Winter Runderland Running Snowshoes
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Crescent Moon
Eva Snowshoes
WEIGHT: 56 oz
SIZE: 8″ x 24″ / 192 sq. in. surface area
PRICE: $165
The EVA’s natural rocker shape and light foam material made this sneaker-like (albeit on the heavy side) snowshoe our top pick. They feel like a comfy running shoe and were designed with Hoka’s popular plush foam in mind. The rubber lugs and traction spikes performed well on packed snow and were the most natural to run in. The sandal-like upper is light and hugs a sneaker for a snug fit. While they’re not recommended for powder, these snowshoes are a great way for trail runners to get their backcountry fix on packed trail during winter months.
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Atlas
Run Snowshoe
WEIGHT: 41 oz
SIZE: 6″ x 22″ / 134 sq. in. surface area
PRICE: $250
Though one of the heavier shoes we tested, the Atlas Run Snowshoe features a suspension system that maneuvers well underfoot. The heel cleats work well on harder snow, and the toe crampon outperformed the other shoes on steep and uneven terrain. The Boa closure system makes it easy to get a comfortable, micro-adjusted fit to any running shoe.
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Northern Lights
Elite Race Snowshoe
WEIGHT: 34 oz
SIZE: 8″ x 25″ / 164 sq. in. surface area
PRICE: $249
When conditions are softer and deeper, the Elite Race Snowshoes provide great flotation with 30-percent-more surface area than most comparable racing snowhoes. The optional speed binding system acts like a pair of quicklaces for a speedy and secure fit on a sneaker. Their soft-snow performance are worth a few extra ounces.
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Dion
Title: Model 120 Frame with Quickfit Binding + Deep Cleat
Price: $290
The Dion snowshoes are handmade with super-light aircraft grade aluminum. They’re ultra-customizable, with different cleats and bindings that you can pick to best suit your preferred terrain. The Deep Cleats handled well on steeper terrain without being too sticky, and the QuickFit bindings fit a trail shoe quickly and easily. One of the lightest pairs we tested, the Dions feel zippy and fast underfoot.
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Louis Garneau
Course Boa Arc
WEIGHT: 26 oz
SIZE: 7″ x 21″ / 147 sq. in. surface area
PRICE: $250
The Louis Garneau Course Boa Arc has a gently curved frame that facilitates a natural running stride. The minimal crampon provides great control on packed and icy surfaces, and the Boa lacing system makes the shoes easy to take on and off quickly, even with bulky gloves. The decking sheds snow easily so you avoid picking up extra weight.
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