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10 Best snowshoe 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings, 25 Inch Pair, Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,255
Bindings
Traction
Weight Capacity

Most important from
133 reviews

Bindings
The Paragon Bindings are excellent, keeping the snowshoes secure and comfortable.
Traction
Unmatched traction that gets you up steep peaks effortlessly.
Weight Capacity
Perfect for long hikes, offering great mobility and traction even for heavier users.

The MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts tackling rugged terrain and steep ascents. At 25 inches and weighing 4.33 pounds per pair, they are lightweight yet sturdy, thanks to their alloy steel frame. These snowshoes excel in traction with 360-degree Traction Frames and durable steel DTX crampons, ensuring a secure grip on challenging surfaces.

The Paragon bindings offer a comfortable and secure fit with their one-piece contouring strap, reducing pressure points and enhancing foot control. Additionally, the Ergo Televator heel lift bar is a notable feature that aids in uphill efficiency and reduces fatigue during strenuous climbs. These snowshoes are suitable for users weighing up to 220 pounds and accommodating men's shoe sizes from 4.5 to 15, making them versatile for a range of users.

However, the higher price point and specialized design may not be necessary for casual snowshoeing activities, making them best suited for dedicated mountaineers and backcountry explorers. The MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes are a solid investment for those needing dependable performance in demanding winter conditions.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,255
Bindings
Traction
Weight Capacity

Most important from
133 reviews

Bindings
The Paragon Bindings are excellent, keeping the snowshoes secure and comfortable.
Traction
Unmatched traction that gets you up steep peaks effortlessly.
Weight Capacity
Perfect for long hikes, offering great mobility and traction even for heavier users.
#2

Tubbs Mountaineer 36, Green

Rating
9.8
Frame Material
Bindings
Traction

Most important from
113 reviews

Frame Material
The construction quality is highly praised, with many noting the durability and stability of the aluminum frame and Soft-Tec decking.
Bindings
Users appreciate the simple and quick adjustment system, which makes it easy to get the snowshoes on and off.
Traction
These snowshoes provide excellent grip, especially when climbing, thanks to the Anaconda Toe and Python Heel Crampons.

The Tubbs Mountaineer 36 snowshoe is a robust option for those who enjoy serious snowshoeing. One of its key strengths is its durable aluminum frame and Soft-Tec decking, which provide a solid and reliable structure for various snow conditions. The snowshoe includes the ActiveFit 2.0 binding system, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit, which is essential for long treks.

Its standout feature, the Anaconda Toe Crampon and Python Heel Crampon, offers excellent traction, making it suitable for icy or steep terrains. Additionally, the 19° ActiveLift heel lift helps reduce calf fatigue on inclines, enhancing user comfort during uphill climbs. However, at 6.25 pounds, it might feel heavy for some users, particularly those new to snowshoeing or less accustomed to carrying extra weight.

The maximum weight capacity of 200 pounds should cover most users, but those needing a higher capacity might need to look elsewhere. The buckle closure type and EZ Heel Buckle system add to the ease of use but may require a bit of adjustment for the perfect fit. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Tubbs Mountaineer 36 is ideal for dedicated snowshoers looking for a high-performance, durable, and comfortable snowshoe with excellent traction features.

Rating
9.8
Frame Material
Bindings
Traction

Most important from
113 reviews

Frame Material
The construction quality is highly praised, with many noting the durability and stability of the aluminum frame and Soft-Tec decking.
Bindings
Users appreciate the simple and quick adjustment system, which makes it easy to get the snowshoes on and off.
Traction
These snowshoes provide excellent grip, especially when climbing, thanks to the Anaconda Toe and Python Heel Crampons.
#3

MSR Lightning Ascent Women's Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings, 22 Inch Pair, Raspberry

The MSR Lightning Ascent Women's Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are well suited for winter hiking in mountainous terrain. Their ultralight design at 3.88 pounds ensures ease of use and reduces fatigue during long treks. The 22-inch size with a tapered frame is ideal for women with a narrower stride, offering better maneuverability and comfort. The frame is made of durable alloy steel, contributing to the robustness of the snowshoes.

The standout feature is the 360-degree traction frames and steel DTX crampons, which provide excellent grip on various slopes and challenging terrains, making these snowshoes reliable for steep ascents and traverses. The Paragon bindings are designed for a secure and comfortable fit, eliminating pressure points and enhancing foot control, which is essential for prolonged use. The Ergo Televator heel lift is particularly helpful for improving efficiency on uphill climbs, reducing strain on the calves and preventing fatigue.

However, a potential drawback is the weight capacity, which is limited to 180 pounds, possibly excluding heavier users or those carrying substantial gear. Additionally, the price point may be on the higher side compared to other models, but the quality and performance justify the investment for serious snowshoers. The attractive raspberry color and the range of shoe sizes (4.5-14) further enhance its appeal. These snowshoes are a solid choice for dedicated women hikers and mountaineers looking for reliable performance in demanding winter conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best snowshoe

Choosing the right snowshoes can make a significant difference in your winter adventures. Snowshoes are designed to help you walk on snow without sinking, and the right pair will depend on where you plan to use them, your weight, and the type of terrain you'll be navigating. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting snowshoes and how to choose the best fit for your needs.
Snowshoe SizeSnowshoe size is crucial because it determines how well the snowshoes will keep you afloat on the snow. Larger snowshoes provide more surface area, which is better for deep, powdery snow, while smaller snowshoes are more maneuverable and better for packed trails. To choose the right size, consider your weight (including any gear you'll be carrying) and the type of snow you'll be walking on. Heavier individuals or those carrying heavy packs should opt for larger snowshoes, while lighter individuals or those on packed trails can go with smaller sizes.
Frame MaterialThe frame material affects the durability and weight of the snowshoes. Common materials include aluminum, which is lightweight and durable, and composite materials, which can offer more flexibility and traction. If you plan on long hikes or carrying heavy loads, aluminum frames might be the best choice due to their strength. For more casual use or if you prioritize flexibility and grip, composite frames could be more suitable.
BindingsBindings are what secure your boots to the snowshoes, and they need to be comfortable and easy to use. There are different types of bindings, such as strap bindings, which are versatile and fit most boots, and ratchet bindings, which are quicker to adjust. If you plan on frequently taking your snowshoes on and off, look for bindings that are easy to operate with gloves on. Ensure the bindings are compatible with your winter boots for a secure fit.
TractionTraction is provided by crampons or cleats on the bottom of the snowshoes and is essential for navigating icy or steep terrain. More aggressive traction is needed for mountainous or icy conditions, while less aggressive traction is sufficient for flat, packed trails. Consider where you'll be using your snowshoes most often; if you expect to encounter a lot of ice or steep hills, prioritize snowshoes with more robust traction features.
Heel LiftHeel lifts, also known as climbing bars, are a feature that can be flipped up to reduce calf strain on steep ascents. This feature is particularly useful if you plan on hiking in hilly or mountainous terrain. If your snowshoeing will involve significant elevation gain, look for snowshoes with heel lifts to make your climbs easier and more comfortable.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity refers to the maximum weight the snowshoes can support, including your body weight and any gear you are carrying. It's important to choose snowshoes that can handle your total weight to ensure they perform effectively. Check the manufacturer's weight recommendations and select a pair that accommodates your weight range, including any additional gear.

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