Race Snowshoes & Running Snowshoes From the Best Brands including MSR, Tubbs, and NEOS Overshoes! — Currently Not Available — Page 1

Race snowshoes, also known as running snowshoes, are specialized and particularly suited to trail running in the winter. Of course, like most human pursuits, snowshoeing started as practicality and eventually became competitive. These days backcountry snowshoe racers can spend as much time out in the winter as they do road running in the warmer months.

Can you hike in running snowshoes?

You can hike in running snowshoes, but it would be more difficult due to key design differences between them and traditional hiking and backpacking snowshoes. Racing snowshoes are ultralight, smaller, and have fewer cleats than hiking snowshoes. They're designed for use on packed snow and often groomed trails, as opposed to deep snow. Conversely, you wouldn't want to attempt to use traditionally larger hiking or mountaineering snowshoes for racing, they're just too awkward for speedy travel and maneuverability.

What shoes to wear with running snowshoes.

Although most people associate boots with snowshoeing, that's for hikers in the backcountry. When you're wearing running snowshoes, the ideal footwear is actually Running Shoes! If you're already into trail running and road running, then you probably already have the best shoes for race snowshoes. The direct mount binding system has fully adjustable straps to provide secure comfort as you run along. Since you're not in deep snow and will be very active, there isn't much worry about your feet getting too cold unless you slow down or stop for too long. By that time, you've hopefully already crossed the finish line and you can switch up your footwear to something warmer and drier. Just make sure that your trail shoes or running shoes don't easily slip off of your feet since they don't cover as much of the heel as a boot will.

Are bigger snowshoes better?

For running snowshoes, bigger is not better. They need to be lightweight and small to allow for a smooth and fast running stride. For deep powder, you're going to want a bigger pair of snowshoes to provide flotation on top of the snow. They provide more surface area and allow you to disperse your weight enough to keep from sinking in. Trekking poles with snow baskets will help you keep your balance along with a good pair of backcountry hiking snowshoes.

Buy Race Snowshoes from CampSaver!

Shop at CampSaver.com for Race Snowshoes from the best brands including MSR, Tubbs, NEOS Overshoes, and more! You can learn more about snowshoeing and other snow sports in our ever-growing Guides section. Have questions? Reach out and contact us whenever you'd like, we'll be here!

Other products you may be interested in: Touring Snowshoes, Ascent Snowshoes, Snowshoe Accessories, and Snowshoes.