Don’t let the snow-covered trails and mountains make you wait until spring to have fun! Get up off your couch because it’s time for hiking. Taking a hike through deep snow is so fun, but it does require special gear, like snowshoes. The best snowshoes for hiking are specifically designed to keep you from sinking and provide more traction than regular boots. They’re durable, reliable, and relatively pretty easy to use. Even if you’re a first-timer, don’t worry, as all you need is just some quick practice! Trust us, they’re a crucial piece of equipment if you want to go and have adventures all year round. However, we totally understand if you’re having a hard time choosing the right model that fits your needs. With that in mind, we’ve already picked all the best hiking snowshoes available out there! Without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Aside from this, make sure to also equip yourself with the best waterproof hiking backpack and eat the best energy bar for hiking to fuel your body!
How To Choose The Best Snowshoes for Hiking
Choosing the best hiking snowshoes is no easy task. There are some features that you have to pay close attention to. So, make sure to read the following guide before you make that purchase!
Types of snowshoes
Generally, there are 3 types of snowshoes out there right now:
- Recreational snowshoes: These snowshoes are specially designed to be used on flat to rolling terrain that’s packed with snow and some powder. They tend to have less traction and are smaller in size.
- Backcountry snowshoes: As the name suggests, they’re made for challenging terrains like steeper slopes, deep powder, or icy traverses. They have the most traction of all types and can perform well on anything you encounter.
- Running snowshoes: Yes, these snowshoes are made for runners. Thus, they’re lightweight and are typically narrower. They’re mostly used for flat to rolling terrain.
Make sure you know where you want to go and so you can choose the right type of snowshoes.
Frame
The best snowshoes for hiking are made with either a composite or tubular frame. A composite frame is made out of one piece of molded plastic. Thus, it’s very durable and is stiffer. This fame is great for on-trail and compact snow. Though lighter, it’s generally noisier and has a higher impact due to its rigidness. Meanwhile, a tubular frame is rigid on the outside with a flexible deck attached to it. It’s amazing for deep snow and provides a softer walking experience. It’s also more suitable for heavier people.
Traction
The next important part when you’re searching for the best hiking snowshoes is traction. This can be divided into 2 parts, crampons and traction rails. Crampons provide grip while walking, especially on steeper slopes. There are also aggressive crampons that’ll bite firmly into hard compact snow and even icy slopes. Meanwhile, traction rails are placed on the underside of the snowshoes. The longer they are, the more traction they provide. Most of the best hiking snowshoes also have break bars, which are traction rails that run across to prevent you from backsliding when walking down.
Bindings
There are 2 types of bindings, fixed and pivoting. A fixed binding attaches the full length of your boot to the deck. It provides a more natural walking movement on flat terrain but isn’t recommended for steep terrain. On the other hand, a pivoting binding allows rotation under the ball of your foot so you can kick steps on steep slopes. It also reduces leg fatigue and the build-up of snow on the deck. You should also note that there are some closing mechanisms like straps, BOA, and ratchets. If possible, they should be cold-proof and easily replaceable in the field for when they should break.
Size
The best hiking snowshoes come in different sizes. The right size will depend on your weight and if you’ll be expecting a lot of powder. The heavier you are, the more flotation you’ll need, which means you’ll need a pair with a bigger size.
Is snowshoeing harder than hiking?
The short answer is yes. If you’re an avid hiker, a 15-mile hike might feel like nothing. But when it comes to snowshoeing, your body will need to work much harder. Plus, your pace will be roughly 1.5 to 2 times slower than hiking or running.
Can I wear hiking boots with snowshoes?
The best snowshoes for hiking can fit pretty much any type of boots or shoes. However, we recommend wearing weatherproof winter boots with thick soles and rubber or leather uppers. Aside from that, sturdy waterproof leather hiking boots can also work. If your boots aren’t waterproof, relax, because you can always use one of the best waterproof boot sprays!
Crescent Moon EVA All-Foam Snowshoes
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For recreational hikers, the Crescent Moon EVA All-Foam Snowshoes might be their new best snowshoes for hiking. This model will provide you a very comfortable walking experience because the whole deck is made out of a single piece of EVA foam, just like the name suggests. This makes you feel like you’re wearing an oversized soft sneaker.
Meanwhile, these best hiking snowshoes’ rocker shape almost makes walking feel automatic. It even gives you the feeling of wanting to speed up your walking pace! Once you’re comfortable enough, you might feel like jogging or running, which improves stride ergonomics immensely. However, note that these snowshoes aren’t suitable for deep snow or your backcountry adventures.
What We Love
A comfortable and reasonably-priced pair of snowshoes that works well on packed trails.
Pros:
- Reasonable price
- Comfortable EVA foam
- Flexible rocker design
- Teardrop shape for a natural stride
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- Very little traction on icy terrain
Atlas Run Snowshoes
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Compared to other best hiking snowshoes, the Atlas Run Snowshoes feature a narrower frame. That explains why they’re so great for winter running. Thanks to Atlas’ patented Spring-Loaded Suspension, it allows the crampon to penetrate deeper into the snow, giving you a more secure grip. That will also allow your foot to move freely within its natural articulation, promising you great maneuverability.
Apart from that, there’s also the Speed Helix Binding with BOA Fit System that you’ll definitely fancy. It’s one of the most easy-to-use bindings we’ve ever found. Just simply slide your winter running shoe in, push the BOA dial down, and turn it until you have a comfortable fit. Then, pull the heel strap to secure your foot in the binding and you’re set! Furthermore, the aluminum Dual-TRAC crampon is really lightweight, and its teeth give you plenty of grips, even on ice.
What We Love
They’re a great option for runners who don’t want to suspend their training until spring.
Pros:
- Narrower frame
- Spring-Loaded Suspension for deeper penetration
- BOA Fit System for a snug fit
- Lightweight Dual-TRAC crampon
- Plenty of grips
Cons:
- Snow might build up under the crampon
Tubbs Panoramic Snowshoes
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Marketed as a pair of snowshoes for day hiking, Tubbs Panoramic Snowshoes are one of the best snowshoes for hiking you can buy right now. These snowshoes are easily a favorite among hikers. They’re a well-rounded and user-friendly model that works really well in all types of terrain and snow conditions. Plus, their innovative Fit-Step 2.0 frame that’s coupled with the butter-smooth SoftTec decking will deliver optimal flotation in deep snow.
That’s not all, as these best hiking snowshoes also feature DynamicFit binding with BOA Fit System and EVA foam for optimized fit, control, and comfort. When it gets icier, these snowshoes’ aggressive Cobra toe crampons with 8 carbon steel teeth will provide amazing traction and give you confidence! With all of its functional features, you can always count on this product to help you reach the best view on the trail!
What We Love
They’re well-rounded snowshoes for most winter hikers.
Pros:
- Work well in all types of terrain
- Amazing flotation
- Very easy to use
- DynamicFit binding for a snug fit
- Cobra toe crampons for great traction
Cons:
- Can fall off when paired with bigger boots and feet
Atlas Elektra Montane Snowshoes
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Once you’re equipped with the Atlas Elektra Montane Snowshoes, you won’t be afraid anymore and feel very secure on those steeper slopes. The aggressive crampons, paired with 2 longitudinal traction rails, will provide you with a safe feeling on the trail. There’s also the amazing 6061 aluminum Reactiv tubular frame that can change from a cylindrical to an elliptical shape. This will create a stiffer and more responsive frame so that you’ll be able to hike with more confidence!
Thanks to the large surface area, these snowshoes allow excellent flotation that’ll leave you in awe. This product also has a fixed binding system, which means that the tail of the shoe closely follows the natural movement of the foot when walking. When it comes to the binding, these snowshoes don’t disappoint. The binding feels highly secure and robust. It also has strong webbing and padded support on the front as well as a great rachet system in the back.
What We Love
They give an outstanding performance in any type of terrain.
Pros:
- Amazing traction
- Large surface area
- Excellent flotation
- Secure and robust binding
- Heel lifts for steep climbing
Cons:
- Drag a bit if the snow is wet
Atlas Access Snowshoes
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Next on this list is the Atlas Access Snowshoes, one of the best snowshoes for hiking that you can’t miss. These snowshoes are very durable and provide amazing functionality on different types of terrain. They come with an elliptically-shaped frame that’s made of aluminum, so you can rest assured that they’re long-lasting. Plus, the frame features a decking made of lightweight composite material.
While you can’t find the crampon teeth on the sides, they’re present on the bottom and under the bindings. We also love the Light-Ride Suspension that can absorb impacts when walking and enhance the traction. Moreover, with the Wrap Tail bindings, these snowshoes are pretty easy to use. Overall, they’re a nice pick for hikers who want a versatile pair of snowshoes at a very reasonable price.
What We Love
One of the most versatile snowshoes available out there.
Pros:
- Large crampons
- Light-Ride Suspension for impact absorption
- Wrap Tail bindings
- Work well on different types of terrain
- Durable aluminum frame
Cons:
- Not suitable for loads over 250lbs
Crescent Moon Gold 10 Snowshoes
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The amazing Crescent Moon Gold 10 Snowshoes are made for both walking on-trail and off, in shallow or deep snow. They’re great for neverending exploration and adventure, even when the trail ends. They also offer a pretty large surface, which means they can take on a total weight load of 225lbs before sinking. That large footprint also means that they’ll work well on open backcountry drifts where you’ll likely run into a fluffy soft powder.
Boasting double rubbery straps that can be fastened with just a single pull, the bindings on these snowshoes can’t be any easier! It also fits a wide range of boots of all sizes. Slide in your favorite heavy-duty boots and the binding can fit them just fine. Aside from the bindings, you can also find some plastic prongs that act as a guide to better position your feet and double security in case your feet will ever slide forward.
What We Love
A recommended product for big-footed hikers.
Pros:
- Can take on up to 225lbs of weight load
- Large surface
- Good traction in most conditions
- Easy to use
- Offer a secure and comfortable fit
Cons:
- The flexible deck limits traction at times
Chinook Trekker Snowshoes
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Available in several sizes to choose from, the Chinook Trekker Snowshoes are an entry-level model for those who just want a pair of simple snowshoes that works. This product comes with a basic binding with 2 ratchet straps over the foot and a buckle on the heel to provide a snug fit. The binding will hold your foot securely, but do note that it’s not as comfortable or as easy to use as the one you can find in other best snowshoes for hiking.
Other notable features from these snowshoes are the small foot and heel crampons that make it very easy to walk on flat trails. Speaking of which, we also like the lightweight but strong aluminum frame that’ll ensure nothing but comfortable walks. By purchasing this product, you’ll also get a carry bag with backpack straps, side handles, mesh ventilation, and Velcro pole carriers.
What We Love
These snowshoes are a nice option for occasional hikers who stick to local trails and mostly walk on flat trails.
Pros:
- Lightweight and strong aluminum frame
- Affordable
- Nice binding for a secure feel
- Come with many accessories
- Great for walking on flat trails
Cons:
- Limited features
MSR Revo Explore Snowshoes
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In comparison to the MSR Lighting Ascent (don’t worry, it’s on this list), the MSR Revo Explore Snowshoes are a less expensive option that you can consider. Although they don’t offer as good traction, they still have plenty of amazing features that make them one of the best snowshoes for hiking. This product comes with a lightweight U-shaped aluminum frame that’s equipped with crampon teeth along its edge and a row across the sole.
Meanwhile, the decking is made of a lightweight plastic material that’ll provide good durability at low temperatures. Apart from that, these snowshoes also boast a HyperLink rotating binding system that’s super easy to use. Oh, you can also find an additional rotating crampon with 2 teeth under the bindings. Those who love hiking on steep terrain will definitely like the heel lifts.
What We Love
They offer a really comfortable experience, which is great for hiking all day long.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Durable U-shaped aluminum frame
- Lightweight plastic material
- HyperLink rotating binding system
- Very comfortable
Cons:
- Other best hiking snowshoes offer better traction
MSR Evo Trail Hiking Snowshoes
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If you’re a newbie, you might want to equip yourself with the MSR Evo Trail Hiking Snowshoes. Thanks to the single plastic model, this model stands out from the rest of the best snowshoes for hiking. It gives these snowshoes plenty of needed stability. But do note that they’re one of the noisier pair of snowshoes available out there.
Furthermore, these snowshoes also offer you a semi-aggressive traction system that consists of 2 steel rails from front to back, which will make you feel more secure when traversing a hard-packed slope. Meanwhile, their powder-coated steel crampon is attached to a full-rotation pivoting binding that’ll allow a wide range of motion and deliver impressive grip both on and off-trail. We also like how there are 4 brake bars molded into the underside, so there’ll be a smaller chance for you to backslide when descending a steeper slope.
What We Love
They’re an excellent choice for beginners looking for an all-around model at an affordable price tag.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Great traction
- Amazing range of motion
- 4 brake bars to prevent backsliding
- Beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Decking is loud
Tubbs Mountaineer Backcountry Snowshoes
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When you’re looking for the best snowshoes for hiking, many will definitely recommend you the Tubbs Mountaineer Backcountry Snowshoes. They have a lightweight aluminum tubular frame with a flexible and durable nylon deck that provides amazing flotation even in the deepest powder. This explains why those who are wearing a pack and heavier adore these snowshoes so much. Apart from that, they also offer amazing traction in the form of 8 carbon-steel teeth under the toe area. Meanwhile, the Python braking system will prevent you from backsliding while going downhill or traversing.
We’re sure you’ll love the binding too, as it fits about every winter boot available out there and is pretty easy to use. All you have to do is place your foot inside, tighten the toe straps and heel strap, and you’re done! Moreover, the Rotation Toe Cord permits the tail of the snowshoe to drop to reduce strain, so you can explore the backcountry even longer.
What We Love
They’re a great choice for hikers that want to enjoy the winter landscape without worrying about the amount of snow that’ll limit their freedom.
Pros:
- 8 carbon-steel teeth
- Python braking system
- Amazing flotation
- Easy-to-use binding
- Rotation Toe Cord to reduce strain
Cons:
- The toe straps quality can be improved
WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
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For those on a tight budget, why don’t you give the WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes a try? These snowshoes have everything you want in basic snowshoes. They’re a really great option especially if you’re searching for a comfortable and lightweight model for your next recreational hiking session. They come with an aluminum tubular frame with a durable and cold-resistant plastic decking that provides superb flotation even in deeper snow.
Meanwhile, the semi-aggressive crampon does a really amazing job on hard-packed snow and is ready to always give you a secure and snug feeling. There’s also a heel-lift and the flexible base will allow you to plant your heels deep into the snow on your descents. Overall, as one of the best snowshoes for hiking, we think they’re an outstanding option for your short hikes in easy to moderate terrain.
What We Love
They’re a great option for recreational hikers that don’t want to spend too much.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Beginner-friendly
- Great flotation even in deeper snow
- Heel-lift for climbing steep terrain
- High-quality crampon to provide traction
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- No carrying case
Tubbs Flex Vertical Snowshoes
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With the Tubbs Flex Vertical Snowshoes, you can expect nothing but a premium performance. As one of the best snowshoes for hiking, this product checks all the right boxes and has been pleasing plenty of hikers. What many love about these snowshoes is their steep price. But it shouldn’t be an issue as the features and performance are worth every single dollar. First, they have a fully-rigid decking that will be good for the firm to moderately soft snow. The design is also optimized to promote the right level of flexibility.
Not to mention, they use the BOA and heel strap configuration that’s amazing for distributing pressure evenly. Plus, the binding’s design is pretty easy to use. Aside from that, you’ll also be amazed by the Flex tail that comes with a biomechanical design for better shock absorption. We also love the Torsion Deck that makes torsional articulation possible. The result is that it’ll be easier to maneuver even when you’re in uneven terrain.
What We Love
Their top-notch features and amazing comfort make them worth the purchase.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Durable construction
- Easy to put on and off
- Flex tail for better shock absorption
- Easy to maneuver in uneven terrain
- Highly flexible
Cons:
- Expensive
MSR Lightning Ascent
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Designed for adventures way out in the backcountry, having the MSR Lighting Ascent as your best snowshoes for hiking is a must. They’re available in 3 different sizes and comes with lightweight aluminum 360-degree traction frames that’ll deliver edge-to-edge grip. Plus, the decking is made of flexible polyurethane-coated nylon that’s super durable and strong. All of these features will make for a comfortable and memorable hiking experience throughout the entire day while providing plenty of flotation.
Another impressive thing about these snowshoes is that the heel lifters can be used to prevent fatigue when going uphill. Even better, they’re easily deployable using your poles. Furthermore, the new Paragon binding is made of freeze-resistant mesh and fits snugly around a variety of boots. Although expensive, this model is truly an outstanding pair that promises you a lot of fun out in nature for years to come.
What We Love
They’re easily one of the best hiking snowshoes complete with high-end features and simple engineering.
Pros:
- 360-degree traction frames
- Stiff and precise
- Amazing range of motion
- Heel lifters to prevent fatigue
- Freeze-resistant Paragon binding
- Very durable
Cons:
- Forefoot straps are pretty short
