The Complete Guide For Best Snowshoes For Backcountry Snowboarding Of 2024
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Winterial Light Weight Snow Shoes
Run, Mountaineer and Off-Road with your Winterial 25 Inch Light Weight Snow Shoes. These are the most advanced snowshoes in the industry. The light weight design makes them easy to carry on just about any terrain while the soft grippy sole will ensure a sure footing no matter how challenging the conditions. Read Review
2. Runner Up: MSR Evo Trail Snowshoe Kit
Bundle up and explore the winter wonderland with MSR's Evo Trail Snowshoe Kit! This kit has everything you need for snowshoeing, including MSR Evo Trail Hiking Snowshoes and DynaLock Trekking Poles. The kit also includes a Carry Bag/Backpack with Seat Cushion so you can keep your gear close at hand. Read Review
3. Best For The Price: Gpeng Xtreme Lightweight Terrain Snowshoes
Gpeng 3-in-1 Xtreme Lightweight Terrain Snowshoes are a versatile and lightweight snowshoe with a slightly upturned rounded tail. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and easy walk for your hiking and climbing. The lightweight nature of these snowshoes make them perfect for backpacking, winter camping or just having fun! Read Review
4. Best Comfortable: Yukon Charlies Sherpa Snowshoe Kit
Yukon Charlies Sherpa Snowshoe Kit is made to take on the most challenging conditions. This ultra strong frame is the strongest and most torsionally-rigid frame we offer so you can push it to its limits. With 84% of it's weight distributed in the aluminum frame, this snowshoe will stay stable on even the most difficult terrain. Read Review
If you’re passionate about backcountry snowboarding, chances are you’ve spent a lot of time out at the resorts. But, have you ever stopped to wonder what it would be like if you could actually explore those resort hills without getting trampled by excited skiers? Well, with a little bit of research and a little bit of imagination, now you can. But in order to enjoy this pastime with all its inherent risks, you should get yourself a pair of snowshoes.
We all know that snow is as friendly as it gets for skiing, but when conditions get really extreme it can turn into an absolute nightmare. The more challenging the terrain and the deeper the powder, the more likely it is that any trail will become completely impassable. That being said, there are some types of backcountry hill that are easier than others… and we’re here to give you some insight on which ones are best suited for exploring with your friends in tow.
Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the Winterial Light Weight Snow Shoes, which we hope will meet your demands. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a full buyer's guide and a number of different options are available to help you find the most suitable.
RELATED: Whether you're looking for a pair of snow shoes for your next trip or just want to learn more about the good snow shoes on the market, this article has you covered.
Our Top Picks
- DURABLE - We use a strong polymer frame and metal teeth to make our snowshoe capable of taking a beating while snowshoeing in the backcountry!
- DIMENSIONS - L x W (25 in x 8 in) / Weight recommendation: Up to 260lbs
- LIGHTWEIGHT - Our lightweight polymer frame snowshoes weigh in at only 5.3 lbs per pair making it easy to maneuver and pack.
- 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
- 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.
- Coated 19-liter nylon carry bag has backpack straps, a roll-top closure, internal zippered pocket, pole loops, and removable foam seat cushion
- 22-inch snowshoes have adjustable bindings and feature steel traction and a durable deck for grip and floatation on snowy trails and rolling terrain
- Snowshoe kit includes one pair of Evo Trail snowshoes, one pair of trekking poles, and carry bag backpack with seat cushion
- Two-section aluminum DynaLock Trail Poles are adjustable (39.5-55 inches) and collapsible (to 31.5 inches), and feature comfortable ergonomic grips
- Snowshoes measure 8 x 22 inches, weigh 3.56 pounds, carry a 180-pound load, and fit men’s shoe sizes 4.5-15; complete kit weighs 5.8 pounds
- DESIGN: Ergonomic and streamlined design and a slightly upturned rounded tail, the snowshoes ensure a comfortable and easy walk for your hiking and climbing. Meet max floatation and fast movement in heavy snow condition.
- Fully Adjustable : double ratcheting bindings easily adjust to most footwear and enable a secure fit for maximum efficiency during outdoor treks; one-buckle tightening mechanism coupled with an TPE heel strap provides efficient support
- Sizes & Weight Capacity: 14 Inches:30 - 70 lbs / 14 - 31 kg; 21 Inches: 70 - 155 lbs / 31 - 70 kg; 25 Inches : 120 - 180 lbs / 55 - 82 kg ; 27 Inches:160 - 235 lbs / 73 - 107 kg; 30 Inches:180 - 250 lbs / 81 - 114 kg
- Functional Use: a strong metal frame provides a stable platform while the high quality PE decking creates max flotation; heel straps with quick release buckles keep your feet in place; all terrain forged aluminum alloy crampons for aggressive traction
- Package Included: a pair of snowshoes + a pair of Snowshoeing Poles + a Carrying bag
- 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
- 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
- Built with beginners in mind, this snowshoe is a perfect option for anyone looking to add snowshoeing to their wintertime outdoor adventures
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Explorer Plus Snow Trail Kit is perfect for snowshoe beginner adults and includes: 1 pair aluminum twist-lock trekking poles; 1 pair trekking pole snow baskets; 1 pair trekking pole rubber tips; 1 Cordura travel bag featuring Air Dry Mesh
- Adult Sizes Available Explorer Plus Trail Kit: 19 - 8" x 19" up to 120 pounds; 21 - 8" x 21" up to 150 pounds; 25 - 9" x 25" up to 200 pounds; 30 - 9" x 30" up to 250 pounds; 36 - 10" x 36" up to 300 pounds
- Explorer Flex decking provides durability through the coldest weather conditions; Articulating Toe Band makes movement of bindings and crampons fluid; Front and rear cleat crampons for secure grip on deep snow, ice, rocks, wood, and other terrains
- Strong 6063 aluminum frame is lightweight and durable for all snowshoeing conditions; Anodized frame for everlasting wear and finish; Dual Ratchet bindings are constructed with stainless steel springs to give you a secure fit for years
- Explorer Plus snowshoes allow you to stay afloat while walking through snow-filled trails and valleys; Getting in and out of these snowshoes is super easy, give the bindings a firm snug, secure strap on the strap hooks, and you’re ready to go
- SPIN by Northwave Dial binding system with integrated toe hold provides precision tension to fit to any shoe
- Weighing 4.8 pounds, the 9x30-inch frame is built for users from 201 to 250 pounds. Unisex design for women and men
- Swift Strap heel strap offers unlimited range of customization with just the pull of the strap
- Tech Weave decking offers a light and durable nylon fabric with polyurethane coating. Stays soft in cold temperatures and is quieter when walking on snow
- Free Flex axle system allows user to comfortably grip and glide across any type of powder. It's a lightweight solution to a comfortable snowshoe
- INCLUDED: Drifter snowshoes and mesh vented carrying bag. Great for storing your snowshoes in the summer months. Available in 21"/80-120lbs, 25"/110-160lbs, & 30"/160-210lbs.
- DOUBLE-RATCHET BINDING: Fast, secure double-ratchet binding system allows you to easily strap in and out while on the trail.
- TRACTION & STABILITY: The heel lifters and full-floating pivot system increases traction and reduces fatigue while exploring steep terrain.
- ENGINEERED FOR PRIME WINTERTIME PERFORMANCE: The Drifter Snowshoe has a tough polyethylene (HDPE) decks for maximum support on the snow so you can feel confident on all your snowshoeing adventures.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DURABILITY: Lightweight 6061-T6 alloy frames with tough polyethylene decks provide superior support on the snow and keep your steps light and controlled.
- This versatile series utilizes our lightest and strongest frame, making it a premier performer
- With technical features and user-friendly characteristics, this snowshoe is a great trail shoe for less aggressive users who just want the ability and confidence to expand their snowshoe experience
- Fast Fit II "Easy Pull" binding system allows the user to get in and out of the shoe with just one pull of the strap
- The Advanced series allows the snowshoe enthusiast access to any terrain the backcountry has to offer, allowing you to choose your own adventure
- Weighing 4.8 pounds, the 9x30-inch frame is built for users from 201 to 250 pounds. Unisex design for women and men
What to Look For in a best snowshoes for backcountry snowboarding?
Different considerations must be taken during the shopping process. Study resources are obtained in a wide variety of ways. Thus, our staff is all here to lend a helping hand, advice, and solutions to your issues.
Please take a closer examination of the features below and that would be beneficial before your purchase of best snowshoes for backcountry snowboarding:
Traction & Climbing Features
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.
Type Of Boot Attachment System
Type Of Terrain
Material
RELATED: Looking for the good boots for snowshoes for light use and backcountry adventures? Here's our guide to lightweight, compact snowshoes that won't slow you down.
FAQs
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.
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.
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.
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.
When the latest info related to best snowshoes for backcountry snowboarding comes available, we will update it as soon as possible. Please check our websites frequently for the most up-to-date research data.
Our team is able to support you with many problems, even the out of best snowshoes for backcountry snowboarding. If you require support with your issues, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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