When winter comes and the snow flies, you don’t have to hang up your running desires. It seems, so many of us give up on running in the snowy months but with the right pair of shoes, a bit of adjusted techniques and the right terrain choice you can be running year round! Consider the tips below to help you enjoy winter running in Jackson Hole.
Shoes – When snow and ice is covering the ground a good pair of waterproof trailrunners, preferably with studs will make sure you’re 100% confident you won’t slip out mid-stride. We have a good selection of waterproof runners from several brands, studded or high traction runners from LaSportiva, Icebugs, and Saucony.
Traction – Love your summer trail runners and don’t want to covert to a studded shoe? Well then we have you covered with a selection of after market traction outsoles like Nano spikes, Yak Trak and Snowlines to convert any shoe you own into a winter runner.
Technique – When winter running, try to shorten your stride and increase your cadence and turnover. This effectively shortens the time you’re in contact with the ice, allowing you less time to slip and also means you’ll be taking a lighter step which means you’ll be putting less force into the ice.
Terrain – We’re blessed with several options for winter running here in Jackson but picking the right place on the right day at the right time is key. While running up Cache Creek may be your favorite thing to do mid-winter it may get too soft during the spring thaw or mid-day after a few hours of sunlight. Ideally, we’re thinking about finding a firm snow surface, or a plowed pathway/road, and always thinking about the temperature during the day. Owning a pair of spiked shoes or nano spikes will definitely open up the possibilities here. Also checking the Friends of Pathways and JH Nordic grooming reports will help you find the best options (both regularly post updates on their social media). Also be courteous when groomed areas are too soft for running as deep footprints are not fun to ski over.
So take a few of these tips and get out there this winter! If you have any questions on where and how best to enjoy winter running stop by the shop to chat with us and of course if you need any clothing or equipment to get into winter running we have what you need at Skinny Skis.