Best Snowshoes for 2024: Top Picks for Winter Hiking

Snowshoeing is an excellent way to enjoy the winter outdoors and explore snowy landscapes. The right snowshoes can make all the difference in your experience. In this guide, we’ll help you find the best snowshoes in 2023.

When choosing snowshoes, consider the terrain you’ll be exploring and your body weight. Snowshoes come in various sizes and shapes, designed to handle different terrains and snow conditions. The most common types are recreational, backcountry, and running snowshoes.

Recreational snowshoes are ideal for beginners and casual snowshoers. They are versatile, lightweight, and easy to use. Backcountry snowshoes are designed for more challenging terrain, such as steep slopes and deep snow. They are more durable and provide better traction than recreational snowshoes. Running snowshoes are lightweight and designed for speed, ideal for runners who want to continue their training during the winter.

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Top Snowshoe Recommendations for 2023

Best Overall
MSR Lightning Explore All-Terrain Snowshoes

Best for Women
MSR Women’s Revo Explore Snowshoes

Best for Young Kids
MSR Tyker Kids Snowshoes Dino Green

Best Budget Snowshoes
Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aluminum Frame Snowshoes

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When selecting snowshoes, pay attention to the size and weight capacity. Snowshoes that are too small will sink into the snow, while snowshoes that are too large will be cumbersome to use. A general rule of thumb is to choose snowshoes that can support your weight and the weight of your gear.

In this article, we’ll review the top snowshoes for 2023, including their features, pros, and cons. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snowshoer, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and find the perfect snowshoes for your winter adventures.

Best Snowshoes

We researched the top snowshoes on the market to bring you the best options for your winter adventures. Our list includes a variety of styles and sizes suitable for all skill levels and terrains. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, these snowshoes will provide you with the necessary traction and stability to explore the snowy outdoors.

Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aluminum Frame Snowshoes

We recommend purchasing the Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aluminum Frame Snowshoes because they are perfect for families and new snowshoers.

Pros

• The Explorer Plus Snow Trail Kit is perfect for snowshoe beginner adults and includes trekking poles, snow baskets, rubber tips, and a travel bag.
• The strong 6063 aluminum frame is lightweight and durable for all snowshoeing conditions.
• The Explorer Flex decking provides durability through the coldest weather conditions.

Cons

• The bindings may loosen when walking through brush.
• The crampons may not be sufficient for all types of snow.
• The Explorer Plus snowshoes may not be suitable for advanced snowshoeing.

The Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aluminum Frame Snowshoes are perfect for beginners and families. The Explorer Plus Snow Trail Kit includes everything you need to get started, and the strong aluminum frame and Explorer Flex decking provide durability in harsh conditions. However, the bindings may loosen when walking through brush, and the crampons may not be suitable for all types of snow. Overall, the Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aluminum Frame Snowshoes are a great choice for anyone new to snowshoeing.

MSR Evo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes

If you are an avid hiker and looking for a strong, durable, and versatile pair of snowshoes, the MSR Evo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are an excellent option.

Pros

• Steel traction rails and brake bars provide a secure grip
• Tri-fit bindings deliver ample, freeze-resistant, and glove-friendly security
• Televator heel lifts reduce fatigue and increase traction on the steeps

Cons

• Modular flotation tails (sold separately) can be expensive
• Not suitable for very deep snow
• Not the lightest snowshoes on the market

These snowshoes are perfect for intermediate to advanced hikers who want to explore challenging terrains. The steel traction rails and brake bars molded directly into the snowshoe decks provide a secure grip on icy and steep surfaces. The Tri-fit bindings deliver ample, freeze-resistant, and glove-friendly security, easily accommodating a wide range of footwear. The Televator heel lifts reduce fatigue and increase traction on the steeps, and are easily engaged with a glove-friendly pull tab.

The MSR Evo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes measure 22 inches long, weigh 4.1 pounds, and can carry a 180-pound load. The bindings fit men’s shoes sizes 4.5-15, and they are made in the USA. The modular flotation tails (sold separately) easily attach and allow you to carry heavier loads when needed.

Overall, the MSR Evo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are a great investment for those who want to explore challenging terrains. They are durable, strong, and versatile, making them perfect for intermediate to advanced hikers.

MSR Revo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable snowshoe for mountaineering and challenging terrain, the MSR Revo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings is a great option.

Pros

• Exceptional traction and durability for technical snowshoeing
• Minimalist Paragon bindings offer a secure and comfortable fit
• Ergo Televator heel lifts provide increased uphill efficiency

Cons

• Not suitable for casual snowshoeing
• Heavier than other models
• Expensive

The injection-molded ExoTract deck with perimeter teeth and steel crampons provides excellent traction for traverses and steep slopes. The Paragon bindings feature a one-piece contouring strap that wraps around your boots, providing a secure and glove-like fit that eliminates pressure points and promotes alignment and foot control. The Ergo Televator heel lifts help reduce fatigue on steep ascents, while the reinforced nose withstands kickstepping.

The MSR Revo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are available in two sizes and can carry up to 220 pounds. The bindings fit men’s shoe sizes 6-14, and they are field-maintainable. The snowshoes come with a three-year limited warranty and are made in the USA.

Overall, the MSR Revo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings is an excellent choice for technical snowshoeing in challenging terrain. However, they are not suitable for casual snowshoeing and are heavier than other models. If you’re looking for a reliable and durable snowshoe, this is a great option to consider.

MSR Tyker Kids Snowshoes Dino Green 17″

If you’re looking for a durable and safe snowshoe for your little ones, the MSR Tyker Kids’ Snowshoe is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Provides excellent traction and floatation for kids weighing up to 90 pounds
• Features steel crampons and molded traction bars for all-conditions grip and maximum safety
• Durable injection-molded deck can withstand years of use in varied snow conditions

Cons

• May not fit larger shoe sizes
• May not be suitable for more advanced snowshoeing
• May be more expensive than other kids’ snowshoes on the market

Designed for children weighing up to 90 pounds, the MSR Tyker Kids’ Snowshoe offers an excellent balance of traction and floatation. The steel crampons and kid-friendly molded traction bars provide all-conditions grip and maximum safety for little ones on snowy trails. The durable injection-molded deck can stand years of use in varied snow conditions, from slick slopes to deep powder. The secure, adjustable, kid-friendly bindings are designed for smaller, mitten-clad hands and can be used on a variety of children’s footwear.

While the MSR Tyker Kids’ Snowshoe may not fit larger shoe sizes, it’s an excellent choice for younger children. It may not be suitable for more advanced snowshoeing, but it’s perfect for kids who are just starting out. While it may be more expensive than other kids’ snowshoes on the market, the durability and safety features make it a worthwhile investment for parents who want their children to enjoy the outdoors safely.

In summary, the MSR Tyker Kids’ Snowshoe is a great choice for parents who want a durable and safe snowshoe for their little ones. With excellent traction and floatation, along with kid-friendly features, it’s a great investment for families who love to explore the winter wonderland.

MSR Snowshoe Carry Pack, Charcoal, 19L

If you’re looking for a versatile pack to carry your snowshoes and other essentials, the MSR Snowshoe Carry Pack is a solid option.

Pros

• Doubles as a storage bag and daypack
• Abrasion-resistant materials for durability
• Wide-mouth roll-top closure for easy access

Cons

• Thin and narrow shoulder straps
• Difficult to attach both snowshoes to the outside straps
• No chest strap for added support

The MSR Snowshoe Carry Pack is a great option for those who want a pack that can do double duty as a storage bag and daypack. The abrasion-resistant materials ensure the pack will hold up against wear and tear from snowshoes. The wide-mouth roll-top closure makes it easy to access your gear inside.

However, the shoulder straps on this pack are thin and narrow, which can make it uncomfortable to carry when loaded up. Additionally, attaching both snowshoes to the outside straps can be difficult. Finally, the pack doesn’t come with a chest strap, which can make it less supportive than other packs.

Overall, the MSR Snowshoe Carry Pack is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile pack to carry their snowshoes and other essentials.

MSR Shift Youth Snowshoes for Teens and Young Adults Tron Blue 19″

We recommend the MSR Shift Youth Snowshoes for teens and young adults up to 125 pounds due to their outstanding traction and floatation.

Pros

• Offers excellent traction and floatation, engineered especially for teens and young adults
• Utilizes the same steel traction bars and crampons as MSR’s adult snowshoes, offering outstanding all-conditions grip
• Durable injection-molded deck withstands years of use in varied snow conditions.

Cons

• Plastic clips are prone to breaking and are not covered under MSR’s three-year limited warranty.
• Sizing may not be suitable for very petite adults
• Not suitable for heavier individuals over 125 pounds

These snowshoes feature an easy-on, easy-off binding system that adjusts to fit a variety of kids’ footwear. The bindings make snowshoes easy to put on and take off, and they fit youth shoe sizes 1-7. The snowshoes measure 7 x 19 inches and weigh 2.5 pounds per pair.

The MSR Shift Youth Snowshoes are made in the USA and come with a manufacturer’s three-year limited warranty. They are designed to carry a load of up to 125 pounds, making them ideal for teens and young adults.

In conclusion, the MSR Shift Youth Snowshoes are an excellent choice for young snowshoers who need a high-performing, durable, and adjustable snowshoe. They offer excellent traction and floatation, making them ideal for a variety of snow conditions. However, they may not be suitable for very petite adults or heavier individuals over 125 pounds.

MSR Lightning Explore All-Terrain Snowshoes

We recommend the MSR Lightning Explore All-Terrain Snowshoes for their exceptional performance, comfort, and ease of use.

Pros

• Ultralight (4.5 lbs) snowshoes with superior traction and floatation for hiking, trekking, and extended winter trips.
• HyperLink bindings with cushioned cradle and fast macro-adjustment strap provide exceptional all-day comfort.
• Ergo Televator heel lift bar increases uphill efficiency and traction, reducing fatigue.

Cons

• Breaking trails can be challenging in deep snow or areas with sticks and debris.
• Poor lateral stability on uneven terrain
• The strap system may crush toes inward for those with larger, wider feet

The MSR Lightning Explore All-Terrain Snowshoes are designed for men and women who seek superior traction and comfort on varied alpine terrain. With 360-degree traction frames and Pivot crampons, these snowshoes deliver edge-to-edge grip, and lightweight decking offers floatation and durability. The HyperLink binding provides an easy-entry cushioned cradle, and a fast macro-adjustment strap keeps feet centered for exceptional all-day comfort. The Ergo Televator heel lift bar easily flips up to increase uphill efficiency and traction, reducing fatigue.

The MSR Lightning Explore All-Terrain Snowshoes are available in three sizes to accommodate a range of body weights/gear loads. The 22-inch snowshoes measure 8 x 22 inches, weigh 3.8 pounds/pair, and carry a 180-pound load. The 25-inch snowshoes measure 8 x 25 inches, weigh 3.9 pounds/pair, and carry up to 220 pounds. The 30-inch snowshoes measure 8 x 30 inches, weigh 4.5 pounds/pair, and carry up to 280 pounds. Bindings fit men’s shoe sizes 4.5-15. These snowshoes are compatible with MSR Modular Floatation Tails (sold separately), for extra float when carrying heavier loads, or encountering changing snow conditions.

The MSR Lightning Explore All-Terrain Snowshoes are a top choice for those seeking exceptional performance, comfort, and ease of use on varied alpine terrain.

MSR Lightning Snowshoe Tail for Floatation, Black, 5″

If you’re looking for an adaptable snowshoe that can handle various conditions, the MSR Lightning Snowshoe Tail is a great option.

Pros

• Lightweight and packable for easy transport
• Universal attachment system works with all Lightning snowshoe models and lengths.
• Simple attachment system with no moving parts and no tools required

Cons

• May not provide enough floatation for extremely deep snow
• Fastening system can be a bit wonky
• May not fit securely on some snowshoe models

We found the MSR Lightning Snowshoe Tail to be a versatile addition to any snowshoeing kit. The lightweight and packable design makes them easy to bring on any trip, and the universal attachment system means they’ll work with any Lightning snowshoe model or length. The simple attachment system also makes them easy to put on and take off, with no tools required.

One potential downside is that they may not provide enough floatation for extremely deep snow, but they do add an extra 5 inches of flotation on-demand for deeper snow or when carrying heavier packs. The fastening system can also be a bit wonky, and they may not fit securely on some snowshoe models.

Overall, we think the MSR Lightning Snowshoe Tail is a great option for anyone looking for an adaptable snowshoe that can handle various conditions.

MSR Revo Ascent Women’s Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings

MSR Revo Ascent Women’s Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings are a great option for women who want a durable and reliable snowshoe for backcountry adventures.

Pros

• The ExoTract deck is engineered to address the biomechanics of women, making it perfect for anyone with a narrower gait seeking an agile snow travel option.
• The Paragon bindings feature a one-piece mesh contouring strap that wraps securely around boots for a glove-like feel that eliminates pressure points and promotes alignment and foot control.
• The Ergo Televator heel lifts offer help on the steeps, while a reinforced nose withstands kickstepping.

Cons

• The snowshoes are quite heavy, weighing 4.15 pounds per pair, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear.
• The steel teeth around the perimeter of the deck and steel crampons can be noisy when walking on hard surfaces, which may be bothersome to some.
• The price point is high, which may not be suitable for those on a budget.

MSR Revo Ascent Women’s Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings are a great option for women looking for a durable and reliable snowshoe for their backcountry pursuits. The ExoTract deck is designed to address the biomechanics of women, making it perfect for anyone with a narrower gait seeking an agile snow travel option. The Paragon bindings feature a one-piece mesh contouring strap that wraps securely around boots for a glove-like feel that eliminates pressure points and promotes alignment and foot control. This snowshoe also has Ergo Televator heel lifts that offer help on the steeps, while a reinforced nose withstands kickstepping.

One downside to these snowshoes is that they are quite heavy, weighing 4.15 pounds per pair, which may not be ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear. Additionally, the steel teeth around the perimeter of the deck and steel crampons can be noisy when walking on hard surfaces, which may be bothersome to some. Finally, the price point is high, which may not be suitable for those on a budget.

In conclusion, MSR Revo Ascent Women’s Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings are a great option for women looking for a durable and reliable snowshoe for their backcountry pursuits. While they may be heavy and noisy, the benefits of the ExoTract deck, Paragon bindings, and Ergo Televator heel lifts make them a great choice for those who prioritize performance.

MSR Women’s Revo Explore Bright Coral 22-Inch Pair

If you’re looking for a rugged, comfortable snowshoe, the MSR Women’s Revo Explore is a great option.

Pros

• Lightweight and agile design
• Exceptional traction and floatation
• Comfortable and easy-to-use bindings

Cons

• May not be suitable for heavier loads
• Limited color options
• May require additional accessories for certain conditions

These snowshoes are designed with women’s biomechanics in mind, providing edge-to-edge grip in a variety of alpine terrain. The HyperLink binding system is easy to use and comfortable, with fast macro-adjustment straps that keep feet centered for all-day comfort. The Ergo Televator heel lift bar is a helpful feature that reduces fatigue and provides extra traction on steep inclines.

The MSR Women’s Revo Explore snowshoes come in two sizes to accommodate different weight and gear loads. The 22-inch size is lightweight and maneuverable, but may not be suitable for heavier loads. The 25-inch size can carry up to 210 pounds but may be less agile on the trail.

Overall, the MSR Women’s Revo Explore snowshoes are a great choice for women who want a comfortable, durable, and agile snowshoe for hiking, trekking, and extended winter trips. With exceptional traction and floatation, comfortable bindings, and helpful features like the Ergo Televator heel lift bar, these snowshoes are a great investment for winter adventurers.

Buying Guide

When shopping for snowshoes, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs.

First, consider the terrain you will be using the snowshoes on. Different snowshoes are designed for different types of terrain, such as flat trails, steep hills, or backcountry exploration.

Next, think about your weight and the weight of any gear you will be carrying. Snowshoes are rated for different weight capacities, so it’s important to choose a pair that can support your weight and any additional weight you may be carrying.

The size of the snowshoe is also important. Larger snowshoes offer more flotation in deep snow, while smaller snowshoes are more maneuverable and better suited for packed trails.

The bindings on the snowshoe should also be considered. Look for bindings that are easy to adjust and secure, and that fit comfortably with your boots.

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as heel lifts for steep climbs, crampons for icy terrain, or a lightweight design for ease of use.

By considering these factors and choosing a snowshoe that meets your needs, you can enjoy a comfortable and safe snowshoeing experience.