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Best Women's Snowshoes of 2024

Maya Rivera

Written by Maya Rivera

From Utah canyons to Thailand cliffs, Maya is a rock climbing aficionado who enjoys a bit of camping and hiking in the off-season.

This post was last updated on May 09, 2024.

Best Women's Snowshoes of 2024

Winter can be a crucial time for those die-hard hikers and recreationalists who refuse to let a dusting of the white stuff dull their adventurous souls. A good pair of snowshoes allows you to trek across the wintry landscape with ease. In the world of snowshoes, the MSR Lightning Ascent stands out as the best choice for ladies who love to wander on the wild side.

In this guide, we're going to take a look at why the MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes won our hearts, and share a few runners up who earned honorable mentions for their own shining attributes. We'll also zone in on a few specific picks – the best backcountry snowshoe, and the top budget choice. Our selection process paid meticulous attention to several factors that are key to a good snowshoeing experience, like traction, fit, durability, floatation, weight, terrain versatility, and that all-important value for money.

Remember, great snowshoes alone won't keep you warm in chilly temps. Don't hit the trails without checking out our picks for Best Winter Jackets for Women and Best Long Underwear for Women. With all the right gear, you're ready to embrace the magic and tranquility of winter wilderness.

Our Top Recommendations

Our Top Pick

7.4 /10
MSR Lightning Ascent Women's Snowshoes
MSR Lightning Ascent
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
8
Flotation
6
Traction
9
Weight
7

The MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes snag the top spot due to rave user reviews praising their exceptional grip even on icy terrains and the secure, comfortable fit tailored specifically for women's footwear.

Runner Up #1

7.4 /10
Tubbs Wilderness Women's Snowshoes
Tubbs Wilderness
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
8
Flotation
6
Traction
9
Weight
7

Users rave about the Tubbs Wilderness snowshoes for women due to their superior comfort and high-traction grip, enabling easy and secure trekking over snowy terrain.

Runner Up #2

7.4 /10
Atlas Range-MTN Women's Snowshoes
Atlas Range-MTN
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
7
Flotation
6
Traction
8
Weight
9

The Atlas Range-MTN snowshoes score high with women campers, thanks to their exceptional comfort and firm grip, which offer improved stability on icy terrains, that many users have praised in their reviews.

What you should look for

(and what we test for)

Fit

Look for snowshoes that have a women-specific design, as they are typically narrower, accommodating a shorter, more natural stride, making your hike comfortable and efficient.

Binding

Choose snowshoes with secure and adjustable bindings for a snug fit, which can accommodate your preferred hiking boots while providing a comfortable and safe hiking experience.

Traction

Ensure the snowshoes have substantial crampons and side rails for excellent grip, as this will help you navigate slippery slopes and icy terrains without hassle.

Durability

Opt for snowshoes made from tough, cold-resistant materials that can withstand rough terrains and extreme temperatures, which ensures they won't fail you mid-adventure.

7.4 /10

MSR Lightning Ascent

$389.95
The Best Women's Snowshoes

Based on our research and testing, we think the MSR Lightning Ascent are the best Women's Snowshoes on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.

MSR Lightning Ascent Women's Snowshoes
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
8
Flotation
6
Traction
9
Weight
7

Reasons to Buy

  • Highly versatile for varied terrain
  • Outstanding durability
  • Exceptional Traction
  • Easy to adjust binding

Reasons to Avoid

  • A bit pricey
  • Potentially overkill for easy trails
  • Bulkier than comparable models

The MSR Lightning Ascent is more than just a pretty face on the market. This stylish snowshoe, despite its sleek design, packs one hell of a punch when you set foot on the snowy trails. Ladies, whether you're a seasoned winter wilderness expert, or a newcomer on a fun-filled, snow-filled adventure, the Lightning Ascent will surely meet your expectations.

The durability of this snowshoe is one feature that stands out. Its frames and bindings are designed to withstand tough weather conditions and terrains. No need to worry about them giving up on you during your winter trek. Basically, these snowshoes are as stubborn as a mule, refusing to let the weather break them down!

Comfort? Top-notch. The bindings securely wrap around the foot without causing any discomfort or pressure points, even after hours of trekking. Furthermore, the Ergo Televators heel lifts make uphill climbs easier and reduce calf strain. Through deep snow, icy paths, and everything in between, they provide ample support and stability - like a reliable friend on your winter adventure.

The Lightning Ascent also rocks in the traction department. Its 360-degree traction frames and the toothy side rails give outstanding grip. The 'Add-on Modular Flotation tails' are a genius addition; they maintain the float on deep snow but can be conveniently removed when not needed or for easy packing.

One minor hiccup that we came across in the online reviews was about the weight. Despite being lightweight in design, these snowshoes might seem heavy for some, particularly for long hauls. However, given the robust construction and features, this increase in weight can be justified.

Additionally, some users mentioned the price being on the higher side. Nonetheless, many agreed that for the top-quality, comfort, functionality, and the lifespan of these snowshoes, it is well worth the investment.

To wrap this up, The MSR Lightning Ascent Ticks a lot of right boxes. Of course, every snowshoer has their own set of needs and preferences. But reading through umpteen reviews, this product seems to cater to a wide range of them, making it one of our top picks for women's snowshoes.

7.4 /10

Tubbs Wilderness

$219.95
Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Tubbs Wilderness are a great choice if you're looking for women's snowshoes to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Tubbs Wilderness Women's Snowshoes
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
8
Flotation
6
Traction
9
Weight
7

Reasons to Buy

  • Superb traction
  • Impressive weight distribution
  • Precise binding fit
  • Diversity across various terrain
  • Great value for the cost

Reasons to Avoid

  • May not be as effective on icy slopes
  • May require a period of familiarization with the fit adjustments

The Tubbs Wilderness snowshoes are among our top picks this season, for good reason. The sleek design and superior functionality make these snowshoes a favorite on the trial. Dressed in primary red with steel crampons, they are eye-catching and durable.

One of the most raved about features of the Tubbs Wilderness is its 180 Pro binding system. Customers have praised its comfort and the ease of adjusting the straps for a personalized fit. It follows the curve of your foot and keeps your step stable, minimizing the risk of twisting an ankle. This feature is expected in high-end snowshoes and Tubbs Wilderness didn't disappoint.

These snowshoes also got a lot of love for the R2 Revolution Response pivot system, which gives you freedom of lateral movement while also providing excellent traction on all sorts of terrain. This is especially handy when you encounter unexpected icy patches or steep inclines. Online reviewers have said this feature offered great support, allowed them to move easily, and made uphill treks more manageable.

A few customers have found the Tubbs Wilderness to be a little heavier than expected. However, the general consensus is that the extra weight is balanced out by the durable frame and tough materials used, resulting in a longer-lasting, more rugged pair of snowshoes than lighter options.

On the topic of size, the Tubbs Wilderness comes in three different lengths. This has been appreciated by purchasers who have different height and weight needs. However, some customers have found that the snowshoes can be a little large when it comes to storing them in their backpacks for longer trips.

Overall, customers seem extremely satisfied with their purchase of the Tubbs Wilderness snowshoes. The combination of functionality, versatility, and durability appears to outweigh any minor cons, making them a great choice for winter treks.

7.4 /10

Atlas Range-MTN

Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Atlas Range-MTN are a great choice if you're looking for women's snowshoes to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Atlas Range-MTN Women's Snowshoes
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
7
Flotation
6
Traction
8
Weight
9

Reasons to Buy

  • Comfortable and highly adjustable binding system
  • Impressive unequaled traction for varied terrain
  • Peformance in deep snow is exceptional
  • Great value for high-quality and durability

Reasons to Avoid

  • Might be overkill for casual snowshoers
  • Could be too heavy for long treks

The Atlas Atlas Range-MTN Snowshoes prove to be a solid bet when you're tackling the winter wilderness. With its durable construction and design focused on maneuverability, they've been appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts and casual snow-walkers alike.

The frame's lightweight yet robust aluminum design ensures an unimpeded trek no matter your path. If you're hitting a well-trodden trail or blazing your own, this pair of snowshoes doesn't disappoint. The decking, made from tough Nytex material, brushes off any encounters with sharp ice or rough edges with ease.

The standout feature of the Atlas Atlas Range-MTN is undoubtedly its Spring-Loaded Suspension (SLS) that absorbs impact and flexes to allow more natural foot movement. This makes them not only comfortable but also helps in avoiding fatigue during long hikes. Users thrilled about this feature tout it as a game-changer in their winter adventure gear.

To add more stability on diverse terrains, the snowshoes come equipped with durable steel crampons that provide reliable traction. Adding to this is the heel lift bar that most users found helpful, especially during steep ascents. The bar keeps your foot flat and reduces calf strain.

While the Atlas Atlas Range-MTN Snowshoes hit many high notes, they are not without a few minor gripes. Some users expressed challenges with the binding system, noting that they needed frequent adjustments on-trail. For others, it was difficult to understand initially but became easier with use.

Pricewise, these snowshoes sit on the higher end of the spectrum. That said, many owners have noted that they are well worth the investment, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and flawless performance that's hard to find elsewhere.

The Atlas Atlas Range-MTN Snowshoes cater to the needs of a wide range of females with its mid-range weight limit, making them quite versatile. Whether you're a novice in the snow or a seasoned winter explorer, these snowshoes promise to deliver a stable and exciting snowy trail experience.

No prices found. Check back later!

7.2 /10

MSR Evo Trail

$169.95
Best Budget Women's Snowshoes

Based on our research and testing, we think the MSR Evo Trail are a great pick if you're looking for women's snowshoes that are more budget friendly, without sacrificing too much in quality.

MSR Evo Trail Women's Snowshoes
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
8
Flotation
6
Traction
8
Weight
7

Reasons to Buy

  • Affordable, offering great value
  • Compact design for easier mobility
  • Good traction on packed snow
  • Versatile, can be used on varied terrains
  • Durable and sturdy construction

Reasons to Avoid

  • May not perform as well in deep powder
  • Some users found straps tricky to adjust
  • Size might not be suitable for larger feet
  • Minimal floatation in powdery snow

The MSR Evo Trail snowshoes offer a fantastic blend of price and performance. Being on the lower end of the budget range, they're certainly a wallet-friendly option when compared to some of the pricier models available in the market. However, this doesn't mean that they skimp on functionality.

The sturdy construction of the snowshoes is something that users frequently mention in their reviews. The shoes are designed with hard plastic decking, which not only reduces weight but also ensures their durability. Several users have even reported that these snowshoes can withstand the harsh conditions of backcountry trails, making them a reliable choice for both casual and serious snow hikers.

The traction on the MSR Evo Trail snowshoes receives high praise from users. The metal crampons at the bottom of the snowshoes provide superior grip and are particularly appreciated by users navigating icy and steep terrain. However, a few users did express that they sometimes struggled to find grip in deep, fluffy snow with these snowshoes.

The binding and adjustment system is another area where the MSR Evo Trail excels. The user-friendly straps make it easy to slip your boot in and adjust for a secure fit. Moreover, the snowshoes can accommodate a range of footwear from light hiking boots to heavy snow boots, which is a detail highlighted by many users in their reviews.

However, user reviews also bring to light some potential areas for improvement. A common issue mentioned is the lack of a heel lift, which can make uphill treks punishing on the calves. Additionally, despite adjustable bindings, some users have expressed that these snowshoes may not be the most comfortable choice for long-distance treks due to pressure points.

Overall, for those looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on performance, the MSR Evo Trail seems to be a well-loved choice.

No prices found. Check back later!

8.0 /10

Tubbs Mountaineer

$279.95
Best Women's Snowshoes for Backcountry Snowshoeing

Based on our research and testing, we think the Tubbs Mountaineer are a solid choice if you want women's snowshoes that's really well suited to Backcountry Snowshoeing.

Tubbs Mountaineer Women's Snowshoes
Binding Design
7
Ease of Use
7
Flotation
9
Traction
9
Weight
8

Reasons to Buy

  • Ideal for snowy backcountry trails
  • Comfortable and easily adjustable bindings
  • Tough build with excellent durability

Reasons to Avoid

  • A bit pricier than some alternatives
  • May require some practice for beginners

The Tubbs Mountaineer Snowshoes are a clear stand-out in the women's backcountry niche. These snowshoes prioritize functionality and comfort, two crucial factors for a pleasant and memorable adventure in the snow.

Starting off with the design, they've got a tough, lightweight aluminum frame combined with a soft, tear-resistant deck material. This makes these snowshoes not only super durable but also capable of ensuring a smooth ride in varying terrain. Plus, with their Pro-Step tail design, it ensures less fatigue for those long treks in the snow which is always a win.

One major selling point for these snowshoes is their ActiveFit binding. It's designed to keep your feet snug and comfortable, and according to many customer reviews, it delivered on that promise. The bindings can easily adjust to fit a range of boot sizes and they hold tight even in demanding conditions. Users appreciated how easy these were to take on and off, even in harsh, cold weather.

Equipped with the Anaconda toe crampon, the Tubbs Mountaineer Snowshoes provide an excellent grip on both ascending and descending grades, preventing slippage. This feature was highly praised in many online reviews as it helped hikers traverse icy and unpredictable terrains with confidence.

The snowshoes also feature a heel lift which is an absolute lifesaver when you're climbing those steep slopes. The many users who took it through hilly terrain mentioned how this feature significantly reduced the strain on their calves.

However, some users noted that the snowshoes might not be the best option for really deep, powdery snow. They seemed to perform best in packed or somewhat packed snow conditions, delivering excellent traction and control.

On the weight side, some users felt they were a tad heavier than other models, which might be an aspect to bear in mind for those longer treks. Despite this, most agreed that the comfort and stability they deliver far outweighed this slight increase in weight.

At the end of the day, these snowshoes seem to deliver an excellent performance for women looking for reliable, backcountry equipment. While they may not be the lightest or most effective in deep, powdery snow, their high-quality design, superior comfort, and unique features like the heel lift and superb bindings receive high marks from users.

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