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Are you looking for the best shoes for Icy pavements? The winter months in icy climates can make for a beautiful landscape and be quite dangerous to walk on. The saying “you are skating on thin ice” is a true metaphor of danger because of how dangerous it is in reality. Ice can present a hazard when you try to walk on it, especially if you are not wearing the right shoes.
There are also various tips and tricks as to how you should walk on ice safely. Shoe manufacturers have particular lines that focus on keeping people safe as they walk on ice. They have features and attributes that make them good for walking on slippery slopes such as ice.

The first port of call is to get shoes that have a great grip. You will do well to walk only on designated paths and make sure you bend your knees slightly. Sometimes it helps to look at how animals in icy climates cope with walking on ice. They have been at it for a while and have found ways to cope.
Best Shoes for Icy Pavements
Penguins, for instance, can give you an idea as to what to do on the ice. Shoe manufacturers have also taken a leaf out of nature’s book and incorporated some of these tips and tricks in their footwear. In this article, we take a look at the best shoes to wear on icy pavements.
In a Hurry
Do you need a quick guide to buying the best shoes to wear on icy pavements? There are a few factors you will need to consider before you make your decision. First of all, take a look at the sole of the shoe. You will want to get a shoe that has a great grip and will keep you sturdy.
Also, check on the material the shoe is made of and see if it is waterproof. You will be walking on the icy pavement, which means that there will be moisture around, and you will want to keep it out of your shoes. Since it is a slippery surface, make sure that the shoe fits and fastens properly. It will need to be secure as well as comfortable.
Our Top Pick
We have done our research and found our favorite pick to be the Saucony Peregrine 7 Ice+ Running Shoe. The arctic grip outsole on the shoe delivers optimal traction on icy surfaces. The shell delivers durability and weather protection in a flexible dynamic fit. It also has a PWR TRAC outsole for optimal grip and traction across different surfaces. It also has EVERUN top sole construction to give enhanced energy return and continuous cushioning.
Our Reviews of the Best Shoes for Icy Pavements
Saucony Peregrine 7 ice+ Running Shoe
Saucony is a giant company in the shoe industry and peregrine 7 ice running shoes is one of the products offered.
The shoes are ideal for icy pavement PWR TRAC outsole technology which offers optimal grip and great traction while walking on an icy pavement.
The most wonderful thing is the Everun top sole which provides continuous cushioning and energy return throughout the run.
Besides that, the flex shell enhances durability and this is the reason why they offer a long-lasting running experience.
Also, the flex shell construction offers weather protection on the feet due to the maximum insulation that creates maximum comfort on the icy pavement.
The rubber sole enhances the flexibility and dynamic fit of the shoe. It is the reason why the shoes receive lots of praise on many athletes’ forums.
The shaft also ensures the foot feel comfortable and help to protect the ankle from twisting while running in icy terrain.
Although the price might look high they are worth due to the quality of synthetic material used in their construction.
Pros
- Made from high-quality synthetic material
- The outsole has great traction and optimal grip
- Flex shell enhances durability and weather protection
- The top sole provides maximum cushioning
Cons
- Lack of insulation on the upper surface
- Relatively expensive
Vasque Mantra 2.0 Hiking Shoe
Vasque Mantara is a shoe company that has been in the industry for over some decades and they have a great reputation for providing quality shoes.
The Vasque Mantra 2.0 hiking shoes are one of the products which are quite ideal for hiking and running during winter.
The midsole and quality Vibram Nuasi outsoles provide the required stability while hitting the terrain in the wilderness.
That’s not all. The durable nubuck and mesh uppers facilitate breathability as well as a comfortable fit. This is the feature that makes it ideal for long-distance hikes.
The tailored instep and lower volume heel keep the feet securely in place. Besides that, people with flatter feet can comfortably fit in the shoe.
The most beautiful thing with the mantra hiking shoe is the wide toe box that can accommodate natural foot expansion while hitting the trail.
The hiking shoe weight around two pounds and it has a variety of widths for a better performance fit. They also come in different colors to meet the various tastes and preferences of the customers.
Pros
- Speed lacing enhances the comfortable fit
- Made from premium leather material
- Solid construction enhances durability
- Has incredible traction and stability
- Meshed upper surface for breathability
Cons
- Meshed surface make the feet to feel cold
- Not suitable for rainy weather
- Not ideal for slim feet
New Balance Nitrel V2 FuelCore Trail Running Shoe
New Balance is a company that is dedicated to helping athletes achieve their goals and they have been in the industry for so many centuries.
Nitrel V2 Fuelcore trailing running shoes is one of the products offered by New Balance and they tend to be lightweight. Hence suitable for running in any terrain.
The upper surface of the running shoe is meshed to enhance breathability and prevent the user from experiencing discomfort while hitting the trail.
Also, they are made from premium synthetic material which not only gives a long-lasting experience but also better performance.
The fitness shoes are easier to lace up and they perfectly fit any size of the feet. This helps the athletes to achieve their goals with ease.
The most surprising thing is that they come in different colors and this helps to meet the tastes and preferences of the users.
Besides that, the shaft tends to measure approximately low-top from the arch and this is the reason behind the greater performance.
The rubber shoe offers great traction but the grip on the icy pavement might not be great. However, the price of the shoes is worth the value despite the little limitations.
Pros
- The outsole is ideal for all terrains
- Made from high-quality synthetic material
- Meshed upper surface to enhance breathability
- Has a better performance fit
Cons
- Rubber sole tend to be slippery on icy pavement
- Causes blisters on some people
- Not durable
- Not suitable for slim feet
ASICS Gel-Kahana 8 Trail Runner
Asics manufacturing shoe company has been in existence for over some decades and it has never disappointed when it comes to trail running shoes.
Asics gel Kahana 8 trail runner shoes are the perfect example of Asics products that are ideal for all-terrain due to the excellent traction and grip.
The trail shoes have been made from quality textile and synthetic material that increase long-lasting user experience. The solid construction from the material fosters durability.
The shoe has a real gel cushioning system that absorbs the impact shock from the ground and helps to have a smooth transition while hitting the trail.
Also, the midsole is made of special material that improves the bounce back and decreases breakdown while running.
Another amazing feature of the shoe is the duo max support system that improves the density of the midsole to facility support and stability.
Lastly, they come in different sizes and colors to suit the tastes and preferences of many users across the world.
Pros
- Constructed from quality textile and synthetic material
- Rearfoot gel cushioning system absorbs the impact shock
- Speva midsole material improves bounce back
- Duomax support system enhances stability and support
- Has great traction force downhill and uphill
Cons
- Has a smaller toe box
- Not suitable on slippery surfaces
- Not ideal for wide feet
New Balance 990v4
The shoes are perfect for icy pavement since they are made from quality leather and textile. The outsole tends to have some lugs that offer excellent traction and grip.
The most interesting thing about the shoes is that they are lightweight making it excellent for hitting the trail for a long distance without experience any discomfort.
The trail shoes have received lots of praise from athletes in many forums and Facebook groups. They are simple and easy to lace up.
The supporting leather overlays with meshed up surface help to enhance breathability. This prevents the accumulation of sweat in the shoes while running or hiking in the wilderness.
The blown rubber outsole help to absorb impact shock from the ground while the dual-density collar foam offers excellent support to the ankle.
The running shoe is made in the United States of America and this implies that they meet all the guidelines making them ideal for worldwide consumption.
Pros
- Made from premium leather and textile
- Easy and simple to lace-up
- Meshed upper surface enhance breathability
- Dual high-density collar foam offers excellent support
- Come in different amazing colors
Cons
- The insole is relatively thinner
- Not durable
- Not suitable for people with planters fasciitis
Buyer’s Guide
What can I put on my shoes for traction?
City walking can seem easy enough until the snow comes round and the streets turn icy. Then you will need to have shoes that have good traction and will keep you safe. You can add traction on your daily shoes and stay safe on the icy pavements using different means, such as scuffing the heel a bit. You may also use traction spray. You can also add your traction by combining salt and rubber glue as a coat on your shoes. This mixture will add a non-slip component.
If your shoes have rubber soles, this plastic fusion epoxy adhesive will act as a glue base and keep you safe. Sprinkle some salt on top and add more grip. You can also spray your shoes with hairspray. Another hack is to score the soles. This can give them more traction as water will be able to pass through the treads. If DIY hacks are not on the cards for you, you can always use ice grips that can easily be slipped onto your existing shoes. They are a sure way to add tread without having to compromise the integrity of your shoes.
Does rubber slip on ice?
Rubber soles are found on most shoes made for walking on icy surfaces. This is because they have a great grip on anything slippery. A glance at the best shoes for icy pavement walking will reveal this as a common feature across the board.
What is the best way to walk on ice?
The first thing you will need to do is make sure that you are wearing the right shoes. Always make sure you walk on designated paths. Bend your knees slightly when you walk, and also try to walk like a penguin. The main idea is that your center of gravity will be over your front legs. Spreading your feet out slightly, walking-flat footed, and taking small steps whilst leaning forward will help to keep you upright.
Always keep your hands extended so that you get support. You will also want to make sure that you walk slower and allow extra time to get to your destination. If you rush, you will probably slip and fall. Another way to ensure that you walk properly on ice is to stay warm and be cushioned from any potential falls.
How do you make new shoes not slippery?
New shoes can have very slippery soles. This can be dangerous, however, it is easy to make sure your shoes are not slippery by adding grip. You can do this by scuffing your shoes’ heels, or abrade the shoes with sandpaper. There are other means you can use such as adding a grip.
How do you know if a shoe is non-slip?
The first thing to check on is the shoe’s sole and the material it is made of. If it is smooth to the touch, then you know that it is not non-slip. A non-slip sole will look more rugged underneath and have more treads. The bottom of the shoe should have a fine tread design, and this will be a good sign that they are non-slip.
Conclusion
Walking on icy pavements can be very dangerous. But what do you do when that is just the weather outside, and the streets are lined with snow. It would help if you still went about your daily business. You can add the traction you need to your everyday shoes and remain safe. We have reviewed the top shoes for walking on icy pavements and what we like and don’t like about them. We hope that this will help you found the best shoes suited for you and your lifestyle. Happy shopping!
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