Even though it's frigid and snowy outside, that doesn't mean you can't get your cardio in. In fact, the die-hards over at Competitor Magazine have put together a comprehensive Winter Running Shoe Guide, just for those of us who still want to get out and run. (And when I say "us", I mean "you." My ass is staying inside where it's warm.)

You can read all the reviews here, and they aren't just for winter shoes. You'll also be able to find the right shoe for you to wear, once the ground thaws, and you drag your hibernating butt outside again.

And to get some insider tips on choosing the right shoe, I spoke to Mario Fraioli, the guru of running gear for Competitor Magazine. Here are his 6 tips for buying the perfect running shoe:

1. What goes into Competitor Magazine's testing methods to choose these specific shoes?
In choosing the shoes themselves, we take into consideration the time of year as well as the current trends within the industry. For example, the current winter running shoe is a collection of recent releases as well as shoes geared toward tackling rougher winter weather. In the summer review we paid more attention to lightweight trainers and racing flats. While we can’t review every shoe on the shelves, the goal is always to provide our readers with a thorough, objective analysis of the wide variety of quality options available to them.

As for the testing protocol itself, our team of testers provides us with objective evaluations of each shoe featured in the review, and we in turn compile that information to help our readers find the right running shoe with our innovative "Fit," "Feel" and "Ride" approach. The goal of "Fit," "Feel" and "Ride" is match the buyer’s foot type, structural needs and running style with the objective evaluations of our testers to shrink down the shoe wall and to help them determine which shoes are worth trying on before they walk through the front door.

2. What are some terms that major shoe companies use to lure in buyers, but really mean nothing?
Oh man, where do I start? "Support" is a big one, and a lot of buyers don’t realize that support is a completely subjective term. Every running shoe has support built into it, but no one shoe is any more supportive than any other shoe. A lot of people often associate support with the structure of a shoe, and more isn’t always better. If you have a high arch and neutral mechanics, a beefy (more "supportive") motion control shoe meant for a flat-footed overpronator isn’t going to do you any good. You’re going to be better off in a less-structured shoe that offers you the right amount of support for your foot type. A trained salesperson at a specialty running store can help you narrow down how much structure you need in a shoe.

Another one is "cushioning" ‑ again, another very subjective term. There’s this huge misconception cast amongst buyers that a softer running shoe is a better running shoe. Not always true. Like support, every running shoe has cushioning. The softest shoe in the store is going to make you immune to shin splints or knee injuries. A shoe that feels firmer doesn’t have any less cushioning than the marshmallow you just tried on, but depending on your build and mechanics, it might be more comfortable and actually do a better job of protecting your foot. Try on a few different options: compare firm vs. soft and let the feel and ride of the shoe sway you to one.

3. There is a lot of talk about barefoot running these days. Would you recommend this to all levels of runners? (beginner, intermediate, seasoned)
Yes and no. Should everyone be running barefoot because it’s the most natural way to put one foot in front of the other? Absolutely not.

Does barefoot running have its place in a training program? Absolutely, but for most runners, especially beginners, only in small doses. I believe that any runner, regardless of his or her ability or experience level, can benefit from shedding their shoes for a few minutes a few times a week as an excellent supplementary strengthening exercise for the feet and lower legs.

Doing all your running without shoes on, however, or suddenly switching to minimalist footwear isn’t going to solve all your injury problems or even decrease the likelihood of future injuries. If anything, you’ll actually be encouraging the onset of injury if you’re not careful about what’s on – or not on – your feet.

4. When picking the perfect shoe for conditioning, what are some of the key things to keep in mind when selecting the right pair?
Fit, Feel and Ride, which are the key components to the Competitor Magazine Winter Running Shoe Review. Bottom line: If the shoe doesn’t fit your foot, feel good when you put it on and ride well when you’re running in it, you’re not going to enjoy your experience.

Also, remember that no two sets of feet are created equal. If I like a certain shoe and it works well for me, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily the best option for you. Selecting a running shoe is a very individual decision and I always encourage people to seek professional help and explore all your options.

Lastly, don’t let dollar signs influence your decision. Regardless of what a salesman tells you, just because a shoe is more expensive doesn’t mean it’s that much better than everything else on the wall.

5. What are two tips for men who exercise off and on, but want to really start conditioning after the New Year?
In short, be patient, progress gradually and be consistent. Everyone wants to get fit in a few days. It just doesn’t happen that way. If you’re starting from scratch it takes a while for the body to adapt to the new stresses being placed upon it, so be patient. Over time your body will respond to these stresses and your fitness level will improve.

Second, progress gradually. Everyone is overly ambitious at the beginning of the year and by jumping into a running program or exercise routine full bore right off the bat the chances of injury and burnout are both high. Start slow and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your running or exercise program.

Last but not least, be consistent. It’s better to run or work out regularly for 30 minutes three or four times a week than to bury yourself for 90 minutes once a week. Your body will adapt quicker, you’re less likely to get injured that way, and you’ll get fitter faster.

6. How often should people consider switching their shoes?

On average about every 400 to 600 miles, which is typically when the midsole and outsole of a shoe will be completely broken down. The easiest way to figure this out is by tracking your mileage when you purchase the shoes. Keep an eye on the weekly tallies and begin breaking in a fresh pair when you’re around 350 miles into the life of the shoe.

Many runners make the mistake of letting their shoes go too long because they still "look good." Looks alone can be deceiving, however, as you can’t physically see the damage being done to the midsole the shoe. If you don’t track your mileage and are having doubts as to whether or not you might need fresh footwear, I suggest trying on a new pair next to your old ones and feel the difference for yourself. Your old dogs will feel dead.

Lastly, pay attention to the cues your body will give you when your shoes start breaking down: little nags that may turn into big problems if you don’t take the proper precautions. Everyone’s warning signs are different, but sore feet, aching arches, knee pain or tender shins might be trying to tell you it’s time to switch up your shoes.