As snowshoeing gains popularity as a winter recreation activity, more choices in snowshoe equipment become available. There are snowshoes best suited for any type of activity and terrain.
This snowshoe starter guide will help you choose the perfect snowshoe for you.
How to Choose a Snowshoe
The purpose of snowshoes is to help you walk, hike, run or climb across snow easier. Snowshoes spread your weight over a wider surface area providing you with more flotation to travel on snow. Snowshoes also provide traction allowing you to trek easier across terrain.
Decide what type of snowshoeing activity and terrain most interests you.
- Do you prefer flatter terrain, well-traveled and groomed trails?
- Do you plan to hike and explore more challenging terrain with deeper snow and rolling hills?
- Do you want to climb up steep and icy terrain?
- Do you want to run on trails in the winter?
There is a snowshoe made for the type of activity and terrain you’re interested in.
REI Snowsports Gear Guide! Learn about hot new snowsports gear for a great season! 
Snowshoe Terrain
For flatter and groomed trails, it’s easiest to maneuver with a smaller and lighter snowshoe. As the terrain becomes more challenging, you’ll need a more technical snowshoe that provides a stronger binding and more aggressive crampons to give you more traction.
Float or Sink on Snowshoes
Bigger snowshoes help you float, but smaller snowshoes are easier for maneuvering and hiking. You’ll also need to consider the weight the snowshoes will carry and the type of snow conditions you’ll be traveling across.
Snowshoes and Total Weight
Choosing the size of the snowshoe depends on the amount of total weight (you weight plus the weight of your gear) the snowshoe will carry. With too much weight for the size of the snowshoe, you will sink instead of float. The more total weight requires a larger snowshoe with more surface area to provide more flotation.
Snowshoes and Type of Snow
If you plan to travel on powdery snow, you’ll want bigger snowshoes to help you float. If the snow is packed down or wet and heavy, you’ll find smaller snowshoes easier to maneuver and the float less important.
Snowshoes for Runners
There are snowshoes made for running that are lightweight and maneuverable.
Snowshoes for the Family
Snowshoes are now made for woman, men and children.
Other Snowshoe Gear to Consider
- Waterproof hiking, running or winter boots are important.
- Gaiters help keep the snow out of your shoes.
- Snowshoe poles assist with balance.
Wear Winter Sports Clothing When Snowshoeing
Wear layered clothing suitable for exercise. Your body temperature can fluctuate severely with winter exercise. Wear base layers that wick away moisture and keep you dry. Outer layers need to be breathable, wind and water resistant and appropriate for the temperature. It’s important to wear gloves and a hat or headband to keep your body heat in. Wear sports socks that wick away moisture and keep your feet warm and dry.
Have a great time snowshoeing this winter!
CLICK HERE for reasons why to snowshoe and a guide to the benefits of snowshoeing.
CLICK HERE for Fabulous Overnight Snowshoeing Tours!
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Informative article! Great tips for choosing the best snowshoes! As more and more people are getting outdoors in the winter this should help answer some much needed questions.