Last updated on October 20th, 2022 at 05:16 pm
While quite a few women find unisex snowshoes comfortable, others might prefer a more tailored feel and function. Luckily, many outerwear brands have created specially designed options with the ergonomic needs of women in mind. In fact, the best women’s snowshoes incorporate adjustable features to account for a woman’s smaller foot size, gait length, and other female ergonomic traits.
What Makes a Great Snowshoe for Women?
With so many options out there, weighing the pros and cons is challenging. However, we’ll help you navigate the women’s snowshoe selection process with ease. We’ve evaluated a range of snowshoes based on the following aspects:
- Stride: the way a shoe allows you to move is paramount, especially when you’re out in the elements. Some snowshoes feature ergonomic components like a tapered design and heel lift bars, which can greatly reduce calf fatigue and increase agility.
- Flotation: snowshoes keep you from sinking in snow. Many designs achieve flotation with a combination of frame shape and weight distribution. We found the best options for float below.
- Easy to Adjust Binding: when your hands are cold or you’re wearing gloves (or both!) fumbling with small clasps can be a chore. Securing the snowshoe to your footwear shouldn’t be difficult. In fact, rubber strapping is the best for ease and efficiency.
- Traction: you’ll need to choose tread that is deep and grippy enough to provide stability, depending on your trek. This is especially crucial for treks with steep or undulating slopes. Plus, options with side traction bars are even more equipped for the task.
We have spent many seasons understanding the intricacies of snow sports, and we find it crucial to select the right gear for the job.
Our Favorite Women’s Snowshoes Are...
We’ve scoured the market with our strict set of criteria for safety, function, and comfort, comparing a wide range of snowshoes to determine which are the best for women. And after our careful evaluation, we were too impressed not to give special mention to these top picks:
Best overall: MSR Women’s Lightning Ascent
Second favorite: Tubbs Women’s Wilderness
Additionally, we get into the gritty details about these and our other favorites below.
Comparison Table of Women's Snowshoes
First, we’ve put together the following table of our top picks for women’s snowshoes for quick reference and comparison.
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
 
|
MSR Women's Lightning Ascent | $$$$ |
 
|
Tubbs Women's Wilderness | $$ |
|
MSR Women's Revo | $$ |
 
|
Crescent Moon Gold 13 | $$$ |
As you can see that there are quite a few differences between each of our top choices. Read further on to see why each style rose to the top of our list and what makes each shine.
1. MSR Women's Lightning Ascent
Firstly, our favorite overall women’s snowshoe is the MSR Women’s Lightning Ascent.
Not only is this option ultralight, it also features a specially designed frame that caters to a woman’s specific biomechanics.
For instance, the MSR Lightning Ascent takes into account a woman’s generally narrower stride and smaller proportions.
Also weighing in as the best for its traction, the MSR Lightning Ascent is a sure choice for stability in alpine terrain.
Ultra Lightweight Construction
Additionally, the Lightning Ascent features an incredibly low profile which makes travel easier and better for float.
However, that doesn’t mean a compromise on durability or strength.
For instance, even with their solid steel frame, the Lightning Ascent has a total weight of only 3.9 pounds per pair.
Thankfully, the high quality framework isn’t too hefty, which won’t go unnoticed while you’re traversing the winter wilderness.
Furthermore, lightweight means they can easily accompany you on longer trips or thru-treks without becoming cumbersome.
Comprehensive Traction & Grip
Additionally, the MSR is amazing as keeping you stable. In fact, the 360-degree traction frames deliver edge-to-edge grip.
Simply put, the Lightning Ascent distributes body weight evenly across the entire base of the snowshoe to equalize footing and even out your stride.
But where this really gets important is on a steep slope.
And the MSR Lightning Ascent promises to keep you upright on even the highest grades.
In fact, this means you can proceed confidently on a wider variety of terrain without overexertion or worry.
What’s more, the Lightning Ascent features durable steel DTX crampons to provide serious bite in challenging conditions.
So if you’re headed through technical terrain, you’re covered.
Superior traction is a standout feature here.
And that’s a massively important consideration for outdoor safety, especially in unpredictable winter climates.
Pros and Cons MSR Women's Lightning Ascent
MSR Lightning Ascent PROS
- Ultra lightweight at 3.9
- Excellent traction
- Freeze-resistant bindings
- Easy to use
- Integrated heel lifts
MSR Lightning Ascent CONS
- Cost
- Maximum weight load 210lb
Why Do Women Love This Snowshoe?
Women absolutely love the feminine-friendly, ergonomic design and stability of this snowshoe, coupled with how lightweight and easy it is to wear.
View more information including styles, specs and current pricing here: MSR Women’s Lightning Ascent
2. Tubbs Wilderness
Next up is our runnerup. The Tubbs Wilderness showcases premier performance across all categories. In fact, the Wilderness earns its place as a serious contender in our top picks for its comfortable ergonomics, and versatility.
Marketed as the “do-it-all” snowshoe, the Wilderness stands as the flagship of Tubbs’ day hiking collection.
And it’s easy to see why. With reliable traction and limited rotation, it’s a great overall women’s snowshoe.
Gender-Specific, Hassle Free Binding & Support
Firstly, for a no-frill snowshoe that’s easy to put on and remove, the Wilderness answers the call.
In fact, the rugged design of its 180 Pro binding is straightforward while being very snug and comprehensive.
For instance, sturdy control wings, a locking heel strap, and a padded upper area all make for secure comfort and warmth without added pressure.
As a result, these snowshoes are more than accommodating to a woman’s smaller measurements. In fact, you’ll get just enough compression for a secure fit without constriction.
Plus, the Tubbs accounts for the opposite end of the spectrum, too: rotation.
In fact, the Wilderness features an integrated Rotation Limiter, so you don’t have to think about over-rotating or sustaining injury to your feet and ankles.
Furthermore, this is especially important when you’re handling steep grades of trail and slippery slopes. And less time worrying about avoidable slip-ups means more time enjoying the great outdoors.
The Wilderness has found a sweet spot between secure fit and ease of movement.
In short, they’re well balanced, so you can be too.
Reduced Stress on Joints
Additionally, if you’re a frequent snowshoer or winter sports enthusiast, you know that small details matter to the quality of each trek.
And that reducing stress to your joints really matters over the long-term. That’s why selecting the right snowshoe is so important.
For instance, the Wilderness features an upturned tail, aluminum construction and the Tubbs’ patented Fit-Step 2.0 frame, is similar to the rocker shape you’ll find in skis.
In fact, the design provides noticeable biomechanical benefits for women.
For example, the Wilderness boasts a significant reduction in musculoskeletal impact to hip, knee and ankle joints, lowering stresses on each by as much as 10%.
In addition, the Rotating Toe Cord enables the tail of the snowshoe to drop and shed excess snow. This also reduces cardio-respiratory strain by 7%.
So while these figures may seem small, the savings in body strain can really add up over time.
Pros and Cons of the Tubbs Wilderness
Tubbs Wilderness PROS
- Ergonomic design to reduce strain
- Sheds excess snow easily
- Easy to use bindings
- Comfortable
- Affordable
- ActiveLift heel lift
Tubbs Wilderness CONS
- Middle of the road flotation
- Fit may run small for larger boots
Who is This Snowshoe Perfect For?
Finally, the Tubbs Wilderness is well suited to women of all measurements, proportions, and skill levels. In fact, the Tubbs Wilderness is one of the best women’s snowshoes. And as one of the top contenders for best overall performance and versatility in its price range, we were impressed with the inclusion of features for comfort, stability, and stress reduction on the body.
Check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Tubbs Women’s Wilderness
3. MSR Women's Revo
Additionally, for those who demand an ergonomically balanced women’s snowshoe, the MSR Revo is a great fit.
MSR does it again, they’ve expanded their impressive lineup with a snowshoe that boasts lightweight durability and a woman-friendly design.
Moreover, as MSR’s response to practical demand, this snowshoe takes a bespoke approach to the womanly form.
By considering factors like narrow gait, pivot crampons, and a tapered plastic deck, the Revo answers the call.
Biomechanically Designed for Women
Firstly, ditching the unisex schematics of yesteryear, the Revo puts an innovative spin on one undeniable fact: women are physiologically different than men.
For instance, the Revo acknowledges folks with a narrower stride who don’t want to compromise on agility.
Plus, almost handcrafted in design, the Revo offers maximum maneuverability while still being able to float your body weight.
And even when you’re carrying extra items like a backpack and trekking poles, this tapered pair will keep you going.
Stands the Test of Time & Wear
Additionally, the injection-molded plastic desk is tapered to withstand all the abusive conditions you might throw at it.
Plus, for better control, the Revo has added torsional flex to keep you grounded.
Furthermore, all-condition durability means a better investment.
For instance, these snowshoes are built to last for many seasons, hike after difficult hike.
In fact, you’d be surprised how few the signs of wear will show, even after many tough and technical treks.
And better quality snowshoes means less time focusing on your feet and more time enjoying the gorgeous alpine wilderness.
Pros and Cons of the MSR Women's Revo
MSR Women’s Revo PROS
- Ultra lightweight
- Bindings accommodate wide range of footwear
- Easy to use
- Stable
- Glove-friendly
- Durable construction
MSR Women’s Revo CONS
- Cost
What Makes This Snowshoe A Great Option?
For regular winter hikers or anyone conscious about the importance of a snowshoe’s biomechanics, the MSR Women’s Revo is a solid choice. As a sound investment for both its longevity and ergonomics, this snowshoe doesn’t disappoint.
View more information, including current styles and pricing, here: MSR Women’s Revo
4. Crescent Moon Gold 13
Finally, an excellent choice for both casual and serious trail, the Crescent Moon Gold 13 has built a loyal following within the snowshoeing community.
In fact, we love the unique teardrop-shaped frame that promises ease of agility.
Plus, with a fully adjustable and easy-to-use binding system, this women’s snowshoe is an all-around win.
Plus, with a fully adjustable and easy-to-use binding system, this women’s snowshoe is an all-around win.
Built for Speed
Firstly, packed trails are where the Gold 13 really shines. In fact, hikers will move quickly with confidence and agility over firm surfaces, minus any worry about cumbersome weight.
Furthermore, the teardrop-shaped frame is not only unique, it’s downright aerodynamic.
For instance, with the Gold 13’s lightweight aluminum frame, the snowshoe’s body makes swift movements a breeze.
As a result, Crescent Moon really nailed an intuitive system that won’t hold you back or restrict your range of motion.
However, in loose powder the frame’s shape falls short for flotation. If you do choose these snowshoes, keep this aspect in mind when planning your alpine route.
Quality Binding System
Additionally, the Gold 13 is made of a flexible polymer where bindings wrap around your foot to provide comfort and support.
We found this to be one of the easiest and efficient bindings.
Furthermore the solid construction also ensures protection from slippage and keeps bindings from moving out of adjustment.
In addition, fixed bindings also allow for more control while you trek, depending on your particular snowshoeing style.
Plus, the Gold 13 allows for superior maneuverability where the sturdy frame holds up quite well.
Finally, simplicity is also at the heart of the snowshoe’s design. For instance, just pull a single loop at the top of the binding and the entire harness system is adjusted.
The Gold 13 is also freeze resistant and glove friendly.
Promising fast, easy entry and exit, the Gold 13 uses a spring loaded cam and ratchet buckles to take the guesswork out of winter outfitting.
Pros and Cons Crescent Moon Gold 13
Crescent Moon Gold 13 PROS
- Secure and comfortable bindings
- Freeze resistant
- Great for agility or speed
- Lightweight aluminum
- Affordable
Crescent Moon Gold 13 CONS
- Medium flotation
- Deck can flip up snow
Who is This Snowshoe Perfect For?
If speed or training is your mission, the Crescent Moon Gold 13 snowshoes are an obvious choice. And if tightly packed winter trails are abundant in your area, you will certainly enjoy its intuitive teardrop frame shape.
Check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Crescent Moon Gold 13
Before Picking Your Women's Snowshoes
While there are a ton of options out there, women have the choice for a more comfortable journey. Before choosing your snowshoes, remember to consider these points:
- Stride. For ultimate comfort, choose a snowshoe with a tapered design and a heel lift bar.
- Flotation. Depending on your journey some snowshoes are better than others. A compromise between tapered design and a large footprint will get you the best float, and an easy trip.
- Easy to Adjust Bindings. Possibly the most important attribute. Whether it’s upon first strapping in or during the hike, you want a pair that’s comfortable and doesn’t freeze up on the trail.
- Traction. Choose a pair that has adequate traction for the trails you’re taking on.
With a host of outerwear brands offering dedicated, gender-specific snowshoes to address key ergonomic differences between women and men, women have more options now than ever before.
Grab a Map and Get to Trekking
Finding the perfect fitting snowshoe will aid in your comfort, stability, and flow of movement on wintery trails. All of which translates to a more enjoyable time out in the snowy alpine wilderness.
Wherever you’re going and regardless of your choice, don’t forget to grab some poles, gloves, and tell someone where you’re headed. Happy snowshoeing!
Image Credit: Nano Anderson | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size
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