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Whether you’re an avid hiker or just getting started, you’ve probably heard of snowshoes. Snowshoes are a great way to hike in the winter, allowing you to explore new trails and scenery. With snowshoes, you can explore all kinds of new terrain, including deep powder and rolling hills.
Snowshoes are designed to help you hike through deep snow without sinking. Snowshoes are essential fixtures that you wear over your regular hiking boots. They have a wide, flat surface that helps distribute your weight over a larger area. This prevents you from sinking into the snow, making it easier to walk on top of it.
If you enjoy hiking, snowshoeing is a great way to extend your hiking season and explore new terrain. Snowshoes also make a great workout, and can help you burn calories and build muscle.
7 Best Snowshoes for Hiking: Reviewed
- Winterial 25/30 Inch Light Weight Snow Shoes – Best Overall
- Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snow Shoes – Top Pick
- Goutone 14/21/25/30 Inches Light Weight Snowshoes with Poles – Best Budget
- Odoland 4-in-1 Snowshoes
- Yukon Charlie's Advanced Snowshoe Kit
- GO2GETHER 21/25/30 Inches Light Weight Snowshoes
- MSR Evo Trail 22-Inch Hiking Snowshoes
1. Winterial 25/30 Inch Light Weight Snow Shoes
First, let’s talk about the design of the Winterial 25/30 Inch Light Weight Snow Shoes. The aluminum frame and plastics make the snowshoe capable of taking a beating, while the heel bindings make it easier to climb hills.
Finally, these the best snowshoes for mountain hiking are also very comfortable, thanks to the 2 ANTI-SHOCK poles included. These shoes have a maximum weight recommendation of 260 pounds.
As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I was really excited to try out the Winterial 25/30 Inch Light Weight Snow Shoes. I had never been snowshoeing before, but I had heard that it was a great way to explore the winter landscape.
I was not disappointed! The snow shoes were very easy to use and I felt very safe while wearing them.
- Lightweight
- Good for short hikes
- Stable
- Comfortable
- Very easy to put on/ to take off
- Not for very snowy conditions
2. Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snow Shoes
- NEW AND IMPROVED - You spoke, we listened. Based on feedback from our 2018 model, we made adjustments to our Sawtooth Snowshoes; We reinforced the ratchet binding with heavy duty spring-loaded clips and added a new heal strap with an auto-locking system
These other best snowshoes for hiking mountains are made with a durable aluminum frame that can support up to 66 pounds, and they feature a buckling system that will keep your feet secure.
The Sawtooth Snow Shoes also have two sets of crampons that are designed to grip icy and hard surfaces, making them perfect for use in deep powder. The ratchet binding is reinforced with heavy duty spring-loaded clips and the heel strap has an auto-locking system.
The crampons are designed to provide traction on icy, hard surfaces. The heel lift riser provides traction and balance while climbing hills. The boot grip and excess heel strap clip help to keep your foot in place and prevent sliding.
So if you’re looking for a high-quality, durable pair of snowshoes that will provide you with excellent traction and support, be sure to check out the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snow Shoes. You won’t be disappointed.
- Made of lightweight aluminum and plastic
- Reasonable price
- Comfortable to wear
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Provide good traction on slippery and icy surfaces
- Durable and well-made
- The bindings may be too tight for some people
3. Goutone 14/21/25/30 Inches Light Weight Snowshoes with Poles
- 【SIZE & WEIGHT CAPACITY】: 21IN snow shoes optimized weight range is 80-150lbs,25IN snowshoes optimized weight range is 120-180lbs, 30IN snow shoes optimized weight range is 180-265lbs (Note: the load that including anything user’s carrying and snowshoeing equipment)
These one of the best snowshoes for winter hiking are perfect for anyone 80-265 pounds and are made with durable, lightweight materials.
The ergonomic design ensures comfortable and flexible walking, while the adjustable ratchet binding system makes it easy to put on and take off.
The forged aluminum alloy crampons and heavy saw tooth provide excellent traction and grip on ice, and the slightly upturned shape at the tail offers maximum flotation and fast movement in deep snow conditions. The 3-section telescoping poles are easy to adjust and provide support and flotation in deep snow.
The snowshoes are made of durable lightweight 6000 series aircraft aluminum and high-density polyethylene decking, and the toe crampons are made of tempered steel. The snowshoes come with a carrying bag and a pair of trekking poles with winter baskets.
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Quick to put on and adjust
- Great for beginner users
- Fits most shoe sizes
- Fantastic for slow climbing
- May be challenging to turn in deep snow
4. Odoland 4-in-1 Snowshoes
- ⛄🎁The Ultimate Snowshoes For Women and Men: Odoland snowshoes made of lightweight high quality materials to guarantee ease of use and equipped with handy bag, this set is ideal for your snow shoes with poles adventures and outdoor activities. 21'' for 80-120lbs / 28-54kg, 25'' for 120-160lbs / 54-72kg, 30'' for 160-250lbs / 72-114kg.
These mountaineering snowshoes are made from lightweight materials and are very easy to put on, making them ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors without having to worry about their snowshoes.
The large flat surface area of the shoes provides excellent flotation, and the two sets of reinforced, heavy duty saw tooth provide strong traction on icy, hard surfaces.
The adjustable trekking poles make it easy to change the height of the poles, and the waterproof leg gaiters provide excellent water and tear resistance. Easily changing the height of these telescoping poles from 25.5 to 54 inches is a breeze even when you’re wearing gloves or trekking in wet conditions.
Finally, the waterproof leg gaiters are made of pongee fabric and provide excellent water and tear & puncture resistance.
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Adjustable bindings and straps
- Quick and easy assembly
- Fits both kids and adults
- The included carrying bag
- The bindings are adjustable and fit most shoe sizes
- Not ideal for heavy-duty use
5. Yukon Charlie’s Advanced Snowshoe Kit
- Weighing 5.0 pounds, the 10x36-inch frame is built for users from 251 to 300 pounds. Unisex design for women and men. Kit includes snowshoes, poles with trekking and snow baskets and travel bag
Yukon Charlie’s Advanced Snowshoe Kit is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and user-friendly snowshoe. The kit includes everything you need to get started, and the Fast Fit II “Easy-Pull” binding system makes it easy to get in and out of the snowshoes.
Yukon Charlie’s Advanced Snowshoe Kit is a great way to get around in the snow. These snowshoes are very light and easy to use. With the Fast Fit II “Easy-Pull” binding system, you can get in and out of the snowshoe with just one pull of the strap.
The kit includes snowshoes, poles with trekking and snow baskets, and a travel bag. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, these best snowshoes for beginners are a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality pair of snowshoes.
With their durable construction, comfortable design, and easy-to-use bindings, these snowshoes will help you make the most of your time spent outdoors.
- Excellent value – getting both snowshoes and trekking poles for less than the price of some individual products
- The trekking poles are also well made, with durable aluminum shafts and comfortable cork handle grips
- Comes with a storage bag, which is a nice touch
- The bindings are very easy to adjust for different footwear sizes and will accommodate most winter boots
- The plastic snowshoes are very lightweight and provide good traction on packed snow and ice
- Includes a pair of poles, which are made from aluminum and have plastic molded handles
- The snowshoes are not ideal for deep powder or off-trail use
- The poles are not as durable as some other options on the market
6. GO2GETHER 21/25/30 Inches Light Weight Snowshoes
- ❄【STRONG MATERIAL】- G2 snowshoes used high quality & lightweight HDPE as its deck to provide a nice floatage in snowfield so that users can save their energy and go further.
GO2GETHER 21/25/30 Inches Light Weight Snowshoes are a great way to enjoy the winter scenery while getting some exercise. They are easy to use and provide a great workout.
The snowshoes are also very comfortable, with a padded EVA foam inside that protects your feet from the cold. These lightweight snowshoes are made with high quality materials, so you can trust that they’ll last you a long time.
They’re also designed to be comfortable and easy to use, so you won’t have to worry about your feet getting cold or tired on your hikes. One of the best features of GO2GETHER 21/25/30 Inches Light Weight Snowshoes is the crampons.
They’re made of high quality aluminum, so they’ll provide a good grip on any surface. This means you won’t have to worry about slipping and falling on your hikes. The special structure of the flex pivot bar and heel lift makes it easy to use in flat or uphill terrain.
- It is suitable for both adults and children since it is available in three sizes
- Designed with an extreme traction frame that helps you walk on steep terrain
- It is easy to use and is lightweight which makes it easy to carry
- It is available in various colors
- Good traction on ice and powder
- It may be challenging to walk on steep terrain
7. MSR Evo Trail 22-Inch Hiking Snowshoes
- Dependable, durable all-condition snowshoes offer excellent traction and floatation on snowy trails and rolling terrain
From the casual hiker to the experienced mountaineer, the MSR Evo Trail 22-Inch Hiking Snowshoes are a great choice for anyone who wants a dependable and durable snowshoe.
With excellent traction and floatation, these snowshoes provide a great grip and are perfect for use on snowy trails and rolling terrain.
The steel traction rails and brake bars are molded into the snowshoe decking, and along with the carbon steel crampons, they provide a secure grip in tricky conditions.
The DuoFit bindings deliver freeze-proof, glove-friendly, adjustable attachment to a wide range of footwear. The optional 6-inch modular floatation tails (sold separately) provide extra floatation in deep powder.
The snowshoes measure 8 x 22 inches, weigh 3.56 pounds, and can carry a 180-pound load. The bindings fit men’s shoes sizes 4.5-15. They are made in the USA.
- Durable steel crampons
- Lightweight aluminum alloy frame
- Tapered tail for easy maneuverability
- User-friendly heel lift bar
- Available in different sizes
- May be too small for some users
Buyer’s Guide: Best Hiking Snowshoes
When the snow starts to fall and the temperatures drop, many people head indoors to escape the cold weather. But if you love spending time outdoors, there’s no need to let the cold weather keep you from enjoying your favorite activities.
With the right gear, you can still go hiking, even when there’s snow on the ground. And one of the most important pieces of gear for hiking in the snow, other than a backpack cooler is a good pair of snowshoes.
Snowshoes for hiking are specially designed to help you maintain traction and floatation on top of the snow. They work by spreading out your weight over a larger surface area, so you don’t sink down into the snow with each step.
This not only makes it easier to walk, but also helps to prevent you from getting tired as quickly.
Types of Snowshoes
There are many different types of backpacking snowshoes, each with their own benefits and purposes. Some snowshoes are designed for deep powder, while others are better for packed snow. Some are even made specifically for racing.
Snowshoes also come in different sizes. Smaller snowshoes are good for walking on packed snow or groomed trails. Larger are good for walking in deep, unbroken snow.
There are also different types of bindings. Some snowshoes have bindings that attach to your shoes with straps. Other have bindings that you step into, like a ski boot.
Powdered snowshoes have a large, flat surface area to help keep you afloat in deep powder. They usually have a metal frame and crampons, or spikes, on the bottom to help with traction.
Packed snow snowshoes are smaller and lighter than powder snowshoes. They have a less aggressive crampon system, and their smaller size helps them maneuver better in tight spaces. Packed snow snowshoes have a variety of benefits.
They are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for walking on packed snow. They are also very durable, able to withstand the wear and tear of walking on rough terrain.
Racing snowshoes are the lightest and most maneuverable type of snowshoe. They have a small surface area and a pointed nose, which helps them glide through the snow. Racing snowshoes are often used in cross-country races.
They have a simple metal frame and no crampons, which makes them ideal for speed and agility. Racing snowshoes are designed for speed and efficiency. Racing snowshoes typically have less floatation than other types of snowshoes, so they are not ideal for deep powder conditions.
However, they can be a good choice for packed snow conditions or for people who are looking to get the most efficient workout possible.
Hiking snowshoes are designed for comfort and have a larger surface area than other types of snowshoes. This makes them ideal for hiking in deep snow. They also have a more rugged design, making them more durable than other types of snowshoes.
Hiking snowshoes can be a good choice for people who want a comfortable walk or hike in the snow, or for people who need extra traction on icy or slippery surfaces.
Multi-purpose snowshoes are usually in the middle of the weight range, and have a medium-sized footprint. They are usually a bit heavier and have a larger footprint than other types of snowshoes, but they can be a good choice for people who want one pair of snowshoes that can be used for multiple activities.
Multi-purpose snowshoes can be used for walking, hiking, running, or even cross-country skiing.
Critical Snowshoe Considerations
There are many things to consider when choosing the right snowshoe for your needs. Here are four critical considerations.
The type of snow you’ll be encountering
If you’ll be snowshoeing in deep, powdery snow, you’ll need a different snowshoe than if you’re only dealing with a few inches of packed snow. Powdery snow can be very difficult to walk through, so you’ll need a snowshoe with a large surface area to help you float on top of the snow. Packed snow is much easier to walk on, so a smaller snowshoe will be sufficient.
The terrain you’ll be covering
If you’re planning on snowshoeing through rugged, mountainous terrain, you’ll need a sturdier snowshoe than if you’re sticking to relatively flat ground. Snowshoes for mountainous terrain are usually longer and have more aggressive treads to help you grip the ground and avoid slipping.
Your own physical fitness level
If you’re not in the best shape, you might want to consider a lighter snowshoe. Heavier snowshoes can be more difficult to maneuver, so it’s important to choose one that you’re comfortable with.
If you’re carrying a lot of gear, you’ll need a stronger, heavier snowshoe. But if you’re relatively fit and carrying only a light daypack, you can save some weight with a lighter snowshoe.
The weather conditions
If you’re snowshoeing in cold weather, you’ll need to make sure your snowshoe has adequate insulation. Footwear that’s too cold can lead to frostbite, so it’s important to be mindful of the conditions you’ll be snowshoeing in.
Size and weight of the snowshoe
If you’re planning on doing a lot of backcountry hiking, you’ll want a lighter shoe. But if you’re just using them for short walks around the neighborhood, a heavier shoe with more support may be a better option.
Bindings
You’ll want bindings that are easy to get in and out of, even with gloves on. Bindings are critical for keeping your snowshoes securely attached to your feet.
There are a variety of binding systems available, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs. From a bindings perspective, it is important to consider the size of your boot and how easy the binding will be to put on and take off.
Some bindings are designed to accommodate different sizes of boots, while others are not. It is also important to consider how well the binding will keep your boot in place and whether or not it will be comfortable to walk in.
Footwear
Make sure your footwear is well insulated and waterproof. It is also important to make sure your footwear is compatible with the binding system you choose.
Trekking poles
Trekking poles can be a great addition to your snowshoeing gear. They can provide additional support and stability, especially on uneven or slippery terrain.
Trekking poles can be very helpful in deep snow. It is also important to consider how well they will fit in your bindings and whether or not they will be comfortable to use.
Gaiters
Gaiters can help keep snow and debris from getting into your footwear and keep your feet dry and warm. It is also important to consider how well they will fit over your boots and how easy they will be to put on and take off.
Traction devices
Traction devices can provide additional grip and stability on icy or slippery surfaces. They can be attached to your footwear or your snowshoes.
No matter what kind of snowshoe you choose, make sure you take the time to learn how to use it properly. Snowshoes can be tricky to use, and it’s important to know how to adjust them for different snow conditions and terrain.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to master the art of snowshoeing and enjoy a whole new way to explore the winter landscape.
Now that you know the critical considerations for choosing snowshoes, you can pick the perfect pair for your next winter adventure.
FAQ
What type of shoes do you wear with snowshoes?
While you can technically wear any kind of shoe with snowshoes, there are certain types of footwear that work best. Boots with a good tread are ideal, as they will provide traction and keep your feet warm and dry. Snow boots or hiking boots are both good choices. If you don’t have either of those, any type of shoe with a good tread will work.
How to choose the right size snowshoes?
The general rule of thumb is that snowshoes should be about 10-15% of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 lbs, you would need a pair of snowshoes that weigh between 15-22.5 lbs.
Of course, there are other factors to consider when choosing the right size snowshoes. The type of terrain you’ll be hiking in and the amount of snow on the ground are also important.
How are men’s snowshoes different from women’s snowshoes?
When it comes to snowshoeing, men and women are on equal footing – quite literally. That’s because there is no difference between snowshoes designed for men and those designed for women. In fact, most snowshoes on the market today are unisex, meaning they can be used by anyone, regardless of gender.
So, if you’re in the market for a new pair of snowshoes, don’t sweat it if you can’t find a pair specifically designed for your gender. Just choose the pair that best suits your needs in terms of size, weight, and intended use, and you’ll be good to go.
Conclusion
There are a number of benefits to using snowshoes for hiking, including the fact that they allow you to hike in places that would otherwise be inaccessible due to deep snow.
They also provide extra traction and stability, which can be helpful on slippery or uneven surfaces. Additionally, snowshoes can help you to avoid post-holing, which is when your foot sinks into deep snow with each step. I believe that the snowshoes featured in this article are the best option for hikers who want to explore the backcountry in winter.
They are well-constructed and designed for use in a variety of conditions. I have used most of them myself and can attest to their effectiveness. If you are looking for a quality pair of the best snowshoes for hiking, choose from any of the ones presented in this review.