Top 9 Best Snowshoe Brands On The Market
Snowshoeing is a gratifying activity and provides a perfect opportunity to get out in nature during the colder months (or to the mountains year-round). If it snows where you live, you’ve undoubtedly heard about snowshoeing. Whether you’re brand new to the exercise or a seasoned snowshoeing looking for your next pair of snowshoes, knowing the top brands will certainly help you get the pair you want.
It can be difficult to find exactly what would work best for your needs and wants with so many options to choose from. In this article, we’ll share our take on the top snowshoe brands to look out for when deciding on the perfect pair.
Though obviously subjective and prone to biases, we’ve done our best to list out these brands based on the following metrics (in no particular order):
- Company reputation
- Variety of snowshoes
- Performance of the snowshoes (on snow and ice)
- Longevity of the snowshoes
- Company must currently be in operation
With all that being said, let’s list out the brands.
Our top 9 best snowshoe brands are:
Let’s get into each of these brands in greater detail and explain why they belong in the top 9 best snowshoe brands. We’ll share their country of origin, a bit of history, an example of a notable snowshoe pair, and a link to their official website.
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Atlas
Atlas Snowshoe Company is a reliable and durable brand created for outdoor enthusiasts at a reasonable price. Atlas offers a range of snowshoes that are great for backcountry, all-mountain, and walking trails. In fact, they are one of a few brands that offer trail running snowshoes.
Atlas Snowshoes are known for their patented Spring-Loadedâ„¢ Suspension (SLS), which absorbs impact and suspends your foot, allowing for natural flexibility. It also adds extra traction control, which is especially helpful for inclines.
Another additional feature found on (almost) all of the Atlas snowshoe models is a classic v-shape tail. This helps to save energy by tracking straight and, therefore, pulling less snow as you step.
Notable Snowshoes: Apex-MTN Elektra
The Atlas Apex-MTN Elektra snowshoe is one of Atlas Snowshoe Company’s most versatile and high-performance snowshoes. They feature the Boa Fit system, which allows for on-the-fly adjustments. This system tightens by a turn of a dial, providing even distribution.
With aggressive traction, the X-TRAC Crampon can hold traction on ice and hard-packed-down snow while still functioning great on softer terrains.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 22″, 27″ | 150 lbs/200+ lbs | All Mountain | Yes | Aggressive |
Atlas Snowshoe Company was founded in 1990 by Perry Klebahn and Jim Klingbeil. The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA.
Mountain Safety Research (MSR)
Mountain Safety Research (MSR) was founded by Larry Penberthy, a dedicated engineer who aimed to increase safety in climbing gear. His one-man operation soon turned into MSR, an impressive outdoor gear supplies company that uses science and engineering to develop equipment solutions for challenging terrains.
With over 40 years in business, MSR continues to produce high-quality snowshoes for all types of winter terrains. They are recognized for the quality of traction and floatation in packed-snow conditions.
MSR also has its own repair shop, and products come with a three-year limited warranty. This is a great option for those who are rough on their gear and want to keep them long-term. If your gear cannot be repaired, MSR will even send you a discount code for new gear!
Notable Snowshoes: Lightning Ascent
The MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes are an aggressive yet lightweight snowshoe featuring 360 traction frames and all-condition adaptability. They are superb for backcountry, winter and icy trails, and mountaineering.
The unique 360 traction frames are a notable feature as they allow you to climb inclines straight on or laterally without losing grip. This is what makes the MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes stand out amongst the rest for avid mountain climbers and backcountry snowshoers.
For those looking for additional floatation, the Lightning Tails are available as add-ons to these snowshoes and are a great asset for light powder snow conditions or when carrying extra weight.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 22″, 25″, 30″ | 180 lbs/220 lbs/280 lbs | Backcountry & Recreation | Yes | Aggressive |
Mountain Safety Research (MSR) was founded in 1969 by Larry Penberthy in Seattle, Washington, USA. The company is headquartered in Seattle to this day.
Tubbs
Tubbs Snowshoes is a company that solely produces snowshoes and snowshoe accessories. Their mission is to help get people outdoors by providing high-quality gear for everyone.
When Tubbs Snowshoes first began at the turn of the 19th century, they produced traditional ash wood snowshoes. Today, they specialize in both aluminum and modern snowshoes, drawing on the experience gained throughout the company’s existence. Modern snowshoes are commonly made from lightweight metals and plastic frames, making them durable and cost-affordable.
The company is also a part of the K2 Sports family. K2 Sports is an American-based winter sports company that owns numerous world-renowned brands with a passion for outdoor sports.
Notable Snowshoes: Mountaineer
The Tubbs Mountaineer snowshoes are sturdy and secure snowshoes, perfect for backcountry and recreational use.
While these snowshoes are more expensive than most Tubbs Snowshoes, they are the most versatile in the product line. Whether you are walking on groomed trails, rough backcountry, or even icy terrains, they are worth the price tag.
It is important to note that they are on the heavier side of snowshoes. However, they still provide superb flotation thanks to their Pro Step Frame. This also helps reduce the impact on snowshoers’ joints. The Mountaineers also feature toe and heel crampons for extra grip and versatility.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 25″, 30″, 36″ | 200 lbs/250 lbs/300 lbs | Backcountry & Recreation | Yes | Moderate |
Tubbs Snowshoes was founded in 1906 by Harold Underwood in Norway, Maine. The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA.
Garneau
In 1983, Canadian Olympian Louis Garneau and his wife Monique were determined to create a brand that produced high-quality apparel and equipment for cyclists. Thus began Garneau.
Over the years, Garneau has expanded beyond just cycling equipment and now offers an impressive range of outdoor gear and attire for various sports and weather conditions.
Intending to get people outside and explore, Garneau has crafted a line of snowshoes designed for all types of terrains and activities, including running, hiking, trail-walking, and backcountry. Each is designed to be lightweight and comfortable, plus they keep you above the snow no matter the conditions.
Notable Snowshoes: Blizzard III
The Louis Garneau Blizzard III snowshoes are durable backcountry snowshoes perfect for getting off the trails and into the wintery woods. The aluminum frame keeps these snowshoes lightweight, while the high-carbon steel front crampons provide extra traction control for powder snow and icy conditions.
They feature a flexible boot harness and BOA system that provides 360-retention of the foot, making it easy to make on-the-go adjustments and allowing you to get the perfect fit. Meanwhile, the frame design and heel support add exceptional comfort and support for the entire foot, ensuring you can step with ease.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 30″ | 250 lbs | Backcountry | Yes | Moderate |
Garneau was founded in 1983 by Louis Garneau in Saint-Augustin-des-Desmaures, Quebec. The company is headquartered in Vermont, USA.
TSL Outdoor
In 1981, TSL Outdoor brought their first snowshoe to market: a pair of plastic-frame snowshoes inspired by the classic design of wooden snowshoes. From there, TSL Outdoor has been making a name for itself by pushing the boundaries of snowshoe technology.
After years of designing numerous snowshoes for various terrains, TSL Outdoor is now known for creating the TSL Symbioz Snowshoe, the most technologically advanced snowshoe.
It is also important to note that TSL Outdoor has an eco-friendly approach to its design and production work. Taking the environment into consideration, all their business sites are run on renewable energy, and all snowshoes are made with recycled polyester straps.
Notable Snowshoes: Symbioz Hyperflex Elite
The TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite snowshoes are some of the most advanced on the market. These snowshoes feature impeccable flexibility in the frame that adapts to uneven terrain while maintaining consistent traction. The flexible frame also helps with shock absorption on firmly packed snow, all while remaining comfortable and lightweight.
These snowshoes are an excellent choice for mountain terrain and backcountry, as they are crafted with traction and steep ascends in mind. They come equipped with eight large crampons, a front crampon and traction bars, and a sound and shock system to reduce noise on the trails.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 20.5″,23.5″, 27″ | 180 lbs/220 lbs/300 lbs | Backcountry & Recreation | Yes | Aggressive |
TSL was founded in 1981 in Haute Savoie, France. The company is headquartered in Haute-Savoie, France.
Crescent Moon
Crescent Moon is a third-generation business that creates superb snowshoes and accessories. What started as a solo couples small project in a garage in Vail, Colorado, quickly turned into one of the top brands that all of the best retail stores want to carry. In 2019, the Dunn family became the new owners of Cresent Moon. They continue to produce legendary gear at an affordable price.
Crescent Moon is an American company that produces high-quality snowshoes and accessories. The company prides itself on being environmentally friendly, producing snowshoes that are meant to last a lifetime. In the case that they do not, Crescent Moon offers repairs on all of their gear. They even offer a “Take Me Back” program to recycle gear and accessories for you.
Notable Snowshoes: Gold 10
The Crescent Moon Gold 10 snowshoes are excellent on or off the trails, with their unique frame shape designed for maximum floatation.
They feature an aluminum frame that provides durability with an easy-to-use SPL biding system that provides equal tension and a comfortable fit. An added perk is that this binding system is less likely to ice over than its competitors.
It is worth noting that these are a bit on the heavier side in comparison to other models. They also do not have any heel lift, which could be a deal-breaker for some outdoor enthusiasts. However, these are still great all-terrain snowshoes that are built with superb floating and durability.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 32″ | 225 lbs | All Terrain | No | Semi-Aggressive |
Crescent Moon was founded in 1994 by Jake Thamm and Tamara Lang in Vail, Colorado. The company is headquartered in Colorado, USA.
Fimbulvetr
Fimbulvetr snowshoes are known for their impeccable flotation, traction, and maneuverability. Unlike most snowshoes, Fimbulvetr ditched the typical metal and neoprene materials and opted for Dupont Hytrel RS. This change in materials makes their snowshoes some of the most durable snowshoes on the market.
In 2019, their infamous snowshoes went under revamp with a new binding system. The new Hugin bindings add a more comfortable and secure fit that is easy to use. The Hugin bindings can even be purchased separately and added as an upgrade to any older models of Fimbulvetr snowshoes.
Notable Snowshoes: Hikr
The Hikr are all-mountain snowshoes that can take on everything from flat terrains to steep inclines. The new Hugin bindings (as mentioned above) are a bonus upgrade to these snowshoes, increasing the flotation and comfort.
One of the best features is the one-piece body that is made of Dupont Hytrel. This material allows for flexibility and durability. In fact, the underfoot is called the All-Direction hinge because it allows your foot to move more naturally than other snowshoes.
They are lightweight, short and asymmetrical. This design was crafted to help them perform as well as their longer counterparts while feeling more natural. These snowshoes make snowshoeing (almost) effortless.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 24″ | 243 lbs | Backcountry & Mountain | Yes | Moderate |
Fimbulvetr was founded in 2014 by Kristan Wenstøp and Ketil Løkkein, Norway. The company is headquartered in Norway to this day.
Quechua
In 1997, 10 Decathlon employees set out to the Alps, where they began designing gear for hikers. That same year, they took their new gear designs and travelled to Morroco to test them in real hiking conditions. Thus began Quechua.
So, what makes Quechua stand out from the rest? Well, it is a brand made by Decathlon that makes affordable, high-quality sporting equipment. Their goal is to make superb gear accessible to everyone.
Along with affordability, they also pride themselves on being eco-responsible. Quechua offers a “Second-Life” program aimed at repairing gear rather than throwing them away. In addition, when possible, they choose more sustainable components such as recycled materials and minimalist packaging.
Notable Snowshoes: SH500
The SH500 are superb entry-level snowshoes that are hard to beat for the cost and quality. This is perfect for beginner snowshoers who do not want to spend a fortune on snowshoes and want something that will last them a few years.
A pro and con to these snowshoes is that they only come in a size medium. However, they are advertised to be one size fits all due to their impeccable adjustability. The weight range for the SH500 is between 40 kg to 90 kg. While this is quite the range, they may not be for everyone.
SH500 snowshoes have moderate traction with easy-to-use heel lifts that can be operated via hiking poles for on-the-go versatility. They are also relatively lightweight and easy to use.
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| M | 88 – 198 lbs | Recreation | Yes | Moderate |
Quechua By Decathlon was founded in 1997 by around 10 Decathlon employees in Domancy, France. The company headquarters is still in Domancy, Sallanches, France.
Chinook
Last but not least, let’s talk about our top “budget” snowshoe brand: Chinook. Inspired by all the beauty of Canada’s picturesque nature and the love for the outdoors, Chinook Technical Outdoor offers great quality products for mountaineering and camping.
Chinook’s main focus is to promote and inspire families to get outdoors and make memorable adventures together. Their superb budget-friendly snowshoes play a primary role in completing such a mission.
With Chinook, you likely won’t find the best of the best snowshoes, but if you’re a beginner or are only interested in easy snowshoeing, this is the perfect brand to go with for your first pair. Of course, their snowshoes will perform in more difficult terrains, though you may be better off with another brand on this list.
Notable Snowshoes: Trekker
The Trekker snowshoes are the perfect budget snowshoe for beginner snowshoers. One of the best features of these snowshoes is their floatation. They perform noticeably well on soft and flat terrains, providing you with great flotation at an affordable price.
While the cost is a huge selling point, we must point out the biggest con of these snowshoes: the traction. They feature aluminum crampons compared to its competitors, which use steel, making traction, not its strong suit. However, do not let this discourage you! These are great beginner snowshoers looking for usage on walking trails. They are noteworthy snowshoes that do not involve splurging and offer a great entryway into snowshoeing adventures!
| Size | Max Weight | Terrain Type | Heel Lift | Traction |
| 19″, 22″, 25″, 30″, 36″ | 50 – 300 lbs | Recreation | No | Ok |
Chinook was founded around 2001. The company is headquartered in Niagara Falls, New York, USA.
