Invented up to 6,000 years ago, snowshoes have come a long way from their leather and wood origins. But humans have always needed to devise a way to travel over snow more efficiently, and luckily we have dozens of great options to choose from today.

　　It can be hard to decipher exactly what you may need, as many snowshoes are slightly tailored to certain activities, leaving you with many options from those suited to more generalized snow-walking to steeper, more technical ascending. Luckily our gear experts made sure to choose a diverse selection to put to the test and to give you a thorough comparison between them all so you can parse which type of snowshoe will work best for whatever you want to get into this winter. If youre going to hit the trails hard, the MSR Lightning Ascent is the best choice for most people, while the Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes offer a much more affordable way to get out in the snow and outfit your whole family.

　　We hiked miles in each pair in fresh powder, firmly packed snow, and in the lingering spring layers, from the Eastern Sierra of California to Colorado, and Minnesota, to understand how each snowshoe performs in a variety of conditions and terrain. We measured each of them in categories such as sizing, bindings, traction, poles, and floatation performance. 

　　We’ve broken the list into helpful categories to help you find the best fit. If you need more help deciding, be sure to check out the comparison table, buyer’s guide, and our price and value analysis at the end of this guide.

　　Editor’s note: Fresh for the Winter season as of September 11th, 2024, weve revamped our snowshoes guide with some solid comparative testing. The Atlas Range Trail, Tubbs Wayfinder, and Retrospec Drifters are new to the lineup and the MSR Lightning Ascents got a re-evaluation to consider their performance against the newer entrees.

　　The Best Snowshoes of 2024-2025 Best OverallSnowshoes: MSR Lightning Ascent Best Budget Snowshoes: Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes Runner-Up Best Snowshoes: Atlas Range Trail Best Snowshoes For Trail Walking: Tubbs Wayfinder Best Overall Snowshoes MSR Lightning Ascent Specs Weight 4 lbs. Dimensions 22 x 8 x 4.25” (22” model) Toe Crampon Yes Frame Material Aluminum Closure Rubber strap

　　

　　

　　Pros Light and nimble Easy and secure binding Crampons and heel lift for ascending Top of its class traction Cons Smaller deck lacks the flotation of wider models Expensive Only available in 2 sizes Austin Beck-Doss The timeless design of the MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes ($390) wins us over year after year. Both lightweight and aggressive, these snowshoes are a great all-around pick or one of our go-to choices for more technical terrain. The aluminum traction frame bites into snow with every step, with serrated edges on the side rails and cross bars that ensure maximum gripping power edge-to-edge. A claw-style crampon sits under the forefoot, and heel risers allow you to ascend steep snow slopes with less effort. 

　　The Paragon bindings have freeze-resistant mesh straps that can accommodate a variety of boot sizes, and have a simple lashing system that is most welcome when trying to handle with cold fingers. Our testers loved how easy these were to slip on and off, and felt our boots stayed solidly secure. 

　　The traction and light weight of these snowshoes are what make this model really shine, at the cost of overall floatation. The smaller deck means less surface area with which to disperse weight over snow, and this was noticeable compared to some of the larger snowshoes in our lineup. However, the smaller deck is easier and less cumbersome to maneuver, and its rockered shape offers a smooth ride for its users. We found that they preferred being able to have faster stride turnover than more floatation, though this can come down to personal preference and the type of terrain you may find yourself in most frequently. 

　　But MSR really did think of everything, and you can buy add-on floatation tails to accommodate heavier loads and perform better on deep powder. Additionally, the Lightning Ascent comes in three different sizes, 22, 25, and 30 inches, and is available in a women’s version for those with a narrower gait or who want a lighter model. We’ve tested these since 2018 and we still think they are still the best snowshoes on the market.

　　Read Review: Sure Footed: The MSR Lighting Ascent

　　$390 at REI Mens$390 at REI Womens Best Budget Snowshoes Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes Specs Weight 5.5 lbs. Dimensions 25 x 8” (25” model) Toe Crampon Yes Frame Material Alloy Closure Double ratchet straps

　　

　　Pros Large surface area for floatation Affordable Comes with adjustable trekking poles Cons Not as versatile as other snowshoes Heavy Austin Beck-Doss Are you an occasional snowshoer who is overwhelmed by the choices (and prices) of all the models out there? We’ve got you covered. The Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes Bundle with Trekking Poles ($90) are a fantastic bang for your buck. This package deal comes with a mesh carrying bag and adjustable trekking poles so you can be fully equipped and ready for adventure. 

　　Double ratcheting straps allow for an easily adjustable fit, optional heel-lifters help reduce fatigue and assist on the uphill, and the alloy frame and polyethylene deck float well over powder and firmly packed snow. Toe crampons under the forefoot increase stability, and having trekking poles allows you to use your whole body with each stride, which is more ergonomic and less tiring when you’re going the distance. 

　　There are some noticeable details that make these snowshoes a step below in quality, but that is to be expected in a budget pair. The alloy and polyethylene frame and deck, plus the thick plastic bindings make these weigh in at 5.5 pounds for a pair, which is noticeably heavier than other snowshoes we tested. The plastic ratchet straps that cross over your boot are made of cheap, plastic material, and aren’t as comfortable as the rubber mesh or Boa bindings found on the MSR Lightning Ascent or Tubbs Wayfinder Snowshoes. But they are easy to use and quick to release, which is a plus. 

　　Like the Tubbs Wayfinders, the Retrospec Drifters are a great choice for the casual snowshoer who mostly plans on hiking on trails, meadows, or anywhere with gently rolling terrain. Their larger surface area and polyethylene deck make them great for floating atop powder, and while they have a toe crampon and heel risers, are not made for ascending steep snow slopes. That being said, especially since they also come with trekking poles, the Drifters are a steal in our book.

　　$90 at Amazon Runner-Up Best Snowshoes Atlas Range Trail Specs Weight 3 lbs., 7.4 oz. Dimensions 22 x 7 x 4.5” (22” model) Toe crampon Yes Frame material Aluminum Closure Rubber strap

　　

　　Pros Lightweight Easy binding system Crampons and heel lift for ascending Serrated aluminum frame for extra traction Cons Narrow profile lacks the flotation of wider models Pricey Only available in 2 sizes Austin Beck-Doss The Atlas Range Trail Snowshoes ($230) slip on easily and float well over rolling hills, allowing you to enjoy many wintery excursions. Designed for performance on mellower packed or powdery terrain, these lightweight shoes have stretch bindings that tighten well over a variety of boot types and sizes. In fact, while testing alongside the Tubbs Wayfinders which sport the “easy-to-use” Boa closures, our testers were able to put on the Atlas Range’s in half the time with its simple stretch and fasten system.

　　Carbon steel crampons and a 19º heel lift allow you to walk more easily up hills, and the traction of the serrated aluminum frame provides extra stability. Most traditional snowshoes have wide, tubular frames, allowing for flotation on fresh snowy trails. The Atlas Range Trail has more of the features found on technical snowshoes, such as the serrated frame and narrower, light profile. Therefore these shoes strike a balance between pure fun flotation while still being able to maneuver up and down hills or side-stepping on firmer packed snow. 

　　While a superb, all-around trail snowshoe, the Atlas Range Trail has a narrower and smaller deck than some of the other snowshoes in our review, which docks a few points from the overall flotation category. Although it does come in both a 22” and 26” size, allowing you to choose a model that will work best for your height and weight, but it still lacks the width of other models. If light and nimble is your speed, and you’d like a slightly more technical snowshoe than the average snow floater, the Atlas Range Trail is a great choice.

　　$138 at REI Mens$138 at REI Womens$184 at Amazon Mens$220 at Amazon Womens Best For Trail Walking Tubbs Wayfinder Specs Weight 3 lbs. 6 oz. Dimensions 25 x 8 x 8” (25” model) Toe Crampon Yes Frame Material Aluminum Closure Boa Closure System

　　

　　Pros Large surface area for floatation Lightweight Boa closure for a dialed-in fit Cons Boa system takes some adjusting to get used to Austin Beck-Doss If you’re looking for snowshoes with maximum floatation to take on snowy, mellow trails, the Tubbs Wayfinder ($200) would be our recommendation to you. You’ll love the easy-to-adjust Boa bindings, the carbon steel crampons that bite into the snow, and the nylon deck material that cuts down on weight and creates a floaty ride. 

　　Boa bindings have a few advantages over more traditional strap closures. They allow for micro-adjustability, a more snug fit, enhanced comfort due to its even distribution of pressure, and once you get the hang of the system, are easy and quick to use. During our testing, it did take longer to figure out how exactly to use these bindings the correct way. You have to first adjust the heel strap, which will be a one-time adjustment if you plan on using the same boots every time. Then, as you twist the Boa closure to tighten the cords, you have to make sure the heel strap isn’t running into the plastic channels on the sides, in which case you’ll have to adjust the heel strap again. Although this setup is supposed to be easier than traditional strap bindings, we were able to get the Atlas Range Trail Snowshoes on in less than half the time it took to fumble with the Tubbs Wayfinders. That being said, taking them out a second time was quick and easy once we understood how the system worked. 

　　These snowshoes are large, providing more surface area for floatation than the smaller deck sizes of the Atlas Range Trail or the MSR Lightning Ascents. But a pair only weigh in at 3 lbs. 6 oz., which is lighter than both of those smaller models. This means that the Tubbs don’t feel too heavy underfoot despite their size, and float noticeably better on fresh snow than the more technical snowshoes in our review. That being said, they are less versatile, and not made for ascending steep slopes or side-stepping on firm snow. Made for the casual snowshoer, you’re sure to have a blast hitting meadows or trails in the Tubbs Wayfinders.

　　$200 at REI Womens$200 at REI Mens Best of the Rest MSR Evo Trail Specs Weight 3 lbs., 8 oz. (men’s 25″ version) Lengths 22″ Heel lift No Max weight Up to 180 lbs., 250 lbs. with add-on tails

　　

　　Pros Durable Solid traction for the price Cons Low max weight Not ideal in deep snow Austin Beck-Doss The MSR Evo Trail ($170) is one of the most versatile and affordable options out there. And it’s no surprise they’re a go-to for beginners. The steel traction bars are strong enough to withstand heavy use and provide dependable traction.

　　The bindings aren’t the highest-tech option, but they work well. The straps stayed pliable even in frigid conditions, and we were able to adjust without removing gloves.

　　The Evo comes in a 22-inch length and has a max weight of 180 pounds. You can add on modular 6-inch tails ($55) for increased flotation and a max weight of 250 pounds. The plastic decking can be loud on hardpack trails. And while this isn’t a deal-breaker, it can disrupt your winter wonderland enjoyment.

　　All things considered, these are a quality set of snowshoes that can handle a variety of conditions. If you plan to snowshoe heavily throughout winter or take on big-mile excursions, it may be worth paying more for something with a more comfortable binding or lighter weight. But for general use, these are an excellent choice.

　　$170 at REI TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite Specs Weight 4 lb., 1.6 oz. (23.5) Lengths 20.5, 23.5, 27 Heel lift Yes Max weight   Depending on snowshoe size, max weight varies from 220 to 300 lbs.

　　

　　Pros Comfortable Good traction Easy on the joints Cons Not the best flotation in light snow Austin Beck-Doss Looking for a pair of snowshoes that support your natural gait? Meet the TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite ($280). Many people experience hip and knee pain while learning to walk with snowshoes. The sleek ergonomics of the Hyperflex Elites do away with that.

　　Eight large stainless steel crampons provide strong traction. And the heel lift allows for comfortable uphill travel. We also found the heel lift kept our feet in a comfortable position.

　　The binding is among our favorites and provides excellent support. We like that you can set the toepiece to your boot size and then use the cam-lock release to enter and exit. This added security and made it easier to get going each time. And you can adjust both the width and length to accommodate almost any boot.

　　$290 at Backcountry Atlas Race Specs Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz. Lengths 22 Heel lift No Max weight  190 lbs.

　　

　　Pros Lightweight Great for trail running Cons Not suited for beginners or general use Austin Beck-Doss The Atlas Race snowshoes ($320) are designed to allow anyone to, well, race. These are a must-have for sprinting in snow. The Z-speed race binding easily stays snug against any running shoe for long distances.

　　The zig-zag design means you can quickly tighten the bindings with one hand. Or you can remove the bindings completely and direct-mount running shoes for additional weight savings.

　　The adjustable spring-loaded suspension can be fine-tuned to find your desired level of rebound. And the titanium heel and toe crampons give plenty of grip without adding weight. Theyre light, theyre fast, and theyll make you as nimble as possible in the snow.

　　The only downside of the Atlas Race snowshoes is that theyre solely for racing and running. The sleeker shape means they dont perform well in powder or for general use. But if youre looking for a running snowshoe, the Atlas Race will have you sprinting on snow.

　　$256 at Amazon Crescent Moon EVA Snowshoes Specs Weight 3 lbs., 8 oz. Lengths 24 Heel lift No Max weight   240 lbs.

　　

　　Pros Lightweight Durable Cons Poor traction off of groomed trails Austin Beck-Doss The Crescent Moon EVA Snowshoes ($179) are unlike anything else out there. Boulder, Colorado-based Crescent Moon made quite the splash when it introduced these unusual snowshoes in 2017. The upper layer of foam is softer for better rebound and cushioning. And the lower foam is sturdier and more durable.

　　Gearjunkie editor and chief Adam Ruggerio noted, Unlike rigid aluminum or carbon snowshoes, the soft, upturned foam deck comfortably cruises over hardpacked snow and encourages agility. Below deck, hard plastic cleats bite into icy terrain, providing plenty of grip, especially on hillsides. Think of these as slippers for the snow. Theyre lightweight and packable, and they are easy to pop on for quick trips around your snowy property.

　　They dont do as well on technical terrain as other options. And without a heel lift, they arent as suitable for uphill climbs as the MSR EVO Trail or the Lightning Acesnts.

　　$170 at REI$109 at Amazon

　　

　　The MSR Lightning Ascent is our top choice for snowshoes. We especially liked the adjustable mesh strapping system on the bindings; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Snowshoes Comparison Chart

Snowshoe	Price	Lengths	Weight	Heel Risers	Max Weight
MSR Lightning Ascent	$390	22/25/30	4 lbs., 2 oz./4 lbs., 5 oz./4 lbs., 14 oz.	Yes	280 lbs.
Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes	$90	25/30	5.5 lbs	Yes	210 lbs.
Atlas Range Trail	$230	26/30	3 lbs., 13.4 oz. (26)	Yes	200 lbs. (26)
Tubbs Wayfinder	$200	25/30	3 lbs. 6 oz.	No	250 lbs.
MSR Evo	$170	22	3 lbs., 10 oz.	No	180 lbs., 250 lbs. with add-on tails
TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Elite	$290	20.5/ 23.5/ 27	4 lbs., 1.6 oz./ 4 lbs., 4.8 oz./ 4 lbs., 12.8 oz.	Yes	300 lbs.
Atlas Race	$320	22	2 lbs., 4 oz./ 2 lbs., 9 oz.	No	190 lbs.
Crescent Moon EVA Snowshoes	$169	24	3 lbs., 8 oz.	No	240 lbs.

How We Tested the Best Snowshoes Snowshoes are a convenient and accessible way to travel across snow, whether you’re breaking trail to the fishing hut or just to the mailbox. They can also be essential tools for winter ascents in the mountains, and serious mountaineers will want the lightest and the best for their pursuits.

　　From recreational snowshoers who want to be able to go out for a snowy jaunt, to those adventure-seekers who want to break trail up steep slopes covered in thick powder, there is a pair for everyone. With that in mind, we considered sizing and comfort, binding systems, floatation, and traction to best assess the important qualities of each model.

　　We get to spend an entire winter tromping around in powder and hardpack in these snowshoes During this time we’re able to compare notes and swap snowshoes for side-by-side comparisons. In addition, we tested each of these products in the terrain of our hometowns, making sure to evaluate their performance on fresh, deep powder, to more moderate coverage, up steep hills, and on snowy trails to come up with our best assessments.

　　Coloradans Mary Murphy and Sean McCoy, along with Austin Beck-Doss from snowy Wyoming and Miya Tsudome from the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, have hiked miles in these snow shoes over flat and steep terrain, noting the pros and cons of each and which models stood out in our testing metrics. Our team has been testing snowshoes since 2018, keeping an eye on new emerging designs, and making sure to reevaluate our old favorites when they receive design updates. Be sure to check out our guides about Winter Boots and Winter Hiking Boots for the perfect footwear to pair with your snowshoes.

　　Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Snowshoes When trying to decide what snowshoes will fit your lifestyle best, there are plenty of things to keep in mind. This buyer’s guide includes all the information you will need to identify the right pair.

　　Sizing For proper snowshoe sizing, you need to consider both the maximum load on your snowshoes (your body weight plus the gear you’re carrying) and the type of terrain you’ll be navigating.

　　Check the specs of the snowshoes. They will list a “maximum recommended load” and the recommended type of terrain. If you’re only taking day trips, the max load should be around 20 pounds above your body weight. For overnight trips or mountaineering, it would be 30-60 pounds more than your body weight to accommodate your pack.

　　For the length, a longer snowshoe makes it easier to travel through powder because there’s a larger surface area. However, a longer snowshoe is more challenging to take up and down steep terrain. If you expect to travel on hardpacked snow in mostly flat terrain, a shorter snowshoe will do just fine.

　　

　　Many snowshoes come in different lengths so you can dial in the best size for your height and weight; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Bindings Snowshoe bindings come in several different shapes and sizes. Finding the right snowshoe is just as much about the binding as it is about the frame. Most snowshoe binding systems are a rotating or pivoting model, meaning they move separately from the frame of your snowshoe allowing you to shed snow, making climbing easier.

　　Running snowshoes tend to be of a fixed design, where the shoe is affixed completely underfoot, which reduces any flapping and mimics a natural stride.

　　Fixed snowshoes are also a good choice if you’re primarily walking on flat ground where you don’t require a heel lift. The type of terrain you plan on walking in, and the type of snowshoeing (or running) you intend on doing will dictate which type of binding is the right choice for you.

　　Snowshoe bindings also feature a variety of strap systems. From ratchet straps as found on the Retrospec Drifter, mesh baskets with rubber pull tabs found on the MSR Lightning Ascent, or the fancy Boa closure system found on the Tubbs Wayfinder. The Boa closure system and mesh strap design create a more even distribution of pressure across your boot, creating a more comfortable fit. Ratchet straps are easy to fasten but could cause some pressure points where they sit across your boot.

　　

　　Ratchet straps are a quick and easy binding system; (photo/Miya Tsudome) The pull webbing and the BOA cable lace bindings both provide a snug and secure fit and a quick and easy in and out of your snowshoes. (Snowshoes are also made of different materials, but the most common are made of hardened plastic with carbon, steel, or aluminum.)

　　Figuring out how to best attach your snowshoes can sometimes be tricky, and its recommended to try it inside with warm hands first, as things quickly get harder to do in inches of snow with cold fingers, or while wearing mittens.

　　

　　The teardrop shape of the Tubbs Wayfinder and wide forefoot make this a snowshoe with great flotation qualities; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Traction Underneath the snowshoes, you’ll see the traction, which ranges from lugs similar to a winter hiking shoe to the sharp teeth of a crampon for mountaineering. Running snowshoes are mostly foam and rubber with a few metal studs for traction. Others will have steel crampons underfoot (toe and heel), which will help provide stability, though are not as secure as mountaineering crampons.

　　The Crescent Moon EVA Snowshoes are an exception here, employing 6 ice spikes for additional traction. While these can’t compete with crampons in terms of bite, they’ll keep you on your feet during jaunts on flat terrain, and their simplicity can’t be beat.

　　The MSR Lightning Ascent and the Atlas Range Trail Snowshoes both feature serrated edges on the side railings of their lightweight aluminum frames, in addition to steel crampons. The Lightning Ascent also has two steel serrated bars that span the width of the shoe from edge to edge, providing the best traction of any shoe in our lineup. This makes them a great choice for varying conditions, from powder to ice patches and firmer snow, and will provide more stability and support than the buoyant frames of shoes like the Tubbs Wayfinder or Retrospec Drifter.

　　Having traction on the side railings also allows for more security and bite when traversing on slopes, which can also be a safety concern. You’ll want to opt for models with serrated frames if you are looking to get into more technical terrain.

　　

　　Crampons and serrated edges on the Atlas Range Trail make these a great recreational snowshoe with a few more advanced features; (photo/ Miya Tsudome) Heel Risers Heel risers are a key feature if you plan to do any ascents up steep terrain. Trying to snowshoe uphill without heel risers will result in immediate calf fatigue. You may think that hiking sideways up an incline to create switchbacks is a solution, but trust me, this is awkward unless there’s an established flat trail of switchbacks. Technical snowshoes like the MSR Lightning Ascent are equipped with heel risers and lighter, less expensive models like the Crescent Moon EVA Snowshoes do without. The exception is our budget pick, the Retrospec Drifters which do come with heel risers, part of the reason why they are such a great deal.

　　If you’re only planning to be walking on flat or lightly rolling terrain with your snowshoes, such as meadows, golf courses, trails or roads, risers aren’t totally necessary, and you’ll be fine with snowshoes that prioritize floatation like the Tubbs Wayfinders.

　　

　　Using trekking poles with snowshoes can help increase stability and efficiency; (photo/ Miya Tsudome) Price Value Although you could spend $30 on a pair at a large discount store that might perform just fine if you’re only going out once or twice a year for short distances, there are some noticeable differences in quality when you are willing to shell out a bit more cash.

　　Budget While there are a lot of sub-$100 snowshoes on the market, the Retrospec Drifters ($90) are an exceptionally good choice, as theyre fully featured with crampon spikes and heel raisers to help you over rolling hills and they come with trekking poles for stability. Theyre constructed with less expensive, heavier materials, so theyll slow you down if youre in it for the long haul, but for short snow jaunts, theyll keep you floating on top of the snow. They utilize ratchet straps which dont distribute pressure quite as well as the mesh of the MSR Lightning Ascent or a Boa system, but theyre durable and functional, so they wont be a safety issue if youre out a few miles from shelter and the snow really starts coming down.

　　Mid-tier M

　　A frequent snowshoer will want to spend at least $200 for a good pair. In this price range, most frames are made of aluminum, and most bindings are more comfortable and well-designed than the plastic ratchet straps you’ll see on cheaper models. A couple of options from our lineup include the Tubbs Wayfinder ($200), and the Atlas Range Trail ($230). The Atlas Range Trail is a fantastic choice that has many of the features of more expensive, technical snowshoes at a much lower cost. And the Tubbs Wayfinders are great choices for the recreational snowshoer who plans on many winter jaunts over powdery trails.

　　Premium If you are looking for more specialized snowshoes, you can expect to spend upwards of $250. Our top pick, the MSR Lightning Ascent clocks in at a whopping $390. These snowshoes are the best performing, ultralight, technical, all-terrain snowshoes you can buy, with advanced bindings and an unrivaled grip. Typically, the more specialized the shoe, the higher the cost. Another example is the Atlas Race shoes ($300) which are made for running in snow with their adjustable spring-loaded suspension.

　　If you’re reading this review at all, it probably means you want to spend a little money on a good pair of snowshoes to last many winters, and in our opinion, the improvement in bindings and quality of materials that comes with shelling out a few hundred bucks is well worth it.

　　Frequently Asked Questions What are the best snowshoes for deep snow? The MSR Lightning Ascent with the additional 6-inch tails will provide incredible flotation in deep snow. Remember, snow is just frozen water, and we still want to stay afloat. Look for snowshoes with high flotation ratings

　　Do you need poles? While you may not need poles, they are highly recommended. When starting out, snowshoes can make the most agile person rather clumsy. Using poles will help increase the balance of the upper body and engage the arms in an otherwise very leg-focused sport.

　　On more aggressive and technical terrain, you will need poles. They can be a lifeline when youre near precarious ledges and want the extra layer of security

　　What shoes do you wear with snowshoes? A good pair of hiking boots or winter boots are recommended for most snowshoeing situations. Look for something that will keep feet warm and dry without compromising mobility. Check out our reviews of the Best Mens Winter Boots and Best Womens Winter Boots for top picks.

　　Adding gaiters to your setup is also a good idea to keep snow out — because dry means happy.

　　What size snowshoes do I need? As mentioned above, the sizing of snowshoes depends largely on your height and weight (including pack weight). Check the sizing and weight recommendations for the brand and model youre interested in.

　　For the length, a longer snowshoe makes it easier to travel through powder because theres a larger surface area. However, a longer snowshoe is more challenging to take up and down steep terrain.