As the winter approaches you may be thinking of ways to explore nature once the snow starts to fall. Whether it is in your backyard or a jaunt away, snowshoeing is an exciting way to enjoy the accommodating sights and sounds of mother nature. No matter if it's your first pair of snowshoes or time for an upgrade, let our intuitive best snowshoe guide give you an in-depth perspective on the different choices out there and how to discover the ideal pair of snowshoes for you.
So, what makes the ideal snowshoe and how can you differentiate between all the styles out there? Start off by deciding what you want out of snowshoeing as an activity and you can then break it down from there to a point where you match yourself with a style that suits you best. After that it is just making sure you have the right jacket, boots, and gloves and you are well on your way to taking in the benefits of the snow-covered forests and hills.
Cozy up and let our skilled team of professionals at ACTIVE.com recap our picks for the 10 Best Snowshoes to contemplate for the 2023 season.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
The Best Snowshoes - Our Top Picks
By clicking on the product links in this article, we may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Sponsorships and affiliate commissions help support our research so we can help you find the best products. Read the full affiliate disclosure here.
- Best Overall Snowshoes: TSL Symbioz Elite
- Best Snowshoes for Women: Yukon Charlie's Advanced Float
- Best Snowshoes for Beginners: Tubbs Xplore
- Best Snowshoes for Men: Atlas Montane
- Best Hiking Snowshoes: MSR Revo Explore
- Best Snowshoes for Running: Atlas Run
- Best Snowshoes for Dogs: Ruffwear Polar Trex Dog Boots
- Best Budget Snowshoes: FLASHTEK
- Best Snowshoes for Kids: Crescent Moon Luna Foam
- Best Snowshoes for Deep Powder: Crescent Moon Gold 10
Best Overall Snowshoes - TSL Symbioz Elite
SPECS
- Weight: 20.5" - 4 lbs. 1.6 oz.; 23.5" - 4 lbs. 4.8 oz.; 27" - 4 lbs. 12.8 oz.
- Sizes: 20.5" (max weight: 180 lbs. shoe size 6-12); 23.5" (max weight: 260 lbs. shoe size 7-13); 27" (max weight: 300 lbs. shoe size 8-15)
- Frame: Composite
- Binding: Ratchet
- Features: Stainless steel toe crampon, heel lift, side traction, heel traction, carbon fiber integrated into the frame
The TSL Symbioz Elite is a well-designed snowshoe that was clearly built with performance in mind. The complex TSL memory lock system binding provides peak support and is adjustable with not only the ability to adjust the binding lengthwise but also widthwise. The ratchet system ensures solid stability when hiking and the unique carbon fiber strips built around the edges of the snowshoe provide solid flex for efficient stride when hiking around. Another unique feature of the Symbioz Elite is the traction that the snowshoe provides, a beefy stainless steel toe crampon as well as eight side claws on the inside perimeter of the frame ensure top-of-the-line traction and primo grip in icy and variable conditions.
This smaller-sized snowshoe means that it will work best on hardpack snow and may not have the highest quality of performance in deep snow. That being said, the ergonomic design creates a comfortable and quiet experience allowing for a peaceful outing and supreme ease. This thoughtful design based around precision, performance, and comfort is why we picked the TSL Symbioz Elite as our best overall snowshoe!
What We Like
- TSL Memory Lock Binding System
- Heel lift capability
- Traction
- Ergonomic lightweight design
What We Don't Like
- Small size means it won't do as well in deep, soft snow
- Binding system has a lot of moving parts may be difficult for some to figure out
- A lot of traction could be cumbersome for some who are using it for simple terrain
BUY: TSL Symbioz Elite
Best Snowshoes for Women - Yukon Charlie's Advanced Float
SPECS
- Weight: 19" - 3.5 lbs.; 21" - 3.7 lbs.; 25" - 3.9 lbs.
- Sizes: 19" and 21" (max weight: 150 lbs.) , 25" (max weight: 200 lbs.)
- Frame: Aluminum V-Shape
- Binding: Fast Fit II Easy Pull Binding System
- Features: Rocket V-Shape aluminum rocker, rapid lite flex heel strap, snow motion axle system, forge steel toe crampon
Yukon Charlie's Advanced Float Snowshoe was designed specifically for women while taking into consideration a quality style snowshoe that can perform in the backcountry. Built for entry-level to intermediate terrain, this snowshoe has some unique features that make it a quality choice for those snowy winter endeavors. The Fast Fit II easy pull binding system makes for a painless in-and-out experience and the snow motion axle system design allows for 30 percent torsional rigidity making for a stellar combination of rigidity and flex, an important aspect when navigating variable terrain.
The V-shape aluminum rocker system was built specifically for performance while being a lightweight product for the user. The forged steel toe crampon is a great addition in helping to maintain traction while moving through the snow. The Yukon Charlie's Advanced Float system is a wonderful choice for those women looking for a well-designed and relatively basic snowshoe that is perfect for beginner to intermediate users.
What We Like
- Lightweight Aluminum V-Shape design
- Fast Fit II Easy Pull Binding System
- Forged steel toe crampon
What We Don't Like
- Minimal traction
- No heel lift
- Rapid Lite Flex Heel Strap
BUY: Yukon Charlie's Advanced Float
Best Snowshoes for Beginners - Tubbs Xplore
SPECS
- Weight: 3 lbs. 6 oz.
- Sizes: Women's - 21" and 25" (max weight: 200 lbs. shoe sizes 6-11); Men's - 25" (max weight: 200 lbs. shoe size: 8-13)
- Frame: Aluminum Fit-Step Frame
- Binding: Quick Pull Binding
- Features: Soft Tec decking, carbon steel toe and heel crampon
If you are looking for the ideal set of snowshoes for an entry-level pair, look no further than the Tubbs Xplore. A simple yet sleek design means that quality is not compromised and performance is still a top priority. The fit-step frame is a unique feature that not only places an emphasis on weight but also on the impact on the body. The upturned tail makes for a biomechanical benefit reducing the stress on the hips and knee and ankle joints by 10 percent meaning that you can venture into the outdoors with the peace of mind that your body will thank you for in the future.
Another innovative feature is the Soft Tec decking which helps to keep the snowshoe lightweight while also helping with durability. The minimal amount of traction incorporated in the design is just enough to get the job done in relatively benign terrain. Keep in mind this snowshoe is going to perform best on trail walking and in simple terrain, which is why we elected it as our best beginner snowshoe.
What We Like
- Fit-Step Frame
- Soft Tec Decking
- Carbon Steel Crampon Traction
What We Don't Like
- Not a ton of heel support with the Quick Pull Binding system
- No heel lift
BUY: Tubbs Xplore
Best Snowshoes for Men - Atlas Montane
SPECS
- Weight: 4 lbs. 4 oz.
- Sizes: 25" (max weight: 200 lbs.); 30" (max weight: 250 lbs.); 35" (max weight: 300 lbs.)
- Frame: Aluminum Reactiv
- Binding: Wrapp Swift
- Features: Nytex decking, spring loaded suspension, rockered footbed, heel lift, all trac toe crampon, stabilock aft traction
This versatile and well-constructed snowshoe takes our top slot for the best men's snowshoe. Whether you are looking to take a short stroll or get deep into the backcountry, the Atlas Montane packs all the top features of a high-quality snowshoe. Constructed from the standard tubular frame system seen in the traditional style snowshoes, the Atlas takes it a step further by introducing the reactiv-trac system which allows for stability in varied terrain as well as flexibility. In addition to a solid frame, the Montane incorporates a well-designed traction system that integrates the All-Trac toe crampon with the StabiLock aft traction ensuring that the user can better manage technical terrain in hard and icy conditions.
In addition to these components, the snug Wrapp Swift binding system is an ideal matchup for your feet as it not only provides comfort and structure but is easy to use and has a rockered footbed which allows for movement on uneven surfaces. In the deep snow, the Montane may not float as well as wider snowshoes, but in nearly every other category this snowshoe outshined its competitors.
What We Like
- Wrapp Swift Binding System
- The traction system (All-Trac toe crampon, Stabilock Aft Traction)
- Lightweight Aluminum Reativ Frame
What We Don't Like
- Lacks floatation in deep dry snow
- Spring loaded suspension can be limiting in technical terrain
BUY: Atlas Montane
Best Hiking Snowshoes - MSR Revo Explore
SPECS
- Weight: 22" - 4 lbs., 25" - 4 lbs. 4 oz.
- Sizes: 22" (max weight: 180 lbs. shoe size: 7-13); 25" (max weight: 220 lbs. shoe size: 7-13)
- Frame: Martensite Steel
- Binding: Hyperlink Bindings (Ratchet)
- Features: ExoTract Deck, redesigned ratchet system, new EVA foam cushion straps, Ergo Televators (heel riser)
The MSR Revo Explore is a great choice for a snowshoe that is well-rounded and performs in the variable conditions that winter can throw at us. Built around the solid foundation of martensite steel and an ExoTract deck means a viable underfoot experience that also provides secure traction. The HyperLink bindings with a new ratchet system and EVA foam cushion straps give the user an experience based on comfort and ease. While the ease of entry in and out is nice, the bindings could have perhaps been designed with an extra strap to secure the foot in a little better.
The Revo Explore provides wonderful flotation and even has the ability to add on a modular tail for even better floatation at an extra cost. The Ergo televators are another nice addition for managing steep terrain. All in all the MSR Revo Explore is an exceptional snowshoe that holds the number one spot in our books for the best hiking snowshoe.
What We Like
- Rigid Frame
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
What We Don't Like
- The binding system doesn't seem to secure the foot well enough in certain circumstances
- These snowshoes can have a tendency to be clattery
BUY: MSR Revo Explore
Best Snowshoes for Running - Atlas Run
SPECS
- Weight: 2 lbs. 5 oz.
- Sizes: 22" (max weight: 190 lbs.)
- Frame: Aluminum Speed V-Frame
- Binding: Speed Helix with BOA System
- Features: Nytex decking, Spring loaded suspension (SLS), Aluminum dual-TRAC crampons
If you are looking to get in that extra cardio in the winter months but are held back by snow, the Atlas Run snowshoe is a flawless choice for runners. This sleek and minimalist design lends itself to a snowshoe that is built to perform. Use of the speed helix binding with the BOA system ensures that your foot will be secure and in a solid position throughout your run while the spring-loaded suspension (SLS) creates the flex and absorption you need to stay in a place of comfort throughout your outdoor experience.
The Atlas Run also has just enough traction on the toes and in the heel to allow for a stable ascent and descent, as well as precision performance on uneven surfaces. These snowshoes are fast, comfortable, and filled with just enough features to make them a primo choice and our top pick for best snowshoes for running.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Simple design
- Spring-loaded Suspension (SLS)
What We Don't Like
- BOA systems can be difficult to fix if they break
BUY: Atlas Run
Best Snowshoes for Dogs - Ruffwear Polar Trex Dog Boots
SPECS
- Weight: 4-6.4 oz.
- Sizes: Vary (dependent on the width of the dogs foot)
-
Features: Vibram Icetrek non-marking rubber soles, waterproof, windproof, and breathable softshell material, zippable stretch gaiter
While the snowshoe description can be a little misleading, these boots are designed to provide a carefree experience for your pup as they navigate snowy terrain. Some dogs just weren't developed to be in snow-filled zones and the Ruffwear Polar Trex dog boots make the experience possible for those sensitive paws out there. The Vibram Icetrek are great soles that provide a substantial amount of grip and the spandex zippered gaiters help to keep snow out of the boot as well as act as a solid barrier to help keep the boots on your dog.
The one drawback with these boots is they are sold as a pair, mainly due to the fact that dogs' paws are wider in the front than they are in the back, so you will need to shell out some extra cash for the remaining pair. Also, while Ruffwear did a good job designing a dog boot that will hopefully stay on (dependent on your dog's comfortability with boots), they do take a little bit of time to put on as well as adjustment to find the sweet spot your dog's paws. That being said, having access to a well-designed boot that can get your dog outside with you for long periods of time is paramount and the Ruffwear Polar Trex does the trick.
What We Like
- Vibram Icetrek Soles
- Spandex zippered gaiters
- Waterproof, windproof, breathable softshell material, good for warmth
What We Don't Like
- Expensive, you need to buy two pairs to outfit your dog
- May not work due to some dogs' sizing or willingness to have boots on their paws
BUY: Ruffwear Polar Trex Dog Boots
Best Budget Snowshoes - FLASHTEK
SPECS
- Weight: 4.8 lbs.
- Sizes: 21" (max weight: 155 lbs.); 25" (max weight: 200 lbs.); 30" (260 lbs.)
- Frame: 6000 Aluminum Frame
- Binding: Ratchet Binding
- Features: Forged aluminum alloy crampons, HDPE Decking, Various color options, Tote Bag, Adjustable trekking poles
If you are looking for a simple, super budget-friendly pair of snowshoes, look no further than FLASHTEK. Designed from the traditional style of snowshoe, the FLASHTEK has a no-frills basic design that can get the job done at a price that is nearly half the cost of its competitors. Built around an aluminum frame with HDPE decking means a lightweight design that allows for rigidity but also flexibility in mixed terrain. The ratcheted binding system allows for easy entry and exit while allowing for secure foot placement making sure your foot isn't uncomfortably moving around as you move.
Another plus of these snowshoes is they come in a variety of colors with some models that also include the heel lift option. A bonus adage is that the package deal comes with adjustable poles and a tote bag. Considering the package deal at such a low cost means that FLASHTEK snowshoes take our pick for the best budget snowshoe!
What We Like
- Lightweight Aluminum Frame
- Big selection of colors
- HDPE Decking
- Affordable
What We Don't Like
- Not all models include a heel lifter
- Ratcheted system doesn't fully enclose the toe of a boot which can be uncomfortable and allow a little bit of play in the toebox
- Low cost compromises quality of components
BUY: FLASHTEK
Best Snowshoes for Kids - Crescent Moon Luna Foam
SPECS
- Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
- Sizes: 17" (max weight: 100 lbs.)
- Frame: Foam
- Binding: Velcro Binding
- Features: Rocker Platform, cleats for grip
The Crescent Moon Luna Foam Kids snowshoes are the ideal pair of lightweight snowshoes that provide great comfort while offering a substantial amount of support. The military-grade velcro binding system is simple, intuitive, easy to use, and easily adjustable. The foam helps to create a moldable design that conveniently forms around the foot and a rockered platform design allows for plenty of flexibility on variable slopes.
These snowshoes will perform well on firmer trails in flat or rolling hill terrain but are not meant for advanced terrain or deep snow. That being said, these snowshoes are a wonderful and durable set of snowshoes that have just enough features to make them perfect for kids and families looking to get out and play in the snow. You won't find a lighter or quieter snowshoe and with such an easy-to-use setup, the Crescent Moon Luna Foam takes the prize for best snowshoes for kids.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- Velcro bindings
What We Don't Like
- Simple Traction design is limiting
- Constructed specifically for simple terrain
Best Snowshoes for Deep Powder - Crescent Moon Big Sky 32 (Previously Gold 10)
SPECS
- Weight: 4.95 lbs.
- Sizes: 32" (max weight: 225 lbs. shoe size 9-15)
- Frame: Aluminum
- Binding: Single Pull Loop Binding with ratchet adjusting heel
- Features: 3 stainless steel crampons, heel lift
For the ultimate experience with a backcountry-specific snowshoe the Crescent Moon Big Sky 32 (previously known as the Gold 10) is an optimal choice. The larger surface area built around a lightweight aluminum frame and stainless steel crampons mean the quintessential combination of maneuverability and solid traction, as well as the ability to float in deep snow. The single pull loop binding system with a ratchet adjusting heel is precisely built to harness the foot in a snug position while optimizing comfort and performance.
The Big Sky 32 also comes with a variety of color choices and an optional heel riser for those who are looking to add some elevation to their snowshoeing experience. The Crescent Moon Big Sky 32 is an amazing all-around snowshoe yet it performs exceptionally well in deep powder, hence the reason it's our choice for the best deep powder snowshoe.
What We Like
- Single Pull Loop Binding
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Stainless steel crampons
What We Don't Like
- The large size, while good in deep snow may be too much snowshoe for some people
- The heel riser comes with the snowshoe but isn't attached
What to Look for in Snowshoes
Choosing the right snowshoe can take a little bit of insight and research, however, one of the main components in the selection you elect to go with will come down to the type of terrain you are planning to go in and the type of recreating that you are wanting to do. If you want to stick to relatively docile rolling hill-type terrain with generally harder-packed snow, you can opt for a smaller, simpler setup at a lower price point. Yearning to go high into the hills in search of more advanced and technical terrain? You are going to want a snowshoe that has more features and can provide a little more rigidity. Another aspect to take into consideration is the type of snow you are looking to meander in—is it dry, fluffy, deep snow, or well-established trails? In general, a bigger snowshoe with more body will provide better floatation. Below we break down the different aspects involved in the anatomy of a snowshoe to help your decision-making process in an effort to help you to better understand how snowshoes are designed.
Style
There are three main styles of snowshoes; sometimes they can be referred to in different ways, but essentially there are styles built for casual recreation and hiking, more advanced or technical endeavors, and running/fitness. As mentioned above, if you have an idea of what your desires are with snowshoeing, choosing from these three styles can be relatively easy. From here it is important to understand the materials and how the shoes were constructed to incorporate these different components.
Frame
If you have ever seen the traditional style of snowshoes you will have an idea of what a traditional frame looks like, which we still see today but typically they are built with aluminum-style rails. This style is typically built for more technical, advanced, or deep snow, keeping in mind the importance of having a lightweight product. Another style of frame is the composite or polymer/plastic style which tends to be a simpler design built for basic hiking on rolling hills to mellow slopes, and they are often ergonomically designed for efficiency and comfort. Lastly, there are some brands that have begun to manufacture foam snowshoes that are some of the lightest snowshoes on the market and are often favored by runners.
Bindings
Styles of bindings can range from three to four setups: rubber/polyurethane straps, ratchet straps, webbed straps, or a BOA system (a tightening system that uses thin stainless steel attached to a circular knob). While deciding on the system that will work best for you, take into consideration comfort as well as the sort of support you need. Some systems will be more fixed while others may have a free-rotating binding allowing for a little bit more versatility and function in variable terrain.
Size
Snowshoe sizes can be a bit deceiving as they are different from the way that normal shoes are sized. In order to find the right snowshoe, you want to consider your body weight plus the weight of all the equipment that you are wearing. The sizes are measured in length and are done in inches. They start as low as 20 inches for a lighter person and climb all the way up to 37 inches.
Below we have broken down the sizes as a rough guideline so you can have a better idea of the size you may be looking for.
- 20"L, 80-150 lbs. (smaller size will work best in hardpack snow)
- 25-27"L, 120 lbs.
- 30-33"L, 150-250 lbs.
- 36-38"L, 220-300 lbs.
FAQs About Snowshoes
How long do snowshoes last?
Depending on how often you use the snowshoes, as well as the quality and care that you invest in them, will determine their longevity. Low-quality products may not make it past one or two seasons whereas a quality product that is well taken care of and maintained can last a decade or beyond.
Are snowshoes worth it?
Determining your purpose for acquiring snowshoes will help to determine if they are worth it or not. If you like to hike and want to continue to hike in snowy terrain in the winter months and know you will do it quite regularly, then it is probably worth it. However, if you are looking to just play in the snow or take short walks periodically, it may not be worth the purchase.
Is snowshoeing a good workout?
The advancement of snowshoes has created a lot more opportunities with how they are used and the terrain they can go into. Snowshoeing is a great cardio workout (even more so now that there are snowshoes designed especially for runners). The activity offers the chance for users to get deep into nature with a relatively low impact on the body.
What is the point of wearing snowshoes?
The original snowshoes were built predominantly for travel and hunting purposes during periods of time when snow was on the ground. In today's world, some cultures still use snowshoes for these purposes, however, the majority of their usage is based on recreation. Snowshoes work by spreading your weight out over a larger surface area, allowing you to walk over the snow without sinking as far into it.
.jpg?height=174&mode=Thumbnail&width=234)
Discuss This Article