The 8 Best Snowshoes for Wintertime Exploration

TSL’s Symbioz are some of the most capable and versatile snowshoes around, which is why they are our top choice for the second year in a row. I’ve had some incredibly fun adventures in these snowshoes — from a casual stroll on my favorite snow-covered trail to a steep climb toward a high-alpine summit — and I’ve been highly impressed every step of the way.

The frame and deck of these snowshoes is incredibly flexible without sacrificing traction or flotation. They achieved such flexibility by placing eight independent crampons under the foot's pressure points (rather than a full-length set of teeth that won't bend), which allows the frame to bend as you walk and still delivers the grip you need for technical, challenging terrain.

When coupled with carbon reinforcements, these snowshoes provide a stride that is more natural and powerful, with less wasted energy.

To deliver even more traction, TSL used a bi-directional stainless steel crampon that grips the snow in every way possible. For the most secure fit, TSL used a Boa Fit System binding that hugs any and every boot. And to help with energy conservation on steep ascents, TSL added in a heel lift to save your legs from exhaustion.

More: Trekking Poles That Make Hiking and Snowshoeing Easier

Snowshoe up to the top of the prized backcountry line you've been eyeing for years, then strap these babies to your backpack and drop in for the freshest powder run you've ever skied or snowboarded. The Soft-Tec deck keeps you afloat in the deepest snow, while the steel crampons grip the icy layers underneath with ease.

Finding a secure fit is effortless, thanks to the DynamicFit binding with a single boa closure system. It's incredibly simple to find a snug fit with the spin of a dial, and they can even be slipped off with just one gloved hand.

Three sizes are available (21, 25, and 30 inches), with weight capacities ranging from 150 to 250 pounds. For rolling terrain with moderate up- and downhill portions, these lightweight snowshoes (4 pounds, 6 ounces per pair) are your ticket to winter wonderland.

MSR makes some of the best winter mountaineering gear, and the Evo Trail is their most affordable pair of snowshoes. It's not the lightest or the most flexible pair, but we love these snowshoes for recreational users who want the confidence that comes with using a well respected, time-tested brand.

The Evo Trail is ideal for trails and rolling terrain, with an average-size deck that delivers solid flotation and durability. Long steel traction rails and a nice toe crampon are plenty grippy for most journeys into the woods. And the stretch mesh bindings, with two roller buckles, fit snugly around your foot, and can be adjusted easily while wearing gloves.

Perhaps the neatest part of this pair is the adjustability. For deeper powder days, attach these 6-inch modular tails (sold separately) to instantly increase flotation so you won't sink through the surface. It's like having two pairs in one. Genius!

In some cases, less is more. That’s why Yukon Charlie made these snowshoes with a minimalist design, because fewer components mean less chance of mechanical failure — which is incredibly important when you’re 7 miles from the car.

The minimalist design is most evident in this snowshoe's binding — slide your foot in, then pull the heel strap tight, and voilà — the binding hugs your shoe like it's being vacuum sealed.

The Minimalist snowshoes are best for moderate, rolling terrain and are capable in mixed snow conditions. They’re sold as a kit, with trekking poles and a carrying case. And they come in four sizes, including a 36-inch pair that supports up to 300 pounds, which is the biggest snowshoe we’ve seen. Strap in and get out there.

When snowflakes are a frequent sight from your bay window, you'll want to keep a pair of these by the back door — especially if you live in the mountains. Explore your favorite jogging trail that's now covered, walk the kids to school, or just take the trash outside without worry that your feet will sink into the snow.

These snowshoes are perfect for easy to moderate terrain. They thrive in deeper snow, thanks to a large, lightweight deck, sturdy aluminum frame, and relatively aggressive crampon that will bite into ice and hard-packed snow. The double-ratchet bindings are super convenient, and can even be adjusted while wearing bulky mittens.

The Drifters are sold in three sizes (21, 25, and 30 inches), with weight capacities from 120 to 210 pounds. Keep your feet feeling light with these and you'll cover more ground with ease.

If most snowshoes feel like you're hauling around a heavy paddle, a smaller modern design is best for you. Enter the Atlas Helium Trail snowshoes — made from a lightweight composite nylon and designed to feel more natural, these snowshoes bend at the back of each step to help promote a more traditional heel-to-toe strike.

The stretchy bindings with simple buckles are quick to adjust, won't freeze over, and cradle your boots like a mother with her newborn. A heel riser comes in handy on steeper sections. And the Helium decking is lighter than a balloon, with large perforations that shed snow better than most, keeping you free to move quicker.

These snowshoes are best used in rolling terrain or on compacted trails where some deeper patches are present and ice is possible. They're sold in three sizes, with the smaller size accommodating 160 pounds and the larger size up to 270 pounds.

Point out an intimidating, snow-covered peak in the distance... then conquer it at lightning speed with these ultralight, super-aggressive snowshoes from MSR. They are made for extreme terrain and variable snow conditions, from powder fields to icy ridges.

The Lightning Ascent's frame has 360 degrees of traction and an aggressive toe crampon, providing an exceptionally secure grip on the steepest, iciest pitches. They also come equipped with heel risers, so your calves won't wear out during the ascent.

The aluminum frame cuts weight to keep you moving fast, and ballistic-grade decking is made to last a lifetime. Grab the small size if you are under 180 pounds, or the large size if you are up to 280 pounds, and move like lightning up the most challenging ascent you can find.

New to snowshoeing? Get started with this lightweight, easy-to-use option that provides great value for someone who’s considering a new hobby. They’re super easy to use, with a binding that can be adjusted with a few ratcheting buckles.

Made for easier, flat terrain, these recreational snowshoes will keep you afloat when the snow is a bit deeper on all your wintertime nature walks.

They are sold in five different sizes — from 70 to 250 pounds — so you can start the kiddos early. And to help simplify the process, this kit comes with lightweight trekking poles, a pair of snow goggles, and a carrying case to keep it all organized.

Toss it in your trunk, head to the trailhead, and start exploring.