microspikes but the yak trax are perfect for the days the roads are icy or snow packed.
Henry Bickerstaff
Alva, Oklahoma
Would love a pair of these. I run outside all winter, can't stand the treadmill, would put them to good use!
Mark
Enjoying the last bit of forgiving trails before the deep-freeze sets in for the winter. The rapid freeze and thaw patterns that are then covered over by snow make for some dicey conditions for trail running in Ithaca. We've only carried the Stabilicer's sport in the shop so I'm curious to see what the Pro's are like.
I'd love to give them a try!
winter is what it's all about where AK is concerned. we have to deal with it 4-6 months out of the year and for those couple months where everything is frozen solid, the running is amazing. terrain opens up that you could never run in the summer months like bogs, muskegs, creeks, and drainages. traction devices are key at times. I'm due for a new pair so pencil me in…
I'll be running in Boise's snow covered foothills all winter training for Robie Creek.
Hills: http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_F07iqvPbMZY/SvzDkCiqDzI…
Maine Winter. Enough said.
Brendan
Maine
I live in SE MN…need I say more about the snow and ice here? Getting ready again this winter for a challenge I put forth for my students and community. Mr. Parry's Endurance Challenge encourages others to get out and be active. In the past, I have ended the challenge with a 24 hour run around my hometown for the students to see. Next spring, I will be running 7 marathons in 7 days in order to demonstrate this years theme: "Don't set your limits…go out and find them." I could use any advantage out there available, including the means to run in some pretty miserable weather conditions.
Jim Parry
Stewartville, MN
I've got an early spring marathon planned so i'm going to need to log plenty of miles this winter. If this winter is anything like last, a new pr of yaktraks would come in handy!
Chris
CT
I have a few road 10K to run and training to hopefully get into the Chuckanut 50K next spring. The local race that I wanted to run in January (Bridle Trails 50K) looks to have been canceled now that Seattle Running Company was sold to Fleet Feet. bummer.
I'd love to try some Trax though.
Love your site!!!
In the spring, when the weather thaws, I will be attempting my first 50K on a 'Rails to Trails' Run from Council to Weiser,Idaho. In the meantime I shall be training on all winter trails (some snowmobile groomed) in the valleys and some mountains of Central Idaho, so really could use some YakTrax. … also will be Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in Ponderosa Park and Bear Basin in McCall ID. I will be running Boston Marathon, 2011 and am raising funds for MS in honor of many friends!
Get Thee behind me, Yax!
I run with Stabilicer Sports now. Would love to try out Yaktrax to compare.
Great post, just in time as our first snow has not hit here in Wisconsin. Love running on snow trails. I run on The Ice Age Trail!
Yaktrax would be amazing since Portland is about to shut down with snow. Maybe then I could just run to work and back. WIN WIN situation.
Snowing in Seattle. Yaktrax would be good.
Sara
This is my first winter as a becoming-thinner, becoming-fitter vegan and runner. I don't mind the cold, but it gets slippery and icy in central Ohio. YakTrax would be a real help!
I would love a pair of Yaktrax for running in Tahoe which has just seen its biggest weekend snowstorm in recent years. Yeah!!
Hey – read the Lululemon Sargeant Jacket review then went to their site to check it out… doesn't look like it's manufactured/available anymore. Might want to consider that when promoting the review!
Sue,
With the internet, products never die… they just become harder to find. I just found the Lululemon Sergeant Jacket on eBay: http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=m570&… . :-) However, point duly noted… product removed.
You had a link to their site where the jacket no longer lives on. I enjoyed the review and reading about what made it a good garment though … useful to know that LL products are worth checking out.
Thanks.
Training for my first 50k right now. It's a mid January race in OH so Yaktraxs would be a great tool for my training and the race!
I have good traction shoes what are really usefull in snowy conditions (x-talons), but when massive Ice is on the roads, a pair of Yaktrax may come in handy. There are orienteering shoes what have metal knobs, they might be good as well, heavy though. January I am going to do good run in Ireland called the Art O'Neill Challenge, it is a 55K mixed surface mountain run, starting 2am in the morning, and a 45 miler 2 weeks after near London. In March I am heading for the ECO Trail de Paris it is an 80Km trail run around paris finishing on the first level of the Eifel Tower, nice. March is mad you cannot expect anything, it is gonna be snow and -20C, or +2 or +3 rain and mud, or +20 sunshine and happyness. Crazy.
YAKTRAX
I would love to give these a try, especially after the brutal winter we had here in DC last year. I fell on my poor butt a lot!
I am in Iowa- and the frigid Canadian air is coming down- bringing ice & snow. Can't tell ya how many falls I had but I bet it was kind of comical from a distance :) YakTrax would be awesome!
I'm going to embrace winter this year and not complain about how cold or icy it is outside. I would love to give YakTrax a try
Would really love to get a pair of YakTrax to continue exploring the Bruce Trail in the off season here in Ontario.
driving from west coast to iowa to spend new years with very good family friends — we have to go running every day, our two young dogs need the workout and we love the old railroad trail but it's really icy on the streets we run to access the trail- the more help the better!
I would love to try these!
Best product EVER! I can run up and down Mt. Denny in Seattle with ease…even with my dog at my side! Thank you, Yaktrax!
My city (Bellingham WA) is completely sold out of YakTrax what with our sudden early winter weather and icy/snowy roads. People love their YakTrax, and I've ordered some sight-unseen. Even though I'll have one pair, I would love another pair to leave at the office. I can't even walk across the street right now without sliding on the ice and I think YakTrax is the answer.
Pick me, please! :-)
I'm planning to move to Asheville, nothing like some snowy mountain running every once in a while
Mike
Charlotte, NC
Ever run along the Erie Canal without something to keep you above the snow? No mountains, just lots of snow, would love to try these.
I'd like to try these out this winter on the trails through Bear Mt. and Harriman State Park in New York.
Mark
I'm training for my first 50k Spring 2011. Last year running in the ice and snow was difficult but doable. I've held off buying any kind of traction aids mainly due to the economy here in Michigan (need save every thing I can for entrance fees, ha, ha). My plan is to do a 50 miler in 2011 (Fall) if the 50k, and various 26'ers go well. Everything depends on my consistency this Winter.
Put YakTrax on the Christmas list after a friend highly recommended them. Would love to pull them off the list if I win a pair from you! Got a couple 50ks planned for Feb and Mar. Looking forward to a piece of gear that'll keep me training all winter no matter the weather.
right now i run with an old pair of new balance all-weather trail shoes with sheet-metal screws sunk into the bottom for traction. actually works great, but some yak trax would be better . . .
Got my first dose of real winter this week – 35 mph headwind, -5 windchill, snow-covered gravel road. A month from now I probably will skip it, but right now it makes me feel tough.
Steve
Idaho Falls, ID
In addition to snowshoeing, I would suggest the less popular in the US sport, of ski mountaineering. Yes, it is costly and yes could prove a bit more risky but its a hell of a lot more exciting than snowshoeing !
Pick me…..