10 Best Snowshoes 2025 in the United States

The MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes are designed for serious backcountry and mountaineering use, making them a solid choice if you frequently tackle rugged, steep terrain. At 30 inches long and weighing just under 5 pounds per pair, they offer a good balance of size and lightness, helping with maneuverability and reducing fatigue during long hikes. Their frame is made from alloy steel, which provides strong, durable support without being overly heavy.

These snowshoes excel in traction thanks to the 360-degree traction frames and sharp steel crampons, giving you reliable grip on icy or uneven surfaces, especially when crossing slopes. The Paragon bindings comfortably wrap around your boots with a one-piece strap, avoiding tight pressure points while ensuring your feet stay secure. Another useful feature is the Ergo Televator heel lift, which you can flip up to ease uphill climbing and reduce calf strain on steep ascents.

They support a maximum user weight of 280 pounds and fit most men's shoe sizes from 4.5 to 15, covering a wide range of users. While they may be more technical and pricey than casual or beginner snowshoers need, and their 30-inch length is better suited for deep snow and aggressive terrain rather than casual trail walking, these snowshoes provide excellent traction, comfort, and climbing assistance for mountaineering or tough backcountry trips.

The MSR Lightning Ascent Women's Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes are designed to meet the needs of winter hikers and snowshoers, especially those who venture into mountainous terrains. Weighing only 3.88 pounds per pair, they are ultralight, making them easy to carry on long hikes. The tapered frame is particularly suited for users with a narrow stride, which can enhance comfort and efficiency in movement.

One standout feature is the 360-degree traction frame, which offers excellent grip on various snow conditions, and the durable steel DTX crampons provide reliable traction on steep slopes. This combination is beneficial for those tackling challenging alpine settings. Additionally, the Paragon bindings are designed to wrap snugly around boots, providing a comfortable fit while eliminating pressure points. This helps ensure that users remain comfortable even during extended periods of use.

For uphill trekking, the Ergo Televator heel lift bar can be flipped up to ease the strain on steep ascents, promoting better energy conservation. With a load capacity of 180 pounds and compatibility with women’s shoe sizes 4.5 to 14, these snowshoes accommodate a range of users. However, they may not be the best choice for heavier individuals or those seeking snowshoes designed for wider stances. The reliance on a specialized binding system might also require some adjustment for users unfamiliar with such designs. These snowshoes excel in rugged terrains, making them ideal for adventurous women looking to explore backcountry and mountainous areas, offering a combination of lightweight design, superior traction, and comfort.

The TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Adjust snowshoes are designed for winter hiking, offering a mix of solid performance features. They come in multiple sizes, with the medium size measuring about 23.5 x 8 inches, which should fit most average users comfortably. The frame is made from alloy steel reinforced with carbon, providing both strength and flexibility—important for comfortable movement over uneven terrain. The deck is plastic, a common lightweight choice that helps keep the snowshoe manageable.

A key highlight is the Boa binding system, which allows for easy, precise adjustment even with gloves on, making it user-friendly and secure. Traction is handled by stainless steel crampons, which offer good grip on icy or hard-packed snow surfaces. Weighing around 5.4 pounds, these snowshoes are heavier compared to some ultralight models, but they balance durability and support well. They also support users up to 300 pounds, covering a wide range of body types.

While the snowshoes lack explicit information about a dedicated heel lift, their design and materials support efficient climbing and walking. The main drawbacks are the slightly heavier weight and lack of heel lift details, which might affect comfort on steep climbs for some hikers. For those seeking reliable, adjustable snowshoes that handle various winter conditions and prioritize easy fitting, the TSL Symbioz Hyperflex is a solid choice.