10 Best Snowshoes 2025 in the United States

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Tubbs Flex VRT Backcountry Snowshoes are designed to enhance your snowshoeing experience with several standout features. The Torsion Deck provides flexibility, allowing the snowshoe to adapt to uneven terrain, which helps improve traction and comfort. This means you can move more naturally and confidently across different snow conditions. The Dynamicfit Binding with a Boa closure system ensures a snug, customized fit, distributing pressure evenly around your boot for better control and comfort during long hikes.

Additionally, the Viper 2.0 Carbon Steel Toe Crampon and 3D Curved Traction Rails offer excellent grip, particularly useful on icy and steep terrain. These features make it easier to maintain stability and prevent slipping, even when conditions are challenging. The Activelift heel lift, which can be easily adjusted, reduces strain on your calves and Achilles tendon, making uphill climbs less tiring. This thoughtful design is particularly beneficial for backcountry enthusiasts who tackle steep ascents.

The snowshoes are made with an alloy steel frame, combining durability with a lightweight feel, although weighing 16 ounces each may feel slightly heavier for some users. They support a range of weights (70-110 kg), making them versatile for different body types. While the bright yellow color adds visibility in snow, it may not appeal to everyone's taste. These snowshoes are a solid choice for men looking for reliable performance in backcountry snowshoeing.