The Best Snowshoes for Beginners: A Complete Guide

These TSL snowshoes are extremely technologically advanced – making them ideal for even the most demanding weather conditions.

Hyperflex technology assures wearers of superb grip, while the frame can adjust to fit the terrain. A quick pull system achieves the perfect fit, which is then secured by the ankle strap with a ratchet fastening.

They suit males or females weighing between 150 and 300 pounds, and come complete with their own storage bag. There are three sizes to choose from. 

Pros: 

• Shoe flexes to fit the terrain 
• Quick pull fit with ratchet fastening 
• Carry bag included

Cons:  

Not a budget option

Among the best rated women’s snowshoes, the Atlas Elektra is not a budget option – but are the best kind of snowshoes for backcountry or hiking wear in winter.

A particular feature is the spring-loaded suspension, which improves traction while allowing for more freedom of movement. The V-shape ensures you walk straight, which can reduce strain on joints and muscles, and can also help reduce fatigue – as can the comfortable padding. 

They’re also easy to fit, thanks to a toe locator and swift binding straps.

Pros: 

• Female specific design 
• Spring loaded suspension 
• Easy to fit and walk in

Cons: 

• Higher price tag

These SaphiRose snowshoes are actually a unisex design, so they’re good for men or women. You can choose your size, and they come complete with a branded carry bag.

They are great for snowshoeing and hiking in snowy conditions. An aluminum alloy frame allows for flotation in deep snow. These are among the lightest snowshoes around and also some of the best snowshoes for hiking, as a steep incline riser gives added heel lift when required. 

Pros: 

• Lightweight aluminum frame 
• Integral incline riser boosts heel lift 
• Carry bag included 

Cons: 

• Not gender specific in shape

This GV footwear is a Canadian snowshoe made in the traditional style.

These light weight snowshoes are recommended for long distance hikes, and they offer superior flotation in deep snow. They are also stealthily silent in comparison with other types. If you want the best recreational snowshoes, this style is definitely worth a look.

Another GV option which is differently shaped is also detailed below in the men’s category.

Pros: 

• Canadian snowshoes 
• Good, silent flotation 
• Ideal for long hikes

Cons: 

Bindings must be bought separately

This pair of men’s Tubbs snowshoes are a great all-rounder, as they can be worn in various depths of snow.

Features placing them among the best rated men’s snowshoes include a one buckle, quick pull binding, plus the fact that even when on uneven ground, an advanced torsion deck increases user comfort. A rotating toe cord means the back end can drop to shed excess snow.

Even on packed ice, 3D traction rails provide great grip too.

Pros: 

• 3D traction for superior grip 
• Easy to shed excess snow 
• Quick pull, one buckle fastening

Cons: 

Basic looks

These Crescent Moon snowshoes are the best type of snowshoes of backcountry wear, and they are also among the best snowshoes for big guys as they fit up to size 15.

The specially designed frame is teardrop-shaped for improved maneuverability, and they are certainly among the most stylish snowshoes around.

The back-up of a lifetime warranty is reassuring for purchasers, and the design makes them easy to fit with great grip.

Pros: 

• Ultra-maneuverable frame 
• Lifetime warranty 
• Ideal for backcountry use

• Cons: 

• More expensive than some

These GV snowshoes offer something completely different. Are they the best men’s snowshoes? GV must be pretty confident, as they offer a 10-year limited warranty.

These traditional snowshoes are made using Appalachian Ash wood, which is combined with synthetic laces for convenience. These laces are cleaner, quieter and stronger than their natural counterparts.

The shape encourages a straight pattern and they offer good flotation in deep snow.

Pros: 

• Traditional style snowshoe 
• 10-year limited warranty 
• Good flotation over snow

Cons: 

Bindings sold separately

MSR snowshoes are one of the most sought-after brands, so this highly-rated pair for kids won’t disappoint.

This pair of 17-inch snowshoes from MSR are for boys or girls weighing up to 90 pounds.

To ensure great traction in all conditions, they feature molded traction bars and steel crampons, as well as a very durable deck. MSR have even added child-friendly bindings that are easy to fasten – even while wearing mittens.

Pros: 

• 3-year warranty 
• Easy fastening binding system 
• Steel crampons and traction bars for grip

Cons: 

• No other color options

These children’s Atlas snowshoes are ideal for active kids. They have a lightweight frame, yet a cleat to the heel and crampon at the toe provide a great level of grip.

These are among the best snowshoes for deep snow as the frame assures the user of efficient flotation. 

A simple grom binding and silicone heel strap makes them easy to fit and comfortable to wear. While walking, the V-frame shape also helps to encourage a natural gait. 

Pros: 

• Easy fit grom binding 
• Toe crampon and heel cleat for grip 
• Effective in deep snow

Cons: 

• Not the most stylish design 

This pair of Chinook snowshoes comes from a respected brand in the field, yet they are very affordable.

A sturdy yet lightweight frame features an ergonomic design for walking comfort, and is made from aluminum. The bindings and heel straps are quick to fasten and undo, while heel and heavy duty crampons offer effective grip.

Included with the snowshoes is a carry bag, which has shoulder straps as well as side handles, plus built-in pole carriers. 

Pros:

• Great value for money 
• Lightweight yet strong frame 
• Heavy duty crampons for good grip

Cons: 

• Design may not appeal to all kids

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

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