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.
When choosing a snowshoe brand, consider the type of terrain you’ll be exploring, the weight of the gear you’ll carry, and your personal comfort preferences to ensure an enjoyable and safe snowshoeing experience. In this article, we’ll share our take on the top snowshoe brands to look out for when deciding on the perfect pair.
Although 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
- Longevity of the snowshoes
With all that being said, let’s list out the brands.
Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Atlas
Atlas is a highly regarded snowshoe brand known for its innovative designs, durability, and performance-focused engineering. Founded in 1990, Atlas quickly gained recognition for revolutionizing the snowshoe industry with its patented Spring-Loadedâ„¢ Suspension system. This technology allows the snowshoes to adapt to uneven terrain, providing better traction, natural movement, and reduced fatigue, which is a game-changer for hikers and backcountry adventurers.
Many people choose Atlas snowshoes because of their focus on versatility and customization. Models like the Atlas Montane and Atlas Helium Trail cater to a wide range of activities, from casual trail walks to rugged mountain expeditions. The brand also offers multiple binding options, including the Wrappâ„¢ binding system, which ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even in challenging conditions. This adaptability makes Atlas a go-to choice for snowshoers who explore varying terrains and snow conditions.
Durability is another hallmark of Atlas snowshoes. Built with lightweight yet sturdy materials such as aluminum and Nytex decking, Atlas snowshoes can withstand years of use in harsh winter environments. Their ergonomic designs also prioritize user comfort, with features like tapered tails for improved maneuverability and a natural stride.
Notable Snowshoes: Atlas Helium Trail
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.
One of the key reasons MSR stands out is its focus on technical innovation. Their snowshoes, such as the highly acclaimed Lightning Ascent, feature advanced engineering like 360-degree traction frames that offer unparalleled grip on icy or uneven surfaces. This attention to traction and stability makes MSR snowshoes particularly suited for backcountry exploration and challenging winter hikes. Additionally, their modular flotation system allows users to adapt the snowshoe to different snow conditions by adding or removing tails, offering incredible versatility for various terrains and snow depths.
Another factor that makes MSR a go-to brand is its commitment to durability and reliability. MSR snowshoes are constructed using high-quality materials such as aerospace-grade aluminum and rugged decking that can withstand harsh winter conditions. This robust construction ensures that the snowshoes can endure years of use without compromising performance.
Notable Snowshoes: Lightning Ascent
Tubbs
Tubbs is one of the oldest and most reputable snowshoe brands, with a history dating back to 1906. Known for their innovation and specialization, Tubbs has consistently delivered high-quality snowshoes designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users, from beginners to seasoned backcountry adventurers. Their dedication to craftsmanship and performance has earned them a strong following in the outdoor community.
One of the standout features of Tubbs snowshoes is their user-friendly design. Models like the Flex VRT and Mountaineer incorporate cutting-edge technologies, such as the BOA Fit System for quick, precise adjustments and Rotating Toe Cord technology, which reduces strain on the ankles and knees. These innovations make Tubbs snowshoes comfortable and easy to use, even for first-time snowshoers or those tackling challenging trails.
Additionally, Tubbs is known for its versatility, with models suitable for everything from casual hikes on packed trails to deep powder treks in the backcountry.
Notable Snowshoes: Mountaineer
Garneau
Garneau, a Canadian brand with deep roots in outdoor and sports gear, has established itself as a reputable name in the snowshoe industry. Known for its focus on functionality and design, Garneau snowshoes are crafted to perform exceptionally well in challenging winter environments, particularly in backcountry and deep snow conditions. The brand combines its expertise in engineering with a commitment to comfort, making its snowshoes a reliable choice for outdoor adventurers.
A standout aspects of Garneau snowshoes is their rugged durability and advanced traction systems. Models like the Blizzard III feature lightweight aluminum frames and crampons designed to provide excellent grip on icy and uneven terrains. This ensures stability and safety, even in the most demanding conditions. Additionally, Garneau integrates user-friendly features like their Contact Pro harness system, which offers a secure fit and easy adjustments, enabling users to focus on their trek without worrying about discomfort or equipment failure.
Garneau’s snowshoes are designed for a variety of activities, from recreational walks to technical expeditions, and they cater to users of all skill levels.
Notable Snowshoes: Blizzard III
TSL Outdoor
TSL Outdoor is a highly respected snowshoe brand with a legacy of innovation and quality craftsmanship. Founded in the French Alps in 1981, TSL Outdoor has become synonymous with cutting-edge snowshoe technology and ergonomic designs. The company prides itself on blending traditional snowshoeing techniques with modern advancements, making their products a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
Standout features of TSL snowshoes is their focus on comfort and adaptability. Their Symbioz Hyperflex Elite model, for example, incorporates a flexible frame that adapts to the terrain and the user’s natural stride. This flexibility reduces impact on joints and provides greater stability, making TSL snowshoes ideal for long treks and challenging conditions. The brand’s attention to detail also extends to its bindings, which are designed for a secure and glove-friendly fit, ensuring ease of use even in extreme weather.
TSL Outdoor is also known for its sustainability efforts. Many of their snowshoes are made from recyclable materials, reflecting the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility. With models catering to various activities—ranging from casual hiking to technical backcountry exploration—TSL offers snowshoes that are durable, innovative, and eco-conscious
Notable Snowshoes: Symbioz Hyperflex Elite
Crescent Moon
Crescent Moon has earned a solid reputation in the snowshoe market by combining innovative design with eco-friendly practices. Based in Colorado, Crescent Moon is known for its unique approach to snowshoe construction, focusing on lightweight materials and ergonomic shapes that cater to a wide range of users. Their dedication to quality and sustainability has made them a favorite among environmentally conscious adventurers and those seeking comfort and performance.
One of Crescent Moon’s standout innovations is their Eva Foam Snowshoes, which feature an all-foam construction that mimics the feel of athletic shoes. This design is lightweight, quiet, and exceptionally comfortable, making it perfect for casual hikers and those new to snowshoeing. The rocker-shaped frame promotes a natural stride, reducing fatigue on long treks. These snowshoes are also easy to use, with Velcro-like straps that make securing the foot quick and hassle-free, even with gloves on.
Crescent Moon’s commitment to sustainability is another reason many choose their brand. The Eva Foam Snowshoes are made from recyclable materials, showcasing the brand’s dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a simple, comfortable option or an experienced hiker seeking a lightweight and innovative design, Crescent Moon offers snowshoes that deliver exceptional performance while staying true to eco-conscious values.
Notable Snowshoes: Eva Foam Snowshoes
Fimbulvetr
Fimbulvetr, a Norwegian snowshoe brand, has made a name for itself by creating some of the most durable and innovative snowshoes on the market. Inspired by the harsh winters of Scandinavia, Fimbulvetr designs its snowshoes to handle extreme conditions, offering unparalleled performance for adventurers tackling deep snow, icy terrains, and rugged landscapes. The brand’s emphasis on quality and innovation has solidified its reputation among backcountry explorers and winter sports enthusiasts.
One of Fimbulvetr’s key innovations is its use of thermo-plastic elastomer (TPE) in snowshoe construction. Unlike traditional snowshoe materials, TPE provides superior flexibility, durability, and resistance to extreme cold, ensuring that the snowshoes maintain their performance even in subzero temperatures.
Fimbulvetr also prioritizes traction and flotation, with models like the Hikr and Rangr featuring aggressive crampons and optimized surface area for excellent grip and stability on icy and deep snow. Additionally, their ergonomic binding systems ensure a secure, comfortable fit, allowing users to focus on their journey rather than their gear.
Notable Snowshoes: Hikr
Chinook
Chinook is a reputable snowshoe brand known for offering affordable, durable, and beginner-friendly snowshoes that cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Based in Canada, Chinook has built its reputation by providing reliable snowshoes that perform well in various conditions, making them a popular choice for recreational hikers, families, and those new to snowshoeing.
One of the key reasons to choose Chinook is their affordability without compromising on essential features. Chinook snowshoes, like the Trekker Series, are made with lightweight aluminum frames and durable polyethylene decking, ensuring excellent flotation and comfort in soft and packed snow. These snowshoes also feature adjustable bindings with quick-release buckles, making them easy to put on and take off, even with gloves in cold weather.
Chinook’s snowshoes are designed to meet the needs of casual and recreational users, offering dependable traction with steel crampons and a sturdy build for winter trails. Their budget-friendly price point makes them accessible to a broad audience, including families and first-time snowshoers.
Notable Snowshoes: Trekker
Komperdell
Komperdell is a reputable snowshoe brand renowned for its Austrian craftsmanship, innovative design, and commitment to quality. With over 100 years of experience in manufacturing outdoor equipment, Komperdell has established itself as a trusted name in the industry. Their snowshoes are designed with precision to meet the demands of both casual hikers and backcountry adventurers, offering a combination of durability, performance, and comfort.
A standout feature is its use of lightweight and high-quality materials. Models like the Peakmaster Pro feature aluminum frames and robust decking, ensuring excellent flotation and durability in deep snow and rugged conditions. Additionally, their snowshoes incorporate advanced traction systems, such as steel crampons, to provide superior grip on icy or steep terrain, making them ideal for challenging winter hikes.
Komperdell also excels in user-friendly designs, with features like quick-adjust bindings and ergonomic shapes for natural movement. Their snowshoes are easy to put on and adjust, even with gloves, ensuring a hassle-free experience in cold conditions.
Notable Snowshoes: Trail Pro 30 Snowshoes
