Here's Why You Should Leave Your Running Shoes at Home in the Winter

Did you know that cold weather conditions could affect your running shoes? It’s true! Keep reading to learn more about the effects of cold weather on your shoes and consider leaving them at home in the winter.

Cold Weather Affects the Cushioning in Your Shoes

According to Runners Connect, running shoes contain a midsole and an insole that are constructed from EVA, which is short for ethylene-vinyl acetate. This foam is synthetic, and it’s a great way to create the cushioning that is necessary to protect your feet and body while you run. Unfortunately, when cold temperatures set in, the EVA in your shoes will end up getting stiff, thereby reducing the cushioning and support that it would otherwise provide during your workout.

Why This Is a Problem for Runners

You might be wondering if cold temperatures making your shoes stiff is actually a problem. Well, it is important to bear in mind that, when your running shoes are stiff because it’s winter, if you choose to run in them, you will end up experiencing a greater amount of pressure on the soles of the feet, and that may lead to problems, especially if you have had foot problems in the past. It will also be a lot like running in old shoes that have EVA foam that has worn out over time. This is why it is important to also consider the age of your shoes when you decide to use them for running in the great outdoors in the winter.

What Can You Do?

If you absolutely must run outside in the winter, consider getting a pair of shoes that are softer to begin with, as they may not get as stiff in the cold. Alternatively, you could head to the gym to run on a treadmill instead if you do not have a treadmill that you can use at home. That way, you can take steps to support your feet while you run, as you won’t be subjecting them to the increased pressure that comes with a stiffer insole and midsole.