Snowshoe Types & Which To Buy Based On Your Needs!

When it comes to snowshoes, there are many different styles, types, brands, models and so forth that you could opt for. This makes the decision process of selecting the snowshoes that will best work for you and your situation quite difficult. Especially when you don’t know all the differences between each, as well as the style or snow type each is designed for…

The goal here is to broaden your options, and then narrow the options down to the snowshoes that will work best for you and your intentions. You see, given the fact that there are so many different options available, many do not know what options they have available to them before they go to purchase a pair of new snowshoes. This is especially true to beginners who are just getting involved in the sport of snowshoeing.

I want to change that, I want you to know exactly what options you have before you buy, as well as which options will best suit you for the snow conditions you intend to be snowshoeing in. Now, first off I should say: there aren’t so many different options available just because everyone feels the need to make their own style of snowshoes. Rather this is due to the fact that the snow conditions can be so drastically different depending on the area and the atmospheric conditions from one place to another.

Not to mention the different styles of snowshoeing people enjoy such as those who enjoy running in there snow shoes, and those who just simply like to hike in their snowshoes. Below we will be going into great detail on all the different types of snowshoes and specific uses each was designed for. But first lets go over a few things: 

There are essentially 2 major types of snowshoes and under each there are micro types, and styles inside of each. The 2 Major types of snowshoes are as follows:

• Modern Snowshoes (Made Of Aluminum, Composites, and Plastics)
• Traditional Snowshoes (Made Of Wood & Rawhide)

We will be diving deep into each below, along with the micro types, and styles of snowshoes you can get under the 2. As well, we will be goin over the benefits of each and what each specific snowshoe type was designed for.

First will be covering “Modern Snowshoes” and all the different aspects that have to do with moderns. Next will hit on Traditionals, and how the 2 compare, and contrast between each other.

Modern Snowshoes

Modern snowshoes are typically made out of the following materials: 

• Aluminum
• Composites
• Durable Plastics
• Rubber
• Steel

The above materials are used in modern day snowshoes in order to provide the user with a lightweight yet durable snowshoe that can withstand a large amount of use. But also modern-day snowshoes are designed and shaped the way that they are in order to make the shoe much more user-friendly, as well as versatile.

You see, the overall idea as to how a snowshoe works is by dispersing the user’s weight across a larger amount of surface area in order to keep the user from sinking into the snow. At least that is the overall idea everyone has when they think of snowshoes. But truly there is a lot more in terms of obstacles that you are likely to run into when you’re out in the backcountry with a blanket of snow covering the ground.

Now, many say traditional snowshoes, due to their larger size they have a greater amount of surface area. This makes traveling in deep fresh powdery snow a breeze with traditional when compared to modern snowshoes.

But, has anybody knows who has spent much time in the backcountry playing in the snow. Deep snow isn’t always what you come into contact with. Especially if you snowshoe on trails that are popular to those in the area. You see, traditional snowshoes may excel when it comes to traveling in deep powder. But modern snowshoes excel when it comes to versatility as most are equipped with what are known as crampons or ice cleats, as well as other neat features depending on the style of snowshoe you go with.

Crampons essentially dig into the hard snow and provide the user with traction in areas such as on packed snow or on ice. Whereas many traditional snowshoes are not equipped with crampons this makes ice and packed snow more difficult for traditional snowshoes.

Though, just because traditional snowshoes do better in deep snow does not mean that modern-day snowshoes are unable to handle deeper snow. As dependent on the snowshoe type you go with you can get close to the ability of traditional snowshoes (specifically modern mountaineering snowshoes, are made for deep fresh snow, as well as step slopes). 

Now that we have discussed some of the differences between modern snowshoes and traditional snowshoes let’s dive in to the types of modern-day snowshoes that are available and the specific uses they have when it comes to different snow types as well as different users styles.

• Flat Terrain Snowshoes
• Rolling Terrain Snowshoes
• Mountaineering / Backcountry Snowshoes
• Racing Snowshoes (Running Snowshoes)

Flat Terrain Snowshoes:

Flat terrain snowshoes are designed for exactly that, snowshoeing on flatlands. This type of snowshoe is essentially the bare bones of a snowshoe. Meaning it has a frame, a deck, and a binding.

The overall purpose of a flat terrain snowshoe is to save on cost as well as build a snowshoe that meets only the essentials that are required in order to keep from sinking in the snow. But for a modern snowshoe that is only 1/2 of what most modern-day snow shoes are made to do, they aren’t terrible.

Like we have discussed elsewhere in this post modern snowshoes are typically equipped with a crampon in order to provide the user traction when on packed snow or ice. But flat terrain snowshoes are only able to provide flotation, but not traction as they typically are not equipped with a crampon.

Plus, many flat terrain snowshoes typically do not have a pivoting binding. This means the binding pivots to essentially make it easier for the user to have a natural stride as they walk. Without a binding that pivots you have to pay closer attention to each step you take so you do not trip over the front of your snowshoe, as well, they tend to throw a lot of snow at the user via the heel of the snowshoe.

So just to recap, essentially with a typical flat terrain snowshoe you are basically just getting the minimum required in order to gain some benefit when traveling across the snow. Now, keep in mind that the benefits above simply flotation are more specific to a modern-day snowshoe.

Whereas traditional snowshoes are more meant for flatland travel. But they do an exceptionally well job at it.

Personally I don’t recommend modern snowshoes that are built specifically for flat terrain as they aren’t typically equipped enough to do well in any other situations then dense or packed snow. That being said if you are going to be snowshoeing in deep powdery snow, I recommend you opt for a traditional style snowshoe, as that is what they were designed specifically for, and the comparison between traditional and modern snowshoes when in deep snow is un-comparable… If you’d like to check out the modern Flat terrain snowshoes they are listed Here on Amazon.

Rolling Terrain Snowshoes:

The rolling terrain snowshoe is ideal for simply that, traveling over terrain that has hills. When you step up to a rolling terrain snowshoes you can expect more to be equipped on the snowshoe when compared to the flat terrain snowshoe.

For instance, rolling terrain snowshoes typically come equipped with a crampon or ice cleat which provides the user traction when on hard packed snow or ice. Crampons are essential if you intend to be doing a lot of snowshoeing on trails that are heavily used by the public (which results in hard packed snow) as well as if you intend to do really any snowshoeing in the mountains. 

Though, rolling terrain snowshoes aren’t necessarily designed for mountain like snowshoeing, rather they do well in some of the more calm parts of the mountains. Such as on the trails that are frequented by hikers. 

My personal opinion is, if you are a beginner and you’re interested in getting involved in snowshoeing I would suggest you opt with a pair of snowshoes that are designed to do well in at least rolling terrain or hilly terrain. This is because rolling terrain snowshoes typically are not nearly as expensive as mountaineering snowshoes. But they still provide many of the benefits that mountaineering snowshoes provide. Granted mountaineering snowshoes are a large step up from rolling terrain snowshoes as they are equipped with a lot more.

However, rolling terrain snowshoes typically are equipped with enough extremities to the point a beginner snowshoer, or even an experienced snowshoer will still have a good time, when snowshoeing through the simpler parts of the backcountry.

If you’d like to check out the current snowshoes I use that are specified as Rolling Terrain Snowshoes, they are listed on Amazon Here. Why I chose these ones you ask? Because they are durable, well made, and Cheap (They were my first snowshoes, and are still working great today). I have an older version then what is on amazon currently, but that just goes to show they last (I believe mine are 4 Years old maybe more). Either way they have proven to me to be a good set of beginner to intermediate snowshoes. Do keep in mind these snowshoes are essentially specified as Rolling terrain Snowshoes.

Mountaineering / Backcountry Snowshoes:

Mountaineering snowshoes are the diamonds of snowshoes so to say. Mountaineering snowshoes are essentially the top-level when it comes to modern snowshoe type. You see mountaineering snowshoes are equipped with everything a user needs in order to scale a massive mountain, as well as travel across a frozen lake without slipping.

Essentially mountaineering snowshoes are built to do it all. Whether you are headed out for a simple walk around the neighborhood in the snow, or planning to go on a massive 3-day backpacking trip to the crest of a nearby mountain, mountaineering snowshoes can do it.

The major differences between a mountaineering snowshoe, a rolling terrain snowshoe,and a flat terrain snowshoe is the fact that they are equipped with pivoting bindings, super aggressive crampons, many are equipped with heel lifts which essentially make the foot placement when climbing slopes much more comfortable. As well as many mountaineering snowshoes have different accessories that you can get for them in order to make them do better in specific situations.

For example, say theoretically you intend to be snowshoeing in deep fresh powdery snow this coming weekend. Well, just simply having mountaineering snowshoes gets you an advantage, as mountaineering snowshoes are larger and designed for specifically that.

However, to give yourself a little bit better flotation you could purchase a set of tails that will go on the tail end of your snowshoes. Essentially the idea is to extend the length of the snowshoe in order to provide you better flotation do to greater surface area, resulting in greater weight distribution so you don’t sink as deep in the snow. 

The only downside to mountaineering snowshoes is the fact that they are quite a bit more expensive then the others. However, they’re priced the way they are due to the fact that they are equipped with so much and designed to be able to get you up steep aggressive slopes as easily as possible. Not to mention the fact that they are so versatile you could essentially do anything with them (that is inside the boundaries of snow travel by foot). 

Honestly if you intend to do a lot of snowshoeing, with plans of doing some extensive hikes from time to time in the deep snow I would suggest you opt for a mountaineering snowshoe. Specifically due to the fact that they are so versatile that essentially one pair of snowshoes can do the same as 3.

Now, I have yet to pick me up a pair of mountaineering snowshoes. But when I do, THESE Ones (Listed on Amazon) will be the ones I’ll go with. Many in the industry swear by this brand, not to mention from my experience in the snowshoeing industry MSR Has been on the top in terms of modern snowshoes! Also MSR has many add on accessories for their Mountaineering / Backcountry snowshoes, Such as their Heel Lifts, and Accessory Tails that can be purchased separately.

Racing Snowshoes:

Racing snowshoes are much less common then the above three. As not many people are involved in snowshoe racing or running. However, racing snowshoes are designed for those who intend to run in the snow. Just like you would jogging or running on asphalt or in the dirt. Racing snowshoes allow you the ability to also get out and run in the snow.

The major differences between running snowshoes and the above three are the fact that running snowshoes are designed to be narrower in order to allow the user to have a more natural stride. As well they are designed with a pivoting, or articulating binding, to also help the user to attain natural stride.

Racing snowshoes, though not as accessible as the others. They work great for those who enjoy running but are stopped by the snow when it hits the ground. Essentially racing snowshoes allow you to continue running year-round.

I’ve never personally gotten involved in running / racing snowshoes. However, if your interested I’ve heard some good things about the Atlas Race Snowshoe available on amazon. But again I have never personally tried them so I don’t exactly know how they do. But others say they are great, so…

Modern Snowshoe Sizing!

Before you get yourself a pair of Modern Snowshoes it is important you get the proper sized snowshoe based on your weight (Including gear). If you need any guidance in the snowshoe sizing process be sure to check out my recent post on Snowshoe Sizing, And How To Size Snowshoes Properly. Given it is an easy process, but its good that you know the different caveats to sizing a snowshoe for your weight, and the terrain you intent on snowshoeing.

Traditional Snowshoes

Now, Traditional Snowshoes aren’t necessarily made based on specific slope type like modern snowshoes. Rather Traditionals do their best when crossing flat terrain, with deep, fresh, powdery snow. Now, that being said. Let’s talk a little about traditional snowshoes, and how they are sized, and why.

Traditional Snowshoes are made of natural products such as Wood, and Rawhide. As long as they are cared for and the proper maintenance is done at each interval, traditional snowshoes can last a long time.

Now, you’re probably wondering “What are the benefits to going with a traditional snowshoe over a modern snowshoe?”. Trust me, I wondered the same when I first got into snowshoeing. As I came into it with the assumption that modern snowshoes would offer more in terms of benefit to the user.

Because well, It only made sense to me that as time past and the design of snowshoes changed over time that the overall design of snowshoes were changing for the better. However, I have come to realize that this is not always the case. You see, modern snowshoes, when compared to traditional, have their pros and cons. The largest con to modern snowshoes when compared to traditional snowshoes is their sizing.

Typically the biggest size you can get in a modern snowshoe is somewhere around 38″ X 10″. Now this is quite large for a modern snowshoe as typically people are using a snowshoe that is sized somewhere between 25″ to 30″ in length. But given the fact that snowshoes work by dispersing the users weight over a larger surface area, essentially a larger snowshoe will keep the user from sinking as deep. Which in turn helps the user conserve energy.

If we compare the sizing of a traditional snowshoe to the largest of modern snowshoes (38″ X 10″) you will notice traditional snowshoe sizing starts basicly where modern sizing ends. Meaning the smaller snowshoes of traditional snowshoes are even larger in terms of surface area then the largest of today’s modern snowshoes.

This basically means that if you are going to be snowshoeing in deep, powdery snow you may want to consider buying a pair of traditional snowshoes as that is specifically what they were made for (Deep Powder). Where as modern snowshoes are made to be more versatile.

Alright, now that you know what Traditional snowshoes were designed for (Deep, Fresh, Powder). Lets go over the different Types, and styles of traditional snowshoes that are available along with the shapes, and why they are shaped the way they are. This way if you choose to opt for a pair of traditionals, you will easily be able to narrow which shape and style you want based on your specific needs.

Traditional Snowshoe Shapes & Styles

Below Are some of the most common to comeby in the traditional snowshoes space. Keep in mind traditional snowshoes are typically much larger than modern snowshoes, this is because the traditional snowshoe is designed to do amazing when faced up against deep powdery snow.

Given that traditional snowshoes Excel when it comes to snowshoeing in deep, soft, powdery snow I don’t feel each needs its own specific introduction. But rather a comparison between them. Now, the list below is not all the options available on the market in terms of Traditional snowshoes. However the snowshoes we are going to be talking about are some of the most popular in terms of shape, and style.

So, Traditional Snowshoes… Likely the biggest question that comes to mind for many is “Why are they shaped the way they are??”. From what I know based on my experience with snowshoes is that they are shaped the way they are either to help with flotation, or to aid in stability. Think about it, notice how the 3 snowshoes on the right in the image above have pointed tails on the bottom.

I believe this is to help the snowshoe track straight when the user is lifting their foot. But also it makes for an easier connecting point when manufacturing them as well. Now, on the opposite side of the photo, notice how the “Bear Paw” on the far left is short and wide. Well I believe this is because it was designed to help the user gain stability during each step, as well as allow for more of a circular weight distribution on the snow rather than an elongated weight distribution.

Me personally, I would go with a set of Huron’s, Ojibwe’s, Or Alaskan’s. Mainly for the fact that they are slimmer and will allow me to maintain a more natural stride.

Availability:

Though Traditional Snowshoes are harder to come by, Amazon does have some!

• Traditional BEAR PAW Snowshoe (Listed Here At Amazon)
• Traditional MODIFIED BEAR PAW Snowshoe (Listed Here At Amazon)
• Traditional HURON Snowshoe (Listed Here At Amazon)
• Traditional OJIBWE Snowshoe (Listed Here At Amazon)
• Traditional ALASKAN Snowshoe (Listed Here At Amazon)

Traditional Snowshoes VS Modern Snowshoes (In Deep Snow)

Check out this video by “Lure of the North”, He provides a great demonstration of how the traditional snowshoe compares to the modern snowshoe when compared in deep fresh powdery snow. However, I personally believe the modern snowshoe would excel when traveling on denser, hard packed snow or ice. Where the traditional will struggle to gain traction due to not having crampons.

Given the size difference of the traditional snowshoe vs the modern one we can expect a difference for the better with the traditional snowshoes when compared in deep powder.

Conclusion

Now when it comes to the differences between modern snowshoes and traditionals. The major differences are Moderns are typically equipped with features that allow the user to have more versatility in the snow conditions and the terrain type to which they travel on. Where as Traditionals are more specific to different shapes in order to provide the user the ability to travel across deep powdery snow with ease and as little energy exertion as possible.

If you intend to do backcountry snowshoeing you should go with a pair of either traditional snowshoes, or modern Mountaineering snowshoes. Where as if you intend to be snowshoeing on groomed trails or frequented trails, modern snowshoes will typically work great.

For a very versatile option I suggest you go with a pair of Mountaineering snowshoes. As they can essentially do all of what the other options can. If you’d like a recommendation. The MSR Snowshoes are known to be an exceptional pair of snowshoes. They are Listed Here On Amazon.

I hope you were able to find some value here. If you have any further questions regarding snowshoeing be sure to check out the Outdoor Luxuriez Snowshoeing Lounge from more info!

Good Luck!

This Is Colt Signing Off!

Other Recommended Resources:

Learn about how to select the Proper size of snowshoe for your needs!

Learn how you can make Snowshoeing in deep snow easier!