Walking through the snow with snowshoes gives you a slightly more gentle world of snowy mountains.
The world of winter mountains, closed to deep snow, is certainly a world where it is difficult to allow you to step in casually. However, when you come here with great effort, the overwhelming beauty and preciousness of the majestic atmosphere that you would never encounter in your daily life will surely become a memory you will never forget. It feels as if the nature you've seen up until now becomes even deeper, and the way the world is seen without any flattering is changed. This Snowshoe Wakan is the easiest way to experience this snowy world.
There are a variety of snowshoes that fit a variety of winter activities that allow you to freely move around snowy areas, from winter forests and satoyama walking, to winter running and hiking up steep slopes in the backcountry, so it is important to choose the type of snowshoes that are suitable for you to play comfortably and safely.
Here we have investigated the latest information on the tools you need to enjoy snowshoe activities, and summarized wise choices based on your own experiences. I would like to introduce it to you right away.
So, for those who want to fully enjoy backcountry skiing and snowboarding, I'll write about recommended backpack models for backcountry skiing and snowboarding in the first half, and tips on how to choose one in the second half. After doing some research, I've learned that there are a wide variety of preferences for backpacks for ski touring, depending on the manufacturer and the person. Therefore, the selection method I'll write about here inevitably reflects my personal preferences and habits, so there may be many differences in opinion with experts. I hope you'll read on with that in mind.
Please note that we are only introducing one or two recommended models in each category here, but by becoming a member you can view a comparison list of all 49 best candidates, including other recommendations
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All recommended snowshoes and crampons and a comparison table of all 49 models are available with a paid membership
table of contents
- [By Use/Preference] Best Snowshoes & Crampons - From Snow Hiking to Snow Mountain Climbing and Backcountry Skiing -
- Best Overall Snowshoes: MSR Lightning Explorer / TSL SYMBIOZ instinct
- Best Backcountry Snowshoes: MSR Lightning Ascent/ATLAS Range BC 26
- Best Affordable Snowshoes: Mont-Bell Alpine Snowshoes 56
- Best Wakan: Expert of Japan HS Snowshoes (Flat Type)
- Recommended snowshoes for beginners: Atlas Helium TRAIL 23
- Best Lightweight: oxtos SNOW PLAK Approach oxtos Ver.
- How to Choose: What are snowshoes? What are crampons? What are they and how should you use them?
- 5 points to check when choosing the best snowshoes
- Point 1: Find out the type and type of snowshoe that is suitable for your purpose and purpose
- Point 2: Choose the optimal size (length) and shape of frame
- Point 3: Choose a binding that is easy to put on and take off and does not loosen
- Point 4: Check whether the clamp is strong enough to suit your needs
- Point 5: Weight and portability are also important depending on the purpose
- summary
[By Use/Preference] Best Snowshoes & Crampons - From Snow Hiking to Snow Mountain Climbing and Backcountry Skiing -
Best Overall Snowshoes: MSR Lightning Explorer / TSL SYMBIOZ instinct
Sorry for being so cliche, but there are many different types of mountain gear, but it's rare to find an item that stands out more in its category than this one.The MSR Lightning series of snowshoes is clearly superior to other models, and has remained unchanged for the past 10 years
However, due to some minor details, the model we chose as the "best overall" this time was not the so-called top model, the Lightning Ascent, but the Lightning Explorer
When we last conducted a comparison survey about five years ago, there were small but clear differences between the Lightning Series' Ascent and Explorer, such as the type of buckle and the number of crampons. However, at a glance, there are almost no differences between the current models. The only difference is that the Ascent has a metal toe part, while the Explorer has a plastic one. It's a subtle difference, but if there is one, it's that the Ascent is more durable and the Explorer is lighter. The Explorer is slightly cheaper. So, for this overall best, we decided on the Explorer, based on balance and ease of use
However, they are among the most expensive snowshoes available. You have to be prepared for that. If you can accept that, their top-class walking stability, which can handle everything from flat ground to steep slopes and technical terrain, and their high-performance bindings that are light, thin, smooth, and don't come loose easily, are truly one of a kind. Honestly, once you try them on, you'll never want to wear any other snowshoes. The Lightning has all the essential elements of a mountain snowshoe, and there are almost no drawbacks when it comes to "safely climbing and descending," making them ideal for everything from snow-capped mountain climbing to backcountry skiing. This also means that they can be used on any other snowy mountain, so it's unlikely you'll regret buying them
What I like about the MSR Lightning Explorer
- Easy to put on and take off bindings
- High fixing power regardless of shoes
- High grip on all slopes
- Folds compactly for easy portability
- lightweight
"TSL SYMBIOZ instinct" is a unique and appealing product that should not be underestimated
On the other hand, there is another excellent competitor that the Lightning in overall performance, but the Lightning SYMBIOZ instinct " from TSL. This brand is a minor one in Japan, but it is the flagship model of a long-established manufacturer in France, a snowshoe powerhouse known only to those in the know.
The biggest attraction of these snowshoes is their exceptionally comfortable walking ability, thanks to their unique frame structure. The small grooves on the sides of the frame and the special plastic make the snowshoes incredibly flexible. Even though you're wearing snowshoes, you can walk as naturally as if you were wearing regular shoes
Furthermore, this latest model is incredibly easy to put on and take off thanks to the BOA system at the toe. The revolutionary fitting system, which securely fastens the shoe only at the forefoot (without fastening the heel or ankle), is fantastic. Aside from the bulkiness of packing, this is a top-class performance shoe. The price (compared to MSR) is also quite attractive
What I like about the TSL SYMBIOZ instinct
- Comfortable walking, as if you were not wearing shoes
- Easy to put on and take off bindings
- Strong grip for traversing slopes
- lightweight
- Affordable compared to competitors
Best Backcountry Snowshoes: MSR Lightning Ascent/ATLAS Range BC 26
I've already written most of it, but the Lightning Ascent, the flagship model of the MSR Lightning series of snowshoes, is undoubtedly top-class in both performance and quality. It has reliable edges that provide a firm grip even on difficult terrain and steep slopes, is quick to put on and take off, is not likely to come loose, and has strong parts that are not easily broken, making it an undoubted top choice when thinking of taking it to the most difficult mountains
What's more, the compact body makes it easy to carry, making it ideal for backcountry use, where you can climb tough terrain and then stow it away when descending
What I like about the MSR Lightning Ascent
- Easy to put on and take off bindings
- High fixing power regardless of shoes
- High grip on all slopes
- Folds compactly for easy portability
- Durable and long-lasting
- lightweight
The ATLAS Range BC 26 is powerful, compact, and attractively priced
ATLAS Range BC 26 which has been released in recent years, is also quite excellent. Based on the same mountaineering concept, it has learned the best parts of the unquestionable benchmark Lightning Ascent and added their own unique "flavor" to differentiate it. The T-shaped aluminum frame with its edgy design around the perimeter provides just the right amount of flexibility, solid rigidity, and grip, and the slim, vertical silhouette is carefully designed for ease of walking (although the slender 26-inch length can be a bit of a concern).
The thin, lightweight, and compact strap-type bindings aren't as easy to set up as the Lightning, but the peace of mind of knowing you can easily replace them if they break is quite appealing. And, of course, they're also reasonably priced compared to the MSR
What I like about the ATLAS Range BC 26
- High grip on all slopes
- Folds compactly for easy portability
- Bindings that are easy to attach and detach and replace in case of emergency
- Durable and long-lasting
- lightweight
- Affordable compared to competitors
Best Affordable Snowshoes: Mont-Bell Alpine Snowshoes 56
Snowshoes have become much more expensive in recent years, and it's now difficult to find a decent pair for under 20,000 yen. Meanwhile, Montbell's new Alpine , are an excellent choice, offering all the features mountain enthusiasts want while still being priced at under 20,000 yen.
The aluminum frame with its sharp edges and the lightweight and compact bindings are typical of Montbell, but there's still room for improvement as they lack any outstanding individuality and the bindings are outdated and tend to loosen after extended use
Previously, I had selected Captain Stag snowshoes as a recommended low-priced model, but after using them for two years, I found that the buckles that secure the straps were prone to loosening and breaking, and other obvious flaws in the construction, so I decided to remove them from my selection this time
What I like about the Mont-Bell Alpine Snowshoe 56
- Durability and grip for serious mountaineering at a reasonable price
- High grip on all slopes
- Folds compactly for easy portability
- lightweight
Best Wakan: Expert of Japan HS Snowshoes (Flat Type)
Snowshoes are advantageous when walking on flat ground or when breaking through deep, dry snow, but in Japan, where mountain climbing is rugged and there is a lot of heavy, wet snow, crampons, which have long been a must-have for snow climbers, are often easier to use. Another advantage that snowshoes don't have is that they can be used in combination with crampons
There are a number of innovative snowshoe products available from various Japanese manufacturers, but when it comes to choosing the best model, it seems that the familiar " Expert of Japan HS Snowshoes
First of all, it's light. It's still the lightest among competing models. This lightness and compactness makes it easier to attach to a backpack than snowshoes
What's more, the crampons can be turned inside out and crampons attached, making them highly flexible and easy to use on Japan's technical snowy mountains, where deep snow alternates with slippery, hard slopes (for this reason, we recommend the ``flat type'', which can be turned inside out and used easily)
Competing models certainly include some innovative designs that combine the best of snowshoes with traditional crampons by adding features such as ratchet bindings to make them easier to put on and take off, or by increasing the surface area and adding claws
However, all of these eliminate the original advantages of snowshoes, which are their light weight and compactness and high maneuverability, and to be honest, there is nothing that makes me want to switch to them
What I like about the Expert of Japan HS Flat Snowshoes
- Incredibly lightweight and compact
- High mobility
- Can be used in conjunction with crampons for excellent grip on any slope
- Easy to repair due to simple construction
Recommended snowshoes for beginners: Atlas Helium TRAIL 23
Based on proven, easy-to-use materials and a simple structure, it has a straightforward design that can be used for any purpose. There are several beginner-friendly models that have been designed with ease of use in mind down to the smallest details and are also priced as affordably as possible, but the ATRAS Helium TRAIL 23 is the most well-balanced model that we can recommend with the most confidence.
The bindings are lightweight, simple, and easy to put on and take off, and have a high level of hold. Although they are aimed at beginners, they have a certain degree of reliable traction and heel lift, so they can handle a wide range of terrain, even on slopes, and are of a quality that is sufficient for use on routes that are not too tricky
What I like about the ATRAS Helium TRAIL 23
- Easy to put on and take off, high-hold wrap binding
- Railed crampons for excellent grip in mountainous terrain
- lightweight
Best Lightweight: oxtos SNOW PLAK Approach oxtos Ver.
Of all the snowshoe and crampon products that have appeared in recent years, the SNOW PLAK has been the most noteworthy. Developed as a project by ANENA (French National Association for Snow and Ice Research) and awarded Gold Winner at ISPO in Germany in 2018, this innovative snowshoe (or crampon?) is designed to be fastened to the front half of regular hiking boots or boots with crampons. Despite being so simple and compact, watching a video at a retailer, it appears to have the same level of buoyancy as crampons
The original model was imported and sold by Evernew, but the one we chose this time is a custom-made model from Octus, a mountaineering specialty store in Osaka, which has improved parts maintenance and ease of fastening the boots
While maintaining the lightweight and compact advantages of snowshoes, these snowshoes are even lighter, more compact, easier to put on and take off, and easier to walk in. I felt they had the potential to overturn conventional wisdom. The only drawback is the price
Favorite points of oxtos SNOW PLAK Approach oxtos Ver
- Incredibly lightweight and compact
- More maneuverable than snowshoes and better climbing ability than crampons
- Easy to put on and take off (after adjusting in advance) and has a strong hold that prevents it from slipping off easily
- Higher buoyancy than it looks
- Use in combination with crampons for versatile terrain compatibility
In addition to the above, you can read the comparison list of all 49 models in the paid membership article
How to Choose: What are snowshoes? What are crampons? What are they and how should you use them?
Snowshoes are walking equipment that allow you to walk without filling deep, untreated snowy ground. Its history is said to be the origin of the tools that humanity crafted to live in the harsh winter land several thousand years ago.
To understand why snowshoes can easily walk on snow, it is a good idea to think of a boat. Just like boats floating on the surface of the water, snowshoes are structured to widen the bottom of the shoe. The wide surface that comes into contact with the snow gives you a large "buoyancy," which allows your body to float without sinking even on the snow. Generally, the higher the load, or the lighter and dryer the snow quality, the more likely the person will sink, so snowshoes with a larger surface area are required.
Are snowshoes and Wakan different? ~It looks similar but a little different
Snowshoes are said to have originated in Central Asia and spread all over the world, adapting to each region, but here in Japan they have also evolved in their own unique way. This is the " wakan" (snowjiki) .
crampons and snowshoes are made to make it easier to walk on snow, but because the environments and uses are different in the West and Japan, it's difficult to say which is better. However, from experience, I think crampons are often more effective and easier to use when used for "winter mountain climbing" in Japan. The differences, including the reasons why, are summarized in the comparison table below (this is a general comparison only).
| material | Snowshoes | Wakan |
|---|---|---|
| Representative image |  |
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| Features | Basically, it is effective when walking on dry snow, deep snow, and gently sloping flat terrain | Effective for walking on heavy snow in complex terrain, including wet snow and steep slopes (when used with crampons) |
| merit |
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| Disadvantages |
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In summary, in Japan, where the terrain is often very varied and the snow is often heavy and wet, the combination of crampons and snowshoes has long been popular because it is easier to use. However, when it comes to backcountry snowboarding, where you're sliding down powder snow, snowshoes are often more suitable due to their buoyancy, and in that case, the MSR Lightning Ascent are ideal as they are lightweight, compact, and strong enough for steep slopes.
Snowshoes have high buoyancy and are easy to walk in even in deep snow, while crampons are maneuverable and highly maneuverable, making them suitable for tricky snow conditions
If you wear a hook over the clamp, you can flexibly adapt to a wide range of terrain, including deep snow and ice, making it safe.
What kind of shoes do you wear with snowshoes?
Shoes for wearing snowshoes don't necessarily have to be robust and winter climbing boots with heat insulation.
To put it in extreme terms, it's okay to wear anything as long as it's fixed, but in general, I often wear "hiking and trekking boots made of waterproof and breathable material," "winter boots," or "winter climbing boots." However, if you use trekking boots for spring to autumn or with not-so-grade leather climbing boots, your feet may get cold, so in this case, you can use "overshoes" that are waterproof and breathable shoe covers that you wear over boots, like the link below.
What other equipment do I need to enjoy snowshoe hiking?
Generally, when playing with snowshoes, poles (stocks) are used just like skiing or hiking.
You can't walk without using stock, but if you lose your balance on the snow you'll fall quickly. It is not recommended to snowshoe without stocking at all. To ensure a stable, tireless walk, prepare a wide snow basket, unlike trekking poles.
We recommend adjustable length for snowshoes and wide snow basket stock.
Also, when walking on snow, wear a "snow gaiter" that covers your feet to your shins to prevent snow from entering your boots. Without this, if you get hooked on deep snow, cold snow will mercilessly enter your shoes. Don't forget to wear it before you start.
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5 points to check when choosing the best snowshoes
Point 1: Find out the type and type of snowshoe that is suitable for your purpose and purpose
Today's snowshoes are roughly divided into three types depending on the purpose. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and although there are models that are as well-balanced as possible, there are rarely any versatile models that can perfectly cover them. First, be sure to understand the characteristics of each type of model and understand the type you should buy.
| type | For flat and gentle slopes | For mountainous terrain and backcountry | For running (race) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Representative image |  |
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| Uses | Optimized model for walking from flat to gentle slopes | A model optimized for mountain climbing and backcountry, with the assumption that it will climb and descend on steep slopes | Basically, a model optimized for scenes where you run on grounds with pressed snow |
| Features | Perfect for beginners | Perfect for backcountry and winter mountain climbing | Perfect for running and races on the snow |
| Strength |
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| weakness |
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Point 2: Choose the optimal size (length) and shape of frame
Choose the size (length) that suits the snow quality and depth
Now that you know the type that's best for you, the next thing to consider is to check the structure of each model: first, the frame and deck part.
A "frame" is the part of the frame surrounding the snowshoe, and if there is a membrane inside the frame, that part is called a "deck."
Snowshoe frames and decks need to be chosen from a variety of materials, sizes and shapes depending on the main purpose.
In order to float firmly on soft snow, no matter what you place, the size or overall length of is important. Naturally, the larger the frame, the greater the buoyancy , so even deep snow can provide buoyancy, making it easier for large people or people with a lot of luggage to walk around . However, on the other hand, the weight is heavier . For this reason, it is not a good idea to choose an extremely large model.
To move through the powder snow, it is difficult to walk without a large frame as your feet sink deeper and it is difficult to walk.
Some manufacturers offer different sizes (total length) for the same model, so if you don't know how long it is appropriate, it's best to consult with a store clerk and your weight + luggage will fit within the "compatible load" of the snowshoes, and choose a comprehensive selection.
Choose a frame with a material and shape that is suitable for the terrain of your walking route
Another thing to keep in mind when choosing the material and edge shape .
Tube type
Snowshoe frames were originally made of wood or bamboo, but most of them have now been replaced by metals or plastics such as aluminum. Wood, bamboo, and aluminum frames are mostly round tube-like, so they have the disadvantage of having weak grip on steeper slopes
Edge type
Other frame shapes include models made from molded plastic or cornered aluminum plates to create edges on the outer periphery (the photo below shows a plastic edge type frame).
These snowshoes are often from European brands that were primarily used for glacier walking, and that the strong grip of the edges makes them suitable for going up and down slopes, traversing, and walking on hard snow . However, they are less durable than tubes, and because of the sharp edges, they are not as good at walking smoothly (sliding) in deep snow.
Point 3: Choose a binding that is easy to put on and take off and does not loosen
A binding is the part where the shoe is secured to the snowshoes. The fixing method varies depending on the manufacturer and type. This is the quickest thing to do is try on and try it out, but in any case, there are two points to check here:
One is whether it is easy to put on and take off . Putting on and taking off while wearing gloves is often difficult, and even if you can easily do it with your bare hands, it can be difficult to do it in actual work.
The bindings differ in speed and fit. I'd like to try it on and compare it.
Another important point is whether it is difficult to loosen up even after walking for a long time This is something you won't know unless you actually walk for a long time, but even when trying on, you can check to a minimum to a minimum to see if it doesn't loosen up even if you try on. Even if you can only check the specifications, make sure you check as closely as possible to make sure these two points are solid bindings.
It is important to make the bindings securely secure the entire foot, but it is also important to wear them in the correct way recommended by the manufacturer.
If you are planning to use it for serious mountain climbing, be sure to check whether the heel has a heel lift to help you climb on steep slopes
For beginners, there are models that do not have heel lifts, and in the case of snowshoes, it is difficult to walk on steep slopes.
Point 4: Check whether the clamp is strong enough to suit your needs
Larger and deeper claws are needed on steeper slopes
A clamp is the jagged claws (spike edge cleats) on the back of a shoe.
As many people imagine, this can cause snowshoes to bite into the snow surface, making them less likely to slip, and improve grip, which can vary greatly depending on the shape, size, material, etc. As expected, I don't know how effective this is until I actually walk along a snowy slope, but here I will explain how to check it before purchasing.
The strength of the clamp, no matter what, first of all, is "depth and size (sharpness)".
Of course, the depth and size (sharpness) of the clamp has a major impact on the strength of the grip. The large, sharp claws can firmly penetrate the ground even on harder, steep slopes, allowing you to walk safely.
"Claw arrangement and orientation" that creates stable grip over a variety of terrain
Next, check how much the clampon is on the back of the shoe, and how much it is located and direction. Depending on the model, we can see that there are various models, from those that are only located on the toes of the feet, to those that are placed entirely on the soles of the feet, and even around the outer circumference of the frame. Of course, this is considered more stable because it would be better to choose a model with a wider range of claws placed on this point, as it will give you a better grip regardless of how your feet are placed.
The number and size of the claws increase grip, but it becomes heavier. A minimum number is desirable that suit your purpose.
Also, the direction in which the nail bites in can lead to differences in whether the nail is simply thought of pushing forward in the front and back direction, or whether it is difficult to slip sideways (assuming slope traverse, etc.), and whether it is thought to be able to hold back when it shifts in the horizontal direction.
For example, if the clamp is only on the toes, it may be difficult to step on the slope due to traverses or other factors.
Finally, depending on the structure of the clamp, heavy snow such as wet snow may become clogged while you are walking (photo below). This is especially common among North American manufacturers where there is a lot of dry, dry snow, but be careful of models with tight spacing between the clamps and arrangements that do not seem to make snow slipping out well.
If the clamp is too large and too dense, if there is heavy snow, snow can become clogged between the clamps while walking.
Point 5: Weight and portability are also important depending on the purpose
If you keep this close, you won't be able to make a big mistake, but in the end, if you still can't squeeze it out, consider this last checkpoint: weight and portability.
When choosing snowshoes suitable for mountain climbing or backcountry, the key point is whether they are lightweight and easy to pack.
If you're going for a day trip for a few hours, you won't be able to take off your snowshoes from the start to the finish line, but if you're going to climb a snowshoe that's like a snowy mountain that goes through a deep snow forest and then come out onto the ridge, there are often scenes where you take off your snowshoes and attach them to your backpack, and then re-wrap them when descending the mountain. In that case, some models may find snowshoes that are surprisingly thick, so it's better to have a lighter weight that won't get bulky when attached to a backpack and not too difficult to carry around. Even if you don't have any plans now, you won't be regretted later, so even with the features you need, we recommend choosing a model that is as light as your budget can afford.
No matter how easy it is to wear snowshoes, if you have the possibility to carry them around, consider portability.
summary
If you think of snowshoes as simple as "walking on deep snow," it may seem like the same thing no matter which one you choose, but there are surprisingly few pitfalls. An acquaintance who used to go backcountry as a hiking model, and while everyone was moving smoothly, I was only filled with legs quite a bit, exhausting my physical strength. Because of this, you should not simply choose the model based on the price alone, but rather wisely choose a model that is sure to suit your purpose and situation.
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