How to Choose the Right Snowshoes in 2026?

The season for long, beautiful walks on the snow has arrived! What could be better than exploring the stunning snow-covered landscapes of Quebec and its surroundings on snowshoes? Whether you are a beginner or more experienced, choosing the right snowshoes can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment. In this article, we guide you step by step to find the perfect pair based on your activities and needs.

Understanding the different types of snowshoes

Snowshoes are designed to meet different needs and types of terrain.

Here are the 4 main categories:

1/ Recreational hiking

Ideal for beginners or outings on flat to moderate terrain. These snowshoes are light on deep snow, easy to use, and perfect for groomed trails or forest walks. Easy to carry for your snowy weekends.

Latulippe favorite: Wayfinder Snowshoes for women and for men. Perfect for Sunday explorers!

And the version for our mini adventurers

2/ Snowshoes for mountainous terrain

Designed for adventure lovers, they offer superior grip thanks to their robust crampons—ideal for rugged terrain and steep slopes. Steel crampons bite into snow and ice, securing every step.

Latulippe’s choice: MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes
An excellent option for more demanding hikes

3/ Running snowshoes

Yes—you can even run on snow! Lightweight and streamlined, they are perfect for those looking for speed and efficiency in winter trail running.

Latulippe favorite: TSL Outdoor Symbioz Hyperflex Racing Snowshoes
Ideal for combining endurance and performance.

4/ Work snowshoes

Thanks to their wide platform, work snowshoes provide excellent flotation on deep snow, allowing efficient movement while carrying heavy equipment. Their robust, durable construction ensures optimal performance even in the most demanding conditions. They guarantee superior traction, perfect for icy or uneven surfaces—whether for snow removal, cutting wood, or exploring remote areas.

Example: G&V Snowshoes Wide Trail

Designed for professionals and wide-open-space enthusiasts, Wide Trail snowshoes are ideal for winter work in challenging terrain.

Essential criteria for choosing your snowshoes

User weight

Snowshoes are designed to support a specific weight. Make sure to choose a model suited to your body weight, including the weight of your equipment.
Don’t hesitate to ask our experts in-store or by phone!

Snowshoe size

Small snowshoes: More maneuverable, ideal for compact or technical terrain and lighter builds
Large snowshoes: Offer better flotation on deep snow, suitable for larger builds

Binding type

A good binding ensures a secure and comfortable fit:

Strap bindings: Straps with multiple tightening positions, the most common
Ratchet or BOA bindings: Easy to adjust, even with gloves—just turn the dial
Front ratchet bindings with heel straps: A mix of comfort and practicality

Features not to overlook

Crampons and traction: Make sure your snowshoes provide excellent grip on ice and slopes.
Durability: Choose robust materials such as aluminum or reinforced plastic.
Versatility: Select snowshoes that match your main activities while adapting to different conditions.

A few tips to maximize your snowshoeing experience

Dress in layers: Adjust your outfit to your activity level to stay warm without overheating. For example, you can use our base layers under your shirts and jackets.

Bring trekking poles: They help maintain balance, especially on uneven terrain. Here’s a great selection of trekking poles at Latulippe.

The Latulippe extra: heated clothing! To keep your feet warm on both short and long outings—plus gaiters to insulate your legs from cold and moisture.

All that’s left is to enjoy beautiful walks on the snow!

All our snowshoes