Best Snowshoes for Winter Hiking and Trekking

Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore the winter wilderness, but it can be challenging without the right gear. A good pair of snowshoes can make all the difference. At their most basic level, snowshoes are designed to distribute your weight over a larger area, allowing you to walk on top of the snow without sinking in. But there are many factors to consider when choosing the best snowshoes for your needs.

The first thing to consider is the type of snowshoe you need. There are several types of snowshoes, including recreational, hiking, and backcountry snowshoes. Recreational snowshoes are designed for flat or rolling terrain and are typically the most affordable option. Hiking snowshoes are more durable and have more aggressive crampons for steeper terrain. Backcountry snowshoes are the most rugged and are designed for steep and technical terrain.

Another important consideration is the size of the snowshoe. The size you need will depend on your weight and the type of snow you’ll be walking on. Larger snowshoes are better for deep powder, while smaller snowshoes are better for packed snow and icy conditions.

When choosing the best snowshoes, it’s also important to consider the bindings. The bindings are what attach your boots to the snowshoes, and they can make a big difference in comfort and performance. Look for bindings that are easy to adjust and provide a secure fit.

After researching and testing various snowshoes, we have identified the top options for different types of snowshoeing. Whether you’re a recreational snowshoer or a backcountry adventurer, we have found the best snowshoes to suit your needs.

Best Snowshoes

We have researched and tested the top snowshoes available on Amazon to bring you our list of the best products. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, snowshoes are essential for traversing snowy terrain. Our list includes snowshoes that are durable, lightweight, and provide excellent traction. Check out our top picks below to find the perfect pair for your next winter adventure.

1) G2 GO2GETHER Snowshoes

If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable snowshoe, the G2 GO2GETHER Snowshoes are a great option.

Pros

• The high-quality HDPE deck provides excellent floatation in the snow, making it easier to hike longer distances without getting tired.
• The fast ratchet binding is designed for low-temperature environments, making it easy to fasten even when your hands are frozen.
• The sharp aluminum crampons provide excellent grip in snowy and icy conditions, ensuring your safety.

Cons

• The front strap may cut into your foot during downhill hikes, causing discomfort.
• The stretchy heel strap may not last as long as other parts of the snowshoe.
• The poles advertised with the snowshoes may not be included in the package.

We tested these snowshoes on a few hikes and were impressed with their performance. The EVA foam padding inside the snowshoes provided a warm and comfortable feeling, protecting our feet from the cold winter weather. The flex pivot bar and heel lift made us feel more natural while hiking, whether on flat or uphill terrain.

We appreciated the durable back strap and carrying bag that came with the snowshoes, making it easy to transport them to and from our hikes. The five different color options also allowed us to choose a pair that matched our personal style.

Overall, the G2 GO2GETHER Snowshoes are a great choice for any winter hiker looking for a reliable and comfortable snowshoe.

2) Pejevir Lightweight Snowshoes

If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight snowshoe kit, the Pejevir Lightweight Snowshoes are definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The toe box and heel lift provide excellent support and stability on steep terrain, reducing calf fatigue and preventing your feet from sliding forward.
• The lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to carry and maneuver in the snow while also providing excellent durability and strength.
• The high-density polyethylene (HDPE) decking provides excellent traction on both hard-packed snow and deep powder, making it perfect for all types of winter conditions.

Cons

• The maximum weight recommendation of 150 pounds may not be suitable for heavier individuals.
• Some users have reported that the fast-ratchet bindings can be difficult to adjust and may come loose in deep powder.
• The included trekking poles may not be as sturdy as some users would prefer.

We took these snowshoes out for a spin and were impressed by their performance. The toe box and heel lift provided excellent support and stability on steep terrain, making it easy to tackle even the most challenging conditions. The lightweight aluminum frame made it easy to carry and maneuver, and the HDPE decking provided excellent traction on both hard-packed snow and deep powder.

While the fast-ratchet bindings were a bit tricky to adjust at first, we found that they stayed secure and snug even in deep powder. The included trekking poles were a nice touch, although some users may prefer to use their own. Overall, we would definitely recommend the Pejevir Lightweight Snowshoes to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable snowshoe kit.

3) NACATIN 4-in-1 Snowshoes

If you’re looking for a versatile and ergonomic snowshoe, the NACATIN 4-in-1 Snowshoes might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• These snowshoes are optimized for weight range, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
• The ergonomic design and raised toe caps reduce resistance when moving forward, while the heel lift bar provides help on steep ascents.
• The double ratcheting bindings and fast-pull buckles make it easy to put on and take off your winter boots.

Cons

• The load capacity of these snowshoes might not be sufficient for heavier users or those carrying heavy equipment.
• The rubber piece integrated in the back strap might prevent the strap from being pulled tight enough for some users.
• The snowshoe bag might not be durable enough for long-term use.

We took these snowshoes for a spin and were impressed with their overall performance. The optimized weight range makes them suitable for a wide range of users, and the ergonomic design and raised toe caps make walking in the snow much easier. The heel lift bar also provides help on steep ascents, reducing fatigue and making it easier to go further.

The double ratcheting bindings and fast-pull buckles make it easy to put on and take off your winter boots, enhancing convenience for your winter escapades. However, the load capacity of these snowshoes might not be sufficient for heavier users or those carrying heavy equipment. Additionally, the rubber piece integrated in the back strap might prevent the strap from being pulled tight enough for some users.

Overall, the NACATIN 4-in-1 Snowshoes are a great choice for those looking for a versatile and ergonomic snowshoe. However, if you’re a heavier user or plan on carrying heavy equipment, you might want to consider a different option.

4) G2 GO2GETHER Snowshoes

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your next snowshoeing adventure, the G2 GO2GETHER snowshoes might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• The high-quality and lightweight HDPE deck provides excellent floatation in the snow, saving your energy and allowing you to travel further.
• The fast ratchet binding is designed for low-temperature environments and can be fastened easily with just one finger, even when your hands are frozen.
• The steel crampons provide excellent grip in snowy or icy conditions, keeping you safe.

Cons

• The plastic construction may not be as durable as other snowshoes made from metal materials.
• The straps may become loose and require frequent readjustment.
• The weight of the snowshoes may be noticeable during longer hikes.

We recently tested out the G2 GO2GETHER snowshoes on a winter hike and were impressed with the overall performance. The deck provided excellent floatation in the snow, allowing us to easily traverse the terrain without getting bogged down. The fast ratchet binding was easy to use, even with gloves on, and the steel crampons provided excellent grip on icy patches.

However, we did notice that the plastic construction may not be as durable as other snowshoes made from metal materials. Additionally, the straps may require frequent readjustment to ensure a secure fit, which can be a hassle during longer hikes. The weight of the snowshoes was also noticeable during extended use, but this is to be expected with budget-friendly options.

Overall, we would recommend the G2 GO2GETHER snowshoes for those looking for a budget-friendly option for their next snowshoeing adventure. The lightweight and comfortable design, combined with the excellent grip and floatation, make these snowshoes a great choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.

5) Retrospec Drifter Snowshoe

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable snowshoe, the Retrospec Drifter Snowshoe is a great option.

Pros

• The double-ratchet binding system is fast and secure, making it easy to strap in and out while on the trail.
• The tough polyethylene (HDPE) decks provide maximum support on the snow, ensuring confidence on all your snowshoeing adventures.
• The heel lifters and full-floating pivot system increase traction and reduce fatigue while exploring steep terrain.

Cons

• The plastic ratchets on the binding system are prone to wear out if used heavily.
• The snowshoes are only useful for flat ground and are not suitable for slopes.
• The toe crampons and heel catch can collapse when hitting a hard surface, making slopes dangerous.

We recently tried out the Retrospec Drifter Snowshoe during a snowshoeing trip and were impressed with its performance. The double-ratchet binding system was easy to use and kept our feet securely in place, even on steep terrain. The polyethylene decks provided excellent support on the snow, giving us the confidence to explore new trails.

While the snowshoes worked well for flat ground, we found that they were not suitable for slopes. The toe crampons and heel catch collapsed when we hit a hard surface, making the slopes dangerous. Additionally, the plastic ratchets on the binding system are prone to wear out if used heavily.

Overall, we would recommend the Retrospec Drifter Snowshoe for recreational snowshoeing on flat ground. It’s an affordable option that provides good traction and support on the snow.

6) G2 GO2GETHER 16 Inch Kids Snowshoes

If you’re looking for a reliable and sturdy snowshoe for your child, then the G2 GO2GETHER 16 Inch Kids Snowshoes might be the right fit for you.

Pros

• The high-quality and lightweight HDPE deck of the G2 snowshoes provides excellent floatation in snowfields, allowing your child to save energy and go further.
• The fast ratchet binding is designed for low-temperature environments, making it easy to fasten even with frozen fingers.
• The sharp crampons are made of high-quality aluminum, providing an excellent grip on snowfields or ice and keeping your child safe.

Cons

• The maximum weight recommendation is only 100 pounds, which might not be suitable for older or heavier children.
• The snowshoes are only available in orange, which might not be the preferred color for all children.
• Some users have reported that the poles that come with the snowshoes are not very sturdy.

We recently tested the G2 GO2GETHER 16 Inch Kids Snowshoes and were impressed with their overall performance. The snowshoes are easy to put on and take off, and the fast ratchet binding is a nice touch that makes it easy to adjust the fit. The sharp crampons provided an excellent grip on the snow, and we felt safe and secure while wearing them.

The lightweight and sturdy design of the snowshoes allowed our child to walk for longer distances without getting tired, and the non-slip soles provided maximum contact for slip resistance. We also appreciated the included snow baskets and storage bag, which made it easy to transport the snowshoes and keep them organized.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable snowshoe for your child, then the G2 GO2GETHER 16 Inch Kids Snowshoes might be a great option to consider.

7) Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes & Trekking Poles Bundle

We highly recommend the Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes & Trekking Poles Bundle for anyone looking for a durable and functional set of snowshoes.

Pros

• The fast and secure double-ratchet binding system makes it easy to strap in and out of the snowshoes while on the trail.
• The heel lifters and full-floating pivot system increase traction and reduce fatigue while exploring steep terrain.
• The lightweight 6061-T6 alloy frames with tough polyethylene decks provide superior support on the snow and keep your steps light and controlled.

Cons

• The adjustable trekking poles with multi-terrain attachments may take some time to get used to for those who are not familiar with using trekking poles.
• The carrying case for the snowshoes and trekking poles is not very durable and may need to be replaced after several uses.
• The snowshoes come in three sizes, which may not be suitable for individuals who fall in between the weight capacity of the different sizes.

Overall, the Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes & Trekking Poles Bundle is a great investment for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities. The functional design and durable materials make it easy to use and provide the necessary traction and stability for exploring steep terrain. The bundle includes everything you need, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.

8) Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Arctic 27

If you’re looking for reliable and durable snowshoes, the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Arctic 27 is a great option.

Pros

• The ratchet binding with heavy duty spring-loaded clips and the new heel strap with an auto-locking system make the snowshoes easy to put on and take off.
• The lightweight aluminum frame allows for optimal snow flotation performance, making them great for deep powder.
• The crampons on each shoe provide excellent traction on icy, hard surfaces, making it easy to navigate through any terrain.

Cons

• The snowshoes are a bit heavy, which can be a bit tiring on longer hikes.
• The heel lift riser can be a bit tricky to use at first, but it’s a useful feature once you get the hang of it.
• The boot grip textured pads can be a bit uncomfortable if you’re not wearing thick socks.

Overall, the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Arctic 27 is a great investment for anyone looking for reliable and durable snowshoes. The ratchet binding with heavy duty spring-loaded clips and the new heel strap with an auto-locking system make the snowshoes easy to put on and take off. The lightweight aluminum frame allows for optimal snow flotation performance, making them great for deep powder. The crampons on each shoe provide excellent traction on icy, hard surfaces, making it easy to navigate through any terrain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of snowshoeing this winter, these snowshoes are definitely worth considering.

9) Carryown Snowshoes for Adults Men Women Youth Kids

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly snowshoe set that comes with everything you need to hit the trails, the Carryown Snowshoes are a great option.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to put on
• Adjustable poles for various heights
• Great flotation and hard grip sawtooth

Cons

• Poles may not lock into place properly
• Minimal instructions provided
• Trekking poles are not very sturdy

We found the Carryown Snowshoes to be comfortable and easy to walk in, thanks to their lightweight aluminum frame and ergonomic design. The double ratcheting bindings are easy to adjust to your footwear, and the one-buckle tightening mechanism provides efficient support. The TPE heel strap also helps keep your foot in place.

The adjustable snowshoeing poles are a nice touch, allowing you to easily change the height from 25.5 to 54 inches. However, we did have some trouble with the poles not locking into place properly, which made them feel a bit unstable at times.

The snowshoes themselves provide great flotation, thanks to their large flat surface area. The two sets of reinforced, heavy-duty sawtooth also provide strong traction on icy, hard surfaces. We had no trouble walking through deep snow with these shoes.

One downside is that the instructions provided are minimal, which may be frustrating for beginners. Additionally, the trekking poles are not very sturdy and may not hold up well over time.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable snowshoe set that comes with everything you need to get started, the Carryown Snowshoes are a solid choice. Just be aware that the poles may not be very sturdy, and you may need to experiment a bit to get them to lock into place properly.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying snowshoes, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the right product. Here are some features to look for when choosing the best snowshoes:

Terrain

The first thing to consider is the terrain you will be snowshoeing on. Different snowshoes are designed for different terrains, so it’s important to choose the right one. If you’ll be snowshoeing on flat terrain, a recreational snowshoe is a good choice. If you’ll be snowshoeing on steep terrain, a mountaineering snowshoe is a better option.

Size

The size of the snowshoe is also important. The size you choose will depend on your weight and the weight of the gear you’ll be carrying. A larger snowshoe will provide more flotation, while a smaller snowshoe will be more maneuverable.

Binding

The binding is the part of the snowshoe that attaches your foot to the snowshoe. Look for a binding that is comfortable and easy to use. Some snowshoes have a one-size-fits-all binding, while others have an adjustable binding that can be customized to fit your foot.

Traction

The traction of the snowshoe is also important. Look for a snowshoe with aggressive crampons that will provide good traction on icy or steep terrain. Some snowshoes also have a heel lift, which can be raised to reduce calf fatigue on steep climbs.

Material

Snowshoes are made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, plastic, and composite materials. Aluminum snowshoes are durable and lightweight, while plastic snowshoes are more affordable. Composite snowshoes are a good choice for those who want a lightweight and durable snowshoe.

By considering these features, you can choose the best snowshoes for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features to look for when choosing snowshoes for beginners?

When choosing snowshoes for beginners, there are a few key features to keep in mind. Look for snowshoes with a simple binding system that is easy to adjust and comfortable to wear. Beginners should also look for snowshoes that are lightweight and have good traction, making it easier to walk on snowy terrain.

How do I determine the appropriate size of snowshoes for my needs?

The appropriate size of snowshoes depends on your weight and the type of terrain you will be walking on. As a general rule, heavier individuals will need larger snowshoes to support their weight. Additionally, if you plan on walking on deep snow or steep terrain, you may need larger snowshoes to provide adequate flotation and traction.

Which snowshoes are recommended for women with an active outdoor lifestyle?

There are many snowshoes on the market that are specifically designed for women with an active outdoor lifestyle. Look for snowshoes that are lightweight, have a comfortable binding system, and provide good traction. Many snowshoe brands offer women-specific designs that are tailored to the unique needs of female snowshoers.

Can you suggest durable snowshoes suitable for backcountry hiking?

When it comes to backcountry hiking, you need snowshoes that are durable and reliable. Look for snowshoes made from high-quality materials, such as aluminum or carbon fiber, that can withstand the rigors of backcountry hiking. Additionally, look for snowshoes with aggressive crampons and a secure binding system to provide maximum traction and stability.

What type of snowshoes are best suited for hunting in deep snow conditions?

When hunting in deep snow conditions, you need snowshoes that provide maximum flotation and stability. Look for snowshoes with a large surface area and a secure binding system to keep your feet firmly in place. Additionally, look for snowshoes with aggressive crampons to provide good traction on slippery terrain.

Are there specific snowshoe brands preferred by the military for rugged terrain?

There are many snowshoe brands that are popular among military personnel for rugged terrain. Look for snowshoes made from high-quality materials, such as aluminum or carbon fiber, that can withstand the rigors of military use. Additionally, look for snowshoes with aggressive crampons and a secure binding system to provide maximum traction and stability in harsh conditions.