We know, winter is still months away, but planning how you want to spend the greatest time of the year from now isn’t wrong! If you want to enjoy the snow by backcountry riding, you should keep reading. This activity is one of the fastest-growing winter sports but buying a splitboard can cost you a great deal of money. It’s very easy to spend almost 1,000USD on just a board, nevermind other essentials like bindings and skins. Thankfully, snowboarders who want to experience the backcountry without a splitboard can use snowshoes instead! They’re very easy to use and cost way less. Plus, most of them can fit your favorite snowboard boots pretty well. So, read on to find out which snowshoes for snowboard boots are the best for you!
Speaking of snowshoes, go check out the 13 best snowshoes for men, the 13 best snowshoes for beginners, and the 13 best snowshoes for kids as well!
How To Choose The Best Snowshoes for Snowboarding
To purchase the right snowshoes for snowboard boots, there are some features that you should always keep in mind. So, make sure you don’t skip this section!
Types of snowshoes
There are 3 types of snowshoes available 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: 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: Unlike the previous 2, these snowshoes are made for runners. Thus, they’re lightweight and are typically narrower. They’re mostly used for flat to rolling terrain.
Decide where you want to go then choose the right type of snowshoes to use.
Frame
Usually, snowshoes for snowboard boots are made with either a composite or tubular frame. A composite frame is made out of one piece of molded plastic, so it’s very durable and stiffer. This frame is great for on-trail and compact snow. However, it’s also 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.
Traction
The next important feature is traction, and it can be divided into 2 parts, which are 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 and provides a more natural walking movement on flat terrain. However, it 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.
Sizing
Just like snowboard boots, snowshoes come in different sizes. When choosing the right size, you have to know how much you weigh. The heavier you are, the more flotation you’ll need, which means you’ll need snowshoes with a bigger size. But don’t worry, most snowshoes out there have a great binding system that allows you to use those snowshoes with snowboard boots of any size.
Can you wear snowboard boots with snowshoes?
Yes, you can. However, it depends on which snowshoes. Most manufacturers now offer bindings with ratcheting plastic straps that are easier to use with snowboard boots. If you use a step-in snowboard-binding system, certain manufacturers also offer compatible snowshoes.
Crescent Moon EVA All-Foam Snowshoes
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If you consider yourself a recreational hiker, then you should totally take a look at the Crescent Moon EVA All-Foam Snowshoes. These snowshoes for snowboard boots will provide you a super comfortable walking experience. Wonder why? That’s because the whole deck is made out of a single piece of EVA foam. Yes, this foam is the one that’s used for your favorite sneakers! Plus, this foam will also make the snowshoes feel more flexible.
Because of these snowshoes’ rocker shape, you can even walk very fast! Once you’re comfortable enough, you might even feel like running. But you should know that these snowshoes aren’t suitable for deep snow or your backcountry adventures. Even better, they’re fully recyclable through sneaker recycling programs.
What We Love
These sneaker-like snowshoes are affordable and work well on packed trails.
Pros:
- Reasonable price
- Comfortable EVA foam
- Flexible rocker design
- Natural stride
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- Not for backcountry adventures
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CRESCENT MOON Gold 10 Backcountry Snowshoes
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Great for a long session of snowboarding, the CRESCENT MOON Gold 10 Backcountry Snowshoes are a great pair of snowshoes to buy. There are a few size choices to choose from, so you can use these snowshoes with snowboard boots of any size. Just slide in your boots and the binding will fit them perfectly. Plus, because of their large surface, these snowshoes can take on a total weight load of 225lbs before they start to sink.
Aside from that, the large footprint also means that they can perform really well on open backcountry drifts where you’ll likely run into a fluffy soft powder. You’ll also definitely like the double rubber straps that can be fastened easily with just a single pull. Meanwhile, the plastic prongs will act as a guide to better position your feet and double security in case your feet will ever slide forward.
What We Love
One of the best snowshoes for big-footed snowboarders.
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:
- Decent traction
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Yukon Charlie’s Sherpa Snowshoes
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Budget-conscious snowboarders will totally find the Yukon Charlie’s Sherpa Snowshoes a great purchase. Without spending too much, you’ll be able to get a pair of amazing snowshoes for snowboard boots. Also great for beginners, they have bindings that are very easy to use. Apart from that, they’re also capable of carrying up to 300lbs! Since they’re also available in 3 different sizes, you can use these snowshoes with snowboard boots of any size comfortably!
The construction of these snowshoes is amazing too! They’re super durable and the design is very user-friendly. To offer you a better grip and more secure footing, these snowshoes also come with hardened steel crampons. Designed to deliver confidence and comfort to recreational snowboarders, these snowshoes are a pair that you simply can’t ignore.
What We Love
A great model for beginners and recreational snowboarders with a big build.
Pros:
- 3 different sizes
- Can carry up to 300lbs
- Sturdy and durable
- User-friendly design
- Easy-to-use bindings
Cons:
- Low-quality straps
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Chinook 80002 Trekker Snowshoes (CU)
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One of the most popular snowshoes for snowboard boots that you can find on the market today is the Chinook 80002 Trekker Snowshoes. These unisex snowshoes are affordable and very functional. They come with plenty of essential features you could ever wish for so that you can snowboard with a smile. Let us start by telling you that these snowshoes have a very solid and durable construction. The aluminum tubular frame with the polyethylene cover will definitely last for years.
Aside from that, you’ll also fancy the foot securing. It’s a simple ratchet system that allows you to effortlessly tighten the straps according to your size. Releasing the straps is also a breeze, as all you need to do is just press the button. Our favorite thing is that these snowshoes come complete with a carrying bag and Velcro pole carriers.
What We Love
Great for occasional hikers who stick to local trails and mostly walk on flat trails.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable aluminum frame
- Easy to use binding system
- Great for walking on flat trails
- Come with many freebies
Cons:
- Other options offer better grip
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Tubbs Wilderness Snowshoes
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The next great snowshoes for snowboard boots users are none other than the Tubbs Wilderness Snowshoes. This amazing pair comes with rugged construction and an amazing traction system, making it a great pick for snowboarding and winter hiking. Although these snowshoes aren’t very toothy compared to some options, the carbon steel crampons under the balls of your feet still grip pretty tight on snowpack. Meanwhile, their heel crampons are very helpful on traversing side slopes.
When it comes to the binding system, you won’t be disappointed. At first glance, they look very complicated. But fret not, as it’s actually the contrary. All you have to do is just pull the strap that goes zigzag over your arch, secure it with the ratchet buckle, and you’re good to go. Aside from that, there’s also a toe cord that connects the bindings with the decks that rotate freely with each step. Thanks to that, you’ll have better maneuverability and be able to stride without any refrain.
What We Love
They’re a strong and stable option for those who carry quite some weight in their backpack.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use bindings
- Comfortable for traveling with a loaded pack
- Wide range of motion
- Great traction system
- Offers a tight grip on snowpack
Cons:
- The decking material seems cheap
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FLASHTEK Lightweight Snowshoes (CU)
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The FLASHTEK Lightweight Snowshoes are truly a great value for money. Aside from a pair of lightweight snowshoes for snowboard boots, you’ll also receive a set of trekking poles and a carrying bag. That way, you’ll be able to save plenty of money! Although not the best of the best, these snowshoes are still a great pick, especially for recreational snowboarders who don’t plan on pursuing extreme winter terrain.
Available in 3 different sizes, these snowshoes also have 5 different colors for you to choose from. Apart from that, the binding is comfortable and very easy to use. In fact, you can use these snowshoes with snowboard boots of most sizes snugly. Meanwhile, the aluminum frame will provide you a solid base. Paired with aluminum toothed crampons for better traction, one can never regret buying these snowshoes!
What We Love
A cheap model that’s very comfortable, durable, and comes complete with some freebies.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Offer great flotation
- 5 different colors
- Durable aluminum frame
- Aluminum toothed crampons for better traction
Cons:
- No heel lift
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MSR Revo Explore Snowshoes
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If you’re a loyal MSR fan but currently on a tight budget, why don’t you get yourself the MSR Revo Explore Snowshoes? Compared to other MSR snowshoes that are more expensive, they’re not as feature-packed, but they still have plenty of great things to offer, and one of them is comfort. These snowshoes are very lightweight. It comes with a U-shaped aluminum frame that’s equipped with crampon teeth along its edge and row across the sole. That way, you won’t be able to slip easily even when you’re out there for hours.
There’s also a lightweight plastic decking that’ll provide amazing durability at low temperatures. Among the features these snowshoes for snowboard boots offer, we really like the Hyperlink rotating binding system that’s super easy to use. Speaking of rotating, there’s also an additional rotating crampon with 2 teeth under the bindings.
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:
- Subpar traction
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Atlas Elektra Montane Snowshoes (CU)
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The Atlas Elektra Montante Snowshoes are a pair of amazing snowshoes that you’ll want to use when you’re on steep slopes. Their aggressive crampons that are paired with 2 longitudinal traction rails will give you a safe feeling on the trail. Apart from that, we also like the 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 you can hike confidently.
These snowshoes also have a large surface area, which means you won’t find yourself sinking into the snow. They also have a fixed binding system. With that system, the tail will closely follow the natural movement of your foot when walking. Apart from that, the binding is impressive as well. It feels highly secure and robust. It also comes with strong webbing, padded support on the front, and a great ratchet system in the back.
What We Love
These snowshoes perform amazingly 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 little bit if the snow is wet
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MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes (CU)
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We’re pretty sure many first-timers will have a great time using the MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes. These great snowshoes for snowboard boots are simple, solid, and work like a charm. Among all of their features, one that we really love is the ultra-comfortable securing straps. Besides offering you a snug and secure fit, you can use these snowshoes with snowboard boots of any size. Just make sure that you align your foot right before you tighten them.
Being durable and durable, these snowshoes are more than capable of serving you well in a huge variety of terrain. No matter where you go and how long your adventure is, you’ll always be comfortable. Of course, that’s also because they feature a great crampon system with full-length crampon rails and long crampon teeth on the toes that offer a good grip.
What We Love
A nice pick for beginners looking for an all-around model at an affordable price tag.
Pros:
- Suitable for a wide range of terrain
- Amazing traction
- Great range of motion
- Offers a good grip
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
- Loud decking
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Tubbs Mountaineer Backcountry Snowshoes
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When looking for a pair of snowshoes for snowboard boots, make sure to check out the Tubbs Mountaineer Backcountry Snowshoes. These great snowshoes come with a lightweight aluminum tube frame with a flexible and durable nylon deck that provides maximum flotation even in the deepest powder. Thus, these snowshoes are also great for heavy people and those who bring tons of things in their backpacks. Besides that, many also adore these snowshoes as the 8 carbon-steel teeth under the toe area offer amazing traction.
Thanks to the Python braking system, you won’t backslide while going downhill or traversing. We’re very sure you’ll like the binding system too. It fits almost all snowboard boots available out there and is super easy to use, even for first-timers. Moreover, the Rotation Toe Cord permits the tail of the snowshoes to drop to reduce strain, allowing you to explore the backcountry even longer.
What We Love
Great for hikers that want to enjoy snowboarding 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:
- Subpar toe straps
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Tubbs Snowshoes Flex Vertical Snowshoes (CU)
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As expected from one of Tubbs’ best snowshoes, the Tubbs Snowshoes Flex Vertical Snowshoes offer you nothing but premium performance. They’re a great pair of snowshoes for snowboard boots that’s available in many sizes. Just like many snowshoes out there, they feature BOA binding and heel strap configuration that does an amazing job at distributing pressure evenly. Plus, the binding’s design is pretty simple and easy to use.
Another thing that you should know about these snowshoes is their fully-rigid decking which is good for the firm to moderately soft snow. The design is also optimized to promote the right level of flexibility. Aside from that, there’s also the Flex tail that comes complete with a biochemical design for better shock absorption. Meanwhile, the Torsion Deck will make torsional articulation possible, which results in better maneuverability even in uneven terrain.
What We Love
Their top-notch features and amazing comfort justify their steep price.
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:
- More expensive than most options
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WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
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Apart from the cool name, there are still a lot of things to love about the WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes. First of all, they’re very affordable. But despite being cheap, they still have everything you want in basic snowshoes. Besides that, you can comfortably use these snowshoes with snowboard boots of any size. Plus, they feature an aluminum tubular frame with a cold-resistant plastic decking that provides maximum flotation even in deeper snow.
Furthermore, you can rely on the semi-aggressive crampon to help you walk properly on hard-packed snow. Aside from that, there’s also a heel-lift and flexible base that’ll allow you to plant your heels deep into the snow on your descents. All in all, we can say that they’re a really good option especially if you’re looking for a comfortable model that’s also lightweight.
What We Love
A great option for recreational hikers that want an affordable model without compromising on quality.
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:
- Don’t come with a carrying bag
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MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes
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Just like the name says, the MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are made for adventures way out in the backcountry. These snowshoes for snowboard boots are available in 3 different sizes and come with Paragon binding with freeze-resistant mesh that’ll fit snugly around a wide variety of boots. They also come with 360-degree traction frames that’ll deliver edge-to-edge grip. Since the decking is made of flexible polyurethane-coated nylon, you can expect these snowshoes to be very durable and strong.
Apart from that, we also like the heel lifters that can be used to prevent fatigue when you’re going uphill. Even better, they’re easily deployable using your poles. Not to mention, these snowshoes also provide plenty of flotation. Although they’re more expensive than most snowshoes available out there, they truly are an outstanding pair that promises you nothing but plenty of fun out in nature for years to come.
What We Love
They’re a durable pair of snowshoes that offers 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
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