Best Snowshoes for Winter Trail Walks and Hikes
Snowshoes turn deep snow into a place to explore. If you can walk, you can snowshoe, and it is one of the easiest ways to get outside on a winter weekend.
The right pair depends on where you will go. Rolling trails and parks call for comfortable, easy bindings. Steeper hikes need aggressive crampons and heel lifts for climbing.
We picked models from the long standing snowshoe brands MSR, Tubbs, and Atlas, plus adjustable poles that help with balance.
Best Overall: MSR Lightning Ascent
The Lightning Ascent is a favorite of winter hikers. Its frame is a serrated steel crampon all the way around, which grips firmly on icy and steep terrain.
Paragon bindings are quick to tighten with gloves on, and the built in heel lifts take strain off your calves on climbs.
It is pricey, but it handles nearly any winter trail and lasts for years.
MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry Snowshoes
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1,000+ reviews
Technical snowshoes with a 360 degree traction frame, heel lifts, and easy bindings for steep winter hikes.
Shop on Amazon →Best for Rolling Trails: Tubbs Flex VRT
Tubbs has made snowshoes for over a century. The Flex VRT uses a flexible tail that makes walking feel natural on rolling terrain.
Its BOA binding tightens with a dial, which is about as easy as it gets with cold fingers.
Toe and heel crampons give solid grip, and a heel lift helps on the occasional climb.
Tubbs Flex VRT Snowshoes with BOA Binding
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1,000+ reviews
Flexible tail snowshoes with a dial binding and strong crampons for rolling winter trails.
Shop on Amazon →Snowshoeing Tips for Beginners
- Size by total weight. Add your body weight and pack weight, then check the brand's size chart.
- Wear waterproof boots. Insulated winter hiking boots fit most bindings and keep feet dry.
- Walk a little wider. Take a slightly wider stance so the frames do not clip each other.
- Dress in layers. Snowshoeing warms you up fast, so start a bit cool and shed layers as you go.
Best for Beginners: MSR Evo Trail
The Evo Trail is a durable, budget friendly snowshoe that is easy to use for park walks and packed trails.
Its molded plastic deck and steel traction rails are tough, and you can add tail extensions later for deeper snow.
It is a good choice for families buying several pairs at once.
MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes
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1,000+ reviews
Durable entry level snowshoes with steel traction bars for packed trails and parks.
Shop on Amazon →Must Have Add On: Adjustable Trekking Poles
Poles add balance in deep or uneven snow and help push uphill. Look for ones with snow baskets so they do not sink.
Black Diamond's Trail poles are adjustable, sturdy, and come with interchangeable baskets.
They work year round for summer hikes too.
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles
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1,000+ reviews
Adjustable aluminum trekking poles with lever locks and snow basket compatibility.
Shop on Amazon →Frequently Asked Questions
What size snowshoes do I need?
Choose by your weight plus gear. Larger shoes float better in deep powder, while smaller ones are easier on packed trails.
Do I need poles to snowshoe?
No, but poles help a lot with balance and climbing, especially for beginners.
Can I wear regular boots with snowshoes?
Most bindings fit any sturdy winter boot. Waterproof, insulated boots are the most comfortable.
Is snowshoeing good exercise?
Yes. It burns more calories than walking on bare ground and is low impact on the joints.