Explore winter trails with top-rated snowshoes from Canada's leading brands. Discover models for snow hiking, running, mountaineering and more.
Whether you enjoy hiking in the woods or strolling through parks, you likely struggle to keep it up when the snow falls. Wet clothes are no fun at all, and plowing through drifts of snow is more work than anyone needs to be doing — that’s where snowshoes come in handy.
Modern snowshoes are easy to walk in, incredibly durable, and can stop even the most accident-prone people from slipping on ice. They can be used for recreational activities or as a last-resort snowstorm-escaping means of travel.
If you’re ready to travel on the snow instead of in the snow, we’d like to offer some tips for choosing the right snowshoes. They’ll vary in things like size, traction, price, material, closure type, and weight capacity… all of these things will affect how well they match your lifestyle.
This comprehensive guide will investigate the best snowshoes in Canada in 2024 and outline the criteria you should consider before making your purchase. Let’s dive right into our top five products.
The Best Snowshoes Right Now
Top Pick: Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
Upgrade Pick: MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes
Kids Pick: Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes
Kit Pick: Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes
Budget Pick: Alps Lightweight Snowshoes
Our Top Pick for The Best Snowshoes
Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes Review
What We Think of the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
The Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes come in two sizes to suit most adults, and they are incredibly lightweight to make your snowshoeing journeys as easy as possible on your muscles. One of our favourite things about them is their non-slip features—they have a great crampon design and a grippy boot surface so you won’t mimic a slip-and-slide with every step.
The heel section of these snowshoes is equipped with two excellent features. A heel lift keeps you steady while climbing hills, and the self-locking strap simplifies your get-ready process before your trek. Our number one feature, though, is the quick-cinch ratchet strap design. These two straps keep your feet incredibly secure, and they’re easy to adjust whether you’ve gloved up or not.
There is only one potential low point to consider before you completely fall in love with these snowshoes. If you plan on using them to climb steep hills, you should be aware of the difficulty level of this task. The heel lift is quite difficult to get out, so you may want to consider a different option if you’ll be using them a lot. Unless you enjoy a resistance workout while snowshoeing, of course.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
Reviewers are very impressed with their Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes. People who have used the heel lift mentioned it is pretty difficult to get up, but that’s really the only downside to them. They find them very easy to put on and walk in otherwise, and the style is great, too. Their star feature is definitely the ratchet-style straps—people love them!
Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes Specifications
Sizes Available: 21 or 27”
Colour: White and grey
Weight: 4 or 5 lbs
Material: Aluminum
Weight Capacity: 160 or 235 lbs
Closure Type: Buckle
Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes Pros and Cons
Pros:
Quick cinch ratchet bindings make it easy to tighten straps securely
Has a self-locking heel strap
Incline heel riser makes steep climbs more comfortable
Boot grip surface and dual crampon design provide excellent traction on both sides
Cons:
Heel lift is difficult to get in place
Our Final Thoughts on the Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 5/5
The Wildhorn Outfitters Sawtooth Snowshoes would be a wonderful addition to anyone’s collection of winter exercise equipment. They provide a very secure fit and excellent traction on ice, and they also do a great job of keeping you on top of the snow where you belong. Basically, all of the important things.
Our Upgrade Pick
MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes Review
What We Think of the MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes
The MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes have a nearly unbeatable design. The brake bars and traction rails are next-level, and they can even help you climb mountains if that’s what you want to do. The televator heel lift design supports your foot for more relaxed climbing, even with steep slopes. You won’t even need to take your gloves off to set it up or put it back to normal.
Unlike other snowshoes that have one strap and a toe box, this option comes with three straps. Wondering what the benefit is? This is the only style that will fit any type and size of boot! Our favourite feature by far is the connector for modular flotation tails. You will have to buy them separately, but they extend the length of your snowshoes to keep you on the snow’s surface and increase your carrying capacity.
We are happy to say that this option doesn’t really come with any low points. The high price may be a deterrent for some, but otherwise, there is only one minor thing to let you in on. The hook and loop style for the strap closures doesn’t fare the best in super cold weather (and isn’t very kind to gloved hands) so you’ll want to make sure you secure them well before you start your trek.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes
Reviewers are having a lot of fun with their MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes. They are mostly being used by experienced snowshoers to explore more exciting terrain, but they are a high-quality option for newer winter adventurers as well. Some people find that the straps aren’t very glove-friendly, but otherwise, these are pretty flawless overall.
MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes Specifications
Sizes Available: 22”
Colour: Stone gray
Weight: 4.1 lbs
Material: Alloy steel
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
Closure Type: Hook and loop
Warranty: Lifetime
MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes Pros and Cons
Pros:
Televator heel lifts reduce fatigue while climbing steep hills
Steel traction rails and brake bars provide unbeatable traction in all conditions
Tri-band straps can accommodate every type of footwear easily
Can purchase modular flotation tails in order to carry heavier loads or walk on deeper snow
Cons:
Quite expensive
Straps could be more user-friendly
Our Final Thoughts on the MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 3/5
Quality: 5/5
Overall, the MSR Evo Ascent Snowshoes are the best of the best. You’ll need to spend a little more on them, but you’ll get a lot of value in return. There is no amount of snow or difficulty of terrain that you won’t be able to trudge through with these snowshoes.
$310 at Mountain Equipment Company Canada
Our Kids Pick
Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes Review
What We Think of the Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes
We are big fans of the Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes for kids. Since they come in two sizes, they can be used by children as young as three and older than ten. We love that you’ll also get a carrying bag for the snowshoes—it’s a great idea to teach your kids how to take care of them from the very beginning. The lightweight design is another favourite since it lets kids be independent in the snow.
There are two things that really stand out when you get to know these snowshoes. The first is the single-strap design. It’s just like putting on Velcro shoes—your kid just needs to slide their toe in, fit their heel into place, and attach one strap tightly. Easy peasy! We also want to highlight the semi-rigid pivot bar. It helps kids keep a natural stride in the snow without getting bogged down.
It would be unfair to hold snowshoes for kids to the same standards as ones for adults, but even if we did, these wouldn’t fall too far from the mark. The only low point for these snowshoes is their smaller traction system—the crampons aren’t as large as adult options, so the snowshoes should really only be used on flat terrain. Your ambitious kids will have to grow up a bit more before climbing their Everest.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes
Reviewers are really happy with the Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes. One person even accidentally ran them over with their car, and they don’t even have a dent! If that isn’t quality, we don’t know what is. Kids as young as three years old have easily learned how to walk in these snowshoes, and the boot harness is really easy to get on and off.
Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes Specifications
Sizes Available: 14 or 19”
Colour: Light blue
Weight: 2.8 or 3.1 lbs
Material: Aluminum
Weight Capacity: 65 or 75 lbs
Closure Type: Buckle
Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes Pros and Cons
Pros:
Comes with a carrying bag
Single-strap design is easy for kids to manage by themselves
Semi-rigid pivot bar makes walking easier in thick and powdery snow
Incredibly lightweight
Cons:
Not ideal for uneven terrain
Our Final Thoughts on the Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 4/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 5/5
Overall, the Snowtrek Aluminum Snowshoes are an amazing choice for all the kids out there who feel like they’re missing out on winter adventures. They are very affordable, will last multiple seasons, and make it easy for little ones to learn.
Our Kit Pick
Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes Review
What We Think of the Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes
The Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes will give you a lot of bang for your buck. The snowshoes come with three additional pieces (travel bag, leg gaiters, and walking poles) to round out the value and won’t leave you needing to make extra purchases.
The easy-to-use ratchet system for the buckles eliminates the “What do I do now?” part of the too-loose then too-tight dilemma—you can adjust each strap to perfection for a secure foot. When it comes to actually walking in the snowshoes, you will have a safe, secure, and comfortable time thanks to the high-traction design, pivoting boot attachment, and 19-degree heel lift for climbing straight uphill.
The quality of the gaiters and the carrying bag leaves a little something to be desired, but they will certainly do. Otherwise, you’ll just have to watch what kind of boot you’re wearing to make sure the middle strap is capable of doing its job.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes
Reviewers have a very positive opinion of the Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes. They love every feature, find them easy to use even as beginners, and get a lot of use out of the poles. A few people have given minor feedback (a longer middle strap for bigger boots, a better strap for the carry bag, etc.), but they’re still happy with the snowshoes overall.
Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes Specifications
Sizes Available: 21 to 30” (3 options)
Colour: 12 options
Weight: 6.7 to 7.6 lbs
Material: Aluminum
Weight Capacity: 120 to 250 lbs
Closure Type: Buckle
Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes Pros and Cons
Pros:
Comes with high-quality telescoping trekking poles, leg gaiters, and travel/storage case
U-shaped cleats on heel and large saw teeth on toe provide excellent traction
Ratchet system for buckles offers more adjustability
19-degree heel lift makes climbing easier and the flexible pivot system on the boot attachment lessens impact while walking
Cons:
Middle strap is too short to secure larger boot types
Quality of gaiters and bag strap could be better
Our Final Thoughts on the Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes
Performance: 5/5
Usability: 5/5
Price: 4/5
Quality: 4.5/5
The Odoland 4-in-1 Lightweight Snowshoes are a high-quality choice that will suit almost everybody. They’re designed for comfort, mobility, safety, and frustration-free buckling. Honestly, we can’t think of a reason why you wouldn’t want these.
Our Budget Pick
Alps Lightweight Snowshoes Review
What We Think of the Alps Lightweight Snowshoes
We are here for anything that makes winter exercise easier, safer, and more fun. These Alps Lightweight Snowshoes are it! They come in several different sizes and colours so you can easily find your perfect match, and since the largest size weighs only 6ish pounds, you won’t have to work very hard to get around. Walking in snow is already tiring enough, right?
There are so many things we love about these snowshoes. The heel design helps you move easier in heavy snow, the buckles are super easy to use (and actually stay tight!), and you’ve got heel bindings for extra support when you’re climbing hills. As if this isn’t enough value already, you’ll also get a storage case, two trekking poles, and leg gaiters along with your snowshoes.
One of the only issues with this option is the usefulness of the poles. The snow baskets are small and not very durable. Also, in order to get the right size, you may not be able to get your favourite colour.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Alps Lightweight Snowshoes
Reviewers really enjoy the Alps Lightweight Snowshoes. The only complaint that keeps popping up is about the poles—the snow basket is small and breaks easily, and the wrist strap isn’t the most comfortable. The snowshoes themselves are easy to put on, lightweight for all walking/hiking conditions, and offer great traction even on icy footing.
Alps Lightweight Snowshoes Specifications
Sizes Available: 17 to 30” (5 options)
Colour: Black, blue, camouflage, gold, red, or ripple gray
Weight: 4.1 to 6.2 lbs
Material: Aluminum
Weight Capacity: 80 to 265 lbs
Closure Type: Buckle
Alps Lightweight Snowshoes Pros and Cons
Pros:
Fast-pull buckles are easy to put on and take off
Comes with leg gaiters, two walking poles, and a travel/storage bag
Heel bindings make it easy to climb hills
Round, upturned tail keeps you moving in heavy snow
Cons:
Snow baskets on the poles are too small and not very durable
Not all sizes come in all colours
Our Final Thoughts on the Alps Lightweight Snowshoes
Performance: 4.5/5
Usability: 4.5/5
Price: 5/5
Quality: 4.5/5
Overall, the Alps Lightweight Snowshoes are a wonderful choice if you’re new to the snowshoeing world and want to explore the activity without investing too much. They come in kid sizes and many adult sizes, so no one needs to be left out of the fun.
How to Properly Choose Your Snowshoes
Price
Snowshoes can vary in price from $60 to over $300. You’ll want to set a budget early and be aware of what types of terrain you plan on trekking. In general, more expensive snowshoes will be larger, have a higher carrying capacity, and offer better traction on more difficult surfaces (thick ice, steep hills, etc.)
Material
Almost all snowshoes will be made of aluminum, as this is a very durable material that is also lightweight. However, some will be made of alloy steel, which is another great option. If you have a preference one way or the other, you’ll want to pay attention to this when you’re ready to buy.
Length
Snowshoes can vary in length anywhere from 14” to 30”. Snowshoes 20” or less are great for kids and young adults, and longer pairs are suited to various sizes of adults. Bigger snowshoes will offer better flotation on snow and can carry more weight.
Closure Type
Most snowshoes will come with a buckle closure for securing the strap, and this is the best system for getting a very secure fit as they are infinitely adjustable. A hook and loop closure is a decent second. If you want top-of-the-line security, a ratchet-style strap is the best option.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a snowshoe is directly related to its length. Longer snowshoes will be able to keep more weight on top of the snow rather than sinking into the snow. The range can be anywhere from 60 lbs (kids models) to more than 250 lbs. If you’ll only be walking on trails with packed snow, the weight capacity won’t be quite as important, but if you’ll be travelling on fresh and deep snow a lot, you’ll want to make sure you’re under the weight capacity.
Accessories
Some snowshoes will come with accessories such as a travel bag, leg gaiters (to keep snow off your lower leg), and walking poles. These accessories are really convenient no matter where you like to trek, and they can often be found at great price points.
Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.
