11 Best Snow Shoes (2023, Ranked)
Mountaineering is now a popular hobby among people who lives near snowy mountains. Every outdoor enthusiast have this on their bucket list. And the most crucial equipment of mountaineering is a snow shoe and hiking boots.
With so many different types of snow shoes available, it can be difficult to know which ones will best suit your needs. Snow shoes are essential in finding your way in the deep snow and tackle steep terrain.
From lightweight models designed for speed to more rugged varieties perfect for tackling alpine summits and fluffy snow, there’s something out there for every mountaineer looking to explore the wintery wilds with confidence.
So if you’re ready to take on the challenge of the coldest weather conditions, pick up a pair of reliable snow shoes and get ready to tackle whatever is ahead!
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In the video above, REI shows the basics of picking a snow shoe. It’s also quite our basis in sorting out and picking the snow shoes in this list.
Our Top Five Snow Shoe Recommendations
1. MSR Evo Trail
Overview
The light and durable aluminum frame is designed to handle extreme terrain while the 360° Traction frames provides stability and grip on icy surfaces. It’s definitely deserving of being one of the
o further increase control, the Ergo Televator heel lifter helps reduce fatigue by reducing lifting effort with every step compared to most snowshoes. With customizable bindings for maximum fit and performance, the MSR Evo Trail is perfect for those who want to tackle the toughest of trails.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
Its hybrid crampon design provides great grip on icy surfaces, while its custom binding system fits securely and comfortably to the foot. MSR Evo Trail offers good maneuverability and stability as well as easy-to-use features such as its adjustable heel strap.
On the other hand, the MSR Evo Trail is not designed for aggressive terrain or deep powder. It may also be too expensive for some budgets.
Overall, I would highly recommend the MSR Evo Trail for experienced hikers who need a lightweight and durable snowshoe to explore all kinds of terrain. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore new trails in winter conditions without sacrificing comfort or performance.
2. Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes
Overview
These snowshoes provide superior grip on icy and frozen surfaces, ensuring stability in even the most challenging conditions. They are constructed of durable materials that can stand up to the toughest mountain weather and won’t let you down when it matters most.
With Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes, mountaineers will be able to discover new paths in the snow and reach their destination safely.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
The aluminum frame is lightweight and strong, providing a reliable structure that can withstand the toughest trails and conditions during your winter hiking.
Additionally, the snowshoe binding system is intuitive and easily adjustable, allowing for a secure fit in all types of terrain. Furthermore, the durable synthetic material on the base provides traction and stability in icy or snowy weather.
On the negative side, the bindings may not be as adjustable as pricier models, so they may not be suitable for those with larger feet. Additionally, they are only available in one size so they may not be suitable for those who have shorter or longer legs than average.
Overall, we would highly recommend Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes as a budget-friendly option for anyone looking to explore winter trails. They provide good value for money by combining strong construction with reliable traction and stability.
3. Tubbs Xplore Snowshoes
Overview
Its wide paw-like design provides superior stability, while its light weight and low profile construction make it a breeze to maneuver through all types of terrain. The unique Xplore binding system ensures you’ll never have to worry about loose straps or buckles. With Tubbs Xplore Snowshoes, your explorations will never be limited.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
It offers a lightweight design, superior traction, and great maneuverability which are all essential features for new snowshoers. The binding system is also very user-friendly and easy to adjust with nice padding for all-day comfort. Additionally, the price point is very reasonable for the quality you get.
On the downside, there’s not much in terms of additional features or accessories so be prepared to pay extra if you’re looking for bells and whistles. The design also doesn’t lend itself well to deeper or more aggressive terrain, so this isn’t the best option if you’re looking to tackle more demanding conditions.
Overall, the Tubbs Xplore Snowshoe is a great beginner option that offers lots of value at an accessible price point. It’s a fantastic choice for those just starting out, but for those who want more features or plan on doing more extreme activities then another model might be better suited.
4. MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes
Overview
Featuring an ergonomically designed frame with Televator heel lifts, these snowshoes provide superior traction on icy surfaces and offer maximum stability on steep slopes. Durable yet lightweight aluminum crampons ensure secure grip no matter the conditions, making them ideal for extreme ascents.
With stability, durability, and comfort in mind, MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes are the perfect companion for mountaineers looking to reach new heights.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
With a secure fit and solid construction, it offers reliability no matter where the conditions. Its unique binding system is designed to be quickly adjustable and can easily accommodate different types of footwear from winter boots to trail running shoes.
The downsides are that due to its ultralight design, it doesn’t provide as much floatation as some of its heavier counterparts. Additionally, if you’re looking for extra features like aggressive traction or other add-ons then you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Overall, the MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes offer a great combination of comfort, security and lightweight design that makes them a perfect choice for any snowshoe enthusiast.
5. L.L. Bean Winter Walker Snowshoes
Overview
They’re designed with a lightweight but durable aluminum frame, making them suitable for both flat and hilly terrain.
The steel cleats offer excellent grip on slippery surfaces, while the adjustable binding system allows you to customize the fit perfectly to your child’s feet each time they use them.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
Their sturdy construction ensures that they will last multiple winters and the lightweight design makes them easy to use and carry around. On top of that, the affordable price makes them an attractive choice for parents shopping on a budget.
However, they don’t come with any additional features like extra cushioning or reflective elements which can be found on more expensive options out there. Additionally, their size options are limited so it might be difficult to find a pair that fits perfectly.
Overall, the L.L. Bean Winter Walker Snowshoes offer great value for money and are an excellent option for kids who want something reliable but don’t need much in terms of additional features or size options.
Special Mentions
6. Tubbs Backcountry Snowshoes
Overview
These snowshoes provide the ultimate in traction and floatation with their patented steel toe crampons and Rotating Toe Cord system, allowing you to climb up steep grades, traverse icy terrain, and get more miles out of your winter treks.
The unique design also helps maintain balance when navigating tricky terrain, so you can feel confident with every step.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
The adjustable nylon bindings are comfortable and easy to use, while the heel lift technology keeps your feet from becoming too fatigued while trekking up hills.
On top of that, the aluminum frames provide great stability and durability in snowy terrain. However, one potential downside may be the weight of these snowshoes which can be quite heavy compared to other models.
Overall, Tubbs Backcountry Snowshoes are well-constructed shoes with plenty of features that make them a great option for snowshoeing in any backcountry setting.
If you’re in need of reliable and durable snowshoeing gear, then this is a great product to consider.
7. Atlas Helium Trail
Overview
With their lightweight construction and superior shock absorption, these snowshoes provide a comfortable and supportive experience to keep you moving all day long.
Featuring a sturdy aluminum frame and a secure steel toe crampon, they ensure excellent grip and traction on icy terrain. And with their easy-to-use binding system, they make sliding into your snowshoes a breeze each time you head out on your next adventure.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
The combination of light weight and high traction makes it perfect for winter hikes in snowy terrain, while their wide design gives more stability than most traditional snowshoes.
On the downside, they are slightly more expensive than their competitor, the MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes. However, considering that the Atlas Helium Trail is able to take on much steeper terrain and tougher conditions, its extra cost is certainly justified.
8. Tubbs Flex STP
Overview
Its durable construction and innovative design allow you to tackle any terrain, from treacherous ice fields to deep powdery snow. Its lightweight aluminum frame provides superior support while its teardrop shaped bindings give you agility when climbing or descending in the mountains.
Tubbs Flex STP is the perfect tool for mountaineers who need a dependable, comfortable and reliable snowshoe to get them up and down on mountainous terrain.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
The design of the snowshoes makes them lightweight, yet still provides excellent traction and stability on packed snow and powder alike. With its customizable binding system, they are easy to adjust to fit any size and shape of foot. They are also very durable, making them a great long-term investment.
On the other hand, some users may find the price tag a bit steep for entry level snowshoes. Additionally, due to their design, these snowshoes can be difficult to put on in deeper snow if you don’t have practice with it first.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an all-around great set of snowshoes for both packed trails and deep powder – Tubbs Flex STP is definitely worth considering. With its lightweight nature and customizable bindings combined with its durability, you won’t be disappointed!
9. Crescent Moon Eva Snowshoes
Overview
Featuring lightweight construction and a full-length steel crampon, these EVA foam snowshoes provide reliable grip on all types of snow and terrain. With its strong frame and comfortable bindings, they provide the support needed to make quick progress through snow-covered terrain.
Whether you’re scaling a mountain or simply exploring snowy trails, Crescent Moon Eva Snowshoes will help you take every step with confidence.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
Crescent Moon Eva Snowshoes are a great choice for those looking for a reliable and lightweight pair of snowshoes.
The design is comfortable and secure, especially when used in tough terrain. While they perform well on flat ground, their best feature is the extra traction they provide on inclines.
On the downside, some users have reported that the metal frame of the shoes can be too stiff for certain activities such as running or walking uphill. Despite this minor flaw, Crescent Moon Eva snowshoes are an excellent choice for any winter activity and come highly recommended.
10. Tubbs Flex VRT
Overview
Its innovative design features a removable liner that provides unparalleled support and stability on the steepest and most challenging terrain.
With its unique blend of traditional lacing and modern Boa closure system, you can be sure to have the perfect fit every time you take it out. Talk to any mountaineer, and they’ll likely tell you that Tubbs Flex VRT is the go-to choice for backcountry skiing.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
Tubbs Flex VRT is a great option for those looking to invest in a reliable snowshoeing experience. It’s ability to easily transition between snow and other terrains, while providing excellent traction and support make it an ideal choice.
The bindings are comfortable and easy to use, allowing you to get out on the trails quickly and safely. However, it does come with a price tag that some may find unaffordable.
While expensive, the comfort and reliability provided by this product make it well worth the money for many snow adventurers. We highly recommend this product for anyone in need of a quality pair of snowshoes.
11. Evvo Snowshoe 1
Overview
Its lightweight design and durable construction make it ideal for tackling snowy trails, especially in difficult terrain. With its adjustable binding system, you can customize the fit for any foot size so that your trekking is always comfortable.
Its numerous features like quick-release buckles, rubber traction pads and easy-to-handle frames make navigating through the snow a breeze.
Product Pros
Product Cons
Bottomline
It’s lightweight yet durable construction makes it ideal for long hikes and treks in the snow, while its grippy treads provide the best possible traction. The waterproof exterior keeps your feet dry during wet conditions, and its well-padded interior provides extra insulation.
With all these features in mind, the Evvo Snowshoe 1 is a great investment if you frequently experience cold weather and snowy terrain.
The only downside is that they can be quite expensive compared to other models on the market, so shop around to find the best deal. All things considered, however, the quality of this product make it well worth the price tag.
Conclusion
The best way for mountaineers to ensure a successful winter trip is by investing in the right pair of snow shoes.
With the right snow shoes, mountaineers can traverse through even the most difficult terrains with greater ease and confidence. The tips mentioned above should serve as a good starting point when shopping for the perfect pair of snow shoes.
Let’s make sure that we’re ready to face winter head on! Leave your comments below and let us know what other tips you have for finding the right snow shoes. If you want to see some snowboard boots review in the future
Together, we can make sure that every mountaineer is properly outfitted for their winter adventures!
FAQs
Q1. What are snow shoes?
A1. Snow shoes are specialized footwear used for walking over snow and icy terrain. They distribute a person’s weight evenly over a wide area, thus providing more stability and allowing them to move around more easily in snow and ice conditions. The snow shoe is made of a lightweight yet durable material, such as plastic or aluminum, and typically has several straps to keep them secure on the foot.
Q2. What types of snow shoes are available?
A2. Snow shoes come in different sizes, shapes, styles, materials, and bindings depending on the terrain they are designed for. Common snow shoe styles include backcountry snowshoes which offer maximum flotation in deep snow; recreational snowshoes which provide great traction in rolling hills; running snowshoes which are designed for speed; and mountain snowshoes which offer superior traction on steep slopes.
Q3. How should I choose the right type of snow shoe?
A3. You should always consider the type of terrain you will be using your snow shoes on when making your selection. If you plan to use your snow shoes primarily on flat areas with light powdery snow, then recreational snowshoes would be your best option. For deeper snows or steeper hills, choosing mountain or backcountry snowshoes might be more suitable for you needs.
Q4. How should I care for my snow shoes?
A4. It is important to keep your snow shoes clean by wiping off any mud or dirt from them after each use with a damp cloth and allow them to air dry completely before storing them away during warmer months when not in use. Additionally it’s important to inspect all buckles, straps, webbing and decking regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace any components as needed to ensure proper functioning of your snow shoes while out in the field
