Snowshoes

Buyer’s guide for a pair of snowshoes

If you like hiking in the mountain and discover the fantastic sceneries it offers, snowshoes are made for you. If this sport was a bit forgotten in the past decades, it comes back to life! The main benefit is that it doesn’t require any specific terrain or structure. All you need is a mountain covered in snow to enjoy nature like you never did before. Put your snowshoes on and follow the tracks of the wild animals, listen to the snow cracking under your steps, breathe and enjoy!

What type of snowshoes for discovering the sport?

Manufacturers have understood a while ago that the sport was coming back which is why it’s not surprising to see their lineup becoming bigger and bigger every year. We have to admit, hiking with snowshoes is enjoyable. Alone or with your family, it’s cheap and easy. If you have never hiked with snowshoes and you intend to go for short tours this winter, we recommend discovery models, adapted to your weight, offering good floatation on powder. All you have to do is adjust the system so your foot fits in. On paths or in the woods, these models are ideal. Have a look at the Escape by TSL or the Futura by Inook. They are entry-level models offering comfort and performance.

You’re looking for performance and plan to do long hikes

Then comes the touring lineup incorporating the Odyssey and Odalys models from Inook and the Tour from TSL. These models were designed for hiking far and high, you can even run with them. They are lighter than entry-level models and feature heel-lift systems making ascents easier. You can adjust it easily with your pole and it provides a more comfortable position when the path points uphill. On the downhill or through technical areas, you can lock the snowshoe under the foot so it doesn’t move. They also feature crampons in case you encounter ice, this provides traction and safety. Careful though, if traction is impressive when climbing, it is different on the downhill. The front claw becomes useless so you better watch out. Snowshoes are for hiking, not for going extreme.

What are the snowshoes adapted for kids?

The youngest also have their own snowshoes, adapted to their size and easy to use. These snowshoes generally feature a single strap offering enough hold for walking on flat ground. Junior snowshoes for for kids weighing over 15kg.

Discover our selection of 2019 snowshoes!