The Best Backcountry Snowshoes To Buy In 2024
By, Katie FinnUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
If you're looking to upgrade your snowshoeing style and make your next trek easier, then the Sawtooths snowshoes are for you. Made from lightweight aluminum, these stylish snowshoes combine reliable design and sleek looks to outfit your next adventure. Read Review
2. Runner Up: MSR Revo Ascent Backcountry Snowshoes
The MSR Revo Ascent are the most rugged, technical snowshoe in the MSR line. These snowshoes are easy to use and provide a quick and efficient way to climb up or descend down slopes. The Revo Ascent is equipped with full-length metal bindings for enhanced performance on any terrain, including ice, rock, and mixed snow/ice conditions. Read Review
3. Best Comfortable: MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry Snowshoes
The MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes are the lightest, most aggressive snowshoes in the MSR line. They're designed for backcountry pursuits and feature a tough, lightweight chassis that is 3.7 lbs. per pair with a unique Alpine-style binding interface that provides a secure fit over crampon boots. Read Review
4. Best Durable: Winterial Snow Shoes
Winterial 25 Inch Light Weight Snow Shoes are designed to be light weight, durable, and breathable. These shoes are perfect for snow shoeing and other winter activities. With an easy-to-adjust buckle system, these shoes will give you the comfort and support needed on your next adventure. Read Review
Snowshoeing is a great way to explore your backcountry. Snowshoes give you the ability to negotiate through deep snow, which means that you’ll have a much easier time finding your way out of the woods, should you get caught far from camp. The right pair of snowshoes can make all the difference, and choosing the right pair can feel overwhelming.
This article covers everything you need to know about backcountry snowshoes. You’ll find detailed recommendations for best backcountry snowshoes here, and we’ll help you narrow down your search based on price, weight capacity, overall performance and features. Read on for more information.
After 18 hours of research on customer feedback & product specifications, We've come up that the best backcountry snowshoes is WildHorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one: MSR Revo Ascent Backcountry Snowshoes. It could better suit your needs.
RELATED: Here are the best snowshoes for hunting in 2024. From lightweight models to those with a more stable frame, these snowshoes are perfect for stalking games from early winter until late spring.
Our Top Picks
- HARD PACK GRIP TEETH - Snowshoeing requires traction; Each shoe has two sets of reinforced, heavy duty crampons that ensure traction on icy, hard surfaces; The pressure from your feet let the crampon act as an extreme ice pick for your boots!INCLINE HEEL LIFT RISER - This unique system provides traction and balance while climbing hills; The heel lift riser comes up under your heel to support you when you need it and lays flat when you don't
- STEEP INCLINE HEEL LIFT RISER - This unique system provides traction and balance while climbing hills; The heel lift riser comes up under your heel to support you when you need it and lays flat when you don't.SLIP FEATURES - The Sawtooth snow shoes have boot grip, no-slip textured pads and an excess heel strap clip. These systems cradle your foot to hold you in place and prevent sliding around while snow shoeing this winter
- NEW AND IMPROVED - You spoke, we listened. Based on feedback from our 2018 model, we made adjustments to our Sawtooth Snowshoes; We reinforced the ratchet binding with heavy duty spring-loaded clips and added a new heal strap with an auto-locking system
- LIGHT WEIGHT MATERIALS - This snowshoe model is designed with a durable, aluminum frame that allows for optimal snow flotation performance in deep powder;Sawtooths are constructed with high-grade, weather tested materials because we know how important it is to hPACK GRIP TEETH - Snowshoeing requires traction; Each shoe has two sets of reinforced, heavy duty crampons that ensure traction on icy, hard surfaces; The pressure from your feet let the crampon act as an extreme ice pick for your boots
- Paragon bindings feature a one-piece contouring strap that wraps securely around boots, for a glove-like feel that eliminates rigid pressure points, and provides easy alignment and foot control
- Snowshoes measure 8 x 22 inches, weigh 4.41 pounds/pair, and can carry up to a 180-pound load; bindings fit men’s shoe sizes 6-14; made in the USA
- Increased uphill efficiency with the Ergo Televator heel lift bar that flips up to provide help on steep ascents; reinforced nose for kickstepping
- Exceptionally rugged and durable technical snowshoes with edge-to-edge traction and minimalist, single-strap bindings that conform to boots for maximum security in alpine terrain
- Perimeter teeth of injection-molded ExoTract deck offer edge-to-edge traction, while one-piece steel crampons provide bite on traverses and steep slopes
- Paragon bindings feature a one-piece contouring strap that wraps securely around boots, for a glove-like feel that eliminates rigid pressure points, and provides easy alignment and foot control
- 360-degree traction frames deliver edge-to-edge grip, especially on traverses, while durable steel DTX crampons provide serious bite on alpine steeps
- Ergo Televator heel lift bar flips up to increase uphill efficiency, provide help on steep ascents, and reduce fatigue
- Ultralight (4.04 lbs), high-traction snowshoes with a tapered frame that’s perfect for snowshoers with a narrow stride; ideal for winter hiking in mountainous terrain
- Snowshoes measure 7.25 x 25 inches, weigh 4.04 pounds/pair, and can carry up to a 220-pound load; bindings fit women’s shoes sizes 4.5-14; made in the USA
- COMFORT - We found that the one feature that other snowshoes lacked was comfort. Since our advanced snowshoes are intended to be used in mountainous terrain we ensured that they provide comfort for long journeys in the snow
- DURABLE - We use a strong polymer frame and metal teeth to make our snowshoe capable of taking a beating while snowshoeing in the backcountry!
- LIGHTWEIGHT - Our lightweight polymer frame snowshoes weigh in at only 5.3 lbs per pair making it easy to maneuver and pack.
- DIMENSIONS - L x W (25 in x 8 in) / Weight recommendation: Up to 260lbs
- FUNCTIONALITY - This advanced snowshoe is made for experienced snowshoeing. It has a popup terrain heal and square toed design which makes it easier to climb hills. The aluminum teeth help to provide increased traction and grip to the snow.
- Tri fit bindings deliver ample, freeze-resistant and glove-friendly Security, easily accommodating a wide range of footwear
- Steel traction rails and brake bars molded directly into snowshoe decks provide a secure grip
- Televator heel lifts reduce fatigue and increase traction on the steeps, and are easily engaged with a glove-friendly pull Tab
- Snowshoes measure 22 inches long, weigh 4.1 pounds, and can carry a 180-pound load; bindings fit men’s shoes sizes 4.5-15; made in the USA. The load without trails (standard) is upto 250 pounds
- Modular flotation tails (sold separately) easily attach and allow you to carry heavier loads when needed
- 29" x 9.5", 4.2lbs per pair, recommended for women and their gear up to 200lbs, designed for backcountry snowshoeing
- Made in Boulder, CO, USA using environmentally considerate manufacturing processes and components. Our snowshoes are 95% recyclable through our take back program. Limited lifetime warranty.
- Platform: Our Tear Drop shaped frame provides outstanding maneuverability without loss of floatation. This unique shape allows you to walk and run naturally without changing your stride or waddling. The frames are made with 6063 aircraft grade aluminum tubing and tig welded for strength. The decking is lightweight, durable, highly abrasion resistant, and quiet, noticeably different from plastic snowshoes.
- Traction: Aggressive 3 crampon stainless steel traction system provides outstanding grip in all terrains, but particularly in hard pack and icy conditions, and on climbs and traverses. Crescent Moon is the only snowshoe to have a toe claw which is important for digging in when climbing hills or mountains and helps with push-off when hiking or running.
- BINDING: The Crescent Moon SPL (Single Pull Loop) binding has been recognized as the best binding year after year by the media, testers and customers alike.The all foot encompassing binding system is made of a flexible polymer which wraps around your foot and provides excellent support and comfort and will not come out of adjustment. With a simple pull of the loop on top of the binding the entire harness system is tightened – or loosened – with one hand - even with gloves on! The heel mechanism is as simple as ratcheting forward to the perfect setting. It is a quick and easy entry and exit. Features spring loaded cam and ratchet buckles.
- Ultralight (4.33 lbs) technical snowshoes with superior traction for mountaineering, aggressive backcountry pursuits, and rugged terrain
- Ergo Televator heel lift bar flips up to increase uphill efficiency, provide help on steep ascents, and reduce fatigue
- Paragon bindings feature a one-piece contouring strap that wraps securely around boots, for a glove-like feel that eliminates rigid pressure points, and provides easy alignment and foot control
- Snowshoes measure 8 x 25 inches, weigh 4.33 pounds/pair, and can carry up to a 220-pound load; bindings fit men’s shoes sizes 4.5-15; made in the USA
- 360-degree Traction Frames deliver edge-to-edge grip, especially on traverses, while durable steel DTX crampons provide serious bite on alpine steeps
- Binding features spring cam buckle quick pull loop and ratchet heel strap
- 10 x 32 in, teardrop shaped frame – more maneuverable than traditionally shaped shoes
- 3 stainless steel crampons PLUS additional traversing claws
- 4.95 lbs/pair Recommended for snowshoers up to 225 lbs
- Based in Colorado, USA. Limited Lifetime warranty
- Large SPL binding system fits shoe sizes 9 to 15
- 3 stainless steel crampons PLUS additional traversing claws
- Binding features spring cam buckle quick pull loop and ratchet heel strap
- 4.95 lbs/pair Recommended for snowshoers up to 225 lbs
- 10 x 32 in, teardrop shaped frame – more maneuverable than traditionally shaped shoes
- Based in Colorado, USA. Limited Lifetime warranty
- Large SPL binding system fits shoe sizes 9 to 15
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) material stiffens the snowshoe, for maximum power when snowshoeing through deep snow
- Weighing 4.2 pounds, the 8x25-inch frame is built for users from 151 to 200 pounds. Unisex design for women and men
- Built with beginners in mind, this snowshoe is a perfect option for anyone looking to add snowshoeing to their wintertime outdoor adventures
- Designed to deliver confidence and ease to any recreational snowshoer
- Features user-friendly designs like our Quick Click II Ratcheting binding and a Rapid-Lite Flex heel strap to get you in and out of the shoe in seconds
A Simple Way To Choose The best backcountry snowshoes For You
Would you like to know how to select the best backcountry snowshoes to purchase in 2024? We have a straightforward solution for you. First, consider your own requirements. For instance, should you need something that could be used during workouts, look for products that are made of high-quality materials and are resistant to water.
Consider the price range next. Some people prefer low prices, while others prefer to invest additional money on better quality items, so weigh both choices once making a decision.
Eventually, reading reviews is a simple way to select the best backcountry snowshoes to buy. Please read our research below before purchasing anything and follow that guide to select your best backcountry snowshoes.
Traction & Climbing Features
Type Of Boot Attachment System
Type Of Terrain
Bindings
These main strap materials can be made from nylon, rubber, and cable lace. The straps are available in straight straps or ratchet and pull straps.
BOA cable-lace bindings with pull webbing offer both a secure, snug fit as well as quick access to your snowshoes. While snowshoes come in many different materials, the most popular are usually made of hardened plastics with carbon, steel or aluminum.
Sizing
The specifications on the snowshoes should be checked. It will specify the minimum recommended load as well as the best type of terrain. Maximum load for day trips should not be more than 20 pounds. If you are going on overnight adventures or climbing, your maximum load should be between 30-60 pounds higher than your bodyweight.
Due to the greater area of snowshoes, longer ones are more efficient at traversing powder. A longer snowshoe makes it more difficult to travel up or down steep terrain. It is better to have a shorter ski than you need if your goal is to move on snowpacked terrain.
Material
FAQs
Do You Need Poles?
Even though you won't need them, poles are strongly recommended. Even the most agile people can be a bit clumsy when starting snowshoeing. Poles are a great way to increase balance in the upper body, and also engage your arms in this otherwise leg-focused sport.
You will require poles for technical or more difficult terrain. These poles are a safety net for those who find themselves on unstable ledges, or just need an extra layer of security.
What Kind Of Shoes Do You Wear With Snowshoes?
For the most comfort and fit, you can use any type of shoe with snowshoes. However, we recommend water-resistant boots that are relatively tough hiking/backpacking shoes.
What Size Snowshoes Do I Need?
The sizing of your snowshoes will depend on how tall you are and what weight you have (including the pack weight). You can find the recommended sizing for each brand or model here.
A longer snowshoe is more comfortable to use in powder, because it has a greater surface area. A longer snowshoe can be more difficult to use on steep terrain.
How Much Snow Do You Need For Snowshoeing?
Snowshoes should be worn in deep, soft snow. To use snowshoes for any other condition, it isn't practical. They are too heavy and bulky. It is better to use crampons for snowshoeing on hard and frozen terrain.
What Is The Best Snowshoe Brand?
While there are many high-quality brands, your personal preferences and needs will determine which brand is best for you. A snowshoe that is designed for trail running will be different for someone who is shorter than you. In order to find the best snowshoes for you, it is better to put your needs first than the brand.
What Shoes Do You Wear With Snowshoes?
For most snowshoeing conditions, a pair of good hiking boots or winter boots is recommended. You want to make sure your feet are dry and warm without restricting mobility. For top choices, check out our review of the Best Men's Winter Boots as well as Best Women's Winter Boots.
Gaiters are a great way to prevent snow from getting into your garden. Dry means happy.
Conclusion
We hope this blog has provided you with useful information about selecting the best backcountry snowshoes to buy. If you're still unsure, consider why you're purchasing a product in the first place.
Here you can select the Yukon Charlies Advanced Snowshoe if you are unable to select one of the available items above. Consider whether any of our suggestions aided you in deciding which products to purchase. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time!
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About Katie Finn
