Snowshoeing, first dating back about 6,000 years, has evolved from simple boards strapped to the feet to the diverse, multi-material products available today. While originally a functional necessity for hunting and work, it has transformed into a popular winter recreational sport enjoyed globally, offering a fantastic workout.
The sport is highly accessible and affordable, making the barrier to entry low. It’s often said that “if you can walk, you can snowshoe.” No high level of skill or specialized training is required, making it ideal for beginners and families who don’t want to separate by skill level. For avid hikers snowed in during the winter, snowshoeing is a perfect way to rediscover favorite trails from a new, snowy perspective, or explore new terrains that are typically inaccessible on foot during warmer months.
Whether you’re seeking a fun way to explore the world around you or looking for a new method to stay active during the long winter, snowshoeing is a versatile way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. Here’s an easy three-step guide for choosing the right snowshoe for you:
1.) Consider Your Terrain and Activity Level
The most popular and common type of snowshoe is perfect for casual hiking or recreational walking. They’re comfortable for all-day trips on trails that are flat or have moderate hills. Look for features that make them easy to put on and take off, like the Yukon Charlie’s Minimalist Adult Snowshoe. It has a “1-Pull binding system” that quickly tightens the binding around your boot with a simple tug of the heel strap, keeping it secure for hours of hiking without any complicated straps or ratchets.
For mountaineering, rugged terrain, and off-trail expeditions, you’ll want a snowshoe with advanced features. These are built for icy, steep terrain and deep snow, featuring aggressive crampons on the bottom and integrated heel lifts. Heel lifts reduce calf fatigue and make climbing more comfortable and efficient by raising the back of your foot on steep uphills, allowing for a more natural step—a great example is the Yukon Charlie’s Minimalist Lift Snowshoe.
Snowshoe running is gaining popularity as a great way to stay fit, offering excellent workouts on the snow. Designed for speed, these snowshoes are shorter and narrower than traditional models, allowing for a more natural running stride. The Yukon RUN snowshoes, for example, are ideal for runners and racers. They feature an exceptionally strong, super-light aluminum frame and a shorter design optimized for speed.
2.) The Perfect Fit: Factor in Size and Weight
As noted earlier, snowshoes achieve flotation by distributing your weight across a large, flat surface area. Therefore, selecting the correct snowshoe size is essential to ensure adequate flotation. Snowshoes typically range in length from about 21 to 36 inches. Each pair includes a recommended weight range to ensure proper performance. When choosing your size, remember to factor in any extra weight you’ll be carrying (like a backpack or extra gear) to ensure you get the right amount of support.
Check out this helpful size table below:
3.) The Fun Stuff: Performance Features
Beyond the basics, several key features can enhance your snowshoeing experience:
- Frame and Crampon Material: Look for aluminum frames for optimal strength and durability. Steel crampons are necessary for reliable traction and breaking through snow.
- Binding System and Heel Straps: These are crucial for overall comfort and ease of use. A good system will make putting your snowshoes on and taking them off much simpler.
- V-Shaped Tails: Designs like the Minimalist Lift Snowshoe feature V-shaped tails. This design helps the snowshoe track straighter in deep snow and pulls less snow, which conserves energy and allows you to explore for longer.
- Integrated Heel Lift Bars: As previously noted, these bars are beneficial for making extended uphill hiking significantly easier.
We also recommend you check out our other snowshoe articles – Best Snowshoes for 2026: Top 5 to Buy
Leave a Reply