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Best Snowshoes of 2024

From groomed trails and rolling hills to deep powder in the backcountry, we break down the season's top snowshoes.

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With a long platform for floatation and added traction underfoot, snowshoes open up your favorite terrain and hiking trails for all kinds of winter fun. Below we break down the best models for 2024, including top trail/recreational snowshoes, powder-ready backcountry models, and specialized running designs. The good news is that there is no shortage of quality options from brands like MSR, Atlas, Tubbs, TSL, and more. For more background information, see our snowshoe comparison table and buying advice below the picks.   

Our Team's Snowshoe Picks

• Best Overall Snowshoe: MSR Evo Trail
• Best Traction and Comfort for Performance Use: MSR Lightning Ascent
• Best Beginner/Budget Snowshoe: Tubbs Flex STP
• Best Backcountry Snowshoe for Powder: Tubbs Mountaineer
• User-Friendly Design for Easy Terrain: Crescent Moon Eva
• Best Snowshoe for Running: TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Racing

Best Overall Snowshoe

1. msr evo trail ($170).

The Lightning Ascent below may be MSR’s top snowshoe in terms of performance, but it’s a steep investment at $390 and overkill on easy to moderate terrain. Enter MSR’s own Evo Trail, which will save you a whopping $220 while still checking all of the boxes for trail/recreational use, including durable hard plastic decking and impressive traction with solid toe crampons and side rails made of steel. MSR also upgraded the bindings recently, and the latest Paraglide design offers far better comfort and security than the past generation’s basic strap system. The Evo Trail still is on the short side for powder at 22 inches, but optional 6-inch tails ($55) can be attached to the back to improve performance in softer and deeper snow. Added up, it’s a very capable and affordably priced design and what we recommend to friends and family interested in mostly casual use. 

What complaints do we have about the MSR Evo Trail? The plastic decking is reasonably tough and fine for shorter winter jaunts but can be noisy when walking on hardpack. It also isn’t as flexy as some of the pricier options here, and the raised front can potentially can break if someone steps on it the wrong way. In addition, heel lifters are not included, which can be helpful on prolonged climbs to limit calf fatigue. If this feature is a must-have for you, we recommend checking out MSR’s upgraded Evo Ascent model ($240). But again, we love the combination of price and quality of the Evo Trail, and it should be more than enough snowshoe for most. MSR also offers a prepackaged Evo Trail kit for those just getting started, which includes snowshoes, poles, a thin foam seat, and a carry bag for $290. See the MSR Evo Trail Snowshoe

Best Traction and Comfort for Performance Use

2. msr lightning ascent ($390).

The Evo Trail above is fully capable for on-trail use, but it’s a little underbuilt for trudging through deep snow and navigating more aggressive slopes. If that’s your intended use, MSR’s top-end Lightning Ascent is the better match: Built on a quality aluminum frame with nylon decking, this snowshoe feels light, is nimble underfoot, and can take on anything from packed trails to powder and challenging mountain terrain. Its traction system is best-in-class with a sturdy crampon and rails running both length- and width-wise that confidently bite into anything from ice to soft snow. And with the latest update, MSR addressed our primary complaint with the old model: the binding system. With one large piece of rigid mesh covering the foot, the design is more modern without compromising foot hold or comfort (just make sure to fasten down the straps tightly so they don’t pop out in use).

The biggest downside to choosing the Lightning Ascent is its eye-wateringly steep $390 price tag. Recreational and occasional snowshoers certainly can go cheaper with models like the MSR Evo Trail above and others below, but expect sacrifices in overall performance and build quality. In terms of lengths, the Lightning Ascent is offered in 22-, 25-, and 30-inch variations. Your local snow conditions and weight will dictate which version is best (go longer for more flotation), but we prefer the shortest option. Its trimmed-down shape and reasonable weight make it well suited for everything from quick walks over rolling terrain to winter peak bagging (flip the heel bars up on extended climbs). And for deep snow, you can throw on the optional 5-inch Lightning Tails ($75) for a boost in flotation... Read in-depth review See the MSR Lightning Ascent   See the Women's MSR Lightning Ascent

Best Budget/Beginner Snowshoe

3. tubbs flex stp ($110).

MSR’s Evo Trail above is a great value at $170, but those new to snowshoeing can save even more cash with Tubbs' budget-friendly Flex STP. For a considerable $60 less than the Evo Trail, the Flex STP doesn’t skimp much on all-out performance: The composite Torsion Deck is more flexible and less noisy than the MSR’s plastic design without any major compromise in durability, plus you get Tubbs' Flex Tail technology for impact absorption and a rotating toe cord for shedding excess snow off the tails. The Flex STP is also offered in both 24- and 28-inch options (the Evo Trail comes in a single 22-in. length), which translates to added float in deeper snow.

What do you sacrifice by saving with the Tubbs Flex STP? Our biggest complaint has to do with the binding system: While the strap-based design is reasonably fast and easy to adjust, it lacks the customization and security of many other options here (including the Evo Trail above and Boa-equipped models below). Additionally, you forgo heel risers. If this is a dealbreaker for you, it may be worth upgrading to Tubbs’ $30-pricier Flex ESC , although they share the basic binding system outlined above. But in the end, you’d be hard-pressed to find better performance at this price point, and those just dipping their toes into snowshoeing will find a lot to like with the Flex STP. See the Tubbs Flex STP   See the Women's Tubbs Flex STP

Best Backcountry Snowshoe for Powder

4. tubbs mountaineer ($280).

Of any snowshoe on this list, the Tubbs Mountaineer is perhaps the best for breaking new trails. The frame and decking are burly and wide, and if you opt for the long 36-inch model, you can make your way through some pretty deep powder. Looking underneath, it may not appear the crampons and traction are much of an upgrade from standard Tubbs models, but trust us, there’s real performance there. The deep and strong (and appropriately named) Anaconda crampons feature eight teeth under your toes and the ball of your foot. And the 36-inch version can handle up to 300 pounds (depending on snow conditions), which is top-of-the-pack in the backcountry category.

Keep in mind that the Tubbs Mountaineer is less versatile than other models on this list. Both the 30- and 36-inch models are quite hefty at over 5 pounds, which can make for some tired legs during longer treks (if weight is a significant concern, we recommend checking out the MSR Lightning Ascent above). And the large frame size and aforementioned traction system are overkill for easy winter hikes. But for those who like to venture deep into the fluffy stuff, the Tubbs Mountaineer should provide maximum flotation and is in a class of its own. See the Tubbs Mountaineer   See the Women's Tubbs Mountaineer

User-Friendly Design for Easy Terrain

5. crescent moon eva ($170).

Crescent Moon’s all-foam Eva snowshoe received a lot of fanfare at its release, and for good reason. Unlike the hard plastic or aluminum-framed designs that dominate the market, the unique Eva is built with two layers of EVA foam. The top is relatively soft to provide cushioning, while the bottom is a denser and tougher variety for traction and durability. The flexible construction, Velcro binding system, and rockered shape make these snowshoes comfortable and easy to handle. With the addition of six small “Icespikes” on the bottom of each shoe, the current Eva technically adds metal to the mix, but we like the improvements and overall concept.

All thing considered, the Eva performs best on relatively flat terrain and for more casual snowshoeing adventures. The Icespikes are a positive change as the old model lacked bite, and we can’t help but appreciate the simplicity and ease of use, including the bindings. In addition, we were pleasantly surprised with the durability of the foam, which was one of our biggest initial concerns. However, the Eva isn’t as adept at tackling tough terrain or deep powder as many of the models above. Having said that, it’s a great snowshoe for easy to moderate terrain, and at a reasonable price to boot. See the Crescent Moon Eva

Best Snowshoe for Running

6. tsl symbioz hyperflex racing ($200).

The majority of snowshoes on this list are built for everything from casual winter hiking to getting off-trail in more serious terrain, but there is another category altogether: running. When the snow starts falling, that doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite pastime, and that’s where the TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Racing comes in. With a trimmed-down build and ultralight design (the total combined weight of both shoes is a feathery 1 lb. 7 oz.), the Hyperflex is built for moving fast. Don’t expect serious flotation here—the minimalist frame performs best over packed snow, and the narrow tails aren’t meant for powder. But for runners and racers, it’s our top pick this winter.

The market for running snowshoes isn’t huge, but Atlas and Crescent Moon offer some viable alternatives to the Symbioz Hyperflex Racing. Starting with the former, Atlas’ Run and Race models cost more ($270 and $320 respectively) but feature quieter nylon decking, upgraded binding systems, and aluminum “cleats” for reliable grip in firm conditions. Crescent Moon also offers their Luna , an all-foam running design modeled after their popular Eva above, and Yellowstone, a shorter (24.5 in.) and lighter (3 lb. 4.8 oz.) iteration of their Sawtooth 27 below. We consider the TSL to be the most well-rounded of the bunch, but a final decision will come down to preferences on weight, construction, and price. See the TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Racing

Best of the Rest

7. tsl symbioz elite snowshoe ($290).

TSL’s Symbioz Hyperflex Racing above is a decidedly niche option for winter runners, but the good news is that the French brand offers plenty of more versatile designs, including the popular Symbioz Elite here. We have a season of use under our belt with the 23.5- and 27-inch models and came away very impressed with the super stable feel, reliable traction, and high level of comfort. The plastic decking flexes naturally and absorbs impact very well, but where the TSL truly shines is its unique binding system. Like an alpine touring frame binding, there is a plate under your entire foot that moves with you as you walk. The result is rock-solid support and fantastic technical abilities for steep terrain in a range of snow conditions.

What are the downsides of the Symbioz Elite? The 23.5-inch model has a narrow profile that doesn’t provide as much flotation as the Lightning Ascent above in deep snow (opting for the 27-in. version does help). Further, the binding system takes some time to set up properly—we don’t recommend doing it for the first time out in the frigid cold like we did. And because the plate has to match the length of your boot sole, it can be a pain to adjust if multiple people share the snowshoe. But these are small complaints about an otherwise outstanding design that's comfortable and performs extremely well. Other options from the collection include the less aggressive Symbioz Hyperflex Access ($230), carbon-reinforced Symbioz Hyperflex Adjust ($310), and top-end Symbioz Hyperflex Instinct ($330). See the TSL Symbioz Elite Snowshoe

8. Crescent Moon Sawtooth 27 ($200)

Crescent Moon operates a little differently than most outdoor gear manufacturers. This Boulder-based company specializes in snowshoes, assembles them in the U.S.A. with top-end materials, and has a standout repair and warranty policy. From their lineup, the Sawtooth 27 (formerly called the Gold 9) offers solid versatility for trail hiking: Its rockered shape and 27-inch length balance walkability with flotation in soft snow, the binding system provides a secure and comfortable hold, and the steel traction is sturdy and reliable. Tack on a fairly reasonable price of $200, and you get a very well-rounded snowshoe.

What are the limitations in the Sawtooth 27’s construction? First, its claw-like crampons grip reasonably well in soft snow and hardpack, but for steep slopes or sketchy traverses, they lack the aggressive bite that you get from MSR’s Lightning Ascent above. Second, a heel lifter for reducing calf fatigue on extended climbs is not included, although you can purchase one as an accessory directly from Crescent Moon for $15. That said, the Sawtooth’s compelling mix of price, build quality, and on- and off-trail performance earn it a high spot on our list. For a longer and more powder-ready option from Crescent Moon, check out their Big Sky 32 ($220). See the Crescent Moon Sawtooth 27

9. Tubbs Flex VRT ($280)

Boa closure systems are popular on a range of footwear categories, and they’ve more recently started hitting the snowshoe market. The allure is clear: Rather than fumbling with a host of adjustment points that can come undone on the trail, the one-dial cable system tightens the entire binding with a few simple turns. Accordingly, the Tubbs Flex VRT is one of the easiest snowshoes on this list to put on (at least for us) and therefore a top pick for those who love simplicity. It’s also very comfortable and cinches evenly around the foot without creating any pressure points.

It's worth noting that the past-generation Flex VRT was only offered in a single 24-inch length, while the latest model comes in longer 25- and 29-inch variations for a boost in flotation. It still falls short of Tubbs’ own 30- or 36-inch Mountaineer above for truly deep days, but the Flex VRT is lighter (by around 6-8 oz. per pair depending on length) with a very nimble and agile feel to match. Price will be the biggest deterrent for many, and recreational users sticking to easier terrain can save considerably with Tubbs' own Flex RDG (which, at $200, also has a Boa dial). But that snowshoe is smaller at 24 inches long and uses downgraded traction, giving the VRT the clear edge for performance use in deeper snow.  See the Tubbs Flex VRT   See the Women's Tubbs Flex VRT

10. Atlas Helium Trail ($150)

For years, MSR has dominated the simple plastic decking concept with its uber-popular Evo and Revo lines, which simplify the design and keeps cost low. More recently, however, Atlas came up with a direct competitor in their Helium Trail. Interestingly, Atlas added a healthy number of “gills” in the frame, which means less material overall and a sizable drop in weight (the 23-in. Helium Trail is 8 oz. lighter per pair than the 22-in. Evo Trail). You also get a steel crampon for grip, three length options to choose from (the MSR only comes in one), and even a heel lift for big ascents, which the MSR lacks. For the same price, the Helium Trail is a very strong alternative with some thoughtful upgrades.

Atlas updated the Helium Trail last season, with the biggest change being a new Wrapp Stretch binding. On first glance, the design is very similar to MSR’s Paraglide outlined above: Both are flexible, easy to adjust, and do a good job locking the foot in place. We haven’t had a chance to test the latest Helium Trail yet, but it’s safe to assume that it’s a major upgrade over the past version’s webbing strap, which came dangerously close to the rail teeth and was prone to tearing while hiking. Atlas also added a longer 30-inch version to the collection, although the unique design still leaves us with some concerns about flotation in soft snow—it seems decently likely that snow could penetrate upward and make movement more difficult. That said, the Helium Trail hits most of the features we look for in a recreational snowshoe, including a quality build, easy-to-use design, and good price point. For $30 more, Atlas’ Access comes with a lot of the same features, plus quieter nylon decking and taller heel lift. See the Atlas Helium Trail

11. Tubbs Panoramic ($270)

Sitting at the top of Tubbs’ day hiking category is their Panoramic, which ticks most of the boxes we look for in an all-rounder snowshoe. The simple nylon decking is quieter and softer on snow than plastic, and you get a healthy set of functional features including steel toe crampons and side rails for grip and a heel lift for extended climbs. Additionally, Tubbs put a big focus on comfort by incorporating an upturned tail and shock-absorbing tech that are designed to promote a more natural gait and better cushion your ride. Like Tubbs’ Flex VRT above, the Panoramic also sports a Boa system that makes it quick and easy to dial in fit. And with a nice selection of lengths ranging from 25 to 36 inches, it’s a quality shoe for both on- and off-trail use.

All that said, the Panoramic falls into a bit of an awkward in-between spot: too aggressive for mellow outings but a little underbuilt for big backcountry missions. The simple frame rails are noticeably small and shallow compared to options like MSR’s Lightning Ascent and Tubbs’ own Mountaineer above (the latter of which costs only $10 more), making it less appealing for truly challenging days or icy and steep ascents. Alternatively, Tubbs’ $70-cheaper Wayfinder also includes a Boa system and nylon decking but forgoes a heel lift and has less aggressive traction, while Atlas’ $250 Montane offers similar versatility but without the Boa dial. Whether or not the Panoramic’s upgrades are worth the jump in price is up to you, but true backcountry enthusiasts will likely want to step up to a more performance-focused option. See the Tubbs Panoramic   See the Women's Tubbs Panoramic

12. Atlas Range-Trail ($230)

MSR’s Lightning Ascent is widely considered to be the best all-around snowshoe on the market (hence our ranking), but snowshoe giant Atlas recently released a very promising alternative in their Range-Trail. The Wrapp Stretch binding looks a lot like MSR’s well-loved Paragon system, with a flexible design that’s easy to get on and off and provides a secure and comfortable fit around the foot. The rest of the features are well sorted and what we would expect at this price range, including a durable aluminum frame, sturdy crampon rails (including one at the front of the foot for steep slopes), 19-degree heel lift, and flexible nylon decking that gives the snowshoe a light and responsive feel underfoot.

In deciding between the Lightning Ascent and Atlas Range-Trail, there are a couple differences to be aware of. While the Atlas will save you a whopping $160 and 7.6 ounces in weight per pair (compared to the 25-in. Lightning Ascent), it’s only offered in two sizes (the MSR is available in three) and has a slightly narrower platform (7.5 in. vs. 8) that won’t provide as much float in soft snow. The Atlas also falls a little short in the traction department with rails that only run lengthwise (the MSR has an additional rail that runs widthwise under the foot). Combined with the Lightning Ascent’s impressive track record, we hesitate to rank the Range-Trail higher just yet. But all signs are positive that it will be a quality competitor, and we’ll update this write-up once we’ve logged some milage with the design. Of note: Atlas also offers the Range in a more backcountry-ready BC model and Boa-equipped MTN variation , although the Trail listed here is the only one with the Wrapp Stretch binding. See the Atlas Range-Trail   See the Women's Atlas Range-Trail

13. Tubbs Xplore ($150)

Snowshoes are an increasingly expensive bunch, which is one of the biggest reasons we love Tubbs’ Xplore. For a very reasonable $150, the Xplore boasts many features often found in pricier models, including a reliable aluminum frame, quality nylon decking, an intuitive and secure binding system, and a rotating toe cord for shedding excess snow (shared with their Flex STP above). You also get two length options to choose from—25 or 30 inches—which should keep you afloat in most snow conditions from hardpack to a few inches of fresh powder. Taken together, the Xplore is a great value and plenty of snowshoe for new and occasional users alike. 

Where does the Tubbs Xplore fall short of the competition? The most obvious concession is traction: The heel and toe crampons are noticeably shallow and lacking in grip compared to designs like the $20-pricier Evo Trail above, and you don’t get side rails for lateral stability. The Xplore also forgoes heel lifters, which won’t be a dealbreaker if you stick to mellow terrain but can make the uphills a whole lot easier. For the same price, Atlas’ Helium Trail above includes both a heel lift and side rails for better all-around grip, plus a more secure binding system that covers the entire foot. But the Tubbs is the more traditional—and arguably more approachable—option for newcomers with its standard nylon decking (the Atlas’ gills are a little polarizing), which may be the deciding factor for some. For $30 more, we also like Tubbs’ Frontier , which boasts upgraded traction and comes in a longer 36-inch version for navigating deeper snow. See the Tubbs Xplore   See the Women's Tubbs Xplore

14. MSR Revo Explore ($270)

MSR’s snowshoe lineup is extensive to say the least, and we’ve already featured their best-selling Lighting Ascent and Evo Trail above. But the Revo Explore is a nice hybrid concept that combines the traction of the high-end Lightning with the price-conscious plastic decking of the Evo. In practice, the Revo does a fairly good job mixing those two snowshoes’ strongest attributes—most notably, the rugged side rails provide more grip than any model in this price range. The result is a snowshoe that is more capable on rolling and challenging terrain but costs a significant $120 less than the high-end Lightning Ascent.

However, we think there are more well-rounded mid-range options than the MSR Revo Explore. The Tubbs Panoramic above, for example, costs the same but comes with worthwhile upgrades like flexible decking with superior shock absorption and a more comfortable binding. And it’s worth noting that stepping up to the Trail or Ascent versions of the Revo will get you MSR’s improved Paraglide and Paragon bindings (respectively) that are more comfortable for long days on the trail. All in all, we like the Revo Explore, but this portion of the market is crowded, and it’s less of a standout than MSR’s other models. See the MSR Revo Explore   See the Women's MSR Revo Explore

15. Yukon Charlie’s Advanced Snowshoes Kit ($144)

Many of the brands above offer prepacked snowshoe kits for those just getting started, and Yukon Charlie’s Advanced Snowshoes Kit is one of the most popular. The biggest advantages here are value and convenience: While the Advanced snowshoes on their own start at $140 per pair, the kit tacks on adjustable poles and a handy carrying bag for just $50-$60 more depending on length (note: The kit is available for even less on Amazon at the time of publishing, which is reflected in the price we listed above). For reference, buying those items separately will almost certainly cost more, and the poles include both powder and trekking baskets for year-round versatility. And the snowshoes themselves are great for most casual users, including a simple single-pull binding system, lightweight and reliable aluminum frame, and sufficient comfort for short winter walks.

To be clear, the Advanced is a perfectly viable starter kit for those just getting into the sport but won’t hold up to aggressive or extended backcountry use. The basic binding system isn’t all that secure and will need readjustment over longer stretches, you don't get a heel lift for steep inclines, and grip is decidedly limited with just one crampon under the forefoot (there are no frame rails). But these are fine tradeoffs for recreational hikers who stick to flat ground near the cabin or established trails. And there’s certainly something to be said about the convenience of buying everything at once—especially when you factor in the price, which undercuts MSR’s popular Evo Trail Snowshoe Kit by well over $100. See the Yukon Charlie's Advanced Snowshoes Kit

16. Atlas Upland ($150)

Rounding out our list for this season is a new and unique addition to the snowshoe market: Atlas’ Upland. Purpose-built for backcountry snowboarders, the Upland boasts a lightweight frame and composite decking in a short, 19-inch package. On the way up, the wide but streamlined platform and slightly rockered tail strike a nice balance between maneuverability and float, while the bottom features “rails” that are built into the frame and run almost the entire perimeter. Further, the binding system is specifically designed to accommodate snowboard boots with a crampon-style strap over the forefoot and a quick-release buckle for fast adjustments. And on the descent, the compact and minimalist design is supremely easy to secure to the outside of a pack.

It's worth noting that Atlas’ new Upland isn’t the only option on the market for backcountry snowboarders. Another innovative design is Drift’s namesake Drift Board —available in both fiberglass and carbon variations—which boasts a longer platform for plowing through deeper snow, features ski touring-inspired bindings, and comes with permanently attached climbing skins for gliding (rather than trudging) your way up. However, that design is considerably pricier at around $450-$550 with bindings included—for that price, you can likely score a used splitboard, which will eliminate the need to carry extra weight on your back on the descent. In the end, the Upland is decidedly basic compared to Drift’s offerings, but it’s also a fraction of the cost and a nice way for snowboarders to dip their toes into backcountry riding without overhauling their entire setup. See the Atlas Upland

Snowshoe Comparison Table

Snowshoe buying advice, snowshoe categories, snowshoe length, weight limit, snowshoe bindings, frame and decking, snowshoe features and accessories, do you need poles, best footwear for snowshoeing, women's-specific snowshoes, prepackaged snowshoe kits.

• Don’t Forget Gaiters  

Trail Trail/recreational snowshoes are great for moderate hiking trails that fall somewhere between groomed hardpack and knee-deep powder. In short, they are built for flat terrain or rolling hills but not for steep mountain ascents or heading into the less predictable backcountry. In terms of build, these snowshoes are shorter in length than backcountry models because you require less flotation (especially on maintained paths). Additionally, their traction designs are simpler and less aggressive. Some have heel lifts as this has become a popular feature, but we don't find it necessary for most moderate terrain (heel lifts are useful for extended climbs). Popular snowshoe designs in the trail category include the MSR Evo Trail , Crescent Moon Eva, and Atlas Helium Trail.

Backcountry Backcountry snowshoes are more performance-oriented than the trail category above and ideal for those heading out into powder, tackling challenging terrain, and spending longer days out. First, they are longer in length for more float in deep snow and have increased traction to handle a variety of conditions including steep terrain and ice. Backcountry snowshoes also are the most expensive of the bunch due to the burlier builds and more complete feature sets. Keep in mind that a true backcountry model like the Tubbs Mountaineer will be overkill for casual winter snowshoeing, but many of our picks are hybrids that can work well for both uses (and you can hone this in even further based on the length you choose). Leading models in this category include the aforementioned Mountaineer and MSR Lightning Ascent (in longer sizes).

Running A small but notable snowshoe subcategory is those built for running, also known as racing snowshoes. A lot of people don’t want to quit their favorite pastime when the snow starts to fall, and regular winter traction devices can fall short. In terms of build, running snowshoes place a premium on lightweight materials, often have a trimmed-down frame that favors speed over floatation (it’s tough to run through powder so most are tuned for hardpack or small amounts of fresh snow), upturned noses, and special traction designed to keep you moving. Popular models in this category include the TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Racing , Atlas Run, and Crescent Moon Luna. 

Kids Last but not least, a family winter adventure requires snowshoes for all parties including the kiddos. As expected, these models essentially are smaller versions of their adult counterparts and have similar designs overall, but with shorter lengths and smaller load limits. Depending on the size of your child, we like the Atlas Spark (80 to 120 lb.) and Mini (50 to 80 lb.), and MSR makes its own line of youth shoes in the Shift and Tyker. The bad news is the kids eventually will outgrow them and require an adult pair, but if chosen correctly, you should get many winters of use before that happens. 

Once you get an idea of the snowshoe category you want, it's time to nail down the ideal length. This measurement is key to balance walking comfort with enough flotation to avoid sinking too deeply into the snow with each step (known as “postholing”). Most snowshoes above range from 22 inches at the short end ( MSR's Lightning Ascent and Evo Trail) up to 36 inches at the long end (the Tubbs Mountaineer and Panoramic). As a general rule, shorter snowshoes are best for on-trail use and longer models are ideal for deep snow and the backcountry. In addition, the type of snow matters a great deal—in the United States, the crusty hardpack you’ll find in the East contrasts sharply with deep powder in the West. Longer snowshoes provide better flotation in soft snow, so if you’re planning on getting off-trail in Colorado or Utah, a longer snowshoe is better. If you’ll be primarily on hardpack, less flotation is required and you can go shorter. 

Along with snow type and terrain, your weight also plays an important role in the length of snowshoe you choose. Snowshoe manufacturers often list a recommended weight range (or "recommended load") for each shoe, which includes your body weight plus anything you’ll be carrying, such as clothing and a daypack . Heavier loads need longer snowshoes to stay afloat, so try to pick a length that best hits your weight with gear. For example, Atlas’ Range-Trail is rated to 200 pounds for the 26-inch length, 250 pounds for the 30-inch variation, and 300+ pounds for the largest 35-inch model. Finally, it's worth noting that some snowshoes have optional tails to add length depending on the user and conditions (including MSR's popular Lightning, Revo, and Evo lines).

The binding system is your link to trail comfort and also plays a significant role in stability. A good binding should comfortably hold your feet for hours on the trail without requiring constant readjustments. Interestingly, the various systems are one of the few places where manufacturers differentiate significantly from one another. One commonality you will find is that no matter the brand, comfort and adjustability improve as the price goes up.

Multiple Straps or Single-Pull The most common binding styles are either a plastic wraparound binding that is secured by a series of crisscrossing webbing, or individual straps that are secured over the foot and around the heel. Atlas and Tubbs utilize the more traditional binding and webbing design for their core models, while MSR has primarily stuck with the strap systems. Crescent Moon has a binding system that shares characteristics of both, but its single pull loop system falls more into the traditional binding category.

What’s revealing in breaking down the systems is that, despite the vital importance of a comfortable design, the binding isn’t always directly correlated with overall snowshoe quality. MSR makes absolutely bomber snowshoes, but the bindings on their entry-level Explore models fall short. Part of the reason is their commitment to a strap cinch system. The logic behind the design is that the bindings can lay completely flat to easily haul along in a pack, but the result is average in comfort and holding power. Stepping up to their Trail and Ascent collections will get you upgraded Paraglide and Paragon bindings (respectively), which offer a sizable boost in all-day comfort and security–albeit at a steeper cost.

Boa A third binding design gaining some serious traction is Boa. This system utilizes a pretty traditional wrapped binding, but the standard webbing is replaced with wiring that is tightened with the turn of a dial (the entire system cinches down on you simultaneously for impressive evenness and comfort). The technology was made popular by snowboard boots, but nowadays you’ll find it on a growing number of models of snowshoes from Atlas, Tubbs, and more. Getting a snowshoe like the Tubbs Panoramic on and off is incredibly easy and quick, particularly when compared with the three- or four-strap systems you’ll find with MSR. The main limitation is that with a single adjuster (and occasionally two), you can’t fine-tune the fit should you need to cinch down in one place and loosen another. For most folks, however, that’s a non-issue.

Needless to say, it’s important to check the bottom of the snowshoes you’re considering to make sure they’ve got real traction. The amount of grip and quality of the crampons and side rails can vary a surprising amount by model and price. Low cost models commonly have a small steel crampon under your toes, additional cleats around the middle of your foot, and that’s about it. On the other hand, ultralight models like the Crescent Moon Eva and TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Racing will have lightweight steel spikes rather than crampons. While reasonable for casual walking on flat ground, these designs can be overmatched on hills or snowy conditions.

In addition to crampons, most backcountry snowshoes (and some trail models) will feature frame rails for added traction on a variety of terrain. Frame rails run length-wise along the sides of snowshoes and are a source of excellent lateral stability should you find yourself traversing a slope. They’re also helpful when maximum traction is needed on an ascent or descent, biting in for that extra level of grip. You’ll most often find frame rails on backcountry snowshoes like the MSR Lightning Ascent , but folks that hike on icy trails will appreciate them as well.

Keep an eye on the material and depth of your snowshoe traction. Occasionally manufacturers will look to save some money and use lower grade aluminum teeth that aren't quite as burly or tough over the long haul. Stainless steel bindings are found on most shoes, and the deeper and more aggressive the teeth, the better the grip.

There are two general types of snowshoe: an aluminum outer frame with flexible nylon decking, and a frameless solid deck made of plastic or composite. Recently, hybrid models have popped up that use a partial aluminum frame toward the front of the snowshoe with a plastic tail.

Aluminum Traditional aluminum-framed snowshoes are what most people are familiar with, seen in a variety of models above including the Crescent Moon Sawtooth 27 , Tubbs Panoramic, and more modern-looking MSR Lightning Ascent. This is a very functional design, with a strong frame protecting you from trail hazards and a pliant but tough nylon deck that makes covering long distances comfortable. The disadvantage is traction. Although some high-end models do a great job of incorporating as much traction as possible, they still fall short compared to plastic, particularly relative to their weight (MSR's Lightning is one exception). Moreover, the decking materials are more vulnerable to tears and the occasional rivet can come out of the nylon decking. But these malfunctions are rarities from the quality brands we’ve listed in our picks above, and plastic can break too.

Plastic or Composite The principle advantage of plastic or composite decking is cost—strong aluminum isn’t cheap—along with the ability to more easily incorporate traction along the sides. The downsides of plastic are that it can break—we’ve had an unfortunate front lip of an MSR Evo Trail get torn off when stepped on—and they’re noisy over crusty snow. Much more than with a traditional snowshoe, plastic has a harsher and louder heel impact when your foot comes down on hard pack. To summarize, plastic is cheaper and easier to attach traction to, but louder and slightly easier to damage.

EVA Foam Crescent Moon made waves with the introduction of its EVA foam snowshoe. Unlike hard plastic or aluminum frame models, the unique Eva is built with two layers of foam—a softer compound on the top for shock absorption and a firm layer on the bottom for toughness. We did have some initial concerns about durability, but our pair has held up well through more than a season of use. The design is geared towards beginners and the lack of a crampon underfoot does impact traction, but it has a nice cushioned feel that is noticeably quieter than a traditional snowshoe when walking on firm or icy snow. Overall, we think Eva’s foam build has a lot of promise and could be a sign of things to come in the industry. 

Heel Lift (Climb) Bars Most high-end trail and nearly every backcountry snowshoe come with a heel lift, also known as a riser. The feature is exactly as it sounds: a single metal bar under your heel that can be raised and locked into place for climbs. The raised bar plays the role of a rigid mountaineering boot, keeping you from dropping your heel while climbing up a sustained grade. The benefit of this feature is reduced calf fatigue, but is it really worth it? Some companies like Crescent Moon were reluctant to include them in their lineup because they determined that most users don’t really need them. But customer demand has remained strong, and even Crescent Moon now offers a heel lift as an add-on for most models in their lineup.

In our experience, heel lift bars have come in handy a couple of times during long climbs, say a spring snowshoe to Camp Muir on Mount Rainier. But for most uses we don’t bother. Unless the hill is steep and will remain steep, it’s just not worth the effort to reach down to raise and lower the bar. A grippy snowshoe and poles play a much greater role in making climbing easier, and therefore we feel that this feature is overrated. Helpful on occasion: yes. Imperative? Certainly not. 

Flotation Tails One of our favorite snowshoe accessories—and an underrated one at that—are the additional snowshoe tails offered with MSR snowshoes. These add-ons are available for their Evo, Revo, and Lightning lines and are a great way to get all-in-one functionality out of a single pair of snowshoes: Throw on the tails for greater flotation in the soft stuff and stuff them away in your pack when you're traveling over firm snow. They’re ideal for places like the Pacific Northwest or Colorado when snow conditions can vary dramatically throughout the season, so it's no surprise that Seattle-based MSR is leading the charge. Additional Add-Ons In addition to heel lifts and tails, several manufacturers offer repair kits and other extras that may prove useful. MSR’s offerings are fairly extensive, from a backpack that’s specifically designed for carrying snowshoes to a handy maintenance kit and replacement straps, strap keepers, and mesh for their Paragon and Paraglide bindings. Crescent Moon also has a few add-ons, including small and large snowshoe carry bags, neoprene booties, and repair parts. Finally, for those inclined to DIY, TSL sells crampons and spikes that you can install on many of their snowshoes to boost grip—just make sure to check compatibility ahead of time.

Many hikers choose to hit the trail without trekking poles, but what about snowshoeing? Our short answer to the "Do I need poles?" question is yes: In snow in particular, poles increase stability and make uphill and downhill travel much easier. Even though snowshoes themselves have a wide base, it’s easy to get off balance and take little tumbles. And the good news is that most snowshoers also hike, so it’s fairly common that they already own a pair of quality trekking poles for those purposes. 

If you already have trekking poles, you'll want to pick up a pair of snow baskets that are specifically designed to fit with your make and model. If you need new sticks, we’re big fans of Black Diamond and MSR, and our favorite model for 4-season use is the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork , which boasts a sturdy design that isn’t prone to flexing under heavy strain and is compatible with both trekking and powder baskets for year-round use (the latter are sold separately). Should you want a more affordable option or prefer to do some further research, we’ve compiled a complete list of the best trekking poles .  

Most snowshoers will be comfortable with their regular waterproof hiking boots and a pair of warm wool socks (think medium thickness rather than your lightweight summer hikers). If you’re looking at the running models, then a pair of waterproof trail running shoes should do the trick. With high levels of exertion in moderate temperatures in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit, these types of footwear are all that most people need. But if you’re snowshoeing in truly cold conditions (or are prone to running a bit cold), the alternative is a lightly insulated winter boot (the Merrell Thermo Chill is a fine choice for these purposes). We don’t recommend using a full-on winter boot like the Sorel Caribou for anything except very short walks—they’re too cumbersome and often far too warm.

Most snowshoe manufacturers make a unisex model and a corresponding women’s version that may appear to be the same exact snowshoe with a splash of color (where applicable, we've listed these with our picks above). But take heart: Most these models have undergone some changes. First and foremost, women’s snowshoes are shorter. Rather than a 25-inch length being the standard size "small," women’s models start at about 23 inches. The shape also is different, tapering in at the back of the snowshoe to accommodate a woman’s stride that typically is a little shorter. Finally, the bindings are designed to accommodate smaller footwear. It all adds up to a more customized fit that will suit most women better than opting for the unisex (men’s) model.

If you’re just getting into snowshoeing, it can make sense to buy an all-in-one kit that includes poles and other accessories, and the good news is that many of the designs above are offered in prepacked setups. An option like the Yukon Charlie's Advanced Kit has a lot of appeal from a value and convenience perspective: For around $150 (on Amazon at the time of publishing), you get snowshoes, adjustable poles, and a carrying case in one fell swoop. Other popular starter kits include Atlas’ Helium-Trail Snowshoe Kit ($220) and MSR’s Evo Trail kit ($290), which comes with their Evo snowshoes, DynaLock Trail poles, and carry bag with a removable foam seat. Those who already own poles will likely be better off purchasing snowshoes separately, but for beginners that want to remove any guesswork, a prepacked kit is hard to beat.

Don’t Forget Gaiters

Outside of poles, one of the most common snowshoe accessories that folks overlook is the trusty gaiter. Typically associated with mountaineering, these waterproof and tough leg protectors are in fact great for snowshoeing. Not only do they keep snow from sneaking through the opening between your pant leg and your boots, they also help protect your pants should you catch a crampon or other sharp object. For most uses a mid-range model should treat you really well. Our favorite model is the Outdoor Research Helium for their tough and waterproof yet lightweight design. And for serious backcountry use, look to OR's Crocodile gaiters. Back to Our Top Snowshoe Picks   Back to Our Snowshoe Comparison Table

Learn More About Outdoor Gear

• Winter Gear Reviews

MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoe Review

MSR Evo Trail Snowshoe Review

Best Down Jackets of 2024

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Best Snowshoes of 2023 / 2024

• Last updated on January 24, 2024

Kurt Spurlock

This is The Wise Adventurer’s guide to all the best snowshoes of the year. After weeks of research and rigorous field testing, we’ve found seven of the most well-made and capable shoes on the market for every kind of hiker. 

Once the dust had settled (or powder, as was often the case), we found the Atlas Range-MTN to be the best snowshoe overall currently on the market. We took these shoes over everything from steep and icy slopes to rolling hills of deep backcountry snow, and despite our best efforts, we couldn’t find a single place where they didn’t absolutely excel.

The Atlas Range-MTN won’t be the ideal snowshoe for everyone though, and that’s to be expected. While we believe anyone can benefit from its go-anywhere, do-anything design, mountaineering snowshoes like this cost a pretty penny. That’s why we’ve included our favorite picks for all disciplines and price points to ensure there’s something on the list below for beginners and veterans alike. 

We’ve also included a handy buyer’s guide at the bottom of the article where we break down all the important features that make any shoe great. This guide breaks down all the factors we include in our testing methodology , so if you’re just getting started on your snowshoeing journey, make sure you check it out. 

Alright, get those trekking poles ready:  It’s time to dig into the results from this year’s field test!

Summary Table:

Best snowshoes of 2023, atlas range-mtn: best snowshoe overall.

Specs: – Price: $320 – Length: 26” (66cm) – also available in 30” (76cm) and 35” (89cm) – Max recommended load: 200lbs (91 kg) – 250lbs (113 kg) for 30 in. and 300lbs (136kg)  for 35 in. – Weight per pair: 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg) – Snowshoe terrain: Technical/all-mountain

Taking top honors in our roundup for the best snowshoe is the Atlas Range-MTN , an all-new design that raises the bar for just how good an all-terrain snowshoe can be. This shoe lacks  nothing in terms of traction, comfort, and walkability, and delivers excellent flotation to boot. 

Our testers unanimously praised the Range-MTN’s frame-integrated traction rails and aggressive multi-directional crampons for their outstanding bite, a feature made even sweeter by the fact that neither traction aid impairs walking comfort over icy terrain. The Range-MTN also features a beefy traverse support, which made steep terrain as drama-free as possible. 

The Range-MTN isn’t the only shoe in our roundup with outstanding traction, but what really separates it from other top contenders is its comfort and walkability for winter hiking. The comfort aspect comes courtesy of a premium BOA binding, which our testers loved for its ease of use, excellent security, and even distribution of pressure, which made it ideal for heavy winter boots and minimalist hiking shoes alike. The Range-MTN’s high scores in walkability are particularly interesting considering the shoe’s above-average length, a trick we chalk up to Atlas’ long-yet-narrow profile, which kept our steps feeling natural while also preserving flotation.

Truth be told, we really don’t have any complaints with this snowshoe. Yes, it’s expensive, but it still costs less than some of the other premium competition that it outperforms. Some hikers may prefer a simpler binding system like the MSR Paragon below for its weight savings and simplicity, but we’ll take a few extra ounces for added comfort any day.  Read our full test and review of the Atlas Range MTN…

Check at Women’s REI / Check at Women’s Amazon

MSR Lightning Ascent: Best Overall Quality

Specs: – Price: $350 – Length: 22” (56cm)  – also available in 25” (64cm) and 30” (76cm) – Max recommended load: 180 lbs (81.6 kg) – 120-220 lbs (54 – 99.8 kg) for 25 in. and 150-280 lbs (68 – 127 kg) for 30 in. – Weight per pair: 4.1 lbs (1.87 kg) – Snowshoe terrain: Anything and everything, deep snow and steep/technical terrain

Taking the title for best overall quality is the MSR Lightning Ascent , MSR’s flagship model for uncompromising technical performance. This shoe delivers traction, walkability, and durability in spades, and does it all at the impressively low weight of just over 4 pounds. 

This shoe was the undisputed king of the backcountry before the Range-MTN came along, and it’s still just as good as it was when it first hit the market in 2019. With full-length frame-integrated traction rails, aggressive yet easy-walking toe crampons, and a double dose of traverse supports, the Lightning Ascent delivered outstanding traction on every surface we tested. We also noted that the Lightning Ascent packs a surprising level of flotation considering its relatively compact footprint (our test model was just 22” long), which is no doubt due to the shoe’s extra wide dimensions at the ball of the foot, which taper down sharply from there to preserve walkability. 

Combine that winning formula with a tough-yet flexible fabric decking for added comfort and an uber-secure binding that never falters in the rough stuff and it’s plain to see why this shoe has been topping the charts for years. MSR also designed the Ascent’s minimalist Paragon binding to be easily repairable in the field with no special tools: The attachment uses a simple “twist to release” locking mechanism that’s so easy you can do it with gloves on, which adds to its overall value from a reliability standpoint.

Ultimately, the MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoe fell just short of the Atlas above for two reasons. First, while the Paragon binding system is lightweight and easily repairable, it always felt a bit too tight for our liking and wasn’t nearly as precise and comfortable as a BOA system. Second, the Lightning Ascent is the more expensive shoe by $30, so unless you’re looking for the lightest option possible, the price can be a tough pill to swallow.  Read our full test and review of the MSR Lightning Ascent…

Atlas Helium Trail: Best On A Budget

Specs: – Price: $150 – Length: 23” (58cm) – also available in 26” (66cm) & 30” (76cm) – Max recommended load: 160lbs (73 kg) – 220lbs (100 kg) for 26 in. and 270+lbs (122kg) for 30 in. – Weight per pair: 3.6lbs (1.6kg) – Snowshoe terrain: Deep snow, moderate terrain and inclines

When it comes to bang for your buck, the Atlas Helium Trail reigns supreme. There’s just no better option for quality and performance on a budget, and our testers found the lightweight build and modern features of the Helium Trail punched well above this snowshoe’s price point.  

Cost-effectiveness aside, the Helium Trail has a lot going for it. Atlas’ “Helium Decking” technology makes this the lightest snowshoe currently on the market, weighing in at an impressive 3.6 pounds in the 23” version we tested. Combined with a secure binding and the flexible louvered decking that sheds snow buildup with ease, walkability for this shoe is outstanding.

We’ll also point out that Atlas updated the Helium Trail for the 2023 model year, and the shoe now sports a simplified binding that’s ideal for beginners as well as a less aggressive 12-degree heel lifter that’s better suited for this shoe’s “easy-to-moderate” intentions. It’s a great option for new hikers looking to get off-trail for some backcountry exploration, but it will serve seasoned vets as well as a backup shoe for less technical pursuits. 

Ultimately the Atlas Helium Trail is limited by its traction, and we found its aggressive steel traction rails and simple toe crampon just weren’t enough to tackle steep gradients or icy conditions. There’s a notable lack of traverse support on the underside of the shoe, which we hope to see updated the next go-round. We’ll also note that while the new binding helps keep this shoe intuitive for beginners, we can’t help but miss the classic nylon “Wrapp” system for its overall comfort and ease of use. The Helium Trail is still a fantastic shoe for rolling hills of powdery snow or packed trails and groomers though, and outperforms other budget-friendly shoes by a wide margin on its home turf. Read our full test and review of the Atlas Helium Trail…

MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes

​​Specs: – Price: $170 – Length: 22” (56cm) – Max recommended load: 180lbs/82kg (250lbs/113kg with tails) – Weight per pair: 3.6lbs (1.6kg) – Snowshoe terrain: Rolling/moderate terrain

While MSR’s Lightning Ascent snowshoes are easily one of the most advanced and capable options money can buy, not everyone wants or needs their all-encompassing and highly technical build. For your average to intermediate hiker, the MSR Evo Trail offers a much more compelling proposition, bringing solid all-around performance at a much more affordable price. 

So what makes the Evo Trail such a sweet deal? For starters, you’re getting the same web-style binding as the Lightning Ascent, which our testers found to be unfailingly stable yet among the easiest and most convenient to use. You’re also getting a significantly lighter shoe thanks to the Evo Trail’s composite decking material, which helps to limit fatigue when you’re really putting in the miles. 

The other key factor for us is the Evo Trail’s traction, which punches well above its price point both in terms of quality and grip. Where other budget-friendly models often stick with less durable aluminum rails and crampons, MSR builds theirs entirely out of stainless steel, and also takes full advantage of the composite decking material by adding additional paddles and brakes into the underside of the shoe. 

Of course at this price you’re also getting a few tradeoffs in exchange for budget friendliness, and the main one is traction. While the Evo Trail performs admirably in easy to intermediate terrain, their lack of a heel lift and less aggressive crampons aren’t ideal for steeper grades or more extreme icy conditions. Your average user likely won’t miss either feature, however, making these shoes a smart buy that’s built to last for years of use and abuse. 

Tubbs Flex VRT: Best Composite Snowshoe

Specs: – Price: $280  – Length: 25” (64cm) – also available in 29” (74cm) – Max recommended load: 220lbs (100kg) – 250lbs (113kg) for 29 in.  – Weight per pair: 4.6lbs (2.1kg) – Snowshoe terrain: All mountain/technical/steep

Whoever said composite deck snowshoes couldn’t tackle serious terrain never stepped foot in the Tubbs Flex VRT . These aggressive backcountry snowshoes pack some of the most intense traction we’ve ever seen, plastic or otherwise, and includes a slew of modern technical features to boot. 

Our testers were thoroughly impressed by Tubbs’ latest update to the Flex VRT, which now features the most aggressive traction aids the company has ever employed. We gave the shoe high marks for its full-length steel rails, which are now among the deepest and sharpest on the market. We also noted that Tubbs’ trademark “Viper 2.0” crampon, which employs 360 degrees of absolutely wicked-looking teeth, delivered fantastic bite on icy terrain, and never gave an inch on even the steepest slopes. Tubbs has also revised the tail section of the Flex VRT, and the outgoing design’s shallow steel rails have been replaced with six studs embedded in raised sections of the decking, which our testers noted provide improved grip when descending steep slopes. 

The Flex VRT still delivers the same outstanding walkability these shoes have become known for thanks to Tubbs’ “torsion deck” design, which takes advantage of the brand’s nylon composite decking material to allow the shoe a degree of flex over uneven terrain. We found the tail section of this shoe to be particularly flexible, which makes for a pleasantly natural walking experience over packed snow or groomed trails. We also gave this shoe high marks for its revised BOA binding system, which now includes a dedicated toe stop for optimal security and fool-proof foot placement.

Our testers considered these shoes to be among the best in the business, coming in just behind shoes like the Atlas Range-MTN in terms of overall performance. Ultimately the Tubbs’ didn’t feel quite as composed when descending in steep slow, which cost them a few points in the traction department. We’ll also note that the super-aggressive design of the Viper 2.0 crampons seems to dig into ice a bit too aggressively , which gives these shoes a bit of an awkward (yet extremely sure-footed) feeling when crossing icy sections or melt-freeze snow.  Read our full test and review of the Tubbs Flex VRT…

Check at Women’s Amazon

TSL Symbioz Elite 

Specs: – Price: $280 – Length: 20.5” (53cm) – also available in 23.5” (59cm) and 27” (69cm) – Max recommended load: 180lbs (82kg) – 260lbs (118kg) for 23.5 in. and 300lbs (136kg) 27 in. – Weight per pair: 4.1lbs (1.9kg) – Snowshoe terrain: Packed/groomed trails, moderate terrain

If we were handing out an award for the most fun you can possibly have in a snowshoe, the TSL Symbioz Elite would be the front-runner. With its trademark “Hyperflex” decking, compact footprint, and outstanding traction, this shoe puts a unique “spring” in your step that made us want to absolutely charge up powdery hills with abandon.

In addition to the addictive walking experience, we also give the Symbioz high marks for traction. TSL incorporates a unique system of eight massive teeth, a razor-sharp toe crampon, and molded plastic traverse supports to deliver outstanding grip on even the iciest descents. We were a bit standoffish about the lack of a traditional traction rail on this shoe at first, but we’ve got to give credit where credit is due: TSL really did their homework here, and their ability to preserve flexibility without sacrificing grip on icy surfaces deserves recognition.

The other major highlight of the Symbioz Elite is the binding, which incorporates TSL’s trademark three-way adjustability for the most comfortable and secure fit on the market. Once properly dialed into your footwear, these bindings give a near-telepathic connection with the ground below, allowing these shoes to confidently take you places normally outside the wheelhouse of such a compact design.

The main drawback of the TSL Symbioz Elite is its limited versatility. While we thoroughly enjoyed taking these shoes into places they probably weren’t intended to go, walking through deep snow takes much more effort than top performers like the Atlas Range-MTN and MSR Lightning Ascent, making both models a better candidate for long days in the backcountry. The Symbioz is also fairly expensive considering its somewhat limited design, although there’s no denying it wants for nothing in terms of material quality and durability. These shoes will be a home run for folks who love getting some exercise on trails and groomers, but don’t want to miss out on the occasional off-trail pursuit as well.  Read our full test and review of the TSL Symbioz Elite…

​​Specs: – Price: $270 – Length: 22” (56cm) – Max recommended load: 190lbs (86kg) – Weight per pair: 2.3lbs (37oz) – Snowshoe terrain: Flat/groomed

While most snowshoes focus their efforts on delivering all-around performance, the Atlas Run is built for one thing and one thing only: Speed. Light, fast, and stable, these shoes allow you go all-out on your local trails with confidence.

Truly unlike any other snowshoe on our list, the Atlas Run employs a minimalist design that focuses on speed and traction over packed/icy snow at the expense of everything else. Traction is limited to an aggressive forward crampon for midfoot striking and a small rear traction plate at the heel to manage rolling elevation changes. 

We’re particularly keen on the Run’s unique “Speed Helix” bindings, which employ a forefoot-only BOA system lashed to the frame by Atlas’s wrap-around Spring Loaded Suspension design. This combination lends a runner the maximum possible feel underfoot while still allowing each step to flex within the confines of the nylon decking to conform to the terrain below. 

If you’re interested in going fast on the snow, the Atlas Run is our top recommendation, but traditional snowshoe users will likely find them lacking. Atlas’ focus on speed means these shoes don’t offer a ton of floatation for deep snow or traction for technical terrain, so we don’t recommend these shoes for anything outside of running and/or hiking on packed snow or groomed terrain with minimal elevation change. 

Tubbs Flex TRK

​​Specs: – Price: $170 – Length: 24”, 22” (61cm, 56cm) – Max recommended load: 200 lbs (91kg) – Weight per pair: 3.9lbs (1.8kg) – Snowshoe terrain: Intermediate/rolling

There’s no shortage of competition out there for budget-friendly, composite deck snowshoes, and Tubb’s Flex TRK makes a strong showing for options under the $200 mark. Like its competitors from MSR and Atlas, the Flex TRK delivers quality and commendable traction for the money, but we found it also has a few notable tricks up its sleeve. 

The first thing that struck us about the Flex TRK is that its 24” decks carry the highest load capacity in the segment at a whopping 200lbs without the need to add any additional tails for support. That’s even better than the larger 25” decks found on Tubbs’ own flagship Flex VRT shoes, albeit for about $100 less. 

The second is that that materials of the Flex TRK, both in the decking and binding straps, feels much more robust than the simplified webbing designs of most shoes at this price. This is notable for us because while we’ve never managed to snap a webbed binding in our testing, many owners report these designs snapping in extreme cold after a season or two. 

In terms of shortcomings the Tubbs Flex TRK share the same traction issues common to other models in this price range: There’s plenty of bite underfoot for intermediate terrain and rolling elevation changes, but something more aggressive is still required for steep and icy terrain. We’ll also note that the Flex TRK comes with above-average 16-degree heel lifts, which is great for fairly steep climbs, but may feel overkill on gentler slopes. 

Check Women’s REI / Check Women’s Amazon

Atlas Montane: Best Traditional Snowshoe

Specs: – Price: $250 – Length: 25” (64cm) – also available in 30” (76cm) and 35” (89cm) – Max recommended load: 200lbs (91kg) – 250lbs (113kg) for 30” in. and 300+lbs (136kg) for 35 in. – Weight per pair: 4.4lbs (2.0kg) – Snowshoe terrain: Moderate to deep snow / Moderate terrain

While traditional tubular snowshoes and their wrap-around deckings have largely fallen out of fashion, the Atlas Montane reminds us that quality and comfort never go out of style. These shoes’ combination of old-school charm and premium materials may not compete with the latest and greatest tech-focused options, but they’re still an absolute pleasure to take hiking off-trail and deep snow.

As is the case with most traditional shoes, the Montane’s plus-sized footprint and flexible decking material delivered outstanding flotation, making this one of the most enjoyable shoes for walking in deep powder. Our testers were particularly fond of the Montane’s “spring-loaded suspension” design, which suspends the binding underfoot using a length of burly reinforced fabric. This setup allows the Montane’s binding to articulate and flex within the confines of the tubular frame, so each step has an added degree of “cushion” while also better conforming to uneven terrain. 

Call us nostalgic, but our testers also still have love for the Montane’s classic “Wrapp Swift” binding, which uses nylon webbing straps backed with Eva padding for a comfortable yet secure fit. This is one of the quickest and easiest systems to get in and out of even in the iciest conditions, and we hope Atlas keeps it around for years to come.

Unfortunately the Montane starts to show its age over more technical terrain, which limits its versatility compared with modern designs like the Atlas’ own Range-MTN. The shoe boasts a solid crampon and even a set of traction rails with an integrated traverse support riveted to the decking, but these aids simply can’t keep up with the latest and greatest. The Atlas Montane is still an incredibly comfortable shoe made with the highest-quality materials, however, so if a snowy backwood with a carpet of fresh powder is your happy place, these shoes will serve you well for years to come.  Read our full test and review of the Atlas Montane…

Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose A Snowshoe

So what makes any good snowshoe worth buying? Clearly there are several factors at play here, and to that end, we’ve put together the detailed buyer’s guide down below. Here you’ll find a breakdown of each of the metrics we evaluate in our field testing, why they’re important, and what to look for in any shoe you’re considering, whether it’s on the list above or another model we didn’t mention.

Flotation refers to how well a snowshoe keeps you suspended over deep snow, or how well it “floats” you on the surface. In serious powder, even the best hiking snowshoes will sink to a certain degree, but our main goal here is for the shoes to keep you close enough to the surface to make walking as smooth as possible. 

We test each snowshoe’s flotation by hiking several miles in each model through several feet of fresh powder. We do this over both flat terrain and varying degrees of incline to ensure that every shoe not only floats well in deep snow, but also has the stability to ride high and level regardless of the terrain.

Typically, we’ve found that shoes with more overall surface area (wider and longer decking) tend to score the best in this metric. This includes traditional tubular shoes like the Atlas Montane, but with the right shape and design, we’ve also had more compact shoes like the MSR Lightning Ascent and Atlas Range-MTN deliver similar flotation without the added bulk. 

Keep in mind that with a few notable exceptions, most snowshoes strike a compromise between compactness and flotation in the name of walkability. Smaller, more narrow snowshoes tend to make for easier and more natural-feeling steps (particularly in packed snow), so more versatile models typically aim to deliver adequate flotation without losing their on-trail walkability. 

Traction 

If there’s one factor that separates the best snowshoes from the rest, it’s traction. How much or how little traction your shoes create over various surfaces determines whether or not you’ll be able to venture off trail, up steep slopes, or across challenging surfaces like ice and melt-freeze snow.

The most common (and effective) traction aids you’ll see today are traction rails. These are the serrated metal teeth that run along the bottom of the shoe parallel to your foot. Generally speaking, we look for full-length traction rails that run the full length of the shoe, and those with deeper/sharper teeth typically perform better than less aggressive designs.

Snowshoe crampons are your second line of defense against slippage, and work much the same way as mountaineering crampons. Because crampons are directly connected to your boot bindings, they provide a more direct means of putting traction to the ground. The best crampons feature multiple aggressive teeth distributed at various angles around the foot for the best grip possible with each step. 

We also prefer to see crampons as part of a hinged binding system (more on that below), as this allows for more articulation and therefore better penetration into the ground below. You’ll also notice that certain models rely exclusively on crampons for traction, and this isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker. We’ve had excellent results snowshoeing in a few crampon-only models over the years, and find that a well-designed spike layout is well-suited for moderate terrain.

The last main traction aid we look for is traverse supports, which are perpendicular rails made from either metal or plastic, depending on the shoe in question. Traverse supports provide traction on steep surfaces (both fresh snow and ice) by digging in to resist forward or backward sliding. Snowshoes without some type of traverse support are rarely (if ever) effective over technical terrain, so this is a must-have for maximum versatility. 

Walkability

Walkability is the metric we use to describe the overall walking experience of a given snowshoe. This includes everything from how it “handles” trudging through deep powder to how natural it feels walking over hard-packed groomers and snowy roads. There’s no cut-and-dry formula for good walkability, but if a natural-feeling stride is high on your priority list, here’s what we recommend looking out for.

The first is the overall size of the footprint, and generally speaking, the smaller the shoe, the easier it walks. We’ve found this to be the case for more compact designs in our testing like the TSL Symbioz Elite and the MSR Lightning Ascent, but there are also exceptions to the rule. 

Our favorite example currently is the Atlas Range-MTN, which is one of the longest shoes in our testing, yet also happens to be an absolute joy to walk in. The Range-MTN is a bit of an outlier due to its extra-narrow width, but it just goes to show you can’t judge a book by its cover. 

Another feature that almost always makes for a more natural feeling stride is flexibility. Composite snowshoes have a well-deserved reputation for high walkability because their plastic decks allow the shoes to “flex” to one degree or another. This lets them better conform to uneven terrain, and also allows the tail sections of the shoe to give under pressure, so you don’t feel like you’re fighting the shoe for each step. 

Plastic decks have a reputation for being noisy over more packed terrain, however, and at the end of the day, even the most flexible decks are still rigid by comparison to reinforced fabric options. For this reason, we typically prefer a “best of both worlds” approach combining a flexible fabric decking with a rigid outer frame, as these shoes still provide a fair amount of cushion underfoot without waking up the neighborhood on harder surfaces.  

Snowshoe Bindings

All other things equal, the bindings of your snowshoe can make or break your experience in a number of ways. A good binding fits securely over your footwear without creating any pinching or discomfort as you walk, which can be a fine line to toe.

Different hikers need different levels of security out of their bindings. If you’re trudging through deep snow or tackling aggressively steep climbs and descents, the last thing you want is for your foot to wiggle its way out of your snowshoe. For this reason, we prioritize security over comfort for the most technical snowshoes (the MSR Lighting Ascent is a great example), but our favorite models tend to deliver both with minimal compromise (such as the Atlas Range MTN). 

With that being said, simpler bindings typically come on more budget-friendly shoes, and if you’re not looking to go nuts in the backcountry, you may actually prefer a slightly less restrictive binding in exchange for optimal walking comfort. We’ll also note that ease of use is a major contributor to overall binding performance, which is why a best-of-both-worlds system like the BOA binding is more popular than ever. 

The best snowshoes are a big investment, and as such, we expect them to last for years and years of use and abuse. The importance of durability is twofold, and we prioritize it both for reliability and longevity. 

The longevity aspect should be fairly self-explanatory, as no one wants their $200+ snowshoe breaking a strap or tearing a deck after a season or two. Traction, walkability, and flotation are all nice to have, but if something fails in the middle of a hike, the result can be anywhere from inconvenient to catastrophic, which brings us to our next point: Reliability.

A durable snowshoe is one that you can count on to get you out there and back, and the further you wander off the beaten path, the more important this becomes. Getting stranded in a remote wilderness with miles of deep snow between you and civilization is a recipe for disaster, and something we’d all like to avoid. 

The first thing to wear out on most shoes are the binding straps, as they’re constantly exposed to tension, abrasion, and extreme swings in temperature. Rubberized plastic straps have been known to deteriorate after years of regular use, but they’re also easy to repair and affordable to replace. 

BOA systems, on the other hand, are designed to last for the lifetime of the product, and are even covered by a lifetime guarantee for repair/replacement. We’ve also found nylon webbing bindings like the Atlas “Wrapp Swift” system to be a good compromise between the two, as the straps last forever and the riveted plastic they’re attached to feels just as durable. 

The other major durability item we evaluate is the decking itself. For plastic deck shoes, we look at the thickness of the material, its ability to flex under stress, and how well each of the traction/binding components are anchored to the decking, ideally with heavy-gauge rivets.

For flexible fabric decks, we look at the thickness of the material itself, as well as how it’s attached to the frame. The best designs are riveted directly to the frame, so there’s no concern about undue wear and tear from constant abrasion underfoot. The wrap around decking found on tractional tubular frame shoes can be a concern depending on the overall material quality, but we’ve found it to be plenty robust on designs like the Atlas Montane seen below. 

Lastly, we also consider repairability as an important aspect of durability, both for long-term care and impromptu repairs, and no shoe is a better example of this than the MSR Lightning Ascent. MSR designed the binding of the Ascent to be easily repaired/replaced in the field without any tools, which beats the hell out of trying to cobble together a fix with wire and duct tape to get you home in a pinch. The easier a snowshoe is to repair, the less it will cost you in the long run, so we factor this into our evaluations as well. 

As is often the case with any outdoor gear, the value of a good pair of snowshoes is highly subjective. Let’s take two radically different shoes into consideration to better illustrate our point: Atlas’ top-shelf Range-MTN and their budget-friendly Atlas Helium Trail. 

Both shoes deliver excellent value for the money, yet the Atlas Range-MTN costs twice as much as the Helium Trail. So how can both shoes be a smart buy? Simple: It depends entirely on the end user.

Let’s start with the Atlas Range-MTN: With a current MSRP of $320, there’s no denying this is one of the most expensive snowshoes that money can buy, yet it’s also an outstanding value. This is because the Range-MTN is built to the exacting specifications of mountaineers, who often use them on the approach to a summit where failure can have serious consequences. 

That means you’re paying for an uncompromising level of performance, giving you every right to expect your shoes to handle the most treacherous terrain on the planet. If you’re just looking to go hiking around groomed trails or the backcountry with your friends on the weekend, however, chances are shoes like this aren’t a great value for you, as you’ll rarely (if ever) use them to their full potential.

And that’s where the value of a shoe like the Atlas Helium Trail comes into play. For just $150, you’re getting everything you need to hike groomed trails or deep backcountry powder, and you’re also getting the trickle-down technology and expertise of a brand that makes some of the best shoes in the business. Are these shoes valuable to hikers who need something like the Range-MTN above for steep climbs and icy terrain? Absolutely not. Are they valuable to anyone else? You bet.

Well there you have it: All the best hiking snowshoes of the year, as tested by the team here at The Wise Adventurer. Our aim with this guide has been to help you choose the best snowshoe for the season, and to help explain what makes any good snowshoe worth having. 

If you’re looking for the best shoe in the business at any price, you can’t go wrong with the Atlas Range-MTN . Our testers found no flaws in this innovative all-new design, and believe the Range-MTN has set a new standard for traction, comfort, and walkability, and all for a few dollars less than the previous “king of the mountain” MSR Lightning Ascent. 

Of course the MSR Lightning Ascent still has its place in the backcountry, which is why we choose it as the highest overall quality pick. Traction and walkability on these shoes are right up there with the Atlas above, but both come in at a few ounces less., The Lightning Ascent also makes for an easier shoe to repair/rebuild out in the field, which comes in handy for folks venturing far off the beaten path. 

Of course not everyone is looking to traverse the globe in their snowshoes, and if you’re just looking for a solid performing shoe to tackle easy to moderate terrain, the Atlas Helium Trail packs solid traction and flotation for half the price of its top-shelf competition. The fact that it’s also the lightest shoe on the market is just icing on the cake, but a feature your tired legs will appreciate just the same.

As always, if you’ve got any questions, feel free to drop us a comment down below. We’ll see you out there! 

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The Best Snowshoes

By Eve O'Neill

When the blizzard has passed, the sun is out, and you’re tired of being cooped up indoors, a pair of snowshoes will let you hike your favorite trail or stroll in your backyard without sinking knee-deep in a couple of feet of snow.

By spreading your weight over their greater surface area, snowshoes keep your feet from punching through the snowpack.

So if you’d like to be more active in the wintertime, either in spite of—or because of—the snow, we recommend the MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes , which are short enough and light enough for you to strap to your bag if and when the terrain changes and you no longer need them. (And this happens a lot.)

Everything we recommend

MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes

The best snowshoes.

Well-built and lightweight, the Evo pair can take a lot of abuse and doesn't cost a fortune.

Buying Options

Tubbs Xplore Men’s Snowshoes

For powder or if you weigh more than 180 pounds.

The Tubbs snowshoes are available in lengths that support a larger range of weights and float easier on softer snow.

Tubbs Xplore Women’s Snowshoes

For most people looking to take a winter walk in snowy landscapes, the MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes are a fantastic choice.

They fit a wide range of footwear thanks to heavy-duty straps that keep boots securely attached, and they’re more durable than any cheaper option.

These work best on snow that is firm or already packed down, and that’s the terrain we think the majority of people will be using their snowshoes on.

If you weigh more than 180 pounds, a longer snowshoe will give you better float, and the Tubbs Xplore comes in several lengths—21 and 25 inches in the women’s sizes and 25 and 30 inches in the men’s sizes —specifically for that purpose. (Our top pick, in comparison, is 22 inches long.)

Additionally, if you are the type who enjoys a leg-burning slog in freshly fallen powder (we see you), a longer shoeshoe is a better design for traversing fluffy, untouched flakes. Much like a boat on water, longer shoes do a better job of keeping you afloat on top of the snowpack.

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: msr evo trail snowshoes, also great: tubbs xplore men’s and women’s snowshoes, other good snowshoes, the competition.

My main experience with snowshoes started in 2014, when I began attempting winter ascents of California fourteeners—that is, mountains that are at least 14,000 feet tall—which captured my imagination for years and required lots of spiked footwear. And also, sometimes, snowshoes.

One way you can get dangerously trapped on a mountain is if you hike early in the morning, when the snow is hard, but then fail to get down before the sun softens the snowpack. You can’t walk back over it if it’s soft, and occasionally people trap themselves above huge drifts of impassable, neck-deep snow that just hours earlier was rock solid.

The only way to get out of this horrible situation is 1) don’t get into it in the first place—I know that sounds smug, but it’s the first thing any decent mentor will teach you—or 2) bring snowshoes. I didn’t always need snowshoes for these long ascents, but I always took them, and they saved me at least once, when I got trapped up top due to wind and had to dig into a snow cave and wait it out.

I would take winter hiking over summer hiking any day. Unspeakably crisp air. Empty trails. No bugs. Hiking in the off-season is an absolute pleasure and something I’d recommend to anyone, even if you’ve never tried it. If you’re lucky enough to live where snow falls and you want to get out there, though, you need some footwear.

Specifically, you need snowshoes, which prevent postholing—when you step on top of snow and your leg punches ankle-, knee-, or waist-deep into the drift, trapping you, stifling all movement. It’s the most morally defeating, frustrating state of being for anyone trying to get anywhere in the snow.

Snowshoes help with this. They create a broad, flat base that distributes your weight over a greater surface area and prevents your foot from punching through. We specifically chose as our top pick a snowshoe that works on hardpack snow because we think that’s what most people will encounter, but snowshoes provide so many advantages in other conditions, as well. Your boots won’t slip around in the soft slush of the afternoon, and you’ll have something that can get you over soft banks that may have been sitting in the shade all day and haven’t hardened enough to walk on. (However, if you’ll be walking a lot on hard, icy surfaces, you might consider using ice cleats , which attach to your regular winter boots, instead.)

Basically, snowshoes get you over the widely varied terrain you’re likely to encounter when you’re walking through snow, with a degree of competence and grace that boots alone simply can’t provide.

After reading dozens of snowshoe buyer reviews, doing online research, and factoring in over a decade of my own personal experience hiking with snowshoes, we outlined the following criteria:

Terrain: Packed snow, fluffy snow, deep fluffy snow, ice—there’s a different type of shoe for each of these conditions. Add in the angle of the slope you’re hiking, and things get even more variable.

Since fluffy snow doesn’t last long, and deep fluffy snow is really hard to hike in (even with snowshoes), we looked for a pair that was more suited for use on packed snow, which we think most recreational hikers are interested in.

Length: Your shoe shouldn’t be longer than necessary, because carrying extra weight on your feet gets tiring. Generally speaking, long, wide snowshoes are for staying on top of fresh powder, exactly the way a boat floats on water. Shorter shoes are more beneficial for hiking on packed snow, when the challenge is less about floating on top and more about keeping your boot from punching through the hardpack.

The length of a snowshoe also correlates to the weight of the wearer: Longer shoes keep heavier hikers up and out of the snow.

Materials: The least expensive snowshoes are typically made with aluminum and plastic; the most expensive, with nylon and steel.

For the casual hiker, the thing to pay attention to is what the spikes under your foot are made of. Cheap shoes have aluminum rails and spikes. The rails are the metal frame underfoot, and the spikes are often integrated into that frame (though not always). Eventually, without care, those components can wear down, warp, and fall apart. Steel rails and spikes underfoot generally indicate a higher-quality shoe that can take more of a beating.

The trade-off for using steel, as always, is weight. So it’s not uncommon to see aluminum used for snowshoe frames (not the spikes)—especially long frames, the kind you need to stay afloat in deep, fluffy snow.

Boot-attachment system: A snowshoe typically attaches to your boot in the most low-tech way, using plastic straps. This is a good thing. Hardy, robust straps are what can withstand the strain from your boot pulling on the shoe over and over again.

Sometimes they have a ratchet system, sometimes they have buckles. Sometimes the straps are made of nylon or even metal cables. Putting the snowshoes on is basically the same, though: You slide your foot in between the straps and tighten them down.

The most important thing is that your foot is secure in the shoe, as you’ll be putting your snowshoes through a surprising amount of abuse, whether you’re clomping endlessly through the snow, making casual missteps, or simply banging them around on the pavement before or after your hike.

Designed for hiking rolling hills on packed snow, the MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes are the most hardy snowshoes you can get for the price.

Snowshoes take a real beating, maybe more than you might imagine if you haven’t tried snowshoeing before. The platforms get stepped on, the binding system gets strained, the bottoms get scraped along pavement, rocks, and debris.

For that reason, we like the Evo design, which has a robust and comfortable attachment system, a platform made out of rigid plastic, and steel rails and spikes underfoot. (That last detail is one of the main differences between cheap snowshoes and more expensive ones: Steel rails and spikes are stronger than parts made of aluminum, so the frame and teeth of the Evo shoe will hold up to more scraping.)

Thanks to this combination of features, these snowshoes are burly enough to take the abuse, sans extras that would end up being overkill and therefore cause them to cost a lot more.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

These snowshoes don’t have a heel lift, which is a small piece of metal under the heel that is designed to help take pressure off your calves if you are hiking up a steep hill. Heel lifts are available on more expensive models, including mountaineering-specific snowshoes, but unless you have plans to tackle steep, wintry slopes in particular, we don’t think you’ll miss them.

A heel lift isn’t always active; the small metal riser lies flat in the shoe until you need it, and then you flip it up manually. For short uphills, they’re often more of a hassle to lift than they’re worth. (They often freeze to the base of the snowshoe, forcing you to get down there to chip them free. Then all your friends are standing around waiting for you, and frustration sets in.)

The Evo Trail Snowshoes are 22 inches long, shorter than many other options. That makes them easier to pack and easier to maneuver, and the shorter length presents little downside if you’re out on packed trails. However, the major drawback of that shorter length is that it lowers their weight capacity, as these snowshoes top out at 180 pounds. If you weigh more than that, take a look at our recommendation below for a longer shoe, which gives you more float.

MSR does sell an optional flotation tail for the Evo pair that is supposed to serve two purposes: It increases the weight rating so that the snowshoe can accommodate a hiker up to 250 pounds, and it allows this snowshoe to work in fluffier, deeper powder (which is what longer snowshoes are for).

But in fluffy powder we noticed that the tail was sorta meh, performance wise. And the bottom line is that no one should have to pay extra just for a snowshoe to accommodate their size.

The Tubbs Xplore Snowshoes are a recreational model similar to the MSR Evo Trail Snowshoes in many ways, including a robust and secure boot-attachment system and steel spikes underfoot (though the rails and deck are aluminum and nylon, respectively, in order to save weight).

The main difference is that their sizing is a lot more sophisticated. They come in men’s and women’s sizes, which should promote a more tailored and comfortable boot fit. You can also choose the length of the snowshoe, selecting 21, 25, or 30 inches, and the 30-inch shoe accommodates a human weighing up to 250 pounds, which is 70 pounds more than the weight capacity of the MSR Evo pair. (People who weigh between 250 and 300 pounds might want to investigate the Tubbs Wilderness , another snowshoe we like for use in deep, fresh snow.)

Likewise, if you’re more interested in longer snowshoes, which work better on light, fluffy snow, you can choose a pair of longer Xplore shoes (that would be the 25- or 30-inch version), and they will do just that. Just keep in mind that you’ll be carrying more weight on each foot.

Finally, these shoes are also available as part of men’s and women’s kits, which each include poles and gaiters. However, you don’t need special trekking poles for snowshoeing, so if you already have some, they’ll work fine.

We didn’t like the fit system that attaches the Tubbs snowshoe to your boot as much as we did the system on the MSR Evo design, which is popular with everyone we’ve ever spoken to, but unless you’re putting in a lot of time hiking in your snowshoes, we don’t think you’d be likely to notice a difference. These snowshoes also lack a heel lift, a feature often found on more expensive models, but as we said earlier, heel lifts are often more trouble than they’re worth.

If you want to go up and down steep slopes and ice: Consider the MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes, which come in men’s and women’s sizes (unlike the Evo Trail shoes) and have more tiny spikes underfoot than sharks have teeth. These are widely regarded as some of the best snowshoes around—this is the pair I own—and they’re light for how durable they are. However, they’re expensive and built for bigger mountaineering objectives, so unless you plan on hiking up steep, icy slopes with regularity, you simply don’t have to pay this much for a pair of snowshoes.

If you need a budget option: Consider the Alps snowshoes , which are the least expensive snowshoes we found. I have a pair that I bought for guests to use when they visit me in the mountains, and my dental hygienist happens to own a pair, as well; she informed me over a routine teeth cleaning that she used hers for about two years before something broke, and that she was generally happy with them. They’re built with aluminum, like all inexpensive snowshoes, but if you need the least expensive thing that works, we think these will do. No other cheaper model is an upgrade from this; if you want higher build quality, the step up from this pair is our top pick from MSR.

If you specifically want to hike in fresh snow, deep snow, or powder: We suggest the Tubbs Wilderness Snowshoes (available in men’s and women’s sizing). They come in three longer lengths than our pick—25, 30, and 36 inches—which is important when your main consideration is how to stay afloat atop fluffy snow. (The women’s version is also available in a 21-inch length.) The frame is aluminum to help reduce some of the weight added by the extra length, but the spikes underfoot are carbon steel. The 36-inch pair is rated for carrying 300 pounds; we have yet to find any snowshoes good for people heavier than that.

The Tubbs Flex VRT , Tubbs Mountaineer , and TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Original are all mountaineering snowshoes, and therefore they’re expensive and possibly over-equipped for the average hiker.

The Tubbs Panoramic snowshoe has a Boa lacing system, which consists of a dial that you twist to tighten the steel-cable laces. I have broken three pairs of Boa laces on snowshoes. In a casual survey of friends who also do a lot of backcountry travel, the verdict seemed split down the middle, as about half said they hadn’t had problems with Boa laces, while the other half said they kept breaking them. Bottom line: Boa lacing can work on other types of footwear (cycling shoes, say), but on snowshoes I don’t trust it.

The Atlas Helium Trail is a pair of recreational snowshoes that is very similar to our picks, but our decision to eliminate it from contention came down to the attachment system, which we don’t like as much as the dead-simple straps on the MSR Evo pair.

The G2 snowshoes that come in this snowshoeing package available on Amazon are similar to the inexpensive Alps snowshoes we mentioned above, but they cost more.

This article was edited by Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Eve O'Neill

Eve O'Neill is a former senior staff writer reporting on travel and outdoors at Wirecutter. She can remember the titles on her childhood bookshelf that set her in this direction: Into Thin Air, On The Road, The Call of the Wild . She has always been drawn to ideas about how to relate to, and play in, the wilderness.

Further reading

The Best Ski Socks

by Colin Rosemont

We spent 50 hours researching and testing 12 pairs of ski socks, and chose the men’s and women’s Smartwool Ski Targeted Cushion Over the Calf socks as the best for most people.

50(ish) Apparel and Accessory Picks for Fall and Winter

by Gabriella DePinho

Stay warm and stylish this fall and winter with some of our favorite apparel and accessory picks.

The Shovel That Beat the Snowpocalypse and Saved My Back

by Christine Ryan

Believe it or not, it’s actually a joy to shovel snow with the True Temper Mountain Mover , which we’ve recommended for a decade.

The Best Snow Shovel

by Doug Mahoney

After 70 hours of research (and 40 hours of shoveling), the best snow shovel is the True Temper 18-Inch Ergonomic Mountain Mover , our pick since 2013.

Table of contents

Best Snowshoes for Mountaineering of 2024

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

Snowshoes are a must if you’re planning a winter hike. We’ve donned dozens of pairs and hit the snowy trails, from ice-laden slopes to fresh powder-packed hills, to bring you this list of the best snowshoes on the market. We consider traction, weight, ease of use, and durability in our assessments. After 500 miles of snowy trekking, we have recommendations for shoes from those that are best for beginners to ones made for serious alpine ascents.

If you need help on ice or hard pack, you’ll want to take a look at our review of the best traction devices and crampons for winter hiking . Either way, a pair of trekking poles will help with stability on uneven terrain. And to keep your toes toasty as you climb, we’ve reviewed our favorite winter boots for men and women .

Quick Picks for Snowshoes

Check out this quick list of our favorite snowshoes, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Best snowshoes overall:  MSR Lightning Ascent ($390)

Best snowshoes for steep mountain terrain:  Tubbs Flex VRT ($280)

Best budget snowshoes:  MSR Evo Trail ($170)

Value-priced snowshoes for all experience levels & most types of terrain:  Atlas Montane ($250)

Best snowshoes for deep powder:  Crescent Moon Gold 10 ($220)

Flexible snowshoes that allow for a natural gait:  TSL Outdoors Symbioz Hyperflex Elite ($290)

Versatile snowshoes at a good value price:  MSR Revo Explore ($270)

Most affordable snowshoes:  FLASHTEK Snowshoes ($53)

The CleverHiker team has been trekking through our favorite winter wonderlands to continue testing some reliable pairs while also adding some new top contenders to the mix:

• The MSR Lightning Ascent is our favorite pair overall for its superb flotation, traction, and comfort.
• The Tubbs Flex VRT take a top spot for their burly traction and durability in intense terrain.
• For those who are just starting out, the MSR Evo Trail is a solid budget pair that performs well and is relatively easy to put on and take off.

• MSR Lightning Ascent

Best snowshoes overall

Price: $390

Weight (Pair): 4 lbs. 5 oz. (25in)

Length: 22”, 25”, or 30”; optional 5” tails

Best Use: All-around, excels on mountain terrain

• Good traction
• Options to lengthen with tails
• Good flotation
• Lightweight
• Comfy & secure bindings

MSR’s Lightning Ascent snowshoes (view Women’s here) are a great all-around choice for both beginners and seasoned snowshoers. These lightweight snowshoes are designed with a ton of quality features, like heel lifts that make traversing uphill a breeze, aggressive toe crampons to ensure solid footing as you ascend, and bindings that are comfortable and secure. One of our favorite things about MSR snowshoes is that they give the option to add flotation tails (sold separately), so you can adapt the length of your snowshoes to the terrain and conditions. The Lightning Ascents are the most expensive snowshoes on our list, but they provide the best all-around performance with their excellent balance of traction, flotation, and comfort.

• Tubbs Flex VRT

Best snowshoes for steep mountain terrain

Price: $280

Weight (Pair): 4 lb. 5.9 oz. (25 in.)

Length: 25” or 29”

Best Use: All-around, excels on steep mountain terrain

• Aggressive traction
• Easy to adjust & comfortable Boa binding
• Flotation isn't as good in deep powder

With aggressive front crampons, deep-toothed traction rails, and heel lifts, the Tubbs Flex VRT ( men’s / women’s ) are an excellent choice for those who like to adventure in steep, mountainous terrain. The Boa closure system only requires a couple turns of a dial to provide a comfortable and secure fit, making the Flex VRT one of the easiest snowshoes to adjust out of any we’ve ever tested. The narrow width cuts weight and helps you maintain a natural gait, but it makes a small impact on flotation in really powdery snow. We recommend the Flex VRT for snowshoers who need maximum traction to tackle steep ascents when the snow hits.

• MSR Evo Trail

Best budget snowshoes

Price: $170

Weight (Pair): 3 lb. 10 oz.

Length: 22”; optional 6” tails

Best Use: Rolling terrain

• Option to lengthen with tails
• Can accommodate large shoe sizes (up[ to men's 15)
• Bindings aren’t as comfortable or secure as some

The MSR Evo Trails drop all the fancy extras, like heel lifts and sophisticated bindings, in favor of simplicity and good flotation at an affordable price. The wide, consistent shape is good for keeping you above the snow in most conditions, and MSR gives the option to add tails for extra flotation if you’ll be hiking in deep powder. The Evos work best for easy-to-moderate hikes on rolling terrain, but they’re not the best choice for steep traverses since they don’t have heel lifts to help you ascend. Whether you’re looking for something simple, or you’re a beginner who’s just getting started with snowshoeing, the Evo Trails are a great quality option for the price.

• Atlas Montane

Value-priced showshoe for all experience levels & most types of terrain

Price: $250

Weight (Pair): 4 lb. 4 oz. (30 in.)

Length: 25”, 30”, or 35”

Best Use: All-aroud

• Comfy binding
• Good traction on ice
• Flotation isn’t as good as others of the same length
• Binding straps can freeze & become difficult to adjust

With their teardrop shape and classic bindings, the Atlas Montanes ( men’s / women’s ) feature a tried-and-true design that will appeal to a wide range of hikers. The nylon strap bindings are comfortable and do a great job of minimizing pressure points that can lead to cold and sore feet. The tapered shape makes these snowshoes weigh less than you would expect for being so long, but it also means less surface area for flotation in the really powdery stuff. Overall we think the Atlas Montanes are a great value option that are comfortable and work well in most conditions.

 Crescent Moon Gold 10

Best snowshoes for deep powder

Price: $240

Weight (Pair): 4 lbs. 15.2 oz.

Length: 32″

Best Use: Deep snow

• Excellent flotation
• Easy-stride shape
• Can accommodate large shoe sizes (up to men's 15)
• Heel lift design isn’t as convenient as others
• A bit heavy

The Crescent Moon Gold 10 snowshoes have the largest surface area of all the snowshoes on our list, making them the best for deep powder conditions. While the Gold 10s are the heaviest and widest snowshoes we tested, we found the stride ergonomics to be pretty good thanks to the teardrop shape. The one minor complaint we have with these snowshoes is that the heel lift snaps on and off instead of pivoting up and down. So you would need to store them in a pocket when they’re not in use, then physically snap them back on when you want to use them. That’s not a dealbreaker though, and we still highly recommend the Gold 10s for those who snowshoe in rolling terrain areas that are consistently subjected to heavy dumps of fresh powder.

TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite

Flexible snowshoes that allow for a natural stride

Price: $290

Weight (Pair): 4 lb. 4.8 oz. (23.5 in.)

Length: 20.5”, 23.5”, or 27”

Best Use: Mountain terrain

• Flexible frame
• Comfy & secure binding
• Comes with carry bag
• Flotation isn’t as good as some

The TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elites are the most flexible snowshoes on our list and they have exceptionally comfy bindings that “remember” your shoe size. The unique shape of the decking allows for a more natural stride, making them more comfortable to walk in than many others. But because the frame is tapered, the flotation isn’t as good in powdery snow as snowshoes that are consistently wide through the whole length. We recommend the Hyperflex for snowshoers who like to move fast over packed mountain terrain.

• MSR Revo Explore

Versatile snowshoes at a value price

Price: $270

Weight (Pair): 4 lbs. (22 in.)

Length: 22” or 25”; optional 5” tails

Options: 5" Flotation Tails

• Option to lengthen with tails,
• Shape helps maintain a natural gait
• Bindings aren’t as comfortable as some

MSR’s Revo Explore snowshoes (view Women’s here) are an excellent value option since they have most of the features of more expensive snowshoes (like heel lifts and toothed side rails) at a more accessible price. They have less surface area than many of the other snowshoes on our list which makes them pretty lightweight, but this also has an impact on flotation. We recommend buying the optional flotation tails if you’ll be snowshoeing in deep snow. The Revo Explores are a good in-between option if you like the features of our top pick, the MSR Lightning Ascent , but don’t mind switching to a plastic decking and a slight downgrade from steel crampons to save some money.

FLASHTEK Snowshoes w/ Trekking Poles & Tote

Most affordable snowshoes

Weight (Pair): 3 lb. 11.2 oz. (25 in.)

Length: 25” or 30”

Best Use: Groomed trails and light powder

• Very affordable
• Comes with trekking poles & carry bag
• Not as durable as others
• Traction isn’t as good as others
• Flotation isn’t as good as others

The price of the FLASHTEK Snowshoes really can’t be beat, especially since they come with a carry bag and trekking poles. The traction and flotation of these snowshoes aren’t on par with the others on our list, but they’re good for first-time snowshoers who want to try the sport before making a big money commitment.

What’s Most Important to You in a Pair of Snowshoes?

You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a good pair of snowshoes, but we’ve found that the flotation, weight, and comfort tend to be better if you spend a little more.

Best value snowshoes

• FLASHTEK Snowshoes

Best high-end snowshoes

Snowshoeing can be quite the workout, so keeping the weight of your snowshoes lower can save energy and help you go farther. That said, heavier snowshoes tend to be more durable because they’re typically made with metal parts instead of plastic.

Best lightweight snowshoes

Best heavy-duty snowshoes

• Crescent Moon Gold 10

Long, wide snowshoes work best for deep snow in the backcountry. If you mostly hike in mountainous terrain, you’ll want a pair of snowshoes with heel lifts to help with ascents. For groomed trails with mild terrain, a simple pair that’s flexible and affordable will work nicely.

Best snowshoes for deep snow

Best snowshoes for mountain terrain

Best snowshoes for rolling terrain

THE BINDINGS OF THE MSR REVO EXPLORE ARE EASY TO ADJUST – EVEN WITH GLOVES ON

THE SINGLE-PULL LACE BINDINGS ON THE ATLAS MONTANE SNOWSHOES ARE COMFORTABLE & EASY TO USE

THE TRACTION ON THE MSR LIGHTNING ASCENT SNOWSHOES WORKS WELL IN MOST TYPES OF TERRAIN

THE SHAPE OF THE ATLAS MONTANE SNOWSHOES MAKES THEM LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY TO WALK IN

CHECK OUT OUR LISTS OF THE BEST WINTER BOOTS ( MEN’S / WOMEN’S ) FOR SNOWSHOE-COMPATIBLE BOOT RECOMMENDATIONS

THE SHAPE OF THE TSL SYMBIOZ HYPERFLEX ELITE MAKE THEM EASY TO WALK IN

Critical Snowshoe Considerations

The footwear you choose will have a big effect on your overall comfort while snowshoeing. We tend to go for lightweight boots that are waterproof and lightly insulated so that we’re protected but not overheating while hiking. Check out our  Best Winter Boots for Men  and  Women  and our  Best Hiking Boots for Men  and  Women  lists to find the perfect pair for you.

LENGTH/WIDTH

The longer and wider your snowshoes, the easier it is to stay on top of the snow.But it can also be harder to walk naturally in snowshoes that are wider or longer than necessary. We tend to prefer snowshoes that are around 25 inches long with a tapered shape to get the best balance of flotation and ease of use. MSR gives you the option to add  Flotation Tails  to their snowshoes, which allows you to easily adapt the length to the snow pack.

The style of crampons and decking on a pair of snowshoes will help you determine what conditions they’re best for. Toe crampons are what give you most of your traction on icy and hard-packed snow; deep, steel toe crampons are the best for really icy conditions. Side rails, or traction bars, are featured on most snowshoes and help with lateral traction tol keep you stable as you traverse across a slope. Snowshoes with crampons and siderail teeth that go in multiple directions will provide the best traction on steep inclines.

TREKKING POLES

Trekking poles aren’t a necessary item, but they help a lot with momentum, circulation, and stability while snowshoeing. We use trekking poles for most of our winter adventures – check out our  Best Trekking Poles  list to see our top recommendations.

Gaiters help keep snow and ice from building up in your boots. Snowshoeing can be hard on gear, so we recommend going with a high-quality pair of durable and waterproof gaiters. Our favorites are  REI Backpacker Gaiters  and the  Crocodile Gaiters from Outdoor Research . If you’re on a tight budget, some  rain pants  can function as both an insulating layer to stave off wind and wet and a way to keep snow out of your shoes. Some  rain pants  also feature a boot hook that clips to your laces to keep the wet stuff out.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

Need More Winter Gear Advice?

10 Best Winter Traction Devices & Crampons for Hiking 2024

Best Winter Boots of 2024

Best Women’s Winter Boots of 2024

10 Best Down Jackets of 2024

10 Best Winter Coats of 2024

10 Best Winter Coats & Jackets for Women of 2024

10 Best Winter Gloves of 2024

7 Best Base Layers of 2024

Best 4-Season Tents of 2024

10 Best Fleece Jackets of 2024

15 Winter Camping Tips

10 Tips for Hiking with Your Dog in Winter

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Best Snowshoes – Expert Review

Footwear , Gear

The Tubbs Wilderness snowshoes are perfect for beginner recreational snowshoers starting to build up their confidence and experience. They have cobra toe crampons that provide great traction and stability on flat or rolling terrain.  

For the more experienced trekkers, you can't go wrong with the MSR Lightning Ascent . These snowshoes are excellent for backcountry trekking in mountainous terrain with durable steel DTX crampons that give you serious bite on alpine steeps. 

Best Snowshoes (Top Picks)

Best overall.

MSR Lightning Ascent

Check Latest Prices

Best Beginner

Tubbs Wilderness

Best On-Trail

MSR Evo Trail

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Snowshoes for Hiking

Here are my favourite snowshoes:

• MSR Lightning Ascent - Best Overall
• Tubbs Wilderness - Best Beginner
• Louis Garneau Blizzard III
• MSR Evo Trail - Best On-Trail

Read our complete buyers guide for snowshoes.

Best Snow Shoes

1. msr lightning ascent.

5/5 Overall Rating

If you like to travel light and fast through the mountains, then the MSR Lightning Ascent might be for you.

Built specifically for high octane winter activities, the Lightning Ascent are built with MSR’s proprietary 360° Traction frames that provide the utmost in security and stability, especially when on steep traverses. 

The Lightning Ascent also come with MSR’s Dual-component PosiLock AT bindings (see  video ), which create a secure attachment point between you and your snowshoes while the durable decking can handle anyhting you throw at it. 

Plus, if you venture frequently into really deep snow, you can snap on the Lightning Ascent’s Modular Flotation tails for an extra 13cm (5in) of float.

Check Prices

Main features.

• 360° traction frames for strength and security on traverses
• Dual-component PosiLock AT bindings for a secure and comfortable attachment
• Add-on Modular Flotation tails for extra float in deep snow

What we like

• Super durable yet functional
• Lightweight for its class
• Rugged crampon and traction system

What we dislike

• Relatively pricey

Key Takeway

Known for creating some of the world’s best snowshoes, MSR Lightning Ascent takes home our coveted award as the Best Overall because it combines a rugged design with impressive functionality and durability. You might pay a bit more for these snowshoes than you would for other pairs, but in the end, it’s worth it!

2. Tubbs Wilderness

Combining the newest technology with maximum comfort, the Tubbs Wilderness is a tubular aluminum frame snowshoe designed for efficiency and ease of use. 

Made with Tubbs’ proprietary 180 Pro binding, the Wilderness quickly adjusts to fits snugly around the foot to add warmth and support without creating annoying pressure-points.

Plus, the Wilderness features a rotation limiter, which allows your foot to rotate within the snowshoe, which allows snow to sluff off the back of the decking while simultaneously preventing over-rotation and shin bang.

If that wasn’t good enough, the Wilderness’ crampon is made from carbon steel to provide superior traction in variable snow conditions, with adding weight.

• Snug yet comfortable 180 Pro binding
• Toe-cord rotation limiter to prevent over-rotation
• Carbon steel crampons for better traction
• Comfortable and easy to use
• Great for beginners
• Not great for steep trails

Key Takeaway

The Tubbs Wilderness is an ideal beginner-friendly snowshoe thanks to its easy on-off design. It was built for comfort, which is perfect for a newer snowshoer that’s just starting to get their feet under them on the snow.

3. Louis Garneau Blizzard III

4/5 Overall Rating

The Louis Garneau Blizzard III is a heavy-duty snowshoe that can handle heavy loads. 

The snowshoes’ Lightect decking is both durable and flexible down to the frigid temperature of -40°F/C, so you can be confident in your gear. 

Moreover, the Blizzard II features a Single Boa Closure system for on-the-fly adjustments, which means you won’t have to waist precious moments fiddling with your bindings during your hike.

Where the Blizzard II really shines, however, is in its traction system. With a V-Rail heel crampon, the Blizzard II can provide ample traction on the uphills, downhills, and traverses.

The crampons are made from a lightweight, yet durable high-carbon steel, so they perform well on a variety of terrain and snow conditions.

• Quick-adjusting Single Boa Closure system on binding
• Freeflex pivot binding aborbs shock and allows free foot rotation
• High-carbon steel crampons for premier performance
• Durable and flexible Lighttec decking
• Easy on-and-off binding system
• Great traction in variable snow conditions
• Comfortable stride
• A bit heavy when compared to other models

The Louis Garneau Blizzard III is a heavy-duty snowshoe for heavy-duty loads. They’re built to last with quality materials, but this does make them some of the heftiest snowshoes in our review. Thus, they’re best used when maximum load capacity is the priority, such as on long winter backpacking trips.

4. MSR Evo Trail

4.7/5 Overall Rating

Simple, light, yet incredibly versatile, the Evo Trail is the snowshoe for no-nonsense hikers who just want to get out into the mountains.

Perfect for the weekend warrior and every-day adventurer, alike, the Evo Trail is built from a plastic UniBody decking with steel traction rails and break bars molded in for the utmost in traction.

MSR’s proprietary DuoFit binding system makes for a simple, freeze-proof on-and-off, even while wearing thick winter gloves .

Plus, if you head out into deep snow, you can clip on MSR’s Modular floatation tails for on-demand float in the powdery stuff. What could be better?

• Plastic UniBody decking for durability
• Molded crampon rails and breakbars for added traction
• Can add tails for extra floatation in deep snow
• Clean, simple yet rugged design
• Easy on-and-off binding even in gloves
• Great traction on all terrain
• Binding system can be tricky to get used to at first

The MSR Evo Trail is a great snowshoe for on-trail use. It’s best used as a snowshoe for day hikes or short backpacking trips as it doesn’t have the load capacity to support heavy backpacks.

Snowshoes Buyer’s Guide

Snowshoes are surprisingly complex pieces of gear. There are many different schools of thought as what makes a good snowshoe and there are many different design philosophies that guide the manufacturing of modern snowshoes.

Wading through all of the information that manufacturers provide to consumers can be tricky to do, so we’ve compiled a list of the most important features you should know about before you pick our your next pair of snowshoes.

Here are the top things you should keep in mind when shopping for snowshoes:

Snowshoe Type

While many people think that snowshoes are one-size fits all for any person and any situation, there are actually many different types of snowshoes available, depending on your needs. Generally speaking, snowshoes are differentiated by use, so before you buy a pair of snowshoes, you first need to know what you plan to use them for.

There are three main types of snowshoes: recreational, backcountry, and racing. Recreational snowshoes are best used on flat or rolling terrain and they are great for beginner to intermediate snowshoers who are starting to build up their confidence and experience.

These snowshoes usually feature a wide and long frame with semi-aggressive crampons for deep snow. However, you can often find smaller and narrower recreational snowshoes that are best used on maintained and packed-down trails.

Anyone looking for recreational snowshoes should focus on comfort and ease of use as they usually won’t be venturing out on excessively challenging terrain.

Backcountry snowshoes, on the other hand, should be ready to take on mountainous terrain that is unmaintained.

On these trails, there may be deep snow or icy sections, so backcountry snowshoes need to feature wide frames and aggressive crampons. Backcountry snowshoes must also be durable since we often need to rely on them to be able to move in deep snow.

Racing snowshoes are designed for people who like to trail run in the winter but live somewhere with deep snow. These snowshoes tend to be lightweight, short, and narrow because most snowshoe running takes place on packed-down trails. However, racing snowshoes usually feature semi-aggressive crampons for better traction as you run.

Snowshoe Components

Snowshoes feature a number of different components, each of which is important for the gear’s overall functionality. At first glance, it may be difficult to discern the different parts of a snowshoe and their importance, so we’ve broken it all down here for you:

Back in the day, snowshoes were made of heavy wood and formed into a large teardrop shape. While they did provide a lot of floatation, such frames were heavy and unwieldy when trying to move quickly over difficult terrain.

Modern snowshoes feature frames made from aluminum, steel, or carbon fiber. While some snowshoes have a tubular metal frame, many newer models are made wholly of composite plastic, which offers better traction in icy terrain.

The decking of a snowshoe is the part that provides floatation. For snowshoes with tubular frames, the decking is often made from some sort of synthetic leather or synthetic rubber that’s stretched over the top of the metal to provide more surface area, which prevents you from sinking.

When it comes to snowshoes made from plastic, the plastic actually serves as both the frame and the decking. If you compare plastic decking to the more traditional options, plastic is usually more durable and versatile due to its rigidity.

Crampon and Traction

If you spend most of your time on flat or rolling groomed trails, you may not be terribly concerned with crampons and traction in your snowshoes. However, if you like to venture off trail or into the mountains, then you’ll certainly want a pair of snowshoes with crampons that can provide traction on steep terrain.

Usually, the crampons of a snowshoe are integrated into the underside of a binding. On snowshoes with hinged bindings, the binding swivels to allow your foot to move independently of the snowshoes’ decking, for a more natural stride. On other snowshoes, with fixed bindings, allow for minimal movement of the foot in relation to the snowshoe as you walk.

Some crampons are more aggressive than others, so if traction is important to you, this is a key thing to look for when buying snowshoes.

Different snowshoe manufacturers use a variety of different systems for attaching the snowshoe to your foot. The part of the snowshoe that attaches to your foot is known as the binding. As you can imagine, having a high-quality binding is important so that your snowshoe doesn’t fall off as you walk.

Although everyone agrees that bindings are important on snowshoes, there is no consensus about which binding system is best.

Some people strongly prefer the durability rubber straps of the MSR snowshoe line while others enjoy the ease-of-use of some other systems that require you to simply pull on a single nylon strap to tighten the binding around your foot.

Ultimately, this seems to be a matter of personal preference, but it’s important to find a binding that you enjoy using.

While you’ll see many “snowshoe sizing guides” out on the internet, the fact of the matter is that snowshoe sizing is not the type of thing one can make blanket statements about.

This is because of the sizing of a snowshoe relies on a large number of different factors, including the size and weight of the snowshoer, the terrain involved, the snow conditions, and the amount of weight you’ll be carrying.

Thus, instead of giving you a one-size-fits-all answer, we’ll give you the information you need to determine your own snowshoe size.

The first thing you should think about when sizing snowshoes is the terrain you’ll be on. If you’re planning on hiking in the backcountry or on steep slopes, you’ll want more compact snowshoes with hinged bindings and good crampons. Head off trail, on the other hand, and you might want a bit more floatation to deal with deep snowpacks.

When it comes to the size and weight of a person, you’ll want to look at the snowshoes’ “weight load” rating. This rating should include your weight and the weight of the gear you’ll carry.

Since heavier loads are best served by larger snowshoes, you'll want to check out the range of weight loads that a specific model can handle before you drop some serious dough on a new pair of snowshoes.

Men's vs Women's Models

You’ll often see snowshoes labeled as “men’s,” “women’s,” or “unisex” but does this matter? What does this label even mean?

It turns out that (surprise!) the difference between a “men’s” and “women’s” snowshoe is usually size and color. Women’s snowshoes tend to come in smaller sizes, both in terms of the decking and the size of a shoe that the binding can accommodate.

Often, women’s snowshoes are narrower to help people with smaller bodies achieve a more natural size. Additionally, women’s snowshoes also come in more traditionally “feminine” colors, such as pink and purple.

However, unless you’re a particularly petite person, you’ll probably be able to comfortably wear men’s or unisex models.

Smaller people of any gender usually benefit from the smaller proportions of a “women’s” snowshoe while larger people of any gender often prefer the increased floatation of a “men’s” snowshoe, but really it all comes down to personal preference.

Continue browsing

See more equipment reviews and our detailed  outdoor footwear guide . Or check out these reviews:

• Best Hiking Boots
• Best Trail Running Shoes
• Best Approach Shoes
• Best Hiking Sandals
• Best Mountaineering Boots
• Best Hiking Socks
• Best Waterproof Socks
• Best Gaiters

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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How to Choose Snowshoes: A First-Time Guide

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Whether you are looking for an affordable way to enjoy the snow, want to keep your running muscles in shape in the winter, or need another tool for your summit adventures, the perfect snowshoes can be a versatile addition to your gear closet.

I used my snowshoes to stay sane at the beginning of the lockdowns, walking laps in my local meadow. Last season, they got me up the hill on my first backcountry snowboard tour before obtaining my splitboard. And when I first moved to the Sierra Nevada, I even borrowed a pair from a friend to go on a first date!

Bottom line: snowshoeing is a fun and versatile activity that you can do alone or in a group.

This guide breaks down the different options when choosing the perfect pair of snowshoes and the right gear to accompany them. Focusing on sizing, bindings, and what types of boots and poles are best, we’ll walk you through how to choose snowshoes.

How to Choose Snowshoes

For proper snowshoe sizing, you need to consider both the maximum load on your snowshoes (your body weight plus the gear you are carrying) and the type of terrain you will be navigating.

Check the specs of the snowshoes you are looking at. They will list a “maximum recommended load” and the recommended type of terrain. If you are only taking day trips, the max load should be around 20 pounds above your body weight. For overnight trips or mountaineering, it would be 30-60 pounds more than your bodyweight.

For the length, a longer snowshoe makes it easier to travel through powder because there is a larger surface area. However, a longer snowshoe is more challenging to take up and down steep terrain. If you expect to travel on hard-packed snow in mostly flat terrain, a shorter snowshoe will do just fine.

When snowshoe bindings are challenging to get in and out of, or they do not stay tightened in place, a peaceful adventure can quickly turn into a frustrating experience. Most snowshoe bindings are a rotating or floating model, meaning they move separately from the frame of your snowshoe. Running snowshoes tend to have a single flank to reduce the shoe’s flapping and increase cushioning and quietness.

The three main strap materials are made of either nylon, rubber, or cable lace. They are formatted in a system of either straight straps, ratchet straps, pull webbing, or a BOA system . I prefer a pull webbing that accommodates a wide range of shoe sizes.

The pull webbing and the  BOA cable lace bindings both provide a snug and secure fit, as well as a quick and easy in-and-out of your snowshoes. (Snowshoes themselves are also made of different materials, but the most common are made of some sort of hardened plastic with carbon, steel, or aluminum.)

Traction & Heel Risers

Under the snowshoes, you’ll see the traction that ranges from similar to a winter hiking shoe to the sharp teeth of a crampon for mountaineering. Running snowshoes are mostly foam and rubber with a few metal studs for traction. All others will have steel crampons underfoot (toe and heel), some with the addition of side traction along the frame .

This traction is crucial for any icy conditions or any inclines. I’ve managed fine with just the toe and heel crampons, but the side traction is especially vital for traversing.

Heel risers are a key feature if you plan to do any ascents up steep terrain. Trying to snowshoe uphill without heel risers will result in immediate calf fatigue. You may think that hiking sideways up an incline to create switchbacks is a solution, but trust me, this is awkward unless there is an established flat trail of switchbacks.

You do not need a specific pair of boots made for snowshoeing, but there are a few important factors to consider when choosing which shoes you wear while snowshoeing. First, be sure that your boots fit you well — no heel slipping uphill or toe jamming downhill. If you have hiked in them comfortably, perfect! Next, make sure that they fit in your snowshoe bindings.

Third, ensure that your feet will stay dry. It’s preferable to have a waterproof boot, like these Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Hiking Boots . In addition, you need either tall boots (calf or higher), hiking gaiters or running gaiters , or long, water-resistant pants that will cover the top of your boots and stay in place.

As you walk, it’s possible for kicked-up snow from the snowshoes to melt into the top of your boots if they are not protected. This leads to discomfort that may force you to end your adventure early or take the fun out of snowshoeing. So, waterproofing or a higher boot height is key.

Snowshoeing without poles is possible but awkward, especially when traveling through deep powder or on a steep incline. The most important feature of snowshoe poles is the basket — the circular piece about two inches above the spike which stabs into the ground. Many trekking poles used for hiking come with baskets, but they are often not made for light, fluffy, thick snow.

Ski poles will have a large enough basket, but the poles you use to ski may not be the correct height for you to snowshoe. The best option is to purchase trekking poles for use while hiking or backpacking. You can also purchase the additional snow basket to swap onto the pole during the winter.

My Leki poles have stood the test of both time and multiweek backpacking trips to New Zealand, backcountry snowboarding, and endless snowshoeing. Buy the Leki Snowflake Baskets for the most stability.

How to Choose Snowshoes: Conclusion

Snowshoes can give you access to places that are not otherwise within reach by foot, or even on skis with skins. For example, that first date I went on was to a cave in a cliff band in the middle of winter! Snowshoes were the key item to get us there.

They also give those that are not interested in going fast downhill (or those who can’t invest in more gear) access to a snow sport. Aside from optional (but helpful) gear like poles and the snowshoes themselves, the investment is virtually zero.

You don’t need much to get on top of the snow for a safe stroll. By following this guide on how to choose the perfect snowshoes for you, you can make it the best experience possible for years to come.

The Best Snowshoes of 2024

After hours of research and months of testing, we found the best snowshoes for every use and budget. And don't miss our buyer's guide with everything you need to get started. Read more…

Natasha Buffo unknowingly began her writing career under a mosquito net in Gulu, Uganda. It was there she realized that our most powerful experiences could not be properly expressed through photo and video, but rather called for the poetic strings of words to paint the full picture. All her writing pursuits since have been in support of her biggest project, an unpublished memoir, which shows that travels can be put on pause but the lives of our loved ones sometimes can’t. Spending time with people we love, even small seemingly unimportant moments, might be our greatest memories.

In addition to being a creative non-fiction writer for the outdoors, Buffo is a community mental health facilitator, focused on teaching Adult Mental Health First Aid to outdoor recreationists and professionals. Her company, Dirt & Tears, centers on being “comfortable with the uncomfortable, telling the untold stories, and guiding the gritty discussions.”

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• Travel Products

The 15 Best Men’s Snow Boots of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your feet warm this winter with our favorite insulated boots.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Whether you’re planning a getaway to your favorite ski resort or simply need weather protection while working outside this winter, a reliable pair of snow boots is the key to keeping warm in sub-zero conditions. With many different factors at play — from boot height to the level of waterproofing and insulation — it’s important to consider your exact requirements carefully. If you’re spending extended periods standing outside in extreme cold, insulation is likely to be your top priority. If you’re engaging in a high-intensity activity like thru-hiking, breathability may be more important, while style is a factor for everyday use on chilly city streets. 

To help you find the right pair of snow boots, we used our own experience combined with insight from Oboz and Merrell experts to select 23 models for real-world testing. Each one was scored for fit, support, durability, performance, waterproofing, and value. We will update the results as testing continues for another six months.

Best Overall

Columbia fairbanks omni-heat ankle boot.

• Support 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5
• Waterproofing 5 /5

These well-made, attractive boots offer superior comfort and performance at a very reasonable price. 

They can get a little too warm when worn in shoulder-season conditions. 

The Columbia Men’s Fairbanks Omni-heat Boots scored top marks across the board during our tests. Even after two months of wearing in various weather conditions, they kept feet warm and dry. With a Cordura textile upper and a seam-sealed membrane, they’re both waterproof and breathable for multi-sport use in snow, slush, mud, and rain. After pouring water on them during testing and walking through plenty of puddles and muck, we can confirm that they stay completely dry inside. Meanwhile, the Omni-heat thermal-reflective lining and 200 grams of synthetic insulation are so effective that we were almost too hot (although we began our testing in October and will continue to wear the boots in colder winter temperatures). 

We found these boots wildly comfortable right out of the box. The fit was perfect, and we appreciated how light they are compared to traditional snow boots — meaning that even after a full day on our feet, we experienced zero fatigue. The cushioned midsole offers ample energy return while the high-top design laces up around your ankles for complete, reliable support. Finally, we loved the impressive level of traction afforded by the non-marking rubber outsole. 

The boots are amazingly well-priced considering their quality construction. We also think that even the most fashion-forward men will be satisfied with the stylish colorways on offer. These range from titanium and warm copper to graphite and dark moss, with two widths and several half sizes available to ensure you get the perfect fit. 

The Details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 1.96 pounds | Cordura textile upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Henry Hackett

Best Overall, Runner-up

Baffin snow monster boots.

High-quality construction, reliable waterproofing, and a clever snow collar make these boots a worthwhile investment for heavy snow or winter yard work. 

Due to their height and relative rigidity, the boots are not well suited to long-distance hiking or any other high-intensity activity. 

The snowshoe-compatible Baffin Snow Monster Men’s Boots offer quality materials and a construction so robust, they survived our tests without any signs of wear and tear. Throughout two hours of shoveling in the snow during our two-month test, the traction was supportive and our feet stayed completely dry. The upper is made from full-grain leather with a nylon collar that keeps deep snow from coming in over the top. The base is made from waterproof Arctic rubber and the boots are seam-sealed for full waterproofing — a claim we proved by dipping them in a creek. They’re meant for moderate levels of activity in extreme cold, like shoveling snow or ferrying firewood. 

We felt that they would be too restrictive for long-distance walking or hiking. Nevertheless, they are comfortable. We appreciated the generous toe box and excellent arch and ankle support, while the EVA midsole offers plenty of insulated cushioning. Much of the boots’ warmth comes from the technologically advanced, multi-layer comfort fit insulation system, which can be removed for increased breathability in warmer weather. Finally, we found that the polar rubber outsole provided reliable traction even in slick mud.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 6.3 pounds | Leather and nylon upper, EVA midsole, Arctic rubber shell, polar rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Ben Anderson

Most Comfortable

Ugg butte boot.

These boots are fully waterproof with a cozy wool and fleece lining, and an EVA midsole that provides perfect cushioning for long days outside. 

Half sizes are only available up to 11.5, so those who take a larger half size may struggle to find the perfect fit.

Weather-rated to -25.6 degrees Fahrenheit and suitable for everything from light rain to heavy snow, the Ugg Butte boots were some of the comfiest we tried. They’re made from full-grain leather with a waterproof membrane and a cuffable shaft. When we poured a full cup of water on them, the droplets simply beaded and ran right off, while the construction is so durable that the boots looked virtually new during and after testing. We found they fit well and were true to size, offering perfect comfort right out the box. 

We tested ours with standard tube socks but felt there would be plenty of room for thicker ones. The soft, upcycled wool and fleece lining was a particular highlight, while the EVA midsole offers great support for extended periods of standing or walking. We’d recommend the boots for everything from short dog walks to lengthy snowmobiling trips. Choose yours in black, tan, or gray, and appreciate the superior traction offered by Vibram outsoles that remain flexible even in freezing temperatures.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 18 | Leather upper, fleece and wool lining, EVA midsole, Vibram outsole 

Travel + Leisure / Eric Brockob

Best Traction

Salomon quest winter ts cs wp snow boot.

• Support 4 /5

Special Winter Contagrip outsoles provide exceptional flexibility and traction even in freezing temperatures, making these an ideal hiking boot/snow boot hybrid. 

After two months of testing, we did notice the arches of our feet got sore when wearing for long periods of time.

If traction is a top priority, it’s hard to beat the gaiter- and snowshoe-compatible Salomon Quest Winter Thinsulate Climasalomon Boots. Their rubber outsoles feature Winter Contagrip, a special compound that maintains its grippiness even in freezing temperatures. We felt that the aggressive ridges on the bottom of the boots worked in much the same way as snow tires to channel slush away from the sole toward the back of the shoe. The boots are also waterproof, as proven by dangling them in our swimming pool during testing. 

We found that they fit true to size with a pleasantly roomy toe-box. The hefty Thinsulate insulation can make the boots feel a little tight around the sides, but this is a small price to pay for unbeatable warmth (and you can always size up if needed). We like that the high profile keeps water and snow from entering over the top of the boots and that you can adjust the level of ankle support depending on how high and how tightly you lace them up. 

The Details: Sizes 4 to 14 | 1.3 pounds | Leather and synthetic upper, polyester lining, Thinsulate insulation, rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

Best for Everyday

Danner arctic 600 side-zip.

These boots are super comfortable, warm, and well-made, yet practical for everyday use with a low profile and zippered entry. 

We found that the way the sole curves slightly at the front resulted in added pressure on our big toe when walking long distances on hard ground. 

The Danner Arctic 600 Side-zip snow boots define everyday convenience with a rugged, double-layered zip that makes them as easy to get on as your regular tennis shoes. These are high-quality boots designed with great attention to detail, with either full-grain leather or suede uppers and full waterproof protection. After two months of testing, they kept our feet dry, comfortable, and warm in even the coldest conditions. We would recommend them for everything from hiking to shoveling snow — just be aware that the 200-gram PrimaLoft insulation can get warm on milder days. 

We like that they’re relatively low profile and not too heavy, while the removable Ortholite footbed offers just the right amount of cushioning. The boots are supportive and comfy right out of the box although we did feel that they became even more comfortable after a week of wear. The Vibram outsole promises great traction, and colorways are designed to go with everything whether you choose roasted pecan/fired brick or jet black/mojave. 

The Details: Sizes 8 to 14 | 2.8 pounds | Leather upper, Primaloft insulation, Vibram midsole and outsole

Travel + Leisure / Marco Zuccarello

Best for Heavy Snow

Baffin impact.

Nine layers of specialized insulation technology make these polar-approved boots the best pick for extreme cold.

Mobility is affected by the boots’ height and rigid construction, so they should be reserved for situations where they’re actually needed. 

If you’re headed to one of the world’s coldest places, the Baffin Impact Men’s Boots are for you. They offer the highest level of cold weather comfort in the Baffin range and have been real-world tested at both the South and North Poles. They’re snowshoe compatible, with a tall profile that hits somewhere between mid-calf and just under the knee depending on your height and a locking collar to keep deep snow out. We found them super supportive — although anything other than slow, careful walking is cumbersome.

Despite their rigidity, the boots were super comfortable from the first wear, with a soft, fleecy, cushioned interior. Insulation is provided by a removable comfort-fit system with no fewer than nine layers of technical materials designed to provide next-level warmth, wind resistance, heat regulation, moisture control, and breathability. Of course, all of this means they quickly get too hot if you’re wearing them on an average fall day in your backyard. We recommend choosing a full size up for the best fit. Still, after two months of wear through cold, rain, and snow, the boots still look good as new and are sure to hold up for many seasons to come.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 7.4 pounds | Nylon upper, EVA midsole, Arctic rubber shell, polar rubber outsole 

Travel + Leisure / Henry Yung

Most Supportive

Merrell thermo chill mid boots.

• Performance 4 /5

These boots offered some of the best arch support of any we tested, with a molded nylon shank, a contoured footbed, and an air cushion heel.

We have some reservations about breathability, and the breaking-in period is longer than that of others on this list. 

Available in medium and wide widths, the Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Waterproof boots were some of the most supportive we tested, with a molded nylon shank; an air cushion heel that absorbs shock and adds stability; and a removable, contoured footbed. Throughout two months of testing, we used these boots in slush, heavy snow, and on icy conditions and we felt comfortable and supported. We did find that our feet got warm quickly, but this could also be due to the fact that the weather was never truly cold during our initial testing period (we will continue long-term testing them through the winter).

The boots passed our waterproofing test with flying colors, thanks to their coated leather upper and waterproof membrane. We liked the cozy fleece lining, while 200 grams of synthetic insulation offers plenty of protection from ice and snow without being overly bulky. We expect the deeply lugged rubber outsole to perform well on all terrains and in all conditions. Overall, these are quality boots for winter hiking at an extremely fair price point. 

The Details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 1.25 pounds | Leather upper, fleece lining, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Lukas Smith

Best Pull-on Style

Bogs men's bozeman tall boot.

The flexible neoprene upper makes these boots lighter, more flexible, and more breathable than comparable styles while also allowing you to pull them on like rain boots. 

After wearing regularly for two months, we do recommend doubling up on socks as you break them in to avoid blistering.

Our initial impression on unboxing the Bogs Bozeman Tall Yulex boots was that they would last for years, with durability clearly at the center of the design process. They seamlessly combine a rigid, natural rubber base with a flexible neoprene top section. The latter gives the boots a versatility other calf-height styles cannot offer, making them more flexible, more breathable, and noticeably lighter. It also means you can slip them on and off with virtually no effort with the help of integrated, cut-out handles. 

The boots are fully waterproof and comfort rated to -72 degrees Fahrenheit. Four-way stretch inner booties with an effective sweat-wicking lining keep things comfortable, while algae-based EVA footbeds offer eco-friendly support. Our feet felt securely cradled on every wear, never slipping or popping unexpectedly out of the heel cup. Although we weren’t able to test the non-marking, self-cleaning rubber outsoles on ice during our initial testing period, they look like they will provide excellent traction. All in all, we feel these are premium boots with a mid-range price tag.  

The Details: Sizes 6 to 16 | 2.38 pounds | Yulex natural rubber upper and insulation, EVA footbed, Biogrip rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Frank Corona

Best for Hiking

The north face vectiv fastpack insulated futurelight hiking boots.

A rocker-shaped midsole gives you extra propulsion, while a deep-lugged outsole provides reliable traction on all terrains. 

We found the lace system unnecessarily complicated. 

The North Face Men’s Vectiv Fastpack Insulated Futurelight Hiking Boots are made for winter trail adventures, with 200 grams of insulation and a waterproof yet breathable membrane that kept our feet dry even during a creek crossing. They’re gaiter- and snowshoe-compatible, and they fit as expected with plenty of room in the toe box — all features you should consider when packing for a winter camping trip . We loved that they felt more like normal hiking shoes than snow boots and that they were fully broken in within a few hours. They’re also much lighter than we expected. 

Unique design features include the rocker-style EVA midsole (for forward propulsion and high energy rebound) and the 3D TPU plate located under the forefoot for enhanced stability. Deep lugs on the rubber outsole suggest that these boots will offer plenty of grip even on snowy or icy surfaces. After testing these boots for two months, we got them quite muddy, but found them easy to clean. They come in two colorways: black/grey and olive/black. We tested the olive green version and felt that they were as fashionable as they were practical.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 2.1 pounds | Leather upper, polyester insulation, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Ryan Sisson

Best Lightweight

Oboz andesite mid insulated waterproof boot.

Throughout two months of tests, we found them to be roomy yet supportive and much, much lighter than expected, these are the ideal boots to wear in rain or snow. 

We’d like to see a greater choice of colorways. 

Weighing in at just 1.18 pounds per pair, the Oboz Andesite Mid Insulated Waterproof boots are surprisingly lightweight and infinitely comfortable. We loved their roomy fit, which took the pressure off our ankles (something our team member who tested these often struggles with in boots) and left plenty of space for our toes while still providing ample support. It took around an hour for the boots to feel fully broken in, while the waterproof oiled Nubuck leather upper and breathable membrane offered just the right blend of breathability and puddle-tested waterproofing. 

The boots are beautifully made, still looking brand new after our testing period despite wearing them in poor weather over challenging terrain. With 200 grams of Primaloft Bio insulation, they kept our feet perfectly warm. Meanwhile, the Vibram Arctic grip AT outsoles are made for flexible traction even in freezing temperatures. As a bonus, these boots tick sustainability boxes with recycled plastic laces and webbing, insoles made from algae biomass, and a tree planted for every pair sold. 

The Details: Sizes 8 to 14 | 1.2 pounds | Nubuck leather and ripstop textile upper, Primaloft Bio insulation, Vibram outsole

Travel + Leisure / Mike Navarro

Best Chelsea Boot

Dr. martens 2976 warmwair leather chelsea boots.

• Waterproofing 4 /5

These are classically cool, effortlessly stylish boots that fit comfortably right out of the box for winters in the city. 

After two months of testing, we found them to be lacking in insulation.

For decades, Dr. Martens boots have been the ultimate fashion statement. The Warmwair Leather Chelsea Boots revamp the brand’s classic style for winter, with heavyweight Valor WP leather uppers, a scratch-resistant tumbled finish, and a soft fleece lining. Elastic gussets make it easy to pull the boots on and off, and we were pleasantly surprised by how comfortable they were right out of the box (unlike regular Dr. Martens, which often require weeks of breaking in.)

There’s plenty of space within the toe box for wearing thick socks, while the water-resistant uppers did a good job of keeping our feet dry even when we wore the boots in the rain. They’re best suited to casual urban wear rather than extreme adventures, though, simply because water is likely to soak through after extended exposure to rain or snow. The heat-sealed, Smoke DMS outsole offers great traction even on slick subway steps, and scores style points with the brand’s iconic yellow welt stitching.

The Details: Sizes 6 to 14 | Leather upper, elastic gussets, fleece lining, PVC alloy outsole

Nortiv 8 Insulated Snow Boot

• Support 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Despite their lower price tag, these are well-made, durable, and attractive boots that held up well to full days of outdoor use. 

After two months of testing, we did notice that the boots can feel heavy when wearing for long periods of time.

Retailing for less than half the price of our overall winner (already one of the most budget-friendly on this list), the Nortive 8 Men’s Insulated Snow Boots represent amazing value for the money. In fact, we noted during testing that we’d happily pay even more for them. We wore them at least 12 times over the course of the testing period, often for full work days as well as for yard work, dog walks, and family hikes. They fit comfortably from the start with plenty of toe-box room and sturdy ankle support. 

Arch support is less noticeable, which is something to bear in mind for those who need it. With faux fur lining and 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation, they’re plenty warm but not especially breathable — although the cushioned insole can be removed and washed if it gets sweaty. We appreciated the traction offered by the durable rubber outsole, and would happily wear these boots ice fishing or hiking through unploughed snow — even lugging a sled up the hill. They also stood up to our waterproofing tests perfectly. 

The Details: Sizes 6.5 to 15 | Synthetic upper, Thinsulate insulation, rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Michael Halloran

Best Duck Boot

Sorel men's 1964 pac nylon boots.

Lightweight yet completely water- and cold-proof, these boots feel as good as they look. 

We loved everything about these boots, but they are perhaps a little pricey for those on a budget.

The Sorel Men’s 1964 Pac Nylon Boots offer retro style and complete protection from the elements. They’re designed for heavy snow, with a waterproof nylon upper, sealed seams, and a vulcanized rubber shell. We were thoroughly impressed by the overall quality of their materials and construction, with no signs of wear and tear even after extended use (and no leaking — an impressive feat since we were actively seeking out puddles to stomp through.) Despite their durability, the boots are surprisingly lightweight considering their design and purpose. 

We found that they fit as expected and were incredibly comfortable. Although snug, there was still ample room to move our toes about while the arch and ankle support was substantial. The herringbone outsoles provided great traction on slippery surfaces. Finally, we liked that the recycled felt inner is removable and washable in the event that it gets a little sweaty. After two months of testing, the boots do show minor scuffs, but nothing significant that affects the strength of the boots. Colorways are meant to upgrade the aesthetic of your winter outfit with options ranging from India ink/gum to tobacco/black. 

The Details: Sizes 7 to 15 | 4.1 pounds | Nylon upper, recycled felt inner, felt midsole, rubber outsole 

Travel + Leisure / Joseph Manalang

Best Waterproof

Muck boot men’s arctic sport mid boot.

After two months of testing, we love the durability of these boots that kept us dry even in deep water and snow.

With no half sizes available, some people may find it tricky to get a perfect fit. 

The Muck Boot Men’s Arctic Sport Mid Boots may not be the most stylish option on the market. However, they’re superbly well made and unfailingly durable for working outside in extreme weather. Our tests confirmed that they are 100 percent waterproof, even after being submerged for a prolonged period of time. Meanwhile, a 5-millimeter neoprene inner boot combined with a soft fleece lining promises perfect warmth and contoured comfort. 

The top of the boots stretches to accommodate larger calves while also retracting to keep cold air and deep snow out. We found them tight to get on and then a little big once we were in (though this just means there’s plenty of space for thick winter socks.) They are relatively heavy, but also instantly comfortable with good arch support and a cushioned EVA midsole. The rugged outsole features a deep tread for uncompromised traction and reinforcement on the instep, heel, and Achilles. We were able to remove all signs of wear with a quick rinse and wipe. 

The Details: Sizes 5 to 15 | 2.5 pounds | Neoprene and rubber upper, neoprene inner, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Travel + Leisure / Nick de Jong

Most Versatile

The north face thermoball lifty ii boots.

• Performance 4.5 /5
• Waterproofing 4.5 /5

These boots combine hardy quality with just enough style to transition easily from snowy trail to city streets. 

We found them a little uncomfortable for the first hour or so until the rigid uppers began to mold to our feet. 

The overall impression given by these boots is one of high-quality materials and construction. They’re ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities but also stylish in an understated way, whether you opt for all black or utility brown with black accents. We think they’d look just as good for aprés ski as they would shoveling your backyard. The PU-coated leather upper is fully waterproof, although we did find that a few drops seeped in around the tongue during testing. 

Thermoball Eco insulation provides plenty of warmth, while the fit is true to size with space in the toe-box for thick winter socks. We did experience some initial discomfort due to the rigidity of the upper; however, this soon disappeared as the boots were broken in. They are thick, sturdy, and fully supportive around the arch and ankle, with a rubber outsole for exaggerated traction on all kinds of surfaces. They're also incredibly lightweight and, after two months of testing, the boots still look and perform as new.

The Details: Sizes 7 to 14 | 2.6 pounds | PU-coated leather upper, recycled polyester insulation, EVA midsole, rubber outsole 

Travel + Leisure / Brendan Harkness

Other Snow Boots We Liked

We tested 23 pairs of snow boots, so they couldn’t all make the cut. However, we think these are fair options as well, despite some small issues revealed during testing.

Columbia Men’s Bugaboot III XTM Boot : We found these to be well-made, fully waterproof boots with good support, breathability, and traction. However, sizes run small leading to significant discomfort during testing, so we recommend sizing up or being sure to try them on before purchasing. 

Keen Anchorage III Waterproof Boot : We loved these boots for their cradling arch support, quality construction, and impressive traction. The only real downside is that the elastic sections at the ankle are not waterproof, which could be an issue in deeper snow. 

L.L.Bean Men’s Storm Chaser Boots 5, Zip : These boots were comfortable and durable, with good traction and reliable water resistance. However, we felt that the texture of the leather upper was thinner than expected. 

Kamik The William Winter Boot : These boots took five wears to break in fully and have very little arch or ankle support. Nevertheless, they are well-made, breathable, lightweight despite their sturdy build, and fully waterproof. 

For this article, T+L travel experts conducted real-world testing on 23 different pairs of snow boots over a period of five months. Each one was tested in the same way over a period of two weeks, and testing is ongoing for a further six months to give the boots the full winter experience. First, we inspected each part of the snow boots to gain an initial impression of overall material and construction quality. We also noted the boots’ weight. We wore them for at least an hour on the first wear to check the fit and how comfortable they were out of the box. We then wore them on at least two additional outings, using them for a number of different activities from hiking to running errands. 

Each time, we assessed comfort, breathability, arch and ankle support, and traction. We noted how long the breaking-in period was, if relevant, and checked to see whether the boots showed any signs of wear and tear after the test period. Finally, we tested the boots’ water resistance by stuffing them with paper towels, pouring a cup of water over them or holding them under a running water faucet, and leaving them to sit for five minutes. We then checked whether any moisture had leaked through to the towels. Each pair of boots was scored on a scale of one to five for fit, support, durability, performance, waterproofing, and value. 

Tips for Buying Snow Boots

Prioritize warmth.

Merrell’s Global Marketing Manager, Devon Vanoostveen, emphasizes how important insulation is when deciding on a good pair of snow boots. Two hundred grams of insulation is the most common for everyday use, ramping up to 400 grams for active use in severe winter conditions. There are even specialist boots out there with up to 2,000 grams of insulation for sedentary activities in extreme cold like hunting or ice fishing. 

Synthetic insulation types such as Thinsulate or Primaloft offer the best combination of durability and effectiveness. They work by using microfibers to trap warm air. Boot height also affects overall warmth. Vanoostveen points out that for casual or urban use, an ankle-height boot might be sufficient whereas anyone heading into the unplowed backcountry is likely to need a pair that hits anywhere from mid-calf to just below the knee.

Make sure they're waterproof

There are certain groups of people who may not need their snow boots to be waterproof. These include city dwellers for whom a warm, water-resistant boot is sufficient for getting quickly from point A to point B, or anyone for whom breathability and lightness is an absolute priority (see below). But for most purposes, full waterproofing is an important part of what makes a snow boot effective, keeping you dry and therefore warm no matter how much precipitation you encounter. Look for boots with a waterproof membrane that allows sweat to escape while simultaneously keeping water out. 

Know what you plan to wear them for

Scott Wilfling, Outreach and Education Coordinator for Oboz, says that the most important factor when choosing snow boots is to think about what you plan on using them for. Your answer will affect which features to look out for. If you’re going to be exerting a lot of effort while shoveling snow, for example, then lighter insulation is key for preventing overheating and allowing breathability. But if you’re going to be standing still for hours (while working outside or watching sports from the sidelines), thicker insulation is a must. 

Similarly, while most people want waterproof snow boots, those who prioritize breathability and lightness — thru-hikers, for example — may be willing to sacrifice this feature. Higher boots offer more protection from deep snow but limit mobility in a way that may not be necessary if you’re unlikely to be trudging through serious drifts. If you want to wear your boots with snowshoes, look for a built-in heel kick; if you want to pair them with gaiters, look for an integrated D-ring attachment point. For frequent exposure to slippery ice, outsoles with a rugged tread and plenty of grip are essential. 

Frequently Asked Questions

While hiking boots may provide enough traction in light snow, they can’t offer the same kind of grip as snow boots with a deeply lugged outsole made especially for this purpose. Snow boots typically use a proprietary rubber compound designed to withstand freezing temperatures without becoming brittle, while some — like the Vibram Arctic outsole recommended by Wilfling — contain glass shards for unparalleled traction on ice. Standard hiking boots may not be waterproof, which is a problem for obvious reasons. Most lack the necessary insulation to keep your feet warm for more than a few minutes out in the cold. Snow boots are by far the better option if you know you’re going to spend any length of time outside in extreme conditions, so they're ideal to pack for a winter road trip .

Rain boots work well to keep your feet dry in the snow (as long as it doesn’t get in over their loose tops). However, with zero insulation you will get uncomfortably and potentially even dangerously cold quickly. Snow boots typically offer at least 200 grams of insulation and are specially designed to keep rain and snow out, whether that’s with a gusseted tongue, an elasticated top binding, or a fleecy snow cuff. 

Snow boots can be made from many different materials. Some of the warmest materials for the uppers are waterproof leather or neoprene, while internal insulation comes from a synthetic material like Thinsulate, Primaloft, or — less often — natural fleece. Some boots come with a fleece or neoprene inner sock that you can remove when the weather gets warmer. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel and adventure gear for more than 10 years. She frequently uses her own snow boots at home in the Scottish Highlands. Products in this article were chosen according to the results of extended real-world testing carried out by the T+L team. We also consulted two industry experts: Scott Wilfling, Oboz Outreach and Education Coordinator, and Devon Vanoostveen, Merrell Global Marketing Manager. 

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The 26 Best Snowshoeing Trails in the U.S.

Explore America’s favorite winter wonderlands on these scenic routes, which range from beginner to expert terrain

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

This season transforms our favorite outdoor spaces into wild winter wonderlands, and snowshoeing offers one of the most heart-pumping and affordable tickets to the show. Even better,  learning to snowshoe is a cinch. Here are the best trails in the U.S., selected based on their sights and scenery and grouped by their level of expertise. Don’t miss our list of best snowshoes to gear up for winter trail fun, too.

1. Sallie Barber Mine Trail, Colorado

There’s snowshoeing to stunning viewpoints, and then there’s snowshoeing to abandoned 1880s-era mines. Breckenridge’s Sallie Barber Mine Trail is a three-mile out-and-back that promises a solid and scenic workout. Snowshoers gain 400 feet of elevation along the route, which starts at Highway 9. After mile one, be on the lookout for the main attraction: zinc-sulfide mining remnants, such as an ore bin, with interpretative signs detailing the area’s history.

2. Cooper River Trail, Washington

Soak up some Pacific Northwest winter vibes via this snowy trail through the Snoqualmie region. Its eight miles follow the curves of its namesake river out to Cooper Lake. With 400 feet of elevation, expect to sweat, but the old-growth forest of firs, cedars, and pines make the heart-pumping miles well worth it. This trail starts from the Salmon la Sac parking area, two hours east of Seattle, and features mountain and river views, with potential wildlife sightings.

3. Trillium Lake, Oregon

Trillium Lake  beckons with top-notch snowshoeing terrain and tranquil scenery within two hours of Portland. Nestled in the pine-dotted Mount Hood National Forest , the lake’s four-mile beginner-friendly snowshoe loop impresses with a peaceful meadow and soaring Mount Hood vistas. The Trillium Lake snowshoe trailhead is located right off U.S. Route 26; a Sno-Park parking permit is required at the lot.

4. Lincoln Woods Trail, New Hampshire

Enjoy one of the Northeast’s top beginner snowshoe trails, Lincoln Woods Trail , in the White Mountains. Located in the Pemigewasset Wilderness area, this path follows a former logging railway beside a river, runs for roughly three miles with gentle inclines, and connects with other routes, such as the Black Pond Trail , for those who’d like a longer trek.

5. Colchester Causeway Trail, Vermont

Soak up Lake Champlain’s frozen splendor from the famed Colchester Causeway Trail , a four-mile converted railway that welcomes snowshoers each winter. The water-flanked path crosses the lake, rises just 100 feet in elevation, and affords views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains. But given that the causeway is entirely exposed, expect winter’s whipping winds to whip even harder.

6. Catskill Scenic Trail, New York

This trail brings 25 multipurpose miles of outdoor adventure to upstate New York’s charming Catskills region, just three and a half hours north of Manhattan. Come winter, those 25 gentle-grade miles attract snowshoers who come to take in the expanse of rolling hills, thick forests, and quiet farmland of Delaware County. Ample parking abounds along the trail, which stretches from Bloomville to Roxbury.

7. Iron Creek Trail, South Dakota

Iron Creek Trail packs boulders, waterfalls, a creek, and a canyon into its two miles. The easy creek-bordered  route , located in  Black Hills National Forest , is a favorite among locals. Catch the trailhead along Highway 14A in the northern stretch of national forest, just south of Spearfish.

8. Banadad Trail, Minnesota

Few states embrace winter like Minnesota, and the Banadad Trail shows why it shines during this season. The wild route is the longest groomed cross-country ski trail in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, following former logging roads, with yurt-to-yurt ski accommodations and remnants of former logging camps dotting the route. Of its 18 miles of skiable terrain, five miles  are designated for snowshoeing. A bonus: the Banadad Trail is carbon-neutral, with all CO2 generated from its upkeep sequestered via tree planting.

9. Pine Grove Trail, Ohio

Winters in Cleveland are no joke, but snowshoeing northeast Ohio’s gem of an outdoor hub— Cuyahoga Valley National Park —makes the lingering snow flurries a bit more manageable. Head to the park’s Kendall Lake Trailhead to reach the Pine Grove Trail , a forested snowshoe path amid hemlocks, oaks, and dramatic ocean- and glacier-carved rock ledges. The loop is beginner friendly, covering 3.5 miles with minimal elevation.

10. Empire Bluff Trail, Michigan

Snag one of the best Lake Michigan views from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore ’s most picturesque snowshoe trail : Empire Bluff. The beginner-friendly 1.5-mile path transitions from Michigan’s signature hardwood forests to sweeping sand-dune-perch views. It’s a popular summer hike that only gets better—and less crowded—in the winter. From the trailhead , snowshoers will gain 170 feet of elevation en route to the top.

11. Observation Point Trail, Wyoming

The two-mile Observation Point Loop is Yellowstone National Park ’s most popular snowshoe-only path. It leads to a surreal winter attraction: the legendary Old Faithful geyser, erupting through a blanket of snow. Snowshoers trek from the visitor center along the Geyser Hill Trail, following switchbacks up to Observation Point, which overlooks Old Faithful. Expect an elevation gain of 160 feet and an average travel time of one to two hours.

12. Rim Trail, Utah

Bryce Canyon ’s maze of copper hoodoos and verdant cedars becomes even more striking with a dusting of snow—and snowshoeing takes visitors right into the heart of it. Enjoy a dreamy backdrop via the Rim Trail , an 11-mile out-and-back ideal for taking in views of the dramatic snow-flecked canyon. But note that the National Park Service closes the 1.5-mile section from Bryce to Inspiration Points during winter for safety reasons.

13. Glenwood Dunes Trail, Indiana

For a mix of pristine sand and fresh powder, try snowshoeing at Indiana Dunes National Park . The seven-mile Glenwood Dunes Trail, a loop frequented by cross-country skiers and snowshoers alike, weaves through a thick oak forest, with an elevation gain of 129 feet. Join the hike at the Glenwood Dunes parking lot, and for a full dose of winter fun, pack your sled for post-snowshoe play at the park’s one sled-friendly spot : the western-facing slopes of the West Beach Trails .

Intermediate

14. white pine lake trail, utah.

The tough ten-mile White Pine Lake Trail , located in the Lone Peak Wilderness, two hours outside Salt Lake City, follows aspen forests and pine groves across Little Cottonwood Canyon. The trail has a gain of roughly 2,500 feet elevation and ends with a stop at the glassy White Pine Lake, whose mountain-fringed setting becomes even more eye-popping when it’s blanketed by winter snow.

15. Andesite Peak, California

For one of Tahoe National Forest’s best snowshoe summits, head up Andesite Peak , a four-mile journey that starts just off I-80  near Boreal Mountain. Snowshoers follow a snowmobile road, then an orange-diamond-marked trail, to reach the 8,219-foot peak. The route meanders through fir forests and along Andesite Ridge before reaching the top, where a snowy 360-degree Sierra panorama awaits.

16. Meadow Trail to Dewey Point, California

Yosemite is one of Outside ’s favorite national parks  for winter exploration, and snowshoeing the Meadow Trail to Dewey Point shows why. This seven-mile jaunt through forests and meadows is as heart pumping as it is dazzling. Snowy Yosemite Valley views that take in El Capitan are the reward for ascending roughly 500 feet. The trail starts near the Badger Pass Ranger Station and follows Glacier Point Road for one mile before reaching the turnoff for Meadow Trail.

17. Caribou Mountain, Maine

Admire the snow-frosted landscapes of White Mountain National Forest with a snowshoe hike up Caribou Mountain. The roughly six-mile out-and-back trek twists through peaceful pine forests before topping out at the 2,850-foot peak, where views stretch across Maine, New Hampshire, and Quebec. Snowshoers will gain close to 2,000 feet of elevation on this trail, which starts just off Bog Road .

18. Mount Wachusett, Massachusetts

While commonly known as one of the state’s top skiing destinations, Mount Wachusett , which Henry David Thoreau nicknamed the “observatory of the state,” draws a snowshoeing crowd as well. Its most scenic snowshoeing route? Balance Rock Trail. This five-mile out-and-back begins at the Wachusett Mountain parking lot and joins the Old Indian Trail, proceeding through pine forests and around strewn boulders en route to the peak, with a gain of 1,000 feet of elevation.

19. Lakeshore Trail, Wisconsin

In winter, perfect weather conditions transform Apostle Islands National Lakeshore’s sea caves into mind-blowing icy caverns. Snowshoers can reach these ice caves by trekking the six-mile Lakeshore Trail . The route follows the bluffs above Lake Superior , with a vantage point about two miles after Meyers Beach.

20. Maah Daah Hey Trail, North Dakota

Take in the Badlands from one of the state’s best-loved snowshoe routes on this  144-mile trail through North Dakota’s wild western side. For a day trip, try the Long X to Maah Daah Hey Loop, an 11-mile excursion outside Grassy Butte that features snow-dusted grass in the foreground with the striated Badlands in the distance. This portion of the trail starts near the CCC Campground  and gains 1,100 feet of elevation throughout the loop.

21. Stargaze Point, Idaho

Marvel at Idaho’s wintry mountain landscapes with a snowshoe trek up the three-mile out-and-back Stargaze Trail, 90 minutes from Boise. The blue-blaze route is virtually all uphill—plan on 800 feet of elevation gain—but the summit’s Boise National Forest views are well worth the lactic-acid onslaught. To access the route, head to the parking lot at Beaver Creek Summit.

22. Crag Crest Trail, Colorado

Explore  the Mesa , the largest flattop mountain in the world, via one of the state’s most stunning snowshoe experiences. The Crag Crest Trail loops for ten miles through a forest of aspens and birches. The full distance requires proper preparation and winter-mountaineering skills . But even newer snowshoers can enjoy an out-and-back on the scenic lower portions of the trail, where solitude, snow-swept landscapes, and strenuous terrain make for the perfect winter day.

23. Castle Rock Snowshoe Loop, New York

For a challenging New York jaunt, head four and a half hours north of New York City to the Adirondacks’ Blue Mountain Lake region, where tough loops like Castle Rock promise a solid day trip. Sure, this three-mile loop may be short, but it boasts some serious elevation gain—2,430 feet. The steep trek ends with breathtaking panoramas and views of sparkling Blue Mountain Lake below.

24. Mount Healy Trail, Alaska

Get immersed in Denali National Park ’s winter scenery on the six-mile out-and-back Mount Healy Trail . This snowshoe-friendly route starts at the park entrance area and heads up Mount Healy. The 1,700 feet of elevation gain promise sweeping views of Denali. Prepare for severe wind and a tough climb; the National Park Service marks this route as difficult.

25. Moose Meadows Trail, Alaska

Traverse alpine tundra and cut between towering rock outcroppings on the Granite Tors Trail . This challenging 15-mile loop , located in the vast Chena River State Recreation Area outside Fairbanks, is not for the faint of heart. It starts at milepost 39 on Chena River Road and gains 2,900 feet of elevation. For a more beginner-friendly route, head to Fairbanks’s  Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge , where you’ll find milder trails and abundant wildlife.

26. Camel’s Hump Trail, Vermont

As Vermont’s third-tallest mountain, the 4,083-foot Camel’s Hump  draws hikers year-round. These spruce-fringed trails become even more captivating after a winter snowfall—particularly the five-mile round-trip Burrows Trail up to the summit. On a clear day, snowshoers can expect stunning vistas from Lake Champlain to Mount Washington. Join the Burrows Trail via the parking lot at the terminus of Camel’s Hump Road.

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What Shoes to Wear in Snow: Expert Advice for Winter Footwear

When it comes to venturing out in the snow, having the right pair of shoes is essential. Not only do you want to keep your feet warm and dry, but you also want to ensure that you stay stable on your feet. However, regular dress shoes or shoes made of cloth or canvas are not suitable for walking on the snow, as they allow the snow to seep in and cause discomfort.

So, what are the best kinds of shoes to wear in the snow? In this article, we will explore the different types of shoes that are ideal for snowy conditions, and how they can provide you with the necessary warmth, comfort, and stability to enjoy your time in the snow.

1. Shoes Made of Leather or Faux Leather

When it comes to shoes that can protect your feet from the snow, leather shoes are a great choice. Full grain and top grain leather are two types of leather that are perfect for snowshoes because they are water-resistant and keep the snow out of your feet.

Full grain leather shoes are made with leather that is only mildly treated, making them highly water-resistant. You can also spray them with a weatherproofing product for added protection. Many high-quality shoes from brands like Asics and Nike are made with full grain leather and come with water-resistant capabilities.

Top grain leather shoes are also weatherproof, but they are weaker than full grain leather because they have been polished and sanded. However, they still offer excellent protection against snow and water.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, faux leather shoes are a great choice. They are made of artificial materials that imitate real leather and are just as protective as real leather shoes when new. However, they may not last as long as real leather shoes.

In summary, shoes made of leather or faux leather are excellent choices for protecting your feet from the snow. Full grain and top grain leather offer the best protection, while faux leather is a more affordable option that still provides good protection.

2. Shoes with Cozy Lining for Insulation

When it comes to walking in the snow, you need shoes that keep your feet warm and dry. Shoes with a cozy lining are the perfect solution to achieve this. The fleece lining in these shoes traps the warmth generated by your feet and keeps it close to your skin. This insulation not only keeps your feet warm but also dry, allowing you to spend more time walking in the snow.

Avoid wearing rain boots in the snow, as they are designed to keep your feet dry rather than warm. Wet feet in the snow can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. If your shoes get wet from the snow, consider purchasing a shoe dryer to dry them out before your next outdoor adventure.

Investing in shoes with a cozy lining for insulation is a wise decision for those who enjoy walking in the snow. Not only will your feet stay warm and dry, but you'll also be able to enjoy the winter wonderland without any discomfort.

3. Shoes with Good Traction

When walking on snow, having shoes with good traction is essential to avoid slipping and falling. The type of traction you need depends on your activity. For mountain climbing, rigid crampons are best suited for snowshoes. However, if you're walking on light ice and snow, microspikes are perfect. For everyday use, such as going to work or school, look for shoes with rubber soles and deep treads. These will provide the stability you need on snow and ice. It's important to choose shoes with good traction to prevent any injuries and ensure a safe and enjoyable winter experience.

4. Shoes made with Gore-Tex technology

If you're looking for shoes that can keep your feet dry, warm, and breathable, then look no further than those made with Gore-Tex technology. This material is designed to keep water and snow out while letting sweat escape. This means that your feet will stay dry and comfortable all day long. Although shoes made with Gore-Tex technology may cost more than other shoes, they are worth the investment. You'll get the best value for your money, as they are durable and long-lasting. So, if you want to keep your feet comfortable and dry, consider investing in shoes made with Gore-Tex technology.

5. Waterproofed Shoes

When it comes to snowy or rainy weather, it is important to wear shoes that keep your feet dry. Most shoes let in water through the seams, so it is recommended to look for shoes that are waterproofed on the seams and throughout the entire shoe. Leather shoes are a great option as they can be sprayed with a weatherproof product to make them snowproof.

Waterproof shoes are preferable to water-resistant shoes as they can withstand exposure to water for longer periods of time. The best waterproof boots are made of rubber and do not have seams, such as wellies, which will keep your feet dry in even the wettest conditions.

Cloth shoes are not recommended as they soak up too much water and can leave your feet cold and heavy. By choosing waterproofed shoes, you can ensure that your feet stay dry and comfortable in any weather condition.

6. Shoes with Ankle Support

When hiking in the snow, it is crucial to wear shoes with ankle support, especially when hiking on trails with elevation gain. Snow boots come with ankle support in the high shaft, but if you prefer shoes, look for a pair with a shaft extending beyond the regular shoes. This extra support will come in handy when walking on steep trails in the snow. If you have weak ankles, choose boots that reach above your ankles to provide additional stability while walking on the snow.

Consider these features when looking for shoes with ankle support for hiking in the snow:

• High shaft extending beyond the regular shoes
• Strong ankle support
• Good traction on the sole
• Waterproof material to keep your feet dry
• Breathable material to prevent sweating and moisture buildup

By choosing shoes with ankle support, you can enjoy your hike in the snow with confidence and stability.

7. Shoes that are true-to-size

When it comes to buying shoes for walking on snow, it is important to ensure that you get the right size. Ill-fitting shoes can cause your feet to slip inside the shoes as you walk, which can hamper your stability. This can be especially dangerous when walking on snow, where there is already a small degree of instability to contend with.

To avoid this, it is recommended that you check whether the brand provides shoes that are true to size. If you normally wear a size 42 shoe, then that is what you should receive. However, you may want to consider ordering a pair that is half or one size bigger if you plan on wearing heavy merino socks to keep your feet warm.

By ensuring that you have shoes that fit properly, you can improve your stability and reduce the risk of slipping or falling when walking on snow. So, be sure to take the time to find the right size before you hit the trails.

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Best Shoes For Snow And Ice: Men’s And Women’s

Need a pair of shoes for walking on snow and ice? You’re definitely in the right place! We will show you ten such pairs in this review, including options for both men and women.

Some of the boots featured below are absolutely perfect for knee-deep snow, while others are so stable on icy terrain that you could run on a frozen lake without worrying you’re going to slip. And a couple of pairs exceed all expectations in both areas, making them excellent for people who want versatile boots that are great for everything.

At A Glance: Best Shoes For Snow And Ice

• Best For Hiking And Backpacking Salomon Men's Quest GTX Backpacking Boots Jump To Review
• Best Overall For Men Merrell Thermo Rogue Tactical Waterproof Ice+ Jump To Review
• Best Overall For Women Sperry Women's Powder Valley Snow Boot Jump To Review
• Best Everyday Boots UGG Women’s Adirondack Boot Jump To Review
• Best For Hikes Salomon Women's Toundra Pro CSWP Jump To Review

From lightweight hiking boots with aggressive outsoles to warm and fuzzy winter boots that are suitable for extreme colds – here are the best shoes for snow and ice!

Top Product Overview

Top products, merrell men's coldpack ice+ 8" zip polar waterproof.

If you primarily want slip-resistant boots that are extremely stable on icy surfaces, the Merrell Coldpack is a great option for you. They have a Vibram Arctic Grip outsole that is designed for outstanding performance in extreme conditions. It is rated as slip-resistant, so these boots are definitely a good choice if you want something that will make it effortless to walk on icy surfaces.

They also feature lightweight synthetic insulation and fleece lining, so they’re pretty warm as well. But, I wouldn’t say that they’re excellent for snow because of how short they are – these are ankle boots, so they are definitely not designed for treading through deep snow.

The Coldpack boots feature a removable EVA insole , which is very convenient. You can easily swap it out for something more supportive and that’s great for people who have to wear custom insoles in all of their footwear.

However, it’s worth noting that these are very tight – if you plan to put a thicker insole inside it would be best to go at least half a size up, otherwise, you might not be able to get the boots on your feet.

The uppers of these boots are made from waterproof leather and they boast seam-sealed construction, so they’re perfectly fine for wet conditions. They’re also breathable enough that your feet won’t stay sweaty even if they become too warm, but I still wouldn’t recommend them for temperatures higher than 5 degrees Celsius.

The Merrell boots even have a molded nylon shank for extra support and stability, as well as abundant cushioning in the heel for superb shock absorption. They mostly run true to size, but if you have wide feet or need thicker insoles, it would be best to size up.

• Slip resistant outsole
• Seam sealed construction
• Keeps feet warm
• Not great for deep snow
• Very tight out of the box

Product Information

• Uppers: Nubuck leather
• Outsole: Vibram Arctic Grip
• Weight: 2.2 lbs

Salomon Men's Quest GTX Backpacking Boots

Salomon is one of the brands that first comes to mind when you think of gear for rugged weather conditions. They make great shoes and jackets that perform extraordinarily well in the winter, in terms of warmth and water resistance. So, it’s no surprise that they’re also one of the best brands to consider when it comes to rugged outsoles for walking on ice!

The Quest boots by Salomon feature Gore-Tex uppers that are excellent for deep snow – Gore-Tex is completely waterproof, so there’s no way water can seep in through the boots. The uppers are also very breathable, so you can be sure that your feet won’t get too sweaty inside the boots.

The Salomon Quest backpacking boots feature a Contagrip outsole with a deep, multidirectional lug pattern. The aggressive lugs bite into the terrain with ease, ensuring you have plenty of grips regardless of the terrain under your feet.

The outsole is also made from non-slip rubber, so you can expect excellent performance on icy surfaces.

Additionally, these hiking boots boast a 4D Advanced Chassis design for excellent comfort even on longer hikes. It allows for more forefoot flexion which improves stability and reduces fatigue, making these a great option for long adventures.

On top of all that, the Quest boots actually feature the cushioning of running shoes. That should give you a really good idea of how comfortable they are even on the really rough terrain. They are also very supportive, especially in the arch and heel areas.

It’s worth noting that these boots are a bit tight, so they’re not a great option for people with wide feet. Especially since they’re only available in regular sizes.

• Comfortable and supportive
• True to size
• Waterproof and breathable
• Not suitable for wide feet
• Uppers: Gore-Tex
• Outsole: Contagrip rubber outsole
• Weight: 1.4 lbs

Merrell Thermo Rogue Tactical Waterproof Ice+

Here’s another excellent option from Merrell – the Thermo Rogue Tactical boots are amazing for both snow and ice. They have a Vibram Arctic Grip outsole with lots of deep and multidirectional lugs, for outstanding performance on different terrain types. Whether you’re trekking through soft snow or climbing icy peaks, these boots will not let you down.

They also feature Merrell M Select Warm insulation that traps and preserves your own body heat, in order to keep your feet warm for prolonged periods of time . Plus the boots are entirely waterproof , meaning you can safely tread through deep snow without your feet getting cold or wet.

Other great features of these boots include a bellowed tongue that keeps debris out, an Aerogel footbed and toe cap for superb protection and comfort, and even a molded Nylon shank.

The Thermo Rogue boots are also equipped with a contoured insole for excellent support, while the dual-directional EVA midsole promises superb stability.

Another thing worth mentioning is that these Merrell boots boast metal hooks and eyelets for secure lacing. There’s no zipper so they are a bit awkward to get on and take off, especially with the lack of an ankle loop.

But that’s the only bad thing I can say about them – considering these are waterproof and insulated boots with a very aggressive outsole, they’re actually my favorite pick out of the bunch. Buy these, and you will soon be walking on ice with ease!

It is worth noting that these boots run a little small , so it’s probably a good idea to go half a size up, especially if you have wide feet.

They are only available in the regular width and they are a bit narrow, so it’s going to take some trial and error to get a pair that fits perfectly. But once you’ve figured that out, I’m pretty sure they’ll become your go-to winter boots.

• Insulated and breathable
• Very aggressive outsole
• Supportive footbed
• Narrow construction
• Uppers: Full Grain Leather
• Outsole: Vibram Arctic Grip Mix Grip
• Weight: 3 lbs

Danner Men's Lookout 8” 800G

Danner is a great brand when it comes to heavy-duty boots . They actually manufacture footwear for law enforcement, as well as tonnes of amazing work boots. Danner footwear is known for its excellent performance and durability, and they are a great option if you want something reliable that does not disappoint.

It is important to note that the Lookout boots are not insulated at all, so they’re not really a great option for really cold weather. Their uppers are waterproof and breathable so your feet and legs won’t get wet if you walk through deep snow, but they’re not going to stay toasty warm either.

These boots feature a Danner Lookout non-slip outsole that is designed to provide you with lots of grip and exceptional traction for walking on ice or wet surfaces. If you are primarily looking for slip-resistant shoes, these are definitely worth considering.

Their uppers are made from full-grain leather and ballistic nylon – the nylon helps reduce the weight of the shoes and increase their breathability.

The interior of the boots has a Danner Dry waterproof barrier that helps keep the boots breathable. It allows moisture inside the shoes to evaporate, so your feet won’t get too sweaty in these boots.

One thing that makes the Lookout boots stand out is how comfortable they are. Bear in mind that a lot of shoes from Danner are designed for people who spend 8+ hours a day on their feet – comfort is a bit selling point of their footwear.

They feature a plush dual-density footbed with excellent cushioning, as well as an Airthotic heel clip for great support.

On top of that, these boots have a wide toe box, which helps distribute your weight better. That improves both stability and comfort when walking around on uneven terrain.

• Very comfortable
• Not insulated
• Quite heavy
• Uppers: Leather, Ballistic Nylon
• Outsole: Danner Lookout outsole
• Weight: 3.4 lbs

Oboz Men's Bridger BDRY Hiking boot

The Oboz Bridger boots are great for men who want excellent hiking boots which happen to perform really well on snow and ice. These aren’t specifically designed as winter boots, but their rugged outsole is more than suitable for wet and icy terrain.

Even though they’re not exactly a great option for deep snow, they are entirely waterproof . You will have no issues keeping your feet dry in rainy weather or when there are just a couple of inches of snow on the ground. But because they are not insulated, they’re definitely not suitable for really tall snow or extreme colds.

These boots feature a very aggressive Granite Peak outsole that is excellent for any terrain.

The deep and multidirectional lugs bite into the ground and snow with ease, ensuring you have plenty of grips regardless of what exactly is under your feet.

On top of that, the outsole is very sticky, which means improved traction for walking on ice. It’s also important to know that, because the lugs are so deep, you will barely even feel the terrain you’re walking on, making these boots perfect for rocky areas.

Additionally, they are also really comfortable on long hikes. They have an EVA insole and an EVA midsole, for excellent support and stability. Plus, the top layer of the insole is actually moisture-wicking for improved breathability.

It is also important to mention that the midsole provides very balanced cushioning. There’s also a Nylon shank for improved stability and support – if you want boots that allow you to be 100% confident in every single step you take, the Bridger really is a great option. Just not if you also want to be warm in sub-zero temperatures.

• Sticky outsole offers excellent grip and traction
• EVA midsole is very supportive
• Very breathable
• They run a bit small
• Uppers: Leather
• Outsole: Granite Peak Outsole
• Weight: 1.9 lbs

Sperry Women's Powder Valley Snow Boot

The Powder Valley boots are great for women who want shoes that are equally good for deep snow and icy surfaces. They feature waterproof suede uppers with seam-sealed construction, which means they will keep your legs and feet dry and warm even in knee-deep snow.

On top of that, this boot is also equipped with Vibram Polar Ice outsoles that are specifically designed for superb traction on icy surfaces. They don’t have particularly deep lugs so you won’t have the best grip on soft terrain, but you definitely won’t slip around on frozen pavements either.

And they just get better. The boots also have Thinsulate synthetic insulatio n that is known for being very warm and breathable, as well as faux fur lining. They do a great job at keeping you warm even in extremely cold weather, and they’re breathable enough that your feet won’t get sweaty or clammy.

Something else worth noting about the Sperry boots is that they are very easy to put on and take off, which can be a problem with taller boots. These have a toggle clasp for laces, which makes it effortless to get in and out of the boots.

The pricing of this snow boot is a bit inconsistent as it really depends on the exact size and color combo you go for. I’d recommend you check the price of every color in your size since you could actually end up saving a couple of hundred dollars.

And they run true to size so you can get them in the size that you normally wear. They’re roomy enough that you can wear thicker socks without the boots feeling tight or uncomfortable.

• Very warm and breathable
• Excellent non-slip outsole
• Inconsistent pricing
• Not the best grip on soft terrain
• Uppers: Waterproof suede
• Outsole: Vibram outsole with Polare Ice Grip technology
• Weight: 1.19 lbs

UGG Women’s Adirondack Boot

The Adirondack boots from UGG are a great pair if you want something exceptionally warm. With leather uppers , synthetic insulation, and wool lining, these boots are designed to keep you warm even in extreme colds. They have a temperature rating of -32 degrees Celsius, which actually makes them an excellent option for snow.

Also, the lining is not there just to look cute on your calves. Even the toe box is thoroughly lined, so they really are as warm as they are supposed to be. The temperature rating is likely a bit exaggerated, but they’re definitely good enough for sub-zero temperatures.

Their uppers are completely waterproof so you can safely tread through deep snow without your feet getting wet.

The Adirondack boots also feature a spider rubber outsole that has excellent traction, so they’re really good for walking on icy surfaces. The deep lugs on the outsoles easily bite into soft terrain, so you should have lots of grip and traction in these UGGs.

The main downside of a spider rubber outsole  is that they get worn out quicker than Vibram outsoles – keep that in mind if you want to buy boots that you plan to wear very often.

And most rubber outsoles are not actually slip-resistant, so they are not the best option if you are primarily looking for a snow boot that is excellent for icy surfaces.

It’s also worth mentioning that these have a pretty wide sole, which really helps with stability. Your weight is better distributed and it’s easier to walk on soft and uneven terrain, particularly through the snow.

The Adirondack boots are available in half sizes and mostly run true to size , so you should have no problems getting a pair that fits well. They can be a bit tight out of the box, especially with all that lining, but they will loosen up a bit over time.

• Insulated and throughly lined
• Excellent support and stability
• Outsoles are not slip resistant
• Uppers: Waterproof leather and suede
• Outsole: Spider Rubber
• Weight: 1.26 lbs

Columbia Women's Ice Maiden II Boot

The Ice Maiden boots from Columbia are great for ladies who want something very warm but affordable . Columbia makes some really good gear and they normally use proprietary technology in their products, which allows them to offer really good prices. It’s the same with these boots – they are insulated and waterproof, but they are under $100.

These are rated for -32 degrees Celsius and they feature seam-sealed construction, so you should be able to walk through some deep snow without your feet getting wet.

I honestly think that the temperature rating is a bit exaggerated because the warmth of the boots only comes from the insulation. There is some lining around the collar and tongue, but there’s not any inside the actual shoe.

The boots feature an Omni-Grip outsole that is made from non-marking rubber for excellent grip and traction. But, even though the outsole does offer excellent grip thanks to the deep lugs, it is not rated as slip-resistant.

Because of that, I wouldn’t recommend these Columbia boots if you are specifically looking for something that is great for ice but don’t hesitate if you just want something warm for deep snow.

Another great thing about the Ice Maiden boots is the Techlite midsole . It provides excellent cushioning as well as high energy return, so your feet don’t get too tired even after you’ve spent several hours walking.

These Columbia boots run true to size so it should be pretty easy to get the perfect fit. They are available in both half and full sizes, as well as both wide and regular options.

• Very affordable
• Exceptionally warm
• Comfortable midsole
• Outsole is not slip resistant
• Not throughly lined
• Uppers: Leather, Textile
• Outsole: Omni-Grip Non-Marking Rubber
• Weight: 1.2 lbs

Salomon Women's Toundra Pro CSWP

The Toundra Pro is Salomon’s warmest boots out of the bunch, with a temperature rating of up to -40 degrees Celsius. That’s thanks to the combination of Aerogel insulation and faux fur lining, which do an excellent job at retaining warmth in extreme colds.

The best thing about these boots is that they manage to be so warm without any extra bulk or weight. They won’t weigh you down, which makes them great for all sorts of different outdoor adventures. Especially because the Toundra also boasts breathable mesh lining and a water repellent exterior.

On top of that, these women’s boots actually have EVA sock liners , for improved comfort and cushioning. The foam also increases shock absorption of the boots, so they are overall very comfortable for longer expeditions.

In addition to that, the Toundra boots also have a toe cap that protects your feet from any debris on the trails. The gusseted tongue stays centered and it prevents any debris from getting inside the shoe, for ultimate protection on the trail.

And then there’s the outsole. These boots come equipped with the Contagrip rubber outsole with deep and multidirectional lugs. The rubber sole offers excellent grip and traction on both snow and ice, so they are an excellent option for winter hikes.

The Toundra boots run true to size so it shouldn’t be too hard to get a pair that fits well. However, they are not available in a wide option, so you should consider going at least half a size up if you have wide feet. Especially if you want to put a different insole in the boots or wear them with really thick socks.

• Great traction on snow and ice
• Comfortable
• Not the most stable option
• No wide sizes
• Uppers: PU Coated Leather
• Outsole: Contagrip Rubber Outsole
• Weight: 1.7 lbs

Muck Boot Arctic Ice Extreme Conditions

The Muck Arctic Ice boots are a great option if you prefer the aesthetic of rubber boots. But they are not even remotely close to the basic rubber boots you can pick up at any store, apart from the fact that they are perfectly fine for wet weather.

These boots feature a Vibram Arctic Grip outsole that is excellent for icy pavements. It provides you with all the grip and traction you need and it is slip-resistant. On top of that, these boots feature a 5mm neoprene inner bootie for superb warmth – a feature that you rarely see on traditional rubber boots.

There is also fleece lining inside, so you can actually be warm in the Muck boots. In fact, their temperature rating is 40 °C to 4 °C, so they’re more than great for average winter weather.

The neoprene lining is great not just because of the warmth, but also because it makes the boots much more comfortable to wear.

It is very soft so it feels great when you’re on your feet for hours at a time, and it also increases the level of cushioning the boots provide. Especially when you pair that soft lining with the comfortable EVA midsole that also improves the stability and support you get from these snow boots.

The Muck boots for women are only available in full sizes, so you might not be able to get a size that fits perfectly.

But remember – these are rubber boots and you have to pull them on; if you have wide feet or high arches, chances are you’re going to struggle with getting these on your feet. And if you want to wear thick socks with these boots, you should definitely go at least half a size up.

• Excellent for icy pavement
• Warm and comfortable
• No zipper or laces
• No half sizes available
• Uppers: Rubber, Spandura
• Outsole: Vibram Arctic Grip Outsole
• Weight: 1.62 lbs

What To Look For

What’s the priority.

Is your priority to get great boots for snow or slip-resistant snow boots that are perfect for icy  pavements? Sure, you can get a pair that does pretty okay in both aspects, but it is much harder to find a pair that’s absolutely perfect for either scenario.

Boots that are great for snow are usually taller, more insulated, and have a focus on keeping your feet dry and warm. It’s a bit different with winter shoes for ice – with those, the focus is purely on the outsole and just how slip-resistant it is. So, once you decide which performance you prioritize, you shouldn’t have any issues picking up a pair that is just right for you!

The outsole of a shoe is what determines what kind of terrain you can normally walk on. We’re looking for winter shoes that are suitable for snow and ice, which means the outsoles need to be made from non-slip rubber with deep and multidirectional lugs.

Also, try to find shoes with a slip-resistant outsole if possible. These offer the best performance on icy pavement and they definitely are the safest bet if you’re primarily focused on footwear for ice.

If you’re not sure how to pick a great outsole, then just go with Vibram . They are the best in terms of performance and durability, and their outsoles are often found in footwear for extreme conditions. You can also see a lot of military and police gear with Vibram outsoles – if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us!

And you will also notice other types of outsoles that are usually made by the same brands that manufacture the shoes. None of them are exactly bad or should be avoided, but it’s worth noting that Vibram is the absolute best there is on the market.

When looking at other types of outsoles, be sure to check what material it is made from – spider rubber is one of the best options there are. The main difference between spider rubber soles and   Vibram soles  is durability – spider rubber is softer so it gets worn out a bit faster.

This is something you should pay attention to if you’re buying snow boots that you plan to wear every single day. If they’re shoes for the occasional hike or outing, the difference in durability really isn’t a big deal.

Insulation And Breathability

The best boots for snow are the ones that are able to keep your legs and feet warm, but not too warm. Nobody wants sweaty and clammy feet in sub-zero temperatures, which is exactly why breathability is just as important as waterproofing and insulation of the shoes.

Gore-Tex is one of the best technologies in this aspect and any boots that have a Gore-Tex membrane are a safe bet. But they’re also pricier than most other boots, so there’s likely not an option in everyone’s price range.

You can also see lots of other types of synthetic insulations and waterproofing technologies, and they are usually unique to the brand that makes the boots. They’re all pretty great options, and they tend to be a lot cheaper than Gore-Tex.

Something else you should pay attention to is whether or not a pair of boots is seam-sealed . If they are, it means that not a drop of water can get inside the boots and that the heat inside is not going to slowly escape.

Last but not least, you should always check the temperature rating that the manufacturer gives to the boots, even if they do like to exaggerate a lot of times. This gives you a good idea of just how warm the boots are, which can be helpful if you can’t really deduce that from the type and amount of synthetic insulation in them.

Crampons And Grips!

You can make any pair of ankle boots suitable for walking on icy pavement if you put grips on them. This is a great quick and cheap solution for people who can’t afford to get a decent pair of shoes for ice – it’s better to make some adjustments to an existing pair of good shoes you have, than to cheap out and gets something that will break down in a month or two.

• SIZE: M [5.7*8.5 inch (US WOMEN:7-10/ US MEN:5-8)] **Fit for Men/Women ,prevent slipping on snow and ice conditions,Anti Slip Crampons Slip-on Stretch Footwear
• HiIghly Stretchable Silicone Material: Made of durable silicone rubber thermoplastic elastomer+ special non-slip steel studs, it is more durable and not easy to break than ordinary TPE material. The ice snow grips is suitable for most shoes or boots. Till strong perform under -45 degree C

Crampons are also worth considering, but they’re more suitable for alpine climbers. You can’t really walk normally with crampons on, and they’re definitely not suitable for normal pavements. Grips, on the other hand, are perfectly fine even if you’re just running to the corner store and want to be certain you’re not going to slip on the icy pavement.

• GRIPS ON SLIPPERY SURFACES: Walk confidently with these slip-on traction cleats designed to evenly distribute underfoot traction across ice- and snow-covered surfaces, as to provide stability on rocky terrain.
• STAYS STRONG IN COLD WEATHER: Thermoplastic rubber sling won't degrade, crack, or fail in cold temperatures for durability that lasts through repeated uses; plus, the thermoplastic is completely recyclable for reduced waste

Of course, this is only a good solution for dealing with the icy pavement. Crampons and grips won’t make your basic boots waterproof and if you really need a pair that is suitable for deep snow, you will have to get something new.

Best Shoes For Snow And Ice: Our Top Picks

Not quite sure which of these shoes is the best shoes for you? Pick up one of our top three choices and we’re certain you won’t be disappointed!

The Merrell Thermo Rogue boots are definitely the best shoes for men who want shoes that excel in every aspect. With a waterproof membrane, insulated interiors with reflective lining, and an incredibly supportive insole, these boots are perfect for wet and cold weather. They also feature a Vibram Arctic Grip outsole, which is specifically designed for superb performance walking on ice and on snow.

• Nubuck and Suede Leather Upper
• Abrasion Resistant Toe Bumper

For women , the best boots overall would be the Sperry Powder Valley snow boots . They are equipped with a Vibram Arctic Grip outsole so they are excellent for slippery surfaces and icy pavement. On top of that, these boots are entirely waterproof, as well as insulated and lined with faux fur for incredible warmth even in extremely cold weather.

Honestly, if you want a pair of boots that will keep your feet warm and that’s stable enough so you can confidently walk on ice, these are the best ones to get.

• Waterproof suede upper is fully seam sealed
• Lined in Thinsulate and faux fur

I would recommend the Salomon Toundra boots to women who specifically want something for hiking and backpacking . They are waterproof, insulated, breathable, and have a very rugged outsole that offers excellent traction walking on ice. On top of that, these snow boots are very comfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time, thanks to the soft EVA sock liners.

• Salomon's warmest boot. Warm to -40 Degree.
• Full waterproof bootie.

Head over to Amazon to see the prices of all of the shoes for snow and ice featured in this review – hopefully, you’ll find the ones you liked in your size. And go check out our related posts for even more ideas on excellent winter shoes for hikes!

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SOREL VS. UGG KEEN VS. MERRELL

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13 Best Travel Shoes for Winters

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Travel Shoes for…

Traveling during winter is fun. But what’s not fun is bringing the wrong travel shoes. Without the best shoes for winters, your feet might end up freezing! Plus, not all shoes are designed to perform well on snow or icy surfaces. That’s why we’re here to show you the best shoes for walking on ice. With the right pair, you can walk on ice and snow without worrying about slipping and falling. They’ll also have protection from wet and cold conditions. Whatever your style or needs, there’s a durable pair out there that has something to keep you steady and sure-footed all winter long. So, here they are, the best shoes for the winter!

Table of contents

Merrell men’s coldpack ice+ moc waterproof snow boots, timberland men’s white ledge mid waterproof ankle boots, sorel women’s out n about plus boots, sorel women’s whitney short lace boots, merrell men’s moab 2 waterproof hiking shoes, columbia women’s heavenly shorty omni-heat boots, nortiv 8 men’s insulated waterproof snow boots, salomon men’s x ultra mid winter cs waterproof boots, skechers joy bundle up chukka boots, columbia women’s ice maiden ii snow boots, merrell thermo chill 6″ shell waterproof sneakers, dansko women’s paisley waterproof outdoor sneakers, mishansha men’s winter ankle shoes, water resistance and waterproofing, what shoes should you wear for winter walking, is it ok to wear sneakers in winter, can i wear normal shoes in snow.

The Merrell Men’s Coldpack Ice+ Moc Waterproof Snow Boots are one of the most convenient and comfortable options on this list. As the best shoes for winters, they allow you to move freely and comfortably, even in chilly weather. They look modern yet simple, suitable for traveling, casual walking, working, and other activities.

The leather upper protects your feet well and prevents the shoes from absorbing water. Meanwhile, the Vibram outsole comes with an advanced design for more traction. That way, you can walk on icy surfaces confidently. Best of all, they’re not that expensive compared to other best shoes for walking in ice.

• A simple and modern option that offers impressive performance and versatility.
• Grippy Vibram outsole
• Durable leather upper
• Reasonably priced
• Lightweight
• The waterproof feature isn’t the best

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Featuring a classic design, the Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Ankle Boots are your ideal companion. Unlike other winter boots out there, this pair is lightweight and breathable. These best shoes for winters provide all the features you need to protect your feet. Plus, the quality and durability are super high for you to wear for the long term.

Furthermore, these shoes are high performance, so you can also use them for other activities like hiking. Not to mention, the leather upper and seam-sealed construction is fully waterproof! Plus, the lace-up system allows you to adjust the fit effortlessly! And thanks to the EVA footbed and high insulation, your feet will always stay warm and comfortable. For other similar options, take a look at the best waterproof boots for men and women !

• A casual-looking pair that can be used for many occasions.
• Convenient lace-up system
• Comfortable footbed
• Too tight for some people

Ladies who plan on walking in icy or wet conditions will definitely love the Sorel Women’s Out N About Plus Boots . As the best shoes for walking in ice, they have emphasized tread that features tons of texture to grip slippery surfaces. No matter how wet or icy it gets, you don’t have to be afraid of falling flat on your face.

Plus, the tread extends around the toe and up against the sides for improved grip. In terms of comfort and style, these shoes aren’t lacking either. Want waterproof footwear? You’re currently looking at them! Another feature that we love is the removable cushioned insole, making these shoes highly customizable. For other travel shoes for women, check out the best travel shoe brands for women !

• They’re the way to go for women who plan on walking in icy or wet conditions often.
• Extremely grippy
• Removable insole
• Comfortable for all-day use
• Stylish design

Anyone with narrow feet knows how annoying it can be when your feet are sliding around and not properly supported. That’s why we include the SOREL Women’s Whitney Short Lace Boots . This affordable pair from SOREL offers a narrow fit, so your fit will feel snug and stable inside.

Featuring a durable rubber outsole, these best shoes for the winter are ideal for traveling, commuting, and other outdoor winter activities. Aside from that, they also feature a lace-up closure so you can customize the fit even more! Oh, have we told you that they come in 7 different color options?

• The perfect shoes for women with narrow feet.
• Available in 7 different colors
• Convenient lace-up closure
• Durable rubber outsole
• Perfect for narrow feet
• Not for those with wide feet

Are you struggling to find the best shoes in snow that accommodate wide feet? Then check out the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes ! This high-quality pair comes in medium and wide, providing some extra width and depth if you need it. With reliable Gore-Tex waterproof protection and Vibram TC5+ outsole with 5mm deep lugs, they’re easily the best shoes to walk on ice.

Apart from that, these shoes also feature exceptional comfort from the compression-molded EVA midsole, while the Merrell air cushion in the heel delivers shock absorption and amazing stability. Best of all, they’re versatile enough to wear for hiking or when traveling with your friends in the cold, winter weather.

• They’re a reliable option for men who have wide feet.
• Suitable for wide feet
• Compression-molded EVA midsole
• Merrell air cushion for shock absorption
• Some durability issues

Does your travel involve some walking on ice or snow? If so, the Columbia Women’s Heavenly Shorty Omni-Heat Boots are a comfy option to keep you from slipping and sliding. Their waterproof, breathable membrane will keep your feet dry from the elements, while the Omni-Heat Reflective Warmth technology will keep them toasty.

Don’t worry; there are still many amazing features that’ll awe you! Thanks to the 200G insulation and the waterproof, quilted synthetic textile upper, you’ll get additional warmth and protection. Plus, the Omni-Grip outsole delivers exceptional grip and traction. Finally, there are six different colors to choose from in women’s sizes 5 through 12.

• A convenient option that makes traveling and everyday activity during winter enjoyable.
• Highly breathable
• Keep you feet dry and warm
• Exceptional grip and traction
• Available in many colors and sizes
• Many women need to order a size larger

The NORTIV 8 Men’s Insulated Waterproof Snow Boots are an affordable option that’ll keep your feet warm and dry in frigid conditions. Don’t let their look fool you, as these shoes aren’t heavy at all. Made from 200G 3M Thinsulate, these best shoes for winters also have a waterproof shell on the bottom, keeping your feet dry in snowy or wet weather.

In addition to that, the cushioned insole and ergonomic design will provide excellent support and comfort that you might expect only from much higher-priced best shoes for the winter. Meanwhile, the durable and stable rubber sole is slip-resistant, even on slippery ice. Well-designed and reasonably priced, how can one not like these shoes?

• A wallet-friendly option for men that doesnt skimp on any important feature.
• Wallet-friendly
• Waterproof shell on the bottom
• Well-cushioned
• Excellent support
• Lack color options

As the best shoes for winters, the Salomon Men’s X Ultra Mid Winter CS Waterproof Boots will keep you stable and steady on the ice and snow while your toes stay toasty and dry. Boasting ClimaSalomon Waterproof protection and Thinsulate insulation, you’ll get protection from slush, rain, and snow.

Meanwhile, the non-marking Contagrip outsole features an aggressive lug pattern that offers reliable grip and traction, helping you avoid slips and falls in wet, snowy, and icy conditions. No wonder many consider them as the best shoes to walk on ice. Furthermore, these durable shoes come in a wide range of sizes and feature an EVA footbed and heel cup for superior support and cushioning.

• A nice all-rounder that allows you to move quickly through a winter landscape.
• Backed by a 2-year limited warranty
• Grippy rubber sole
• ClimaSalomon Waterproof protection
• Thinsualte insulation
• Available in many sizes
• Feel a bit too bulky

Though the Skechers Joy Bundle Up Chukka Boots aren’t the most waterproof option on this list, they’re still worth getting if you prioritize comfort. As the best shoes for winters, these shoes feature a super soft faux-fur lining that’s both fluffy and warm. We also love the suede upper that’s treated with 3M Scotchgard for water repellence.

As expected from one of the best travel shoe brands for men , the cushioning they offer is lightweight and supportive, and an air-infused insole will absorb shocks while you walk. Meanwhile, the ankle-high design will keep your feet cozy in cold weather. As with other best shoes for walking in ice, this pair also offers enough traction. Finally, they’re cheap and come in 6 different color options!

• A beautiful and comfy option for those who don’t mind not having waterproof shoes.
• Fluffy and warm
• Offer sufficient support
• 3M Scotchgard for water repellence
• Available in 6 different colors
• Not waterproof

Women who are hunting for boots should take a look at the Columbia Women’s Ice Maiden II Snow Boots . If you’re wondering, these best shoes to walk on ice are called Ice Maiden because they’re designed to keep your feet as warm as possible. These beautiful boots feature 200gr insulation inside of waterproof leather and textile outer, both of which reach mid-calf for optimal warmth.

Apart from that, they also feature a thick textured sole and adjustable laces, offering you a nice fit. With the comfy cushioning and lightweight midsole, these best shoes are the perfect footwear for cold-weather walks in winter. You can walk all day in them, and your feet will still feel comfortable. Even better, you can get them in wide options as well!

• They’re warm, fuzzy boots that will keep you comfortable all day long.
• Incredibly warm
• Adjustable laces for a snug fit
• Lightweight midsole
• Great traction
• Fashionable
• No room for socks

Those who’ve been dying to own a pair of waterproof sneakers should go and get themselves the Merrell Thermo Chill 6″ Shell Waterproof Sneakers . These are the best shoes for winters if you’re looking to keep your feet dry in extreme conditions. They come with an impermeable membrane that keeps out water, and they reach to your upper ankles for extra protection.

What’s more, these shoes also let sweat escape through the coated PU leather. That way, you won’t ever have stinky feet! Despite their low-bulk insulation and boot-like shape, these best shoes in snow are surprisingly lightweight, supportive, and easy to wear. Plus, they grip wet and icy pavement without any issue, making them the best shoes for walking in ice. By the way, did you know that Merrell also makes the best shoes for Sciatica ?

• The most waterproof shoes that are also comfortable.
• Reach to your upper ankles for extra protection
• Breathable design
• Surprisingly lightweight
• Grippy sole
• Limited color options

If you experience relatively mild winters or you only plan to walk where there’s not a lot of snow or ice on the sidewalk, then a warm pair of shoes should meet your needs. That said, we have the perfect option in mind! Say hello to the Dansko Women’s Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneakers . These amazing shoes have several features that make them the best shoes for winters.

As the name suggests, these best shoes for the winter boast a fully waterproof leather upper. Aside from that, there’s also an interior fiber that’s designed for warmth and moisture management. Meanwhile, the thick outsole provides improved traction, allowing you to walk confidently. In terms of comfort, they have a triple-density footbed that absorbs shock and supports the natural arch of your foot. That’s not all, as they come in wide sizes too!

• One of the best options for those who need nothing but a pair of warm and waterproof shoes during winter.
• Removable triple-density footbed
• Amazing moisture management
• Waterproof upper
• Available in wide sizes
• Thick outsole
• Impressive odor control
• Not for vigorous activities

Let’s be real; whenever you see a pair of the best shoes for walking in ice that’s affordable, you’ll probably think they’re too cheap to perform well. But trust us when we tell you the Mishansha Men’s Winter Ankle Shoes are an exception. Despite costing you less than 50USD, these best shoes in winter have all of the essential features you’ll ever need.

These best shoes in snow come with a water-resistant artificial leather upper, a thick and textured sole to prevent slipping, a faux-fur interior for warmth, and elastic laces that allow you to walk comfortably. That’s not all, as these shoes are also extremely stylish! On top of that, they come in suede-like finishes as well as shiny leather ones. With a price that’s hard to beat and top-notch features, you don’t want to ignore these best shoes in winter!

• An insanely cheap option that’s unbelievably functional.
• Stunning design
• Faux-fur interior
• Elastic laces
• Perfect for many activities
• Need a break-in period

How To Choose The Best Travel Shoes for Winters

When choosing the best shoes for the winter, there are several important features to consider. They include:

The best shoes for winters that you want should be grippy so that they can provide stability and confidence when walking on icy surfaces. That said, we recommend looking for shoes with rubber outsoles, large treads, or aggressive lugs that will offer good traction.

Where there’s ice, there’s water. So, you’ll want shoes that are waterproof or water-resistant. Shoes that are made from Gore-Tex, neoprene, leather, PU, PVC, or rubber offer the best protection against water.

Having proper insulation will help keep your feet warm and toasty. To find the best shoes for winters that provide the warmth and protection you need, check the temperature rating and look for materials such as fleece and Thinsulate.

Comfort is, of course, also an important consideration, especially if you’re using the shoes for commuting or outdoor winter activities such as hiking. A cushioned footbed with good support will improve shock absorption and reduce the risk of pain in your feet and other areas. But if you’re suffering from some foot conditions, check out the best Dr. Scholl’s shoes for plantar fasciitis or the best shoes for Achilles Tendonitis instead!

There’s no specific answer to this question. However, we can all agree that your shoes should have great traction, insulation, and waterproofing.

It depends. That’s because not all sneakers are designed to be worn during winter. So, make sure that the sneakers you want to wear have the features you need to combat the cold weather.

Technically, you can. However, we don’t recommend doing that. Just because your shoes give you a good grip on the court or pavement, they’re not going to do the same on snow and ice. So, invest in the best shoes for walking in ice and snow instead!

Author:  Danny Riley

As a blogger reviewer, I have had the pleasure of staying in some of the most luxurious hotels around the world, experiencing first-hand the amenities, services, and overall guest experience. Through my reviews, I aim to provide readers with an honest and unbiased assessment of each hotel, covering everything from the quality of the accommodations to the level of customer service. From boutique hotels to large resorts, my reviews offer a comprehensive look at each property, giving readers the information they need to make informed decisions when planning their next vacation. But my reviews go beyond just the basics - I also delve into the unique features and experiences that make each hotel stand out from the rest. From rooftop bars with stunning views to spa treatments that indulge the senses, I highlight the special touches that set a hotel apart and make it a truly unforgettable experience. So whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time vacationer, my reviews offer valuable insights into some of the best hotels around the world. Join me on my journey as I explore the world of hospitality, one hotel at a time.

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25 Winter Travel Shoes That Make Airport Security a Breeze

No matter the season, deciding what your  airport outfit will be proves to be quite the feat. You want to be ultra comfortable, but you also want to look presentable. Plus, you want an outfit that will make passing by airport security as easy as possible . The trick to achieving all of these things is wearing the ideal shoes. That's why we've rounded up the best winter travel shoes you can find. Think boots that are easy to slip on and off, sneakers that will mold themselves to your feet, and chunky heels that will make you strut a little more confidently on your walk to your gate. Scroll on to find a pair of travel shoes that best suits you.

You can't go wrong with white boots with an easy zipper, whether you're exploring the city streets or waiting in the security line.

Nothing's as reliable as a good pair of loafers. 

Chelsea boots are the ultimate winter (and travel) shoes. 

So easy to slip on and off.

Comfort is key when traveling, and these check off that box.

Classic black boots are always a good idea.

Stomp to your gate with these stylish, chunky boots. 

Sophisticated and airport-appropriate.

There's a reason these kicks are a classic. 

The pull-on nature of these boots makes putting them on a breeze and won't make you lose any valuable time. 

Easy and comfortable.

Opt for a pair of kicks, but choose a fun colorway for something a bit different.

These will stand out as they pass by security. 

You just simply can't go wrong with a pair of cool trainers.

Loafers that will elevate even the coziest airplane look.

Emma Watson loves these sneakers, and we do, too.

Just add a slim sock for a chic librarian effect.

You had me at contrast stitching. 

A true stomping combat boot with major street cred.

Somehow these sneakers that debuted in 1972 still feel fresh.

Don't talk to me, I'm currently manifesting these statement cowboy boots.

The dip at the top of the boot takes these from standard to standout. 

The return of the loafer is imminent, ya'll.

This color combo is feeding so many happy feelings.

There's something appealing about these rugged-meets-fashion boots.

Travel shoes? Check. Now find  the best carry-ons on the market to finish off your travel preparations. 

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