The best winter sneakers for 2024
Shortly
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Waterproof materials, especially Gore-Tex, are crucial to keeping feet dry. Leather sneakers are durable and naturally water-resistant, ideal for winter if well cared for.
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Casual sneakers like the Adidas Samba, chunky Y2K models and outdoor sneakers from Salomon and Hoka are still on trend.
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Models such as Nike ACG, Salomon XT-6, and Hoka One One Tor Ultra Hi offer protection from wet and cold thanks to Gore-Tex technology and stable soles.
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Regular waterproofing protects your sneakers from water and dirt. It's best to do this every 4-6 weeks or after 10 wears.
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Insoles and thicker socks provide additional warmth and comfort to make even normal sneakers suitable for winter.
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High-top sneakers protect ankles from wind and moisture, ideal for cold days.
The cold season is upon us again. On the one hand, it's cool because we can do more in terms of styling than in summer, but on the other hand, our feet are getting cold again. For some, that might even mean putting their sneakers in the closet until spring. We don't do that, of course, because we wear sneakers all year round. In this article, we'll give you tips on which winter sneakers ( buy winter sneakers ) are the best, how you can rock your favorite shoes in winter, what's currently trendy, and how you can properly care for your sneakers in winter.
Our winter sneaker recommendations for 2024/25
Very short and painless, these are our shoe recommendations for winter:
Nike ACG
The Nike ACG (All Conditions Gear) collection offers some robust and functional sneakers that are specially designed for extreme weather conditions. Thanks in particular to the Gore-Tex technology and outer profile, these shoes are waterproof and ideal for winter outings in nature or in the city. We are fans of the Mountain Fly 2 Low and the ACG Torre .
Salomon XT-6
The Salomon XT-6 is a must-have in our selection. The XT-6 is an outdoor-inspired sneaker that is perfect for winter conditions. With its water-repellent upper, stable sole and good cushioning, this sneaker offers excellent grip. That's why it's great for winter hikes or everyday wear in snow and rain.
Salomon Snowclog Mid
The Salomon Snowclog Mid offers protection from cold and wet weather with its longer shaft. Thanks to the waterproof upper and the insulating inner padding, it keeps your feet warm even in snow and ice. The robust sole ensures perfect grip on smooth surfaces.
Hoka One One Tor Ultra Hi
Hoka One One has added a Gore-Tex upper to the Tor Ultra Hi for the more demanding seasons. The upper is made from a combination of nubuck leather and mesh. The toe cap is made from rubber so that you can stomp through puddles or mud. And the Vibram Megagrip outsole ensures that you don't slip. Hoka's models are currently in great demand and add the finishing touch to your tech winter look.
Crocs winter collection
Yes, Crocs are not sneakers. But Crocs are trendy and the brand actually offers some really funny silhouettes for winter. Whether it's the fluffy Classic Clog version , the Echo Boot or the Stomp Puff Boot . The Crocs winter collection offers a surprising number of models. With lined insoles and water-repellent materials, these Crocs are perfect for winter.
Diemme
Not sneakers in the true sense, but Diemme makes extremely nice shoes. They are known for their handmade shoes from Italy. Diemme's winter-proof models feature a waxed upper that doesn't let water through. We recommend the Grappa Hiker and the Roccia Vet Boot .
UGG
UGG is the epitome of winter. The iconic boots are lined with warm fur that keeps your feet warm and cozy. The new Venture Daze Ultra Mini or the Tasman X are really good.
Dr. Martens
Dr. Martens have been known for decades for their durable workmanship and robust style. The smooth leather boots are great for winter. The distinctive sole also ensures good grip on winter roads.
The North Face NSE Tent Mule IV
Last but not least: If you are looking for a cozy, warm slipper for the winter, we recommend the Tent Mule . They are like sleeping bags for your feet. These shoes offer excellent insulation thanks to synthetic filling materials that keep you warm even in freezing temperatures. They are lightweight and are particularly suitable for cozy evenings after a long winter day.
It's always worth taking a look at our page with all winter sneakers , because you never know what's coming this winter...
Top Trends for Winter Sneakers 2024/25
We want to be on trend in winter too, and you probably do too. That's why we're summarizing the sneaker trends for 2024 here, so you can choose your favorite winter model based on the trends.
Casual aka Terrace Sneaker
The Adidas Samba and similar football-inspired sneakers are still mega popular in 2024. We still see classics like the Gazelle , the Handball Spezial and the SL 72 everywhere. You can also wear brands like Puma (Palermo) and Nike (Cortez).
Y2K and 2000s running sneakers
Chunky sneakers and reinterpretations of older models are especially popular with Gen Z. Silhouettes like the Adidas Campus 00s , the Vans Knu School and old running silhouettes from Asics , New Balance and Nike (e.g. the Zoom Vomero 5) are still on trend in winter.
Trekking and outdoor sneakers
Functional and comfortable sneakers from brands like Salomon , Hoka One One and Arc'teryx are becoming increasingly popular. They are no longer just worn in the tech wear scene, but are also finding their way into the mainstream.
Crocs, Birkenstocks and ballerinas
Comfortable shoes are the highlight of the "loungecore aesthetic" and are often worn casually with sweatpants. They have lost their old-fashioned image and are now accepted as comfortable alternatives on the street - even by the streetwear scene.
Which sneakers are suitable for winter?
Wearing sneakers in winter is not a no-go. Thanks to numerous technological advances, many models are not only cool but also functional. You can also always go for classic leather silhouettes with a slightly higher sole, such as the Air Force 1 , Autry Medalist or an Adidas Forum . But the popular brands also bring silhouettes onto the market that have a few more features. Here are the most important criteria that a good winter sneaker should meet.
Waterproof sneakers
Nobody likes wet feet. That's why waterproof sneakers are a must when it's raining or snowing outside. Brands like Nike , Adidas and Salomon now offer numerous models that are equipped with water-repellent materials to keep feet dry. Gore-Tex technology is particularly popular, as its unique membrane keeps out water while remaining breathable.
Leather sneakers: the classic for cold days
Leather sneakers are an excellent choice for winter. Leather is naturally water-repellent and protects you from the cold. If you take care of your leather sneakers properly , your leather sneakers will last for many years and remain robust against snow and moisture.
-> Here you can find all leather sneakers in our online shop
Lined sneakers for extra warmth
When temperatures drop below freezing, lined sneakers will keep your feet warm. Some models come with a warm lining that provides additional insulation.
Tips for warm feet in your sneakers
If you don't want to buy extra winter sneakers or you get cold feet even in warm sneakers, you can upgrade your shoes with a few tricks.
Insoles: For additional warmth and comfort
If your sneakers alone aren't warm enough for you, you can use special insoles. These not only provide additional padding, but also an extra layer against the cold. Some brands even offer heated soles that keep your feet warm for hours. For a quick solution on the go, you can also buy disposable soles at the drugstore that keep your feet warm for up to 8 hours - even in sneakers. However, for the sake of nature, you should perhaps not use these disposable products too often and instead opt for reusable alternatives.
Putting on the right socks
Really warm socks are a must. There are some brands that rely on warming technologies that are perfect for winter. But even simple, slightly thicker sneaker socks are much better than short summer socks.
Tip: Try on your winter sneakers with thick socks so that they fit you even with a thicker layer.
wearing high-top sneakers
It is especially important for us that our ankles are warm. High-top sneakers not only protect your ankles, they also ensure that neither moisture nor wind can easily get into the sneakers.
-> Here you can find all high-top sneakers in our online shop
Why you should waterproof your sneakers regularly
Winter sneakers should, above all, be waterproof. That's why it's important to waterproof and clean your shoes regularly, especially in the wet and cold season.
Even if your sneaker is considered water-repellent, this property does not last forever. Waterproofing sprays help to protect the material of your shoe from moisture and dirt. Our tip: Waterproof your sneakers after every tenth wear or every four to six weeks, depending on the weather.
Tip: It's wet in autumn and winter, so it's hard to avoid getting stains on your sneakers. If that really bothers you, you should buy all-black sneakers. They're super hard-wearing when it comes to dirt and are easy to clean. And always remember: you should also waterproof all-black sneakers.
Conclusion: Winter sneakers for cold and wet days
The right choice of winter sneakers depends not only on your style, but above all on functionality. Make sure that your sneakers are waterproof and have a warm lining if necessary. Technologies such as Gore-Tex and warm insoles offer additional comfort and protection from the cold elements. With the right winter sneakers, you are perfectly prepared for the cold season - without having to forego your personal style. Very important: don't forget to waterproof them!
Author: Asphaltgold |