Step 1: Choose Your Terrain
Start by thinking about where you’ll use your snowshoes most.
For packed trails, rolling paths, and casual winter walks, choose snowshoes that are lightweight, easy to use, and comfortable over distance. These are great for beginners, dog walks, local trails, and everyday winter exploring.
For mixed terrain, look for snowshoes with a balance of flotation, stability, and traction. These are better for changing snow conditions, uneven trails, and longer winter hikes.
For steeper or more technical terrain, traction and support become more important. Choose snowshoes with stronger grip, secure bindings, and a more stable platform so you can move confidently when the trail gets firm, icy, or uneven.
Simple rule:
The more varied or steep the terrain, the more traction and support you’ll want.
Photo by: Washington Trails Association
Step 2: Pick the Right Size
Snowshoe sizing is based on your total load, not your shoe size. That means your body weight plus anything you’re carrying, like a backpack, extra layers, water, or winter gear.
Larger snowshoes provide more flotation, which helps keep you higher on soft or deep snow. Smaller snowshoes are easier to maneuver, especially on packed trails or tighter terrain.
Use this as a starting point:
More weight or deeper snow = larger snowshoes
Packed snow or lighter loads = smaller snowshoes
When you’re between sizes, think about your typical conditions. If you’re usually in deep, soft snow, size up. If you’re mostly on packed trails, a smaller size may feel easier and more natural.
Photo by: Washington Trails Association
Step 3: Match the Snowshoe to Your Activity
Finally, choose a snowshoe that fits how you like to move through winter.
If you’re walking or exploring local trails, look for comfort, easy entry, and a natural stride.
If you’re hiking longer distances, choose snowshoes with dependable traction, good flotation, and secure bindings that stay comfortable over time.
If you’re heading into deeper snow or backcountry terrain, prioritize stronger grip, stability, and support.
If you’re running or moving fast, choose lightweight snowshoes designed for speed and efficiency.
The best snowshoes are the ones that match your pace, terrain, and winter goals.
Find Your Fit With Atlas
Atlas snowshoes are built for every kind of winter movement, from casual trail walks to deeper backcountry routes and fast-paced fitness days. Once you know your terrain, size, and activity, finding the right pair becomes simple.