If you are on the hunt for a new pair or first pair of snowshoes for snowshoeing, then here is our guide to the best on the market. Snowshoeing offers one of the most peaceful ways to stay active outdoors in the snow and can be paired with all your ski essentials kit, as winter activities aren’t just about skiing. Whether you’re following a forest trail, hiking into backcountry routes, or simply exploring your local park after a good snowfall, a good pair of snowshoes can make all the difference.
Today’s snowshoes are more advanced than ever, lightweight, durable, and surprisingly easy to use. From casual trail models to technical backcountry designs, they’re built to handle all types of winter terrain. For many outdoor enthusiasts, snowshoeing has become the ultimate cold-weather workout: low-impact, meditative, and perfect for both solo explorers and family outings, too.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked the best snowshoes of 2025, each earning an award for its standout performance in a specific category, from best overall to best for thru-hiking or running. Every pair here has been tested, trusted, and designed to help you move comfortably through any winter landscape.
Below you’ll find our top picks, detailed reviews, and key specs for each model. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned snow trekker, this guide will help you find the right pair for your next winter adventure. So suit up and put on your best merino wool base layer and get out into the great outdoors.
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The Best Snowshoes of 2025 at a Glance:
- Best Overall – MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes
- Best Backcountry – MSR Lightning Ascent
- Best for Mixed Terrain– Tubbs Flex VRT Snowshoe
- Best for Budget for Beginners – Atlas Access Snowshoes
- Best for Deep Snow – Tubbs Mountaineer Snowshoes
- Best Ultralight Snowshoe – Crescent Moon Trailhawk 27 Ultralight Snowshoes
- Best Flexibility – TSL Outdoor Symbioz Hyperflex Elite Snowshoes
- Best Budget Men’s Snowshoe – Tubbs Men’s Flex STP Snowshoe
- Best Budget Women’s Snowshoe – Tubbs Women’s Flex STP Snowshoes
Best Snowshoes for Snowshoeing
The MSR Evo Trail snowshoes take the top spot this year for their unbeatable blend of simplicity, performance, and value. Made from ultra-durable polypropylene with steel traction rails, these snowshoes offer dependable grip and float on packed trails or light powder. The UniBody deck and DuoFit bindings are intuitive, quick to adjust, and work seamlessly with a variety of boots.
At just 3 lbs 9.5 oz, they feel light yet sturdy underfoot, perfect for day hikes and winter walks. Their one-piece plastic design makes them nearly indestructible, while the option to add flotation tails gives extra versatility in deeper snow. For beginners or casual hikers looking for one pair that does it all, the Evo Trail is a clear standout.
Key Specs
Weight 3 lbs 9.5 oz
Length 22 inches
Material polypropylene plastic
Binding rubber dual strap
Heel lift none
Load capacity 180 lbs (250 lbs with tails)
Best for trail terrain
Built for alpine ascents and technical trails, the MSR Lightning Ascent Men’s is the go-to snowshoe for serious backcountry adventurers. Its 360° traction frame bites securely into icy slopes, while the Paragon binding offers a precise, glove-like fit with excellent control. The built-in heel lift reduces fatigue on steep climbs, making long winter days more manageable.
Crafted with a TPU-coated nylon deck and aluminum frame, the Lightning Ascent is impressively light for its aggressive design. It’s a premium choice for mountaineers, winter hikers, and anyone tackling steep or icy terrain who values stability and grip above all else.
Key Specs
Weight 4 lbs 5 oz (25 in.)
Sizes 22, 25, 30 inches
Material aluminum with TPU-coated nylon
Binding Paragon mesh straps
Heel lift yes
Load capacity up to 280 lbs (300+ with tails)
Best for backcountry
The women’s MSR Lightning Ascent shares the same rugged build and exceptional traction as the men’s version but is designed specifically for a woman’s stride and weight distribution. Lightweight yet incredibly strong, its 360° traction frame and Paragon binding provide all-day comfort and security across steep, uneven terrain.
At just under 4 pounds, these snowshoes feel agile without sacrificing stability. Ideal for adventurous women tackling backcountry trails or alpine climbs, the Lightning Ascent delivers precision and performance in every step.
Key Specs
Weight 3 lbs 14 oz (25 in.)
Sizes 22, 25 inches
Material aluminum with TPU-coated nylon
Binding Paragon mesh straps
Heel lift yes
Load capacity up to 210 lbs (270 lbs with tails)
Best for backcountry
The men’s Tubbs Flex VRT snowshoes excel on rolling terrain and variable snow. Their Torsion Deck flexes naturally with your stride, improving comfort and grip on uneven surfaces. The DynamicFit binding with Boa closure wraps evenly around your boot for a secure, pressure-free fit, while the Viper 2.0 carbon steel crampon provides aggressive traction.
Add in 3D curved traction rails and a 19-degree heel lift, and you’ve got a snowshoe that performs equally well on icy ascents and soft snow descents. Lightweight yet rugged, the Flex VRT is a reliable choice for adventurous trail hikers and backcountry explorers.
Key Specs
Material aluminum frame with carbon steel crampons
Weight 3.5 pounds
Size 25 inches
Best for rolling terrain and light backcountry
Binding Boa closure DynamicFit system
The women’s version of the Tubbs Flex VRT offers the same premium performance in a smaller, lighter design. Its responsive Torsion Deck and Boa binding ensure a comfortable, custom fit that minimizes foot fatigue. The curved traction rails deliver impressive grip on icy or uneven ground, and the ActiveLift heel lift helps conserve energy during climbs.
With a slightly narrower frame designed for a shorter stride, this model provides excellent control and float across mixed terrain. It’s a dependable choice for active women who want a technical snowshoe that’s comfortable, supportive, and ready for adventure.
Key Specs
Material aluminum frame with carbon steel crampons
Weight 3 kilograms
Size 25 inches
Best for rolling and mixed terrain
Binding Boa closure DynamicFit
The Atlas Access snowshoe blends comfort and performance, ideal for trail users who want an easygoing experience. Its Wrapp Swift binding system offers a secure yet adjustable fit, while the Reactiv Frame and Spring-Loaded Suspension keep the snowshoe close to your foot for smooth movement.
Sharp All-Trac crampons and traction tabs deliver reliable grip in all directions, making this model great for packed trails and moderate climbs. The heel lift feature reduces fatigue on uphill sections, making the Access a perfect pick for recreational snowshoers.
Key Specs
Material aluminum frame with composite decking
Weight 4.7 pounds
Size 25 inches
Best for trail and mixed terrain
Binding Wrapp Swift with EVA padding
For deep snow and heavy packs, the Tubbs Mountaineer is unmatched. Built with a Pro-Step frame and Soft-Tec decking, it provides solid flotation and traction even in challenging backcountry conditions. The Anaconda toe crampon and Python heel crampon deliver incredible grip, while the ActiveFit binding and heel lift make long climbs far more efficient.
This snowshoe is also a great choice for bigger hikers or those carrying winter backpacks, thanks to its high weight limit and reinforced design. Rugged, reliable, and built for serious terrain, the Mountaineer is ideal for those who demand performance in all conditions.
Key Specs
Material aluminum frame with Nytex nylon decking
Weight 4 pounds 4.8 ounces
Size 25 inches
Maximum load 200–300 pounds
Best for deep powder and steep backcountry
The Crescent Moon Trailhawk 27 is an ergonomic, ultralight snowshoe designed for efficiency and speed. Its teardrop shape promotes a natural walking stride, while the Spin Binding system allows quick entry and release, on or off in just five seconds.
Perfect for both men and women up to 195 pounds, the Trailhawk offers impressive traction and stability with built-in heel lifts for uphill comfort. Lightweight, durable, and designed for all-day adventures, it’s a fantastic choice for hikers who value simplicity and performance.
Key Specs
Material aluminum frame with stainless steel crampons
Weight 2.5 pounds
Size 27 inches
Best for all-terrain and ultralight use
Binding Spin Binding system
For runners and fast hikers, the TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite stands out with its unique flexible frame and ultralight design. The composite decking moves naturally with your stride, improving balance and efficiency. Stainless steel crampons offer reliable grip, while the adjustable Memory Lock bindings ensure a snug fit every time.
At just over 4 pounds per pair, these snowshoes feel agile and responsive underfoot. They’re ideal for fitness-focused snowshoers or anyone who prefers a quick, dynamic pace over slow trudging.
Key Specs
Material composite frame and deck
Weight 4.4 pounds
Size 23.5 inches
Maximum load 260 pounds
Best for running and flexible performance
The Tubbs Flex STP is a simple, well-built snowshoe for recreational use. The Quick Pull binding system makes it easy to adjust and release, while the rotating toe cord helps shed snow as you walk. Curved traction rails give dependable grip on packed or icy trails, and the Flex Tail design allows your stride to roll naturally.
Lightweight and affordable, this model is perfect for beginners or casual hikers looking to enjoy local trails in winter without breaking the bank.
Key Specs
Material aluminum frame with plastic decking
Weight 3 pounds
Size 28 inches
Best for trail and light terrain
Binding Quick Pull system
Designed for women who want reliable performance on groomed or rolling terrain, the Tubbs Women’s Flex STP delivers comfort and ease. Its Quick Pull binding adjusts in seconds, and the Flex Tail absorbs shock to reduce stress on joints.
The curved traction rails give great grip on hard-packed snow, making these an excellent choice for trail walks, dog hikes, or weekend winter outings. Lightweight, durable, and fun to use, they’re ideal for getting started in snowshoeing.
Key Specs
Material aluminum frame with plastic decking
Weight 3.5 pounds
Size 22 inches
Best for trail terrain
Binding Quick Pull system
What Are Snowshoes?
Snowshoes are designed to keep you from sinking into deep snow by distributing your weight over a wider surface area. They work by providing two main functions: float and traction. Float helps you stay on top of soft powder, while traction, via crampons or grip rails, helps prevent slipping on icy or steep terrain.
A modern snowshoe typically includes a deck (the main surface that provides flotation), a frame (which supports the deck and adds durability), bindings (to secure your boots), and crampons or traction rails (for grip). The combination of these features varies depending on terrain type, such as trails to technical backcountry routes.
What to Look for in Snowshoes
When choosing snowshoes, consider terrain, sizing, and intended use.
Terrain:
- Flat or packed trails: Choose lightweight trail snowshoes with minimal traction—perfect for beginners and family hikes.
- Rolling hills or mixed terrain: All-terrain snowshoes balance traction and float, often with heel lifts for uphill climbs.
- Steep or backcountry routes: Go for aggressive crampons, durable frames, and reinforced decking to handle uneven or icy conditions.
Sizing:
Snowshoe size is determined by your total weight, including any gear you’re carrying. Generally, a 25-inch snowshoe supports up to around 180 pounds, while larger 30-inch models handle heavier loads or deeper snow. Always refer to the brand’s size chart for accuracy.
Ease of Use and Durability:
Look for user-friendly bindings that are easy to adjust with gloves on. Durable materials like aluminum or composite decking hold up better over time, especially if you plan to snowshoe frequently or in rugged terrain.
How to Choose the Right Snowshoes
When selecting snowshoes, start with your intended terrain and total weight (including gear). Smaller, lightweight designs are best for packed trails, while larger models with deeper crampons handle powder and steep inclines. Comfort is key too, the bindings should be easy to secure even with gloves on, and frames should match your stride width to avoid clunky steps.
What to Wear Snowshoeing
Layer smartly. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, preferably a merino wool base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a weatherproof shell. Gaiters help keep snow out of boots, while waterproof gloves and a wool beanie are essentials. On milder days, opt for breathable layers and skip bulky parkas; snowshoeing generates more body heat than most expect.
FAQs
What size snowshoes should I get?
Size depends on your total weight (body plus gear) and the type of snow. Heavier individuals or those carrying backpacks will need larger sizes for proper float. Most brands include size charts to help you choose.
What size snowshoes should I get?
Size depends on your total weight (body plus gear) and the type of snow. Heavier individuals or those carrying backpacks will need larger sizes for proper float. Most brands include size charts to help you choose.
Do I need special boots for snowshoeing?
No, you can use waterproof winter or hiking boots. Just make sure they fit securely in the bindings and provide insulation and ankle support.
How do I maintain snowshoes?
After each use, brush off snow and moisture, then store them in a cool, dry place. Check bindings and crampons for wear and tighten hardware periodically.
Can beginners use backcountry snowshoes?
Yes, but they’re overbuilt for casual trails. Beginners are usually better off starting with trail models, which are lighter and more affordable.
Are snowshoes worth it?
Absolutely. They extend your hiking season, provide a great workout, and open up new winter landscapes without expensive gear or training.
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