If you are looking to explore local snowy trails, or hike into the snowy backcountry, snowshoes are your best gear. Over the years, technology continues to evolve, and winter activities keep expanding. For this reason, it can be overwhelming to choose the right gear.
It is actually easier to learn snowshoeing than any other snow sport, and it is one of those inexpensive ways to be able to work out, no matter how bad the weather is. Snowshoeing is a great low-impact exercise, and will let you extend your hiking and running season. It is an easy way to stay in shape, even when the weather is extra cold.
Although there isn’t a single pair that is best suited for everyone, we’ve listed the best snowshoes below, to help you decide and find the best fit for you.
Best Snowshoes: Our Quick Answer
- Best Overall: WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
- Best For Kids: Airhead Monsta Trax Kids Snowshoe
- Best For Women: Yukon’s Run Ultralight Snowshoe
- Best For Men: TSL Symbioz Elite Snowshoes
- Best For Beginners: Tubbs Wilderness Snowshoes
- Best For Running: TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Original
- Best For Hunting: GV Wide Trail Snowshoes
- Best For Deep Snow: Chinook Trekker
- Best under $100: Redfeather Conquest Snowshoe
Best overall
1. WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 3 lbs. per pair
Lengths: 21, 27 inches
Best Use: Mountain Terrain
The Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth are some of the best snowshoes when it comes to quality. They are manufactured with strong and durable materials to ensure you make the most of your time on the mountain.
What we like about the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth snowshoes is that they’re suitable for both men and women. They have an ideal traction, and are better than most when it comes to walking through difficult snow terrains. They are made with a lightweight aluminum frame to allow for optimal snow flotation and deep powder performance. They are also constructed with high-grade and weather tested materials; and feature a Hard Pack Grip Teeth, which are two sets of reinforced, heavy duty crampons to ensure excellent traction on icy, hard surfaces, thus acting as an extreme ice pick for your boots. This pair of boots has an easy ratchet style binding with quick release, and a buckle secure heel strap for customizing the fit without requiring lacing. It has a steep incline heel lift riser, which is a unique system that provides traction and balance. This system will support you when you need it, and lay flat when you don’t. Finally, this pair has non-slip textured pads, along with an excess heel strap clip. The Sawtooth snowshoes will definitely cradle your foot to hold you in place and prevent you from sliding around while you enjoy snowshoeing.
What we do not like about the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth snowshoes however is that most may experience a slight movement while wearing them, but this issue doesn’t affect everyone. All in all, these snowshoes are more stylish than most, they do their job well, and they suit hiking fanatics, and even less experienced hikers.
Maintaining and taking care of your winter gear is a must if you want them to last longer. In the case of snowshoes, one way of making sure that they are safe is by purchasing a good snowshoe bag. Check out our article on how to choose snowshoe bags to learn more.
Best for kids
2. Airhead Monsta Trax Kids Snowshoe
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Weight: 1.25 lbs per pair
Lengths: 14.5 inches
Best Use: Flat Terrain
The Airhead Monsta Trax snowshoes are some of the best options for kids to make fun tracks in the snow.
What we like about the Monsta Trax kids snowshoes from Airhead is that they work with all shoes for kids up to 80 pounds. They’re easy to use thanks to the easily adjustable binding. These snowshoes also have raised toes that don’t catch in the snow, prevent falls, and have a high traction bottom. This pair features a hook and loop closure type that is constructed with a high-impact polymer material, and will surely provide kids with tons of fun because of its very attractive bear claw design. This may also be one of the best pair of snowshoes for toddlers.
What we do not like about the Airhead Monsta Trax kids snowshoes is that they may be a bit floppy. But all in all, these are a good option for light snowshoeing, and may come as a big hit with kids.
3. Redfeather SnowPaw Kids Snowshoes
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Weight: 1.8 lbs per pair
Lengths: 15 inches
Best Use: Flat Terrain
The Redfeather SnowPaw snowshoes are a good option for kids aged 3 to 6. They will surely love these brightly colored and lightweight snow paws.
What we like about the Redfeather SnowPaw is that they are specifically engineered for kids. They come in a bright color, so that it is easy to find in the snow, and they fit kids’ boots sizes 9-1. This pair features adjustable plastic bindings to hold the feet securely, by using two straps over the forefeet, and another one to hold the heels. It also has molded plastic binding straps that stay flexible in cold temperatures, and are easily manipulated for small, gloved hands. In addition, this pair has traction underneath the heels to help prevent the boots from slipping while walking. Its maximum recommended load is up to 40 pounds.
What we do not like about the Redfeather SnowPaw however is that they are a bit wide, so they may not suit all kids. Other than that, this pair of snowshoes is a great find for those who like snowshoeing on flat terrains. Plus, they are lightweight, which is perfect for kids.
4. Redfeather Y2 Youth Series
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Weight: 1.47 lbs per pair
Lengths: 22 inches
Best Use: Flat/Rolling Terrain
The Redfeather Y2 are youth-specific snowshoes that can support up to 125 pounds, and have durable features for snowshoeing enjoyment.
What we like about the Redfeather Y2 snowshoes is that they have a fixed toe cord called Live-Action Hinge, to provide additional speed and mobility as it lifts the snowshoe’s tail on each step. This pair features toe and heel aluminum powdered crampons to be able to shed snow and ice. Its SV2 webbed binding is secure, and can adjust quickly with just one pull. Additionally, the Y2 snowshoes are constructed with 6000 series aluminum frame for durability, and have a V-tail design for a shorter stride and additional maneuverability. This pair finally features a rip-stop vinyl decking, which is resistant to any puncture and will remain soft even in freezing temperatures.
What we do not like about the Redfeather Y2 snowshoes is that they may not fit a lot of youth boot sizes. But other than that, this is a durable pair of snowshoes, with the same quality as its adult version. It will definitely take your kids to miles of stomping fun!
Best for women
5. Yukon’s Run Ultralight Snowshoe
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Weight: 2.5 lbs per pair
Lengths: 22 inches
Best Use: Mountain Terrain/Running
The Yukon Charlies Run Ultralight snowshoes are durably engineered to provide you features that are versatile enough to meet everyone’s needs.
What we like about the Yukon Run snowshoes is that they’re made of an ultra-strong 7075-T6 aluminum frame for durability. This pair features a featherweight rocker frame, with V-tail and Tech Weave decking, which are lightweight for racing and running. It also has a Fast Fit II binding system, along with a Swift Strap™ heel strap to provide a more secure fit. This will also make it easy to put them on and off; you can just pull one strap to tighten, and the other to release. These snowshoes also have a double-steel crampon on the bottom of the binding for additional grip. Their Sprint-forged front crampons will provide maximum grip, even on icy terrains and steep inclines. Additionally, the Energy Flex Axle system will move with your natural stride, so that you will feel comfortable while walking, jogging, or sprinting. Finally, the deck of the snowshoe is made of rubber compound, and is strapped to the frame with thirteen rivets. Note that these snowshoes maximum recommended weight load is 200 pounds.
What we do not like about the Yukon’s Run Ultralight snowshoes is that there is no integrated heel lift feature. But all in all, this pair of snowshoes is lightweight, good for trail running, and is made with some of the toughest materials available.
6. Atlas Elektra
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 3.3 lbs per pair
Lengths: 23, 27 inches
Best Use: Rolling Terrain
The Atlas Elektra are one of the best choices for the quiet winter and deep powder days. They have been upgraded, and now boast high-class materials.
What we like about the Atlas Elektra is that they will let you stride confidently with their gender-specific articulation. They also have a V-shaped frame, that is made from a sturdy 6061 aluminum to facilitate women’s natural stride. The nose and tail shape of the Elektra are fully optimized to give you a more balanced platform for stable footing, and to assist an easy, natural stride. These snowshoes feature a Spring-Loaded Suspension (SLS), which has offset webbing straps to create a springy platform underneath your feet, absorb impact, and allow a more natural side-to-side foot flex. Their heel-lift bar will provide relief for tired calf muscles whenever you are on steep ascents. Meanwhile, the matching slope angle will provide better traction. These snowshoes are also constructed with Wrapp Swift bindings to cradle your feet with the easy-to-cinch straps and EVA padding for a more comfortable fit. Their lightweight Nytex nylon deck is abrasion resistant, and will remain flexible when cold. Plus, the Nytex nylon deck can also stand up to the elements for a long-lasting use.
Additionally, this pair of snowshoes has steel instep crampons to supply sure-footed traction. Even on icy and snowy terrains, its heel crampons will provide superior downhill traction, and its parallel side crampons will provide grip during traverses. Last but not least, the Atlas Elektra are shaped specifically for women as they offer a narrower nose and tapered tails. Plus, they don’t pick up a lot of snow, so you can wear them with or without snow pants.
What we do not like about the Atlas Elektra however is that they may still throw snow at the back of your legs, so you may want to wear waterproof snow pants. All in all, this pair of snowshoes can handle a lot of obstacles and snow conditions. It is easy to put on and off, even with gloves on, and it is one of our top choices for best snowshoes for women.
7. Tubbs Women’s Mountaineer
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Weight: 4.8 lbs per pair
Lengths: 21, 25, 30 inches
Best Use: Mountain Terrain
The Tubbs Mountaineer women snowshoes are an excellent choice for an all-around snowshoe with quality performance.
What we like about the Tubbs Mountaineer is that they provide top-quality performance and optimum comfort. They feel smooth whether on groomed trails or icy hills, which makes them suitable for beginners too. They are also some of the most floaty snowshoes in their division due to their generous surface area that makes them float easily and comfortably. They feel secure on any type of terrains, and feature a carbon steel crampon that has eight multidirectional teeth for consistent contact, and an aggressive heel crampon that can assist you downhills. This pair also has a 19-degree heel lift to aid in steep ascents. In addition, these snowshoes have a pretty easy and natural feel when walking. They also provide supreme traction, but without that sticky feeling on packed snow. The shape and Active Fit binding is very favorable to a woman’s stride, and has a smooth frame that glides easily on all types of snow. Additionally, the toe placement and heel centering are intuitive, and there are two webbed loops to allow you to tighten the snowshoes across the top of your foot symmetrically. Plus, the back heel strap ratchets down quickly, and loosening the whole binding system is simple and easy, even while wearing gloves. Overall, this binding system is snug, secure, and intuitive, and will allow the snowshoe to stay in place. Last but not least, the Mountaineer come in three sizes for you to find the perfect fit for your height and weight.
What we do not like about the Tubbs Mountaineer, on the other hand, is that they are a bit heavy, and do not pack down as flat as other snowshoes. Overall, the snowshoes provide excellent flotation, optimum traction, and have easy-to-use bindings. Plus, they are comfortable to walk on various terrains.
Best for men
8. TSL Symbioz Elite Snowshoes
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Weight: 4.9 lbs per pair
Lengths: 20.5, 23.5, 27 inches
Best Use: Rolling Terrain
The TSL Symbioz Elite is a unique pair of snowshoes because of its versatility and all-around appeal.
What we like about the TSL Symbioz Elite snowshoes is their compactness and excellent traction. They have six individual, deep, triangular metal spikes on the bottom of the deck for traction, and are spread over the entire snowshoe bottom. For added traction, this pair also has cleats on the binding and paddles, and ridges that are molded into the plastic of the deck. Its hinged binding is precise, and its flexible deck absorbs shock well. The bindings are designed around rubber straps that are slightly more secure and compact, allowing to easily put the shoes on and off in just two steps, with the use of levers on the buckles for added tension. The bindings of the Symbioz Elite are secure and comfortable, especially when configured. They are adjustable in both length and width to better accommodate boot sizes. This pair also features a patented Memory Lock front toe piece that will let you set it to your shoe size. It then uses a simple cam lock release for entering and exiting the binding. In addition, the heel pieces have a padded strap for comfort and for a more secure fit. Plus, this pair has an easy-ascent heel lift that lies under the heel piece to ensure that it is always directly under your heel. This can be engaged using your snowshoe pole. With its reinforcements, it will allow the snowshoe to rebound when flexed.
What we do not like about the TSL Symbioz Elite however is that the bindings are bulky, and more complicated than others. So, you should make the adjustments at home instead of doing them at the trailhead. Overall, these snowshoes are comfortable, have great traction, and are easy to use.
9. Crescent Moon Gold 10
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 4 lbs per pair
Lengths: 32 inches
Best Use: Mountain Terrain
The Crescent Moon Gold 10 are some of the best all-around snowshoes that are best suited for forests, trails, and open meadows.
What we like about the Crescent Moon Gold 10 is the superb flotation capability that is also suitable for packed trails. These snowshoes’ shape is able to put the weight of their surface area under the user’s center of gravity. Plus, it leaves the tips and tails narrower to allow for better stride ergonomics. This pair of snowshoes is also equipped with minimal metal spiking, that is limited only to the binding or crampon area to achieve a great deal of surface area at a reasonable weight. These snowshoes are designed for deep snow on mellow terrain. The strapped deck/binding is comfortable, and allows for some spring in your stride. Plus, the Gold 10 have wide straps that won’t cut or compress your boots nor foot. The stretchy rubbery straps are secure and snug enough to cradle your feet. Finally, the bindings are also some of the easiest to use, and surely won’t ice up. They also expand like webbing, so that your fit will stay put even in inclement weather.
What we do not like about the Crescent Moon Gold 10 is that they’re a bit heavy, and lack icy snow traction. But all in all, these snowshoes are optimized for most snow applications. They fit men’s footwear sizes 10-15, including snowboard boots, and their recommended maximum load is 225 pounds.
10. Yukon Charlies Pro Snowshoe
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Weight: 4.9 lbs per pair
Lengths: 25, 30 inches
Best Use: Mountain Terrain
The Yukon Charlie’s Pro snowshoe perform well on their intended terrain, and have better features and materials than most snowshoes within the same category.
What we like about the Yukon Charlie’s Pro snowshoes is that they feature a built-to-last 6000 aluminum rocker frame that is more rigid for better stability, as well as a Swift Strap™ heel strap, and a Fast Fit II Easy Pull binding for easy and fast on and off. This pair also has a tech weave decking, that is attached with traction capable molded decking clips, which makes the snowshoes perform better. Its integrated heel lift and rear heel plate system will keep your heel centered, and will alleviate calf strain quickly. Plus, the bindings are easy to cinch up and tighten, even with gloves on. In addition, the release is easily maneuvered, and the aluminum crampons bite into snow and add traction, while reducing slippage. Here’s a quick summary of these snowshoes’ features: 6000 aluminum rocker frame, Swift Strap™ heel strap, Fast Fit II Easy pull binding, molded traction decking attachments, Tech Weave deck, Free Flex Axle System, and integrated heel lift.
What we do not like about the Yukon Charlie’s Pro snowshoes is that their surface is slightly below average. But other than that, these are among the best snowshoes for backcountry, powdery snow, steep slopes, and steep inclines. Note that the recommended maximum load is 250 pounds, and that they’re suitable for the more serious snowshoers.
Hiking in winter is nice for those who want to enjoy the snowy outdoors through a fairly easy activity. We recommend that you invest in a good pair of snowshoes, but what if you only have access to your regular hiking boots? Are hiking boots any good for snow? Read our article to find out!
Best for beginners
11. Tubbs Wilderness Snowshoes
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Weight: 4.5 lbs per pair
Lengths: 21, 25, 30 inches
Best Use: Moderate Terrain
The Tubbs Wilderness are the perfect pair of snowshoes for beginners and winter hikers. It is suitable for backpacking trips, and exploring moderate terrains.
What we like about the Tubbs Wilderness is that they are designed for adventure, whether a few hours on groomed trails, or exploring the backcountry’s terrains for a couple days. They are easy to use, and provide great stability, making them the best option for beginners. This pair features Soft Tec decking, and 6000 series aluminum frame to keep you afloat on soft snow. The Wilderness snowshoes also have a semi-aggressive underfoot crampon, that is paired with lateral crampons on the sides. They have sufficient traction when it comes to trails, packed snow, and moderate terrains. Their single buckle bindings with heel straps are simple, yet functional, and allow for easy adjustments. This is also equipped with 180Pro bindings that look like wings that hug the sides of your boots. These wrap up and come together at a closure, and secure with a single ratchet buckle. This binding system accommodates a wide range of boot sizes and footwear. This pair is best for winter backpacking, or even hut trips. Due to its stability and comfort, you can feel good in soft, spring snow, and even in shallow to moderately deep, fresh snow.
What we do not like about the Tubbs Wilderness snowshoes, on the other hand, is that you may feel stiffness and discomfort on hard, packed snow. Other than that, the snowshoes are versatile enough to qualify as the best snowshoes for beginners. They have a unique binding system, and offer a sturdy construction, and ease of use.
Best for running
12. TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Original
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Weight: 4 lbs per pair
Lengths: 20.5, 23.5, 27 inches
Best Use: Mountain Terrain
The Hyperflex snowshoes are made by TSL Outdoors, which keeps innovating their products with the use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials.
What we like about the TSL Hyperflex snowshoes is that they adapt to your stride and the profile of the terrain, which makes them suitable for running. They feature a flexible and lightweight ergonomic bindings that adapts to the unevenness of the terrain for optimum traction. The flexible frames provide stability and security, and the flexible bindings also allow for a high level of foot flexibility. The snowshoes have inserts to allow for elasticity and lightness. They also have Thermoplastic reinforcements to support a more natural stride in both bending and twisting phases. Additionally, this pair has easy-to-use lock adjustments, and a Boa fit wheel system that helps distribute bindings in a precise, uniform way, therefore reducing pressure points at the front of the feet. In addition, the lateral adjustment improves comfort and maximum foot hold. Besides, these snowshoes use a ratchet system for a more secure fit, and their stainless steel bi-directional crampons, combined with vertical blades, offer traction for uphill, and grip for downhill. They also feature front teeth that will add to the traction, especially on steep slopes. This pair is sound and shock absorbent. Finally, it’s easy ascent heel lifts can be activated by simply pushing with your poles.
What we do not like about the TSL Hyperflex snowshoes is they lack a bit of flotation. But other than that, they have ultimate traction on all conditions, and a perfect balance of comfort and performance, making them one of our top choices for best snowshoes for running.
Best for hunting
13. GV Wide Trail Snowshoes
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 5.85 lbs per pair
Lengths: 28, 33, 38, 42 inches
Best Use: Mountain Terrain
The GV Wide Trail snowshoes are our top choice for best snowshoes for hunting due to their adequate size and shape.
What we like about the GV Wide Trail snowshoes is that they are large enough to handle any snow condition, even deep powdery. This pair has great flotation, and features a high quality 6000 grade aluminum frame, as well as a unique Energy Saver pivot bar, and a new Comfort Fit Entech ergonomic harness to allow for a comfortable fit. The snowshoes have a Freeze-free pump ratchet buckle system to provide a precise and effortless adjustment, even while wearing gloves. They also feature a lightweight and flexible heel strap, a heel stabilizer system to provide a more efficient movement in dense forest, and will prevent you from falling when walking backwards. Plus, they have front and rear aluminum claws to provide optimum grip on all snow conditions, and are coated with special paint, which reduces snow and ice build-up. Additionally, its TPO decking has the ability to resist temperatures below -50°C (-58°F).
What we do not like about the GV Wide Trail snowshoes, on the other hand, is that their support straps are not that flexible, and may break easily in extreme temperatures. But overall, these are the best snowshoes for hunting, as they can accommodate a wide range of big boots, and are floaty enough in all snow conditions.
Best for deep snow
14. Chinook Trekker
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 4.4 lbs per pair
Lengths: 18.9, 22, 25, 30, 36 inches
Best Use: Rolling Terrain
The Chinook Trekker are among the best snowshoes for deep snow. Plus, they’re affordable.
What we like about the Chinook Trekker snowshoes is that they keep you from post-holing, and perform well in mellow terrains. This model has great flotation, and ample surface area that rises above other snowshoes in the same category. This flotation mostly comes from the snowshoe’s shape, which has much less taper, and is also slightly aided by the deck material. The Trekker feature UV-resistant polyethylene decking, and bindings that are flexible up to -40°F. In addition, they have a lightweight and strong aluminum frame designed to ensure comfortable and easy walks. The easy-to-use dual freeze resistant ratchet bindings are also easily adjustable, even with gloves on. This pair was made with heavy duty aluminum crampons that bite into snow, and let the tails drop to shed snow. The heel crampons also allow for added traction when heading either downhill or uphill. Additionally, the snowshoes’ shape only has a minor taper, and won’t be much of a problem on mellow ground. The binding is reasonably also comfortable. It is managed by a flexible strap, and provides cushion making it one of the most natural to walk in. Finally, the Trekker’s forefoot straps are mounted on wider plastic wings to be able to distribute the load around the boot.
What we do not like about the Chinook Trekker however is that they have an ‘old school’ type of binding technology, and lack traction. But all in all, this model has good flotation, is moderately easy to put on, and is most suitable for occasional snowshoeing.
Best under $100
15. Redfeather Conquest Snowshoe
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 3.4 lbs per pair
Lengths: 21, 25, 30, 36 inches
Best Use: Flat Terrain
The Redfeather Conquest is a good choice for affordable snowshoes, without sacrificing quality and performance.
What we like about the Redfeather Conquest is that they preserved adequate quality and features, even with a price tag under $100. The manufacturer cuts the cost by the use of injection-molded nylon decking that is super tough. Those snowshoes feel secure and comfortable on packed trails, and even over rolling hills. they have good flotation in fresh powder, even if you are a little over the suggested weight limit. The Conquest is a multi-use snowshoe with Live Action hinge, which is great for walking, hiking, running, and even backpacking. The recommended weight limit is 175 pounds, but can still perform well in packed snow up to 215 pounds. The decking has been strategically reinforced using Finite Element Analysis for an optimum strength-to-weight ratio. The Summit binding is easy to use, ratchet-free, and injection molded with a rugged design to allow for easy entry and exit. This binding features three straps to keep the foot tightly in place, without any pressure point. Finally, this model has aggressive toe and heel crampons that are powder-coated, and is designed to quickly shed snow and ice.
What we do not like about the Redfeather Conquest snowshoe is that the binding does not offer much of a torsional support on long sidehills. Overall, the Conquest is a good value option for those looking for snowshoes that are suitable for icy and hard snow. Plus, they are so lightweight you would even forget that you have them on.
16. Franklin Sports Arctic Trail
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 5.4 lbs per pair
Lengths: 22, 25, 30, 36 inches
Best Use: Flat/Rolling Terrain
The Franklin Sports Arctic Trail snowshoes are a great value option that provide good traction and comfort.
What we like about the Franklin Sports Arctic Trail is that they are constructed with a lightweight aircraft grade aluminum frame for excellent durability. They also feature an ergonomic design to make it comfortable and easier to trek in on all snow conditions. This pair also has easy-to-use dual ratchet bindings and heel straps with quick release buckles, and can accommodate a variety of boot types. The heavy duty aluminum crampons on these snowshoes rotate freely, so that it can bite into snow and ice. Plus, the heel crampons also provide traction for heading down mild slopes. This model comes in 4 sizes, and has a recommended weight limit of 300 pounds for the size 36, meaning it can accommodate a wide range of snowshoers. Along with the snowshoes, you will find a convenient carry bag to make transport and storage easier, so you can take them with you to all your favorite trails. This model is true to size, and will perfectly fit your weight. It holds up well, and is very easy to put on and take off.
What we do not like about the Franklin Sports Arctic Trail, on the other hand, is that the binding is a loop and hook design, and has a tendency to pop off the hook, especially when it is freezing cold. However, there are a few ways to fix it. Other than that, the snowshoes are a good, affordable choice that gets the job done. And they come with a carry bag, that also comes convenient during long hikes.
Best Snowshoes Comparison Table
| Foto | Snowshoes | Weight | Lengths | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes  | 3 lbs. per pair | 21, 27 inches | Mountain Terrain |
| 2. Airhead Monsta Trax Kids Snowshoe | 1.25 lbs per pair | 14.5 inches | Flat Terrain |
| 3. Redfeather SnowPaw Kids Snowshoes | 1.8 lbs per pair | 15 inches | Flat Terrain |
| 4. Redfeather Y2 Youth Series | 1.47 lbs per pair | 22 inches | Flat/Rolling Terrain |
| 5. Yukon's Run Ultralight Snowshoe | 2.5 lbs per pair | 22 inches | Mountain Terrain/Running |
| 6. Atlas Elektra | 3.3 lbs per pair | 23, 27 inches | Rolling Terrain |
| 7. Tubbs Women's Mountaineer | 4.8 lbs per pair | 21, 25, 30 inches | Mountain Terrain |
| 8. TSL Symbioz Elite Snowshoes | 4.9 lbs per pair | 20.5, 23.5, 27 inches | Rolling Terrain |
| 9. Crescent Moon Gold 10 | 4 lbs per pair | 32 inches | Mountain Terrain |
| 10. Yukon Charlies Pro Snowshoe | 4.9 lbs per pair | 25, 30 inches | Mountain Terrain |
| 11. Tubbs Wilderness Snowshoes | 4.5 lbs per pair | 21, 25, 30 inches | Moderate Terrain |
| 12. TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Original | 4 lbs per pair | 20.5, 23.5, 27 inches | Mountain Terrain |
| 13. GV Wide Trail Snowshoes | 5.85 lbs per pair | 28, 33, 38, 42 inches | Mountain Terrain |
| 14. Chinook Trekker | 4.4 lbs per pair | 18.9, 22, 25, 30, 36 inches | Rolling Terrain |
| 15. Redfeather Conquest Snowshoe | 3.4 lbs per pair | 21, 25, 30, 36 inches | Flat Terrain |
| 16. Franklin Sports Arctic Trail | 5.4 lbs per pair | 22, 25, 30, 36 inches | Flat/Rolling Terrain |
FAQs
What are the best shoes to wear with snowshoes?
Snowshoes can adjust to fit any type of boots or shoes. Obviously, it is best to wear shoes that can keep your feet comfortable, warm, and dry. You should wear shoes that are insulated and waterproof, and it is ideal if they have thick soles, and rubber or leather uppers. Other leather hiking boots that are sturdy and waterproof can also be used, of course.
Your winter boots should prevent you from feeling fatigue, or a loss of energy or strength. They should be able to secure your feet, and not constrict your blood flow. They also should have a sturdy upper part to be able to attach your snowshoes well, without putting any pressure on your feet.
Is snowshoeing considered a good exercise?
Snowshoeing can be a great workout that can burn about 500 calories an hour, and is a better option than using an elliptical machine. Snowshoes weigh about two pounds each, and walking with them in fresh powder can get your heart pumping. There are also some things you can do when you want to take your snowshoe workout up to another level to be able to burn more calories.
Overall, snowshoeing is a good exercise if you want to stay active during the cold winter days. It can alleviate common depression symptoms, and you can even burn more calories than if you went running. It can also help you build muscles, and lose weight. Finally, low impact snowshoeing is good for beginners, and is easy on the knees and joints.
Buying guide
To choose the right snowshoes, you have to have an idea of where you plan to go, assess how much you and your gear weigh, and anticipate the type of snow that you will tackle.
Flat terrain
This type of snowshoes is designed for casual snowshoers. They usually are available at a lower price, have a simple binding system, no heel lift that is suitable for steep slopes, and modest traction features.
Rolling terrain
These snowshoes are designed to be able to handle flat to moderately sloped terrains, but may not be suitable for steep or icy snow conditions. These snowshoes are moderately priced, and have adequately aggressive crampons for traction. They are also sturdy, have an easily adjustable binding system, and a heel lift in many styles that are good for steep slopes.
Mountain terrain
Designed for steep and icy terrains, these snowshoes usually have high-end prices, and typically feature an aggressive crampon system to provide good traction. They also have a more sophisticated binding system to be able to accommodate beefier winter boots, and a heel lift in most styles.
Running
These are snowshoes for people who want to get a more intense aerobic workout, and for those planning to move fast. These types of snowshoes are designed to be lightweight, and will allow your feet to keep a full range of motion.
Snowshoe sizing
If you already have an estimate of your weight, including your pack weight, then it will be easier to choose the right size for you. A heavier person, including the pack weight, will have to choose a snowshoe with more surface area, meaning a larger and longer size to be able to allow the right amount of flotation.
Each snowshoe has a recommended load limit, but in some cases where the snowshoes only come in one size, you have to be able to verify that your weight is below the maximum weight load limit. However, many snowshoes come in more than one size, so that you can choose what closely matches your maximum load.
Snowshoe sizing based on conditions
If the snowshoe of your choice is between different models and sizes of the same model, then you have to go for either a larger or smaller one, based on the snow conditions.
Powder snow – bigger and longer snowshoes, so that they can stay afloat.
Compact/wet/packed trails – smaller snowshoes that makes it easier to travel in these types of snow conditions.
Steep, not powdery, and icy terrain – smaller snowshoes that are easier, and more comfortable to use in these types of conditions.
Gender-specific snowshoes
Most snowshoes are unisex. However, there are gender-specific snowshoes, so that you can better choose. Women’s snowshoes are narrower than unisex and men’s models. They also come in size ranges that include smaller sizes, and their bindings may fit smaller boots. Although, there is not much of a difference when basing it on gender.
Kids snowshoes are designed for young ages, and are mostly suitable for casual snow play. Other kids’ models also offer features that are the same as those on adults’ snowshoes, and will allow you to choose based on the kid’s weight.
Materials
Aluminum-frame snowshoes feature a supportive decking material that is attached to the frame. This decking can be made of coated nylon, plastic, urethane, PVC-coated polyester, or even synthetic rubber. These frames are also light and strong.
Composite snowshoes have a hard decking material that also shapes the outer frame. Although, on hard-packed snow, they are a bit noisier than other materials.
EVA foam snowshoes have super quiet materials. This foam helps keep your feet warm, and also flexes as you stride. These snowshoes have an integrated grip area on the bottom that doesn’t provide as much traction, but you can still consider them if you are a casual snowshoer.
Final Thoughts
Winter activities don’t have to be limited to extreme sports such as skiing and snowboarding. If you want to enjoy the outdoor winter scenery without high risks or if you want to stay active even when the temperature is below zero, you can give snowshoeing a try. To be able to enjoy this activity, first, you need to get a pair of snowshoes.
Walking on snow with regular shoes is very challenging and exhausting. With the help of snowshoes, you’ll be able to walk on top of snow rather than through it. With this equipment, hiking in winter will be much easier and enjoyable. Now, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite trails all year round.
The snowshoes that we have listed in this article are the best of the best. We hope that you were able to find a pair of snowshoes that will work for you in our recommendations. If not, make sure to consult our buying guide to help you find the pair of snowshoes that you are looking for.
