How to Choose Snowshoes

Snowshoes spread your weight over a larger surface area so you stay on top of the snow instead of sinking into it. Getting the right pair comes down to three things: where you’ll go, how much load you’ll carry, and what kind of snow you’ll usually be on. 

Step 1: Think About Your Terrain 

Tubbs organizes its lineup into three terrain categories, from more casual to most technical: 

Trail Walking – Flat, level terrain and packed snow. The category Tubbs points beginners toward, and a favorite of experienced hikers who want a comfortable, no-fuss day on established trails. 

Day Hiking – The do-it-all middle category, built to handle varied terrain in a single outing: flat stretches, some climbing, and looser or deeper snow along the way. Best if your winters don’t stick to one type of terrain. 

Backcountry – Built for breaking trail and getting to the peak. Tubbs’ most aggressive traction, for outings with a lot of climbing or off-trail travel. 

The more climbing and the more varied your terrain, the more traction and support you’ll want.  

Step 2: Get the Size Right 

Sizing is based on total load (your body weight plus pack, layers, and gear), not your shoe size. Every model lists a max recommended load, and some come in multiple sizes. 

Note: Tubbs’ recommended loads assume light, dry snow, so size up if you’re regularly out in heavier powder. 

Step 3: Traction, Bindings, and Build 

Traction: Toe crampons (under the ball of the foot) are your main source of grip and dig in as you climb. Heel crampons add bite on descents, traction rails prevent slipping on traverses, and Tubbs’ ActiveLift heel lift flips up on steep climbs to save your calves. More technical terrain calls for more aggressive traction. 

Bindings: Rotating bindings pivot at the ball of the foot, easing leg fatigue on climbs and shedding snow as you walk. Fixed bindings don’t pivot but give a more natural stride on flat, packed ground. Closures range from straps to Tubbs’ BOA Fit System dials for quick, precise adjustment. 

Build: Tubbs’ Tubular collection pairs an aluminum frame with durable decking, light and durable. The Flex collection uses a single flexible piece for frame and deck, which moves naturally with your stride and needs little maintenance. 

Round Out Your Setup with Poles and Gaiters 

Trekking poles add stability, help find a walking rhythm, and take strain off your knees. Tubbs’ Trail Walking poles are a solid pick for flat to moderate terrain; for Day Hiking or Backcountry outings, a pole with quick, secure length adjustment is worth the upgrade. 

Gaiters seal the gap between boot and pant leg, keeping snow out with every step, especially once you’re off a packed trail. 

Ready to Get Out There 

Match your terrain to the right category, size to your total load, and the rest of your setup falls into place. Once you know those two things, finding the right pair from our lineup only takes a few minutes.