You’ll have no trouble finding snowshoes; there are seemingly endless options to choose from. While finding a pair of this specialized footwear isn’t hard, what can be difficult is trying to figure out which option to choose.
With so many options, determining which one will best meet your specific needs can be a bit of a challenge. To help you with the process, we’ve put together this handy review and buyer’s guide for you: We’ve selected what we feel are the best snowshoes currently available on the market.
Below, you’ll find an overview of each of the options we selected. You’ll also find a buyer’s guide, which highlights some of the most important factors that you should take into consideration when you’re shopping for snowshoes.
We’ve also included a list of answers to some of the most frequently asked questions novice snowshoers have about this specialty footwear. With the information presented in this review and guide, you should be able to find the perfect pair of snowshoes for your unique needs.
Our Top Picks
Contents
For shoppers who are in a rush, this section is for you. If you don’t have the time to read through our extensive review, here, you’ll find a brief assessment of our top three snowshoes: the best overall, premium, and budget picks.
- The Best Pick: Winterial 25 Inch Snowshoes
For our best overall pick, we selected the Winterial Snowshoes. Measuring 25 inches long, these snowshoes will evenly distribute your weight across the top of the snow, provide ample support, and will prevent you from sinking in. With an ultra-flex plastic deck, you’ll enjoy proper support and premium performance on any terrain you run into. - The Premium Pick: MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes
If you’re serious about snowshoeing and you have room in your budget, the MSR Lightening Ascent Accent Backcountry and Mountaineering Snowshoes are definitely a great option to consider. Weighing in at just 4.33 pounds, these technical snowshoes provide exceptional traction for the most challenging terrains. - The Budget Pick: Chinook Trekker 22
If you’re just starting to explore snowshoeing and you don’t want to invest a lot before really knowing if it’s the right sport for you – or even if you’re an experienced snowshoes and you just don’t want to break the budget – the Chinook Trekker 22 Snowshoes for Men and Women is a great option.
Snowshoes Reviews
Now that we’ve quickly reviewed our top three picks, let’s take a more in-depth look at the eight best snowshoes on the market. In this section, we offer a more detailed review of our choices for the best overall, the best premium, and the best budget options, as well as an additional four models that we think are great choices, too. In addition to the detailed reviews, we’ve also included a list of pros and cons for each model.
Winterial Snowshoes
For the best overall snowshoes, we choice the Winterial Snowshoes. With an ultra-flex single form polymer deck, these snowshoes are durably constructed and will provide outstanding performance on virtually any terrain you encounter.
A wide base and deck, coupled with coated carbon steel crampon teeth provide exceptional traction on even the most challenging courses. With quick fit bindings, all you need to do is put your foot into the slot, pull the tab, and you’ll be ready to hit the trail. A heel lock bar makes climbing those steep hills a cinch, too.
- 240 Lb Weight Limit|Dimensions: L x W (25 in x 8 in)|Lightweight Polymer Frame|Integrated Popup Terrain Heal|Poles Bag Sold Seperate
These snowshoes weigh 5.2 pounds, which is a little bit heavier than some of the other models featured in our review; however, you really won’t notice the extra weight. The recommended weight capacity is 190 pounds, so they can be worn by people with a variety of builds.
In addition to the features that the snowshoes offer, they also come with a pair of aluminum, anti-lock, anti-shock poles to help keep you grounded, as well as a sturdy carrying case to make transporting and storing these snowshoes a breeze.
- Single form polymer deck
- Coated carbon steel crampons for excellent traction
- Quick fit bindings make putting them on and taking them off a cinch
- Heel lift system to support hill climbing
- Comes with anti-shock, anti-lock aluminum poles and a carrying bag
- 190 pound weight capacity
- Weighing in at 5.2 pounds, these snowshoes are a bit heavier than other models on our list; however, the added weight really isn’t noticeable
MSR Lighting Ascent Snowshoes
For serious snowshoers who are planning on hitting really rugged and challenging trails, the MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry and Mountaineering Snowshoes are an outstanding choice.
They’re the lightest weight, most technical snowshoes in the manufacturer’s line (MSR is one of the most renowned snowshoe makers, so that says a lot). The thoughtful design provides exceptional traction for those tough pursuits, such as backcountry trails and steep mountainsides.
- Ultralight (4.93 lbs) technical snowshoes with superior traction for mountaineering, aggressive backcountry pursuits, and rugged terrain
- 360-degree Traction Frames deliver edge-to-edge grip, especially on traverses, while durable steel DTX crampons provide serious bite on alpine steeps
- Paragon bindings feature a one-piece contouring strap that wraps securely around boots, for a glove-like feel that eliminates rigid pressure points, and provides easy alignment and foot control
- Ergo Televator heel lift bar flips up to increase uphill efficiency, provide help on steep ascents, and reduce fatigue
- Snowshoes measure 8 x 30 inches, weigh 4.93 pounds/pair, and can carry up to a 280-pound load; bindings fit men’s shoes sizes 4.5-15; made in the USA
With Minimalist Paragon bindings that boast one-piece contouring straps that wrap around virtually any type of boots, you’ll enjoy a solid, yet comfortable fit, as they minimize pressure points and help your feet to remain properly aligned so you can have better control over your feet.
The variable thickness TPU mesh is super-durable and automatically adjusts to a wide variety of boots, while maintaining durability and flexibility in the coldest climates. The 360 degree traction of the frames delivers edge-to-edge grip, while the steel DTX crampons give you more stability on ascents and descents.
The polyurethane decking is durable, yet lightweight and the Ergo Televator heel lifts (which are as to engage), ensure that you’ll always have proper flotation and minimize the risk of fatigue. Weighing just 4.33 pounds and with a weight capacity of 220 pounds, these snowshoes really are lightweight, supportive, and durable.
- 360 degree traction frames for edge-to-edge grip
- Steel crampons on the bottoms
- Paragon bindings with one-piece contouring straps are easy to apply and fit like a glove
- Ergo Televator heel lift bar is easy to enable and increases uphill efficiency to reduce fatigue
- Lightweight, yet durable polyurethane decking
- Weighs just 4.33 pounds and can accommodate up to 220 pounds
- They are a bit pricey and may be cost-prohibitive for some shoppers
Chinook Trekker 22 Snowshoes
The Chinook Trekker Snowshoes are another pair of affordable, yet reliable snowshoes. Measuring 19 inches, they’re shorter than the rest of the snowshoes we’ve featured so far, which, on average, measure up to 19 inches, with the exception of the MSR Tyker snowshoes, which are obviously made for kids.
The shorter length actually makes them a good choice for bigger kids or young teens that the MSR Tyker’s. The aluminum construction of the frame is lightweight, yet durable, while the polyethylene decking provides even more durability, and it’s UV-resistant, too.
- Light weight and strong aluminum frame features an ergonomic design to ensure comfortable and easy walks
- UV resistant polyethylene decking, easy-to-use dual ratchet bindings and heel straps with quick release buckles
- Heavy duty aluminum crampons, rotate freely to bite into snow; heel crampons provide traction for heading down mild slopes
- Includes carry bag with back pack straps, side handles, mesh ventilation and Velcro pole carriers
- Recommended load: 90-130 pounds (45-59 kg); measures 22" x 8" (56 x 20 cm); weighs 4.01 pounds (1.82 kg)
The ergonomic design ensures comfort and reduces fatigue, while the heavy duty aluminum crampons rotate freely and ensure a stable grip in the snow and ice. The dual ratchet bindings and heel straps with quick release buckles are easy to put on and take off, yet secure the feet properly for reliable stability.
With a weight limit of 90 pounds and weighing just 3.91 pounds, these snowshoes, as mentioned, are well-suited for older kids and young teens. They also come complete with a carrying case with backpack straps, side handles, mesh ventilation, and pole carriers.
- Aluminum frame is durable, yet lightweight
- UV resistant polyethylene decking
- Dual ratchet bindings and heel straps with quick release buckles
- Heavy duty rotating aluminum crampons
- Measures just 19 inches long and has a maximum weigh capacity of 90 pounds, making them ideal for older kids and young teens
- Comes with a carrying case
- Affordably priced
- A few users said that they weren’t pleased with the traction
MSR Women’s Revo Trail Hiking Snowshoes
A lot of snowshoes are designed for men, and while women can wear them, they often don’t provide the support or fit that a woman needs. With the MSR Women’s Revo Trail Hiking Snowshoes, women can have confidence knowing that they’ll have the support and comfort that they need, as they’re made specifically for women.
They’re constructed for a narrower gait, which means they are better suited for women, and because they weigh only 3.44 pounds, they’re lightweight and easy to move in. Steel teeth along the perimeter ensure edge-to-edge traction, while pivot crampons offer more grip on steep inclines.
- Rugged and durable women’s trail snowshoes save weight and improve agility for a narrow gait, while providing edge-to-edge traction on variable terrain
- Perimeter teeth offer secure grip, while Pivot crampons provide bite on steeper sections of trail
- Injection-molded ExoTract tapered plastic deck withstands abusive conditions, and adds torsional flex for better control
- DuoFit bindings deliver freeze-proof, glove-friendly adjustable attachment to a wide range of footwear
- Snowshoes measure 7.25 x 22 inches, weigh 3.44 pounds, and can carry a 180-pound load; bindings fit women’s shoes sizes 4.5-14; made in the USA
The injection-molded ExoTract tapered plastic deck is super durable and can easily stand up to the most frigid temperatures. The material also provides torsional flex for even better control. The DuoFit bindings won’t freeze and are easy to secure with gloved hands, while the adjustable attachment can accommodate all types of shoes.
The bindings fit women’s shoe sizes 4.5 to 14 for exceptional versatility. They’re also available in two lengths: 22 inches and 25 inches, and are an attractive black and violet color combination.
- Injection-molded ExoTract tapered plastic deck for exceptional durability
- Perimeter teeth and pivot crampons provide reliable traction
- Made specifically for narrow gaits
- DuoFit bindings are freeze-proof and glove-friendly
- Adjustable attachment can accommodate all types of footwear
- Weight capacity of 180 pounds
- Weighs just 3.44 pounds
- Fits women’s sizes 4.5 to 14
- Available in two lengths
- The price may be a bit steep for some shoppers
MSR Tyker Kids’ Snowshoes
For the youngest snowshoers, the MSR Tyker Kids’ are a great choice. Since they’re made by MSR, one of the most renowned snowshoe manufacturers, you know that they’re high-quality.
They are specifically designed with children in mind and offer the perfect traction and flotation for little ones. Steel crampons and kid-friendly molded traction bars ensure that the feet will remain firmly planted on the ground.
- Kids' snowshoes with excellent traction and floatation, designed especially for children weighing up to 90 pounds
- Steel crampons and kid-friendly molded traction bars provide all-conditions grip and maximum safety
- Durable injection-molded deck withstands years of use in varied snow conditions
- Secure, adjustable kid-friendly bindings are designed for smaller, mitten-clad hands and can be used on a variety of children’s footwear
- Snowshoes measure 6.5 x 17 inches, weigh 2.06 pounds, and can carry an 90-pound load; bindings fit kids' shoe sizes 7.5-13.5, adult men’s 1-4.5; made in the USA
The injection-molded deck is lightweight, durable, and can easily stand up to all types of elements – as well as the harsh wear that kids tend to put on their shoes. The bindings are kid-friendly, are easy for small, gloved hands to use, and can accommodate all types of children’s footwear.
With a weight capacity of up to 90 pounds, they’ll grow with your child, and the 2.06 weight of these snowshoes will certainly be easy for the kids to navigate. They are also available in two fun colors that will add an extra element of fun to snowshowing: Dino green and purple power.
- Made specifically for children
- Injection-molded deck is durable and can withstand all types of temperatures and conditions
- Kid-friendly bindings are easy for little hands to maneuver
- Steel crampons and kid-friendly molded traction bars ensure proper grip and maximize safety
- Can accommodate all types of footwear
- With a 90 pound weight capacity, they’ll grow with children
- Lightweight design
- Two fun colors
- Affordably priced
- They may not be able to accommodate bigger kids
Winterial 25-Inch Lightweight Mammoth Snowshoes
Next up on our list of the best snowshoes is the Lightweight Mammoth Snowshoes from Winterial. They were made specifically for advanced snowshoers and are ideal for tough terrains, such as the slopes of rugged mountains.
The frame is made of lightweight, yet durable polymer material and can easily withstand all types of conditions. The aluminum teeth are lightweight, yet provide great traction on snow- and ice-laden trails, while the popup terrain heal and squared toe design makes it easier to tackle hills.
- 240 Lb Weight Limit|Dimensions: L x W (25 in x 8 in)|Lightweight Polymer Frame|Integrated Popup Terrain Heal|Poles Bag Sold Seperate
The ergonomic design ensures comfort and reduces fatigue, while still providing ideal support and keeping you up on top of the snow while you’re trekking.
With a weight capacity of up to 240 pounds, the Winterial 25 Inch Lightweight Mammoth Snowshoes can be used by men and women of all body builds.
- Made specifically for advanced snowshoers
- The frame is made of lightweight, yet durable polymer material
- Aluminum teeth along the bottom provide reliable traction
- Popup terrain heal and square toed design makes climbing hills a cinch
- Can accommodate up to 220 pounds
- Easy to adjust and close buckle bindings that can accommodate a variety of shoe sizes
- At 5.3 pounds, they’re a bit on the heavy side
Other Best Selling Options
- Sizes & weight capacity: Snowshoes come in three sizes: 21"/80-120lbs, 25"/110-160lbs, 30"/160-210lbs. Trekking poles are adjustable with a height range of 43-53”.
- Functional Design: Fast, secure double-ratchet binding system allows you to easily strap in and out of your snowshoes while on the trail.
- Traction & Stability: Heel lifters and full-floating pivot system increase traction and reduce fatigue while exploring steep terrain. Trekking poles with multiple terrain attachments add stability and balance.
- Lightweight & Durable: Lightweight 6061-T6 alloy frames with tough polyethylene decks provide superior support on the snow and keep your steps light and controlled.
- Everything You Need: Includes 1 pair adult snowshoes, 1 pair adjustable trekking poles with multi-terrain attachments, carrying case for snowshoes and trekking poles.
- ENGINEERED FOR PRIME WINTERTIME PERFORMANCE: The Drifter Snowshoe has a tough polyethylene (HDPE) decks for maximum support on the snow so you can feel confident on all your snowshoeing adventures.
- DOUBLE-RATCHET BINDING: Fast, secure double-ratchet binding system allows you to easily strap in and out while on the trail.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DURABILITY: Lightweight 6061-T6 alloy frames with tough polyethylene decks provide superior support on the snow and keep your steps light and controlled.
- TRACTION & STABILITY: The heel lifters and full-floating pivot system increases traction and reduces fatigue while exploring steep terrain.
- INCLUDED: Drifter snowshoes and mesh vented carrying bag. Great for storing your snowshoes in the summer months. Available in 21"/80-120lbs, 25"/110-160lbs, & 30"/160-210lbs.
- ❄【STRONG MATERIAL】- G2 snowshoes used high quality & lightweight HDPE as its deck to provide a nice floatage in snowfield so that users can save their energy and go further.
- ❄【PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED】-Fast ratchet binding is designed for low-temperature environment. It can be fastened easily by lift the one-pull buckle with just one-finger even when your hands are frozen.
- ❄【IMPROVED CRAMPONS】- This sharp crampons is made of high quality aluminum, which gives an excellent grip in snowfield or ice, keep you from dangerous.
- ❄【MORE COMFORTABLE】- We padded soft EVA foam inside of snowshoes to provide a warm and comfortable feeling, protect your feet during cold winter.
- ❄【SPECIAL STRUCTURE】- Flex pivot bar and heel lift makes users feel more natural no matter in flat or uphill, enable your to enjoy your winter hiking more.
Snowshoes Buyer’s Guide
If you’re a hiking enthusiasts, your passion for exploring the Great Outdoors doesn’t have to end when the winter closes in. In fact, the winter months can offer even better hiking than spring, summer, and fall.
The trails are less crowded, there’s no pesky insects to deal with, you’ll have the opportunity to see the beauty of landscapes painted in white – and you may even get the chance to run into some forest friends that you wouldn’t ever have the chance to see during the warmer seasons, such as snowshoe hares, bobcats, caribou, elk, and perhaps even the elusive lynx.
Yes, the winter season can offer up some great hiking, but it does present some challenges. In order to enjoy a successfully hiking trip when the ground is covered in snow, you need to invest in the right type of gear. An ordinary pair of hiking boots won’t cut it when the snow is piled high.
You’ll end up having to trudge through knee- or hip-deep snow – if not higher, depending on where you’re planning on exploring. Not only is it harder to move when you’re buried in snow, but it can also be dangerous.
The longer your body is exposed to snow and ice, the greater the chance that hyperthermia will set in, and that’s something you definitely don’t want to experience. How can you avoid the challenges that are associated with hiking in the snow and get the most out of your experience? By investing in a pair of snowshoes.
Snowshoes, as the name suggests, are footwear that are specifically intended for walking over the snow. They feature frames that surround the foot, which helps to distribute your weight over a larger area, thereby preventing your feet from sinking into the snow. Just an FYI, the practice of hiking in the snow is known as “snowshoeing” (for obvious reasons).
The purpose of snowshoes is to provide you with proper support and traction so that you can easily navigate snowy and icy terrains. As such, choosing the right pair of snowshoes is imperative, as what you’re wearing on your feet when you’re trekking in the snow will directly affect your safety, comfort, and overall success.
With that said, we’ve put together a list of important factors that you should take into consideration when you’re shopping for snow shows. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to select the right pair to suit our unique needs.
The Type of Snowshoe
First and foremost, you need to decide what type of snowshoes you want. There are three different types of snowshoes:
- Flat terrain. These are best for beginners, as they’re made to be used on flat surfaces or slightly inclined terrains that are relatively free of growth. They traction isn’t really complex and they don’t offer as much flotation, due to the terrains that they’re intended to be used on.
- Sloping terrain. For more experienced snowshowers, sloping terrain snowshoes are a good choice. These snowshoes are made to be used on more rugged terrain and steeper slopes. They offer better flotation than flat terrain snowshoes.
- Steep terrain. This type of snowshoe is made specifically for advanced users who are planning on hitting the backcountry. They’re designed to tackle steep slopes, ice, and snow, and as such, they are outfitted with steel crampons on the bottoms and a number of other features for improved traction and stability
Size of the Frame
Once you decide what type of snowshoes you’re interested in, the next thing you need to consider is the size of the frame. This is one of the most important factors, as it directly determines the type of flotation the snowshoes will offer – how well they’ll keep you up above the snow.
Generally speaking, the more powdery the snow is or the heavier the wear is, the more surface the snowshoes should require in order to provide proper flotation. In other words, if you’re planning on hiking on light snow, or you’re a bit on the heavier side, you should opt for larger snowshoes.
Shape of the Frame
In addition to the size of the frame, you’ll also need to consider the shape, as this also impacts the flotation. Oval snowshoes tend to offer better flotation, as they offer a larger surface area, while tapered and narrow snowshoes offer less flotation, but they offer increased speed.
There are models that combine both the oval and tapered design, creating a teardrop-like shape, to offer both proper flotation and speed.
Traction
Snowshoes aren’t only meant to keep you “floating” on top of the snow; they’re also intended to prevent you from slipping and sliding on snowy, icy terrains. When you’re ascending or descending a slope, you’re definitely going to want to be sure you have something that will hold you in place.
That’s where traction comes in. Crampons, which are situated on the bottom of the snowshoe, provide traction, but make sure that you check to see what level of traction they provide and where they are located. For example, if the crampons are situated underneath the bindings, they’re best suited for flatter ground, while snowshoes that feature crampons both under the bindings and the heels will provide you with the traction needed to traverse slippery slopes.
Heel lifts (also known as climbing bars) are also a feature to look for if you’re planning on trekking rugged terrains, as they help to propel you forward and prevent fatigue.
As a general rule of thumb, the deeper the crampons are, the better the grip they’ll provide. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the material that the crampons are made of. Steel is the best, as it’s the most durable and will help you keep your footing on icier surfaces a lot better.
Bindings
You’ll also need to decide what type of bindings you’d like. You can choose from fixed, which fix your foot on top of the snowshoe, holding your foot so that it is in a straight position the entire time, or rotating, which, as the name suggests, allows you to move your feet around.
Which one should you choose? It depends on your needs. Fixed bindings don’t allow much movement, but they do provide better stability and control; however, it can be more of a challenge to ascend and descend hills. Rotating bindings give you more movement, so it’s easier to walk and climb up and down hills; however, figuring out how to back up and cross over objects in your path can be a bit of a challenge.
Weight Capacity
Lastly, make sure that the snowshoes can accommodate your weight. The weight capacities vary and can range from just around 100 pounds to 200 pounds or more. Be sure you consider the capacity limit so that you don’t end up purchasing a pair that won’t support you.
Snowshoe FAQs
In this section, you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions consumers have about snowshoes.
Do I need to wear special footwear with snowshoes?
Not really. A good pair of quality snow boots or hiking boots that will keep your feet protected from the cold is really all you need. Just make sure that the footwear you select can fit into the snowshoes.
What are crampons?
Crampons are metal spikes that face backward and are situated along the bottom of snowshoes. They are intended to provide traction and prevent you from slipping while you’re going up or down icy or snowy terrains.
Is the weight of the snowshoes important?
Yes, because it will directly affect your comfort level. The last thing you want to do is lug a heavy pair of snowshoes around in the snow and ice when you’re out on the trails. We recommend sticking to something that’s around 5 pounds or just slightly over; any more than that and you may be uncomfortable.
Conclusion
With the information presented in this guide, you should be able to get yourself suited up with a high-quality, comfortable, and reliable pair of snowshoes. When you’re shopping, make sure you take the factors listed in our buyer’s guide into consideration so you can choose the best pair for your specific needs.
Here’s our top picks again ….
- The Best Pick: Winterial 25 Inch Snowshoes
For our best overall pick, we selected the Winterial Snowshoes. Measuring 25 inches long, these snowshoes will evenly distribute your weight across the top of the snow, provide ample support, and will prevent you from sinking in. With an ultra-flex plastic deck, you’ll enjoy proper support and premium performance on any terrain you run into. - The Premium Pick: MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes
If you’re serious about snowshoeing and you have room in your budget, the MSR Lightening Ascent Accent Backcountry and Mountaineering Snowshoes are definitely a great option to consider. Weighing in at just 4.33 pounds, these technical snowshoes provide exceptional traction for the most challenging terrains. - The Budget Pick: Chinook Trekker 22
If you’re just starting to explore snowshoeing and you don’t want to invest a lot before really knowing if it’s the right sport for you – or even if you’re an experienced snowshoes and you just don’t want to break the budget – the Chinook Trekker 22 Snowshoes for Men and Women is a great option.
