10 Best snowshoe 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

The MSR Revo Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are designed for rugged and challenging terrain. With a size of 25 inches, they are suitable for men with shoe sizes ranging from 6 to 14 and can carry a weight up to 220 pounds. The snowshoes feature a durable alloy steel frame and a plastic deck with edge-to-edge traction, enhancing stability on various surfaces.

The perimeter teeth and one-piece steel crampons provide improved grip on traverses and steep slopes, making them ideal for alpine terrain. The Paragon bindings offer a secure fit with a single-strap system that minimizes pressure points and ensures easy foot control. Additionally, these snowshoes include the Ergo Televator heel lift bar, which aids in uphill efficiency during steep ascents.

With a weight of 4.67 pounds per pair, they are relatively lightweight, minimizing fatigue on long treks. They may be a bit heavy for some users looking for ultra-light options. The olive color is understated and practical for outdoor use. These snowshoes are best suited for avid backcountry explorers and mountaineers who need reliable and robust gear for demanding conditions. Beginners or those looking for casual use might find these over-engineered for their needs.