The Best Snowshoes For Mountaineering In 2024
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Of The Best: FLASHTEK Lightweight Snowshoes
Lightweight and packable, FLASHTEK 30 Inches Snowshoes for Men and Women are a perfect travel companion. Ideal for all terrain types and for individual or family use these snowshoes are great for beginner or experienced walkers. With their strap design, these snowshoes can easily be carried in a bag, backpack or pocket when not in use. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Tubbs Mountaineer Backcountry Snowshoes
The Tubbs Mountaineer 30 is a snowboard designed for people who want to push their boundaries. This snowboard is all about speed, control, and stability. The R2 Revolution Response allows you to feel the board when you’re carving through powder while the ActiveFit 2.0 Binding makes you feel like you’re on top of the mountain. Read Review
3. Best Compact: MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry Mountaineering Snowshoes
The MSR Lightning Ascent is a lightweight, ultralight snowshoe for backcountry pursuits, mountaineering and aggressive snowshoeing. Its 360-degree traction frame delivers the edge-to-edge grip you need in traverses. Durable steel crampons provide extra bite on alpine steeps. Read Review
4. Best Design: Retrospec Drifter Snowshoe
The Drifter is designed to be the ultimate snowshoe for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just getting started, the Drifter is perfect for both men and women. The snowshoes have a lightweight aluminum frame that provides the durability you need to take on the toughest trails, while a patented side-sloping design reduces fatigue and enhances stability so you can keep going for hours. Read Review
When you’re climbing a mountain, reaching the summit is only half of the battle. The other half can mean the difference between hours of tedious slogging and a vertical thrill ride that ends with that perfect panoramic view. To make the most of your time, you’ll want to look into using snowshoes as well as at least some type of mountaineering tool such as ice axes or crampons.
If you’re planning on heading into the backcountry for extended periods or just want to get in more practical practice before tackling a major wall, choosing the right set of snowshoes can really pay off. After all, climbing mountains is more than just going up – it’s about finding different ways to get to your objective and seeing as many gorgeous vistas as possible along the way. Here are some tips for choosing the best snowshoes for mountaineering.
However, after investing in 16 hours, we've come up with a name that's worthy of your requirement: FLASHTEK Lightweight Snowshoes. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one, Tubbs Mountaineer Backcountry Snowshoes. It could better suit your needs.
RELATED: Looking for the best snowshoes for hiking? We have compiled a list of the best snowshoes for hiking so you can find the perfect hiking companion.
Our Top Picks
- LIGHT WEIGHT MATERIALS: Flashtek Use Long lasting lightweight 6000 Series aircraft aluminum frame. Durable UV resistant HDPE decking. Heavy duty steel crampons. Meet max floatation and fast movement in heavy snow condition.
- DESIGN & DESCRIPTION: Standing atop the Series, the snowshoes are packed with features to tackle your favorite winter hikes, with the lightweight, smooth-striding design, comfort of the TPU binding with fast lock & loosen system and confidence of advanced aft traction, to take you to the tree line and beyond
- SIZES & WEIGHT CAPACITY: 21 inches snowshoes optimized weight range: 65 - 155 lbs / 30 - 70 kg；25 inches snowshoes optimized weight range: 110 - 220 lbs / 50 - 100 kg; 30 inches snowshoes optimized weight range: 150 - 260 lbs / 70 - 120 kg. (Load refers to total weight of user plus anything they are carrying such as pack, equipment, etc.)
- SNOWSHOE TOTE BAG & TREKKING POLES: Adjustable trekking poles and a zippered snowshoe tote bag for easy carrying and storage.
- HEEL LIFT RISER: On steep climbs, calf muscles tire quickly and traction decreases when your foot matches the slope angle. The heel lift Riser eases fatigue and ties directly into Advanced Aft Traction for grip.
- Articulation: R2 Revolution Response
- Control: ActiveFit 2.0 Binding
- Frame and Decking: Pro-Step Frame, Soft-Tec Decking
- Traction: Anaconda Toe Crampon, Python Heel Crampon
- Other: ActiveLift 19° Heel Lift, EZ Heel Buckle
- 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
- Ergo Televator heel lift bar flips up to increase uphill efficiency, provide help on steep ascents, and reduce fatigue
- 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
- Ultralight (4.33 lbs) technical snowshoes with superior traction for mountaineering, aggressive backcountry pursuits, and rugged terrain
- 360-degree Traction Frames deliver edge-to-edge grip, especially on traverses, while durable steel DTX crampons provide serious bite on alpine steeps
- Tough polyethylene (HDPE) decks for maximum support on the snow
- INCLUDED: Drifter snowshoes and mesh vented carrying bag. Great for storing your snowshoes in the summer months. Available in 21"/80-150lbs, 25"/110-220lbs, & 30"/160-265lbs.
- Heel lifters increase traction and reduce fatigue while exploring steep terrain
- Light and strong 6061-T6 aluminum alloy frames
- Fast, secure double-ratchet binding system
- 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
- Perimeter teeth of injection-molded ExoTract deck offer edge-to-edge traction, while one-piece steel crampons provide bite on traverses and steep slopes
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Ergo Televator heel lift bar flips up to increase uphill efficiency, provide help on steep ascents, and reduce fatigue
- 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
- Traction & Stability: Heel lifters and full-floating pivot system increase traction and reduce fatigue while exploring steep terrain. Trekking poles with multiple terrain attachments add stability and balance.
- Everything You Need: Includes 1 pair adult snowshoes, 1 pair adjustable trekking poles with multi-terrain attachments, carrying case for snowshoes and trekking poles.
- Functional Design: Fast, secure double-ratchet binding system allows you to easily strap in and out of your snowshoes while on the trail.
- Lightweight & Durable: Lightweight 6061-T6 alloy frames with tough polyethylene decks provide superior support on the snow and keep your steps light and controlled.
- Sizes & weight capacity: Snowshoes come in three sizes: 21"/80-120lbs, 25"/110-160lbs, 30"/160-210lbs. Trekking poles are adjustable with a height range of 43-53”.
- 【HEEL LIFT RISER】 : The unique system makes a dramatic difference when snowshoeing up hills or steeper terrain. They do this by changing the angle of your foot in relation to the snowshoes which makes going up hill feel more like natural stride they reduce cavity and increase traction by keeping your weight more evenly distributed.
- 【LIGHT WEIGHT MATERIAL】: snow shoes made of durable lightweight 6000 series aircraft aluminum frame, High-density polyethylene decking, DuPont pivot and heavy duty steel crampons.
- 【DESIGN& EASY TO PUT SNOWSHOES】: the snowshoes feature an ergonomic design that ensure comfortable, smooth and flexible walking on the snow. New binding system with fully adjustable ratchet binding and auto-locking system heal strap that is incredibly secure and more comfortable than previous iterations. it’s easy to put on and take off your footwear when you wear glove outside. Tempered steel toe crampons and heavy saw tooth provide great traction and grips on ice.
- 【SIZE & WEIGHT CAPACITY】: 21IN snow shoes optimized weight range is 80-150lbs,25IN snowshoes optimized weight range is 120-180lbs, 30IN snow shoes optimized weight range is 180-265lbs (Note: the load that including anything user’s carrying and snowshoeing equipment)
- 【PACKING】: one pair snowshoe + one pair trekking pole with winter basket + one carrying tote bag
- 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
- 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.
- LIGHTWEIGHT - Our lightweight polymer frame snowshoes weigh in at only 5.3 lbs per pair making it easy to maneuver and pack.
- Lightweight and Portable: These lightweight snowshoes include a Cordura travel bag, which will resist tears and abrasions, so you can easily pack and and bring them wherever your next adventure takes you.
- Exceptional Comfort and Support: For those that love winter hiking, explore snow-filled trails and valleys in comfort. These phenomenal snowshoes will keep you on top of the snow so your feet remain dry throughout your snowshoeing trek.
- Convenient Design: Effortlessly put on these snowshoes for men, women, or children by situating your foot on the binding and using the straps to secure it in place. Equipped with dual ratchet bindings constructed with stainless steel springs that precisely adjust to your foot size, securely keep your foot in place, and enhance walkability in even the harshest of conditions.
- Built to Last: These high-quality snowshoes for beginners will provide you with memorable mountaineering and snow hiking experiences year after year as each snowshoe is constructed with a 6063 aluminum frame that is durable and abrasion-resistant.
- Engineered for Winter Performance: Whether you need snowshoes for hiking in the winter or you need snowshoes for mountaineering, the front and rear cleat crampons provide unrivaled traction in deep snow and on unforgiving icy terrain while the nylon heel strap provides stability. Moreover, the articulating toe band and the flex decking allow for fluid movement of the bindings and crampons.
What to Look For in a best snowshoes for mountaineering?
The best snowshoes for mountaineering is influenced by a multitude of factors, including all those stated below. Depending on the sort of product, the learning process differs. We'll be ready to aid you and propose solutions since we're here to support you.
It's necessary to remember the following ones before selecting best snowshoes for mountaineering:
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
Material
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.
Traction & Climbing Features
FAQs
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.
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.
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 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.
Overall, we will research and update new info for the list of best snowshoes for mountaineering regularly. On a frequent basis, please check our websites for the latest changes and updates.
Aside from best snowshoes for mountaineering, we can bail you up. If you want further support, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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