Snowshoeing

Where to Buy the Best Snowshoeing Gear in the US: Top Stores, What to Look For, and Smart Shopping Tips

Why choosing the right snowshoeing gear matters

Snowshoeing sounds simple — strap on a pair of frames and walk — but the right gear transforms a slog into a joyful winter adventure. Good snowshoes, matching boots, sturdy poles, and smart accessories improve flotation, conserve energy, and keep your feet warm and dry. Buying from the right retailer matters too: the best stores offer expert advice, a range of brands, and demo or return options so you can find gear that fits your weight, the snow conditions, and your pace. Think of shopping for snowshoeing gear like planting a garden: the better the soil and tools, the healthier the results.

Top places to buy snowshoeing gear in the United States

If you want selection, expert guidance, and competitive pricing, several US retailers repeatedly stand out. Whether you prefer an online powerhouse with fast delivery or a local brick-and-mortar shop with hands-on fitting and demo days, these stores are go-to destinations for snowshoeing essentials. Below are trusted names where you can compare models, sizes, and accessories to match your winter plans.

REI Co-op — the demo days and member perks

REI Co-op is a favorite for many winter hikers because it offers an extensive selection of snowshoes, boots, poles, and traction gear from quality brands. If you join the co-op, you’ll find dividends and member-only sales that make higher-end models more affordable. REI stores often host demo days in late fall and winter where you can try 21" to 30" snowshoes on different snow types, and staff are usually well-versed in matching snowshoe size to your weight and intended terrain.

Backcountry — curated selection and expert content

Backcountry.com is ideal if you like curated brand assortments and deep product descriptions. They stock leading brands like MSR, Tubbs, and Atlas and often include buyer guides and comparison charts to help pick a model based on weight, flotation, and crampon design. Backcountry frequently runs seasonal promotions and bundles that pair snowshoes with poles or crampons, making it a smart one-stop shop for a complete setup.

Dick's Sporting Goods — big-box convenience

Dick's is a convenient option if you prefer shopping in-store at a national chain with a solid balance of budget and midrange models. Their inventory typically includes beginner-friendly snowshoes, trekking poles, and insulated winter boots in common sizes. If you want to view gear in person and grab accessories the same day, this is a practical stop, especially for families and casual users who want reliable gear without a steep learning curve.

Moosejaw — personality plus outdoor brands

Moosejaw blends a quirky shopping experience with solid outdoor gear options, including snowshoes, poles, and winter boots. The site highlights brand stories and customer reviews, which helps gauge real-world performance. Moosejaw is a good place to find mid to high-end models and seasonal deals, and their customer reviews often reveal how gear performs in cold temperatures and deep powder.

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) — Northeast specialty

For adventurers in the Northeast, EMS is a go-to that understands East Coast winter conditions. Their selection tends to include models built for icy crusts, steep trails, and wet snow. EMS locations often host local events and have staff who can advise on heel lifts and crampon styles that help with technical ascents and descents common in mountainous regions.

Sportsman's Warehouse — rugged and practical

Sportsman's Warehouse caters to backcountry hunters and utilitarian users who need durable, straightforward equipment. Their snowshoe line emphasizes robust bindings and all-metal crampons, which work well for mixed snow and icy trails. If your winter outings need gear that can double for hunting or utility trekking, this retailer offers options built to last in rough conditions.

Amazon — widest selection and fast shipping

Amazon massive marketplace can be useful when you want huge selection, multiple brands, and fast shipping. Look for listings with lots of verified customer photos and reviews that mention specific weights and snow conditions. While you won’t get personalized fitting in person, Amazon is a great place to research pricing and read real-world reports on how a model floats in 6" of fresh powder versus crusty tracks.

What to look for when choosing snowshoes

Picking snowshoes is more science than style. The right choice depends on your body weight, the weight of your pack, the type of snow you’ll encounter, and how aggressively you plan to hike. Before you buy, think about flotation (how well the shoe keeps you from sinking), traction (how well it grips ice and steep slopes), and bindings (how comfortably it secures your boot). Here’s a quick breakdown of the critical elements to consider.

Snowshoe size and flotation: match inches to pounds

Snowshoes are measured in inches, usually between about 21" and 30". Lighter users who plan on trail walk can often use shorter models around 21" to 24", while larger users or those carrying heavy packs should aim for 25" to 30" to get better floatation in deep snow. As a rule of thumb, if you and your pack weigh under about 150 pounds, a smaller to mid-size shoe can work well; 150 to 220 pounds benefits from mid to larger sizes; over 220 pounds you’ll want the biggest flotation you can find to avoid sinking and exhausting yourself.

Bindings and compatibility with boots

Bindings must fit your boots snugly, whether you use insulated winter hiking boots or heavier mountaineering boots. Look for adjustable straps and toe-and-heel retention systems that don’t require tools. If you plan on using crampons or heel lifts, make sure the binding allows access to those features without foul-ups. Try bindings with the boots you own or plan to buy; a binding that flexes too much or pinches the foot will ruin a day on the trail.

Boots: warmth, waterproofing, and ankle support

Your boots are the foundation of comfort. Waterproof, insulated boots rated for winter temps are ideal, and stiff soles help transfer power to the snowshoe crampons. Ankle support reduces fatigue and improves control on uneven terrain. If you travel in temperatures well below freezing, look for boots rated for those lows and pair them with moisture-wicking socks — staying dry is as important as insulation for warm toes.

Traction devices: crampons, cleats, and heel lifts

Traction makes the difference between a confident uphill and a slide down an icy slope. Look for shoes with aggressive crampon teeth under the toe and midsole, and check for optional heel lifts that reduce calf strain on climbs. Some models use interchangeable metal crampons for technical terrain, while others have molded steel teeth for general trail use. Choose according to whether you’ll be walking on packed trails, crusted snow, or mixed ice and rock.

Best snowshoe brands you’ll find at US retailers

Certain brands dominate because they pair innovation with reliability. Whether you're shopping at REI, Backcountry, or a local outdoor shop, you'll typically see the same names. Knowing each brand’s strengths helps narrow choices quickly.

Tubbs — user-friendly designs

Tubbs is known for comfortable bindings and models aimed at recreational to moderate backcountry use. Their shoes often balance price and performance, making them a popular choice for families and casual users. Tubbs offers sizes geared for different weights and typically focuses on ease of use and reliability.

MSR — technical performance for rough conditions

MSR (Mountain Safety Research) builds rugged snowshoes for serious backcountry outings. Expect durable crampons, excellent heel lifts, and frames that perform on steep and icy terrain. MSR is often the preferred brand for adventurers planning long, technical trips.

Atlas — precision and durability

Atlas makes models praised for their precision fit and robust crampons. If you want durable gear with fine-tuned bindings and multiple configuration options for traction, Atlas is worth a close look. Their lineup covers both casual trail users and backcountry specialists.

Budget vs. premium: where to spend and where to save

Deciding how much to spend depends on your goals. If you’re a weekend trail walker in packed snow, a midrange pair from Tubbs or a basic model sold at Dick’s will likely satisfy you. If you plan multi-day treks, steep ascents, or travel in variable crusty conditions, investing in premium MSR or Atlas models with stronger crampons and better heel lifts pays off in safety and reduced fatigue. Accessories like poles with adjustable lengths and ergonomic grips are relatively inexpensive upgrades that boost comfort dramatically.

Seasonal sales and how to snag the best deals

You don’t have to pay full price for high-performance gear. Late winter and spring are prime times for clearance on last season’s models, while fall brings new-stock deals and demo events. Membership clubs, store credit cards, and email sign-ups often unlock extra discounts — consider joining a co-op or retailer mailing list to get early notice on sales. Another tactic: compare prices across REI, Backcountry, and Amazon, and look for bundled deals that include poles or protective bags.

How to test snowshoes before committing

Testing is the fastest path to a confident purchase. Attend demo days at REI or local outdoor festivals where you can try several models back-to-back to judge comfort and traction. If demo days aren’t available, rent a pair from a local shop for a weekend and get a feel for different sizes and crampon setups. When testing, wear the same boots and socks you’ll use in real trips so binding fit and warmth are realistic.

Maintenance and care to extend gear life

Proper care keeps snowshoes and boots performing season after season. After each outing, remove packed snow and mud, dry gear away from direct heat, and check metal parts for rust. Loosen bindings when storing to prevent straps from creasing and cracking. For metal crampons, a light oiling prevents corrosion, and occasional tightening of screws keeps bindings from loosening during long trips. Think of gear care as routine tune-ups that save money and headaches down the road.

Final tips for first-time buyers

If you’re new to snowshoeing, start simple: pick a forgiving mid-size shoe for your weight, invest in a comfortable pair of insulated boots, and buy adjustable poles with snow baskets. Try flat terrain before chasing steep ridgelines, and keep gear flexible — convertible boots and poles with quick-adjust locks let you fine-tune fit in the field. Most importantly, choose a retailer that offers education and sizing help; the right store makes learning to snowshoe fun instead of frustrating.

Conclusion

Buying snowshoeing gear is an investment in winter freedom. Whether you shop at REI, Backcountry, Dick's Sporting Goods, Moosejaw, EMS, Sportsman's Warehouse, or online marketplaces like Amazon, you’ll find options for every budget and skill level. Focus on flotation, bindings, traction, and boot compatibility, and don’t be afraid to test or rent gear before buying. With the right snowshoes and a few smart accessories, you’ll be ready to explore backcountry tracks and frozen trails confidently — and have a lot more fun doing it.