The best snowshoes we tested:
Best snowshoes: MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes
Best snowshoes for technical terrain: MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes
Best snowshoes for deep snow: Crescent Moon Denali 37 Powder Snowshoes
Snowshoeing is carving a fresh path in the world of outdoor winter sports as more and more enthusiasts looking for a blend of accessibility and affordability are hitting the trails.?Unlike the steep expenses associated with downhill skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing offers a low-cost ticket to winter hiking, exploration and adventure. With the minimal investment of a pair of snowshoes, nearly anyone can step into a snow-filled landscape to explore nature and get in some physical activity.
To get you started, we tested more than a dozen snowshoes, ranging from basic, entry-level styles for beginners heading out on flat trails, to more aggressive options built for steep and technical terrain, to backcountry models made for trekking through deep, untouched snow. It’s time to lace up your boots, strap on your snowshoes and hit the powder — no lift ticket required.
Durable, versatile and easy to use, these unisex snowshoes provide a secure and comfortable fit for even and hilly terrains at an affordable price.
Best snowshoes for technical terrain
These snowshoes feature premium quality with aerospace-grade aluminum frames, durable nylon decks, a 360-degree traction system and intuitive bindings, perfect for adventurous outings.
The men’s and women’s sizes are virtually the same and can be interchanged, but generally, women’s styles are available in Raspberry and Gunmetal, come in 22- and 25-inch styles with weight limits of 180 pounds and 220 pounds, respectively, and fit women’s shoe sizes 6 to 12. Men’s styles are available in Cobalt Blue and Black, come in 22-, 25- and 30-inch styles with 180-pound, 220-pound and 280-pound weight limits, respectively, and fit men’s shoe sizes 6 to 14.
A lightweight yet robust choice for deep-snow conditions, these extra-large teardrop-shaped snowshoes offer exceptional flotation and traction and accommodate users up to 300 pounds.
Best snowshoes: MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes
$170 at Amazon or $170 $127 at MSR and REI
From the outset, the MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes stood out for their robust construction, functional design and supreme versatility. The molded plastic frames, reinforced with break bars and steel traction rails, provided one of the best grips of the models we tested that were made for flat trails and rolling hills. And while the rails made us feel sturdy, the steel crampons ensured some of the most secure footing in packed snow.
Versatility is what really makes the Evo Trails stand out. Unlike some other styles we tested that are recommended for beginners, the design can easily accommodate both first-time snowshoers and those seeking the challenge of more hilly terrain. Some of the recreational options in our pool lacked the advanced traction of the Evo Trails, while those with more aggressive crampons were often nearly twice the price. And while these aren’t intended for use in deep snow, you do have the option of attaching flotation tails (available separately), giving you even more versatility.
The Evo Trail’s Paraglide binding system, with a single mesh piece on each snowshoe that stretches snugly over each foot, was easy and among the most comfortable. Were they the simplest snowshoes to get into? Not quite — the style’s two-strap system takes a bit more effort than some of the sophisticated single-pull BOA-style bindings we tested, but that doesn’t mean they were difficult to use. Once you place your foot against the toe stop, secure the outer strap and tighten the heel strap, you’re in and ready to set off on your hike. Unlike some models that used hooks, we preferred the Evo Trail’s roller buckles that made tightening and loosening the straps hassle-free, even with gloves on in the icy cold.
Performance-wise, these snowshoes were the most reliable on short and midrange hikes on both packed trails and when we took them off-trail into the rolling woods. They rank at the top of our testing field when it came to comfort and walking with a natural gait, even when compared to much pricier pairs. Plus, at 3 pounds, 10 ounces per pair, they finished fifth (in the top half) in lightness compared to the other styles we tested. Still, the difference in weight between the Evo Trail and the lightest pair was within a pound, and it was just a few ounces heavier than the other leaders in the category.
Unlike some of the brand’s competitors that offer multiple size options, the Evo Trail come in one unisex size of 22 inches long by 8 inches wide, with a recommended weight limit of 180 pounds. That may make them a nonstarter for those who weigh more than that threshold. However, even our heaviest tester, tipping the scales about 20 pounds over the recommended weight limit, found these snowshoes to be his favored pair.
Another negative: Some may find the plastic decking noisy on hardpacked trails, but we found the sound was a small price to pay for the style’s value. And while they lack some of the sophistication of pricier models, such as a heel-lift feature, we found that heel lifts are really only necessary for those seeking more challenging incline hikes. If that’s your intent, you may be better served by choosing our technical terrain winner.
Made in the USA and backed by a three-year limited warranty, these snowshoes offer high quality without breaking the bank. In fact, they were one of the least expensive styles we tested.
For general recreational use, we found the Evo Trail to be tops when it came to maneuverability, versatility, comfort and price. And maybe their best quality? Of all the models tested, they came closest to making us forget we had anything strapped to our feet at all.
Best snowshoes for technical terrain: MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes
Women’s: $399 From $347 at Amazon or $390 $292 at MSR and REI
Men’s: $292 at Amazon or $390 $292 at MSR and REI
For backcountry adventurers who crave the challenge of steep, icy and rugged terrain and are willing to invest in high-end equipment, the MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes are a standout choice.
These snowshoes, like most we tested, are available in multiple lengths. At 22 inches and 25 inches, they support up to 210 pounds and come in two colors for the men’s model and two for the women’s model: Raspberry and Gunmetal, and Cobalt Blue and Black, respectively. In our testing, they got top marks when it came to build materials, with their aerospace-grade aluminum frames and ballistic-grade nylon decking that made for a blend of lightness, strength and durability. Falling right in the middle of the testing pool weight-wise, they’re still a mere 3 pounds, 13 ounces, which means you can strap them to your backpack when you don’t need them without adding too much bulk.
As we ventured up a steep, hardpacked, rocky trail, we appreciated that the perimeter of the snowshoes featured vertical walls of steel teeth, plus two crossbars underneath — as well as built-in heel lifts — that provided the best uphill traction in our tests and eased calf strain. The heel lifts were also the easiest to activate of those we tested, raising with just a small tug of our trekking pole.
The model’s Paragon binding system is similar to the Evo Trail style, with the same mesh panels but paired with more aggressive crampons. They lacked the sophisticated BOA-style bindings of other styles tested, but the roller buckles made the snowshoes easy enough to get in and out of that it wasn’t a deterrent for us.
As for negatives, some reviews point to paint chipping off the Raspberry-colored models (this wasn’t an issue with the Gunmetal style we tested). And because of the smaller profile of these snowshoes, those planning to tackle deep snow will want to look at models specifically designed for that terrain (like our deep-snow winner below). However, there is the option of adding tails (sold separately) for additional flotation.
Perhaps most notably, we found the Lightning Ascents and Evo Trails were the most comfortable technical snowshoes to walk in. And while the price point is higher than most of the models we tested — more than double that of our main winner — the advanced features justify the cost for experienced snowshoers frequenting challenging trails. Overall, we found these snowshoes to be an expensive yet wise investment for those looking for adventure and a natural stride.
Best snowshoes for deep snow: Crescent Moon Denali 37 Powder Snowshoes
$260 at Crescent Moon and Amazon
If your dream snowshoeing scenario involves trekking through deep, uncharted powder, this robust model will help turn that vision into reality.
At 5.3 pounds per pair and measuring 37 inches long, these snowshoes (formerly named Gold 17) were by far the biggest — and heaviest — style we tested. But while other models tend to have a max weight limit around 180 pounds, the Denali 37 snowshoes can support up to 300 pounds, making them a smart choice for larger individuals and those with big feet, comfortably accommodating up to size 16. It should be noted that while they’re technically designed as a men’s style, they fit our women’s size-9 boots just fine. Women with smaller feet may want to try the brand’s Leadville 29 Backcountry Snowshoes (we didn’t test these ourselves, though) that weigh a little more than 4 pounds and fit up to a women’s size 12.
Their substantial size doesn’t inhibit their performance, however; the teardrop-shaped and aircraft-grade aluminum frames made maneuvering a breeze without compromising on flotation in deep powder. In fact, we expected them to be clunky in shallower and packed snow, but they proved agile, landing in our top five when it came to overall comfort.
And while they didn’t best the MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes on challenging terrain, the PVC-free decking and three-claw stainless steel crampon system, with additional traversing claws, also landed the Denali 37s in our top five when it came to traction on steep and sideways slopes. While the included plastic heel lifts were useful for uphill climbs, unlike other brands we tested, Crescent Moon’s heel lifts are removable and can be twisted out of the way when not needed. However, we found them to be less handy than those with built-in bars and could see ourselves losing them easily.
The Denali 37’s single-pull loop binding system wasn’t our favorite binding, falling in the middle of the pack when it came to ease and comfort, but it was still simple, and we could cinch down the polymer gel straps with a single tug, even while wearing mittens. We also noticed the straps were one of the best at shedding snow.
During our runs on deep, fresh, untouched powder in Breckenridge, Colorado, they ranked at the top of our testing pool. The extra-large footprint gives the Denali 37s superior stability and flotation for deep-snow terrain, and the steel crampons allowed us to walk confidently to our off-trail destinations.
Still, if the terrain you’re hoping to traverse is steeper and rockier, you’ll want to consider the smaller, more maneuverable MSR Lightning Ascents. But for those looking to practically float over deep snow, you just can’t beat these workhorse snowshoes.
What to look for when buying snowshoes
When it comes to shopping for snowshoes, selecting the right pair means understanding your needs and the unique features of each model. Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect snowshoes for your winter outings:
- Consider your terrain: The type of snowshoes you’ll need depends largely on where you plan to explore. For groomed and packed trails, recreational snowshoes are shorter in length and come with basic traction. If you plan to head to the backcountry, with its deep, untouched powder, look for longer snowshoes that provide better flotation to prevent sinking. Aggressive traction ensures a firm grip for technical, challenging terrains like steep or icy inclines.
- Weight and size: Your weight, including any gear you’ll wear or carry, plays a crucial role in determining the size of your snowshoes. Most models offer a size range, because the heavier the user, the longer the snowshoe needed for proper support and flotation.
- Materials and construction: Most of the snowshoes we tested featured aluminum frames with nylon decks, which are known for their durability. We also tested plastic/composite models, which are noisier — be ready for a “crunch, crunch, crunch” with each step on hardpacked trails. One unique model we tested is crafted from EVA foam, which is soft, flexible and rubberlike. We found it offered a lightweight and cushioned experience akin to wearing running shoes.
- Binding systems: A secure and easy-to-use binding system, which holds your boot in place on the snowshoe, is essential, especially in freezing conditions. The ability to fasten and release your snowshoes without removing your gloves is a serious consideration. Binding systems vary widely from simple plastic hooks to ratchet straps to sophisticated BOA systems that adjust with the turn of a knob. Most require you to tuck straps away in clips to avoid loose ends, so practice securing these before you head out — you may want to purchase additional clips if needed.
- Traction and special features: From stainless steel crampons to side rails, traction varies based on the intended terrain — more aggressive for steep and snowy conditions. Heel lifts are another feature to look for, as they provide elevation at the heel for easier uphill treks, reducing calf strain. Some models include built-in metal bars that can be lifted with your trekking pole, while others offer removable lifts that lock in place depending on your needs.
- Pricing and design: Snowshoes for flat terrain are usually less expensive, while those designed for more mountainous terrain and deep snow come with more traction, more sophisticated bindings and heel lifts. Snowshoe length should match your activity and weight: longer for deep powder and heavier weights, and shorter for packed snow and steep terrains. While many styles are unisex and work just fine, those designed specifically for women tend to be narrower.
How we tested
We performed our tests in December and January on various trails in Breckenridge, Colorado, and near the base of Mount Blue Sky near Idaho Springs, Colorado. We tested the snowshoes on packed, groomed trails, as well as in deep, fresh powder. All the snowshoes in our testing pool worked well, but certain designs and features pushed our winners to the top of the heap. To compare the snowshoes in our test group, we focused on several key factors:
- Size and length options: We noted the available size and weight options for each set of snowshoes, including maximum load.
- Materials and build: We looked at the materials used in each model, including the frames, spikes, crampons and binding systems. We also noted the suggested terrain type for each snowshoe.
- Ease of use: We assessed how intuitive each snowshoe was to strap into, noting the ease of tightening and loosening straps, using special features and making adjustments. We also noted whether removing gloves to put on and take off the shoes was necessary, especially once covered in snow.
- Special features: We looked at if the snowshoes included things like heel lifts, tail additions and other extra features that enhance the user experience.
- Price and warranty: We also considered price and warranty information in informing our top picks.
Other snowshoes we tested
Crescent Moon Trailhawk 27 Aluminum Snowshoes
$160 at Amazon and Crescent Moon
A close runner-up to our overall winner, the Trailhawk snoeshoes worked great on groomed trails and deeper, fresh snow, thanks to their teardrop shape. We noted the great traction the stainless steel crampons gave us and appreciated the built-in heel lifts for steep inclines and the spin binding system that incorporates the heel straps so the dials tighten everything into place at once — no freezing fingers as you drop your mittens or gloves to get in and out in a hurry. Lightweight at 3.5 pounds per pair, they were great, but the MSR Evo Trail nudged them out when it came to comfort.
Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes 2024
$130 at Tubbs Snowshoes
Families and beginners looking for uncomplicated yet reliable snowshoes will love the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes 2024. Comparable to other models we tested, this style comes in unisex 21-inch and 25-inch lengths and can support up to 180 and 220 pounds, respectively; it also comes in a 17-inch youth version. The second cheapest pair we tested comes in a one-piece molded composite design with rail pins for traction and has a unique stacking design that allows up to four pairs of snowshoes to be locked together, making storage and transport a snap. Beginners and those outfitting their kids will also appreciate the Quickstrap binding system, which relies on Velcro for easy and secure fastening. But while the bindings were among the most user-friendly of those tested, they didn’t fit as snugly to our boots as others and needed a few readjustments along the way. Experienced snowshoers or those who wish to venture off-trail may find the style too basic, but with adult and youth sizes available, they’re a go-to choice for low-key outings or family excursions in the snow.
Tubbs Xplore Men’s and Women’s Snowshoes
Men’s: $150 at Tubbs Snowshoes
Women’s: $150 at Tubbs Snowshoes
Available in men’s and women’s models, the Tubbs Xplore snowshoes offer a user-friendly experience with their intuitive binding system with webbing to keep your boots secure and carbon steel crampons that work well on level terrain and packed trails. Great for beginners or those seeking an easygoing hike, they’re made to accommodate a wide range of sizes and weights — from 80 pounds to 250 pounds and up to a men’s size 13 boot. But the bindings didn’t feel as secure as our winning model, and we found the snowshoes tended to drag as we walked, causing a less natural stride.
Atlas Helium Trail Unisex Snowshoes
$150 at Atlas and Amazon
There’s plenty to love about this snowshoe style. They’re super light at just 3 pounds, 2 ounces per pair. They’re also available in three sizes to fit up to 270 pounds and have a sturdy aluminum frame, durable decks and carbon steel crampons. With a unique deck design for snow shedding and stability rails that run two-thirds of the length of the snowshoe for extra stability, the Helium Trails also feature a stretch-wrap binding that left our feet feeling secure, but we had some trouble keeping the straps clipped in place. They’re advertised for varied terrain use, but we thought they performed best for trail walking and found our winners were more comfortable for about the same price.
Atlas Montane Men’s and Women’s Snowshoes
Men’s: $250 at Atlas
Women’s: $250 at Atlas
Available in both men’s and women’s models, the Atlas Montane snowshoes are constructed with aluminum frames and durable decking that’s nice and quiet — a nice feature for the backcountry and mountain terrain trekking it’s designed for. The elliptical-shaped style suits men up to 300-plus pounds and women up to 200-plus pounds and worked well in deep, fresh powder. The heel lifts took a little muscle to activate with our ski pole, but once we got them there, they worked like the other models tested and eased calf strain on steep hills. But while they’re roughly the same price as our deep-snow winner, we preferred the binding system on the Denali snowshoes and found they provided a more natural gait than the Montane pair.
Crescent Moon Big Sky 32 Men’s Backcountry Snowshoes
$220 From $176 at Amazon or $220 at Crescent Moon
With robust support for up to 225 pounds and a large 32-inch teardrop design for maneuverability through deep snow, these snowshoes are heavier than most styles we tested at just under 5 pounds per pair, but they fit up to a men’s size 15 shoe, including snowboard boots.
Fitted with three stainless steel crampons and optional heel lifts for steep inclines, these snowshoes use easy strap adjustments. However, while they kept us afloat in deep, fresh powder, we preferred the Denali snowshoes’ extra-large platform and more comfortable stride.
Crescent Moon Eva Foam Snowshoes
$170 From $127 at Amazon or $170 at Crescent Moon
This unique all-foam design was one of our favorites, great for beginners and a no-brainer for snow runners. Clocking in at just 3 pounds, 8 ounces per pair, these snowshoes combine a Hoka shoe-inspired rocker platform for a natural foot roll and simple hook-and-loop Velcro bindings for easy adjustment, even with gloves on, making them an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and ease on lightly packed trails. Their lack of steel crampons — they use rubber lugs instead — made them less versatile than our winners and aren’t really suitable for taking off on packed, flat-to-gentle rolling hills.
TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite
$300 at TSL
If you’ve got some money to spend and you’re looking for sophisticated snowshoes, these hourglass-shaped ones, with their Hyperflex technology that adapts to your stride and the terrain, are worth a closer look. Lightweight and available in three sizes, they feature a unique binding system that uses the BOA fit system for micro-adjustments, plus a pre-adjustment feature that memorizes your boot size so you can permanently set your bindings’ positions. They also had padded straps to fasten in place around the ankles with Velcro and get bonus points for coming with a transport and storage bag. However, during our testing, it took quite some time to get the bindings right during the first few uses, which we found to be overly complicated. And while the ankle straps look cool and high-tech, we had trouble adjusting them and found them uncomfortable.
Retrospec Drifter Showshoe Bundle With Trekking Poles
$80 at Amazon or $90 at Retrospec
Entry-level snowshoers on a budget will be well served by this snowshoe bundle, the cheapest of those we tested, which includes aluminum alloy snowshoes, a pair of adjustable trekking poles and a handy carrying bag. Designed for users weighing up to 250 pounds, these all-condition snowshoes feature double-ratchet bindings, toe crampons, polyethylene decks and heel lifts for enhanced uphill traction. We like that they’re available in six color combos and found they worked just fine on packed trails and fresh snow. The binding system was more complicated than other models we tested, as the ratchets are harder to manipulate than other styles, especially when they were covered in icy snow. But the price makes these a good value for those looking to hit the trails without making a big investment.
Northern Lites Elite Ultra-Light All-Terrain Unisex Snowshoes?
$235 at Northern Lites and Amazon
These snowshoes combine lightweight, aerospace-grade aluminum frames with tough nylon decking and duralumin (a strong, light aluminum alloy) crampons for great traction on basic trails. At just 2 pounds, 7.5 ounces per pair, they were the lightest snowshoes we tested, and the easy spin-dial bindings made for quick adjustments and a secure fit. But at $235, they were also among the priciest models in our testing pool, making them a better option for serious snowshoers. And for technical terrain, we preferred the grip and comfort of the MSR Lightning Ascents.
