Running Snowshoe Review

Snowshoes are an ancient invention, but only in the last 10 years or so have we seen significant developments in their design. With lightweight frames and easy-to-use bindings, snowshoe makers are now crafting models specifically for runners.  

Many Canadians remember their first snowshoeing experience as one where they strapped on a pair of huge wooden snowshoes that looked like oversized tennis racquets. They plowed through snow with their legs wide apart as if they were riding a horse. Times have changed, and the new high-tech, lightweight running snowshoes are designed specifically for performance. Lighter and smaller models allow for speed on groomed trails, while a snowshoe with more surface area offers better flotation in deeper snow. Other modern features include comfortable and secure binding systems that attach the snowshoes to your regular running shoes, and crampons for traction. For the price of less than a couple of pairs of running shoes, running snowshoes are a good addition to your training gear that – unlike shoes – can last you a lifetime. 

Atlas Run

The frame of the Atlas Run is made of lightweight aluminum in a slight V-shape design that provides good flotation. The crisscross design of the binding system offers a secure feel with a single pull, while the spring loaded suspension gives both excellent energy return and stability while running on traverses. Aggressive forefoot and rearfoot aluminum crampons give you excellent traction over hilly terrain. Note: Atlas also offers a close sibling to the Run called the Race (not pictured). The weight of the Race has been reduced by using a lighter aluminum frame and titanium crampons. The Race is perfect for groomed trails in snowshoe races, but is not as durable over rough trails where rocks might be protruding.  

Dion Sprint 121

Dion snowshoes are designed and handcrafted in Vermont by competitive snowshoe runner Bob Dion. The Sprint 121 is one of the lightest snowshoes on the market, and has the smallest frame size allowed in snowshoe competition. The width of the frame comes in at a very meagre 17.78cm, which means that your stride barely widens from your normal gait when running. Unlike other snowshoes, the frame, bindings and crampons on Dion snowshoes are all interchangeable. The biggest advantage of this is you can match the cleat length (standard or deep) to the snow conditions. They are changed quickly and easily with the turn of a screw.  

GV Cat Trail

GV is a Canadian company that has been making snowshoes for more than 50 years. The lightweight aluminum frame is slightly larger than some running snowshoes (20 x 64cm), which allows for excellent floatation in deep snow and is ideal for heavier runners. With an asymmetrical design that is tapered at the back, you are less likely to hit your ankles with the inside of the frame. The ratchet binding system makes for a very secure fit, and it’s also easy to get on and off. Exceptional traction comes from the deep forefoot cleat; however GV does not use a heel cleat, which could cause some sliding on descents while running at a fast pace.  

Kahtoola FLIGHTsystem

Kahtoola was clearly thinking outside of the box with the design of the FLIGHTsystem. Consisting of a waterproof and very warm Neoprene bootie, the FLIGHTboot slips on completely over your regular running shoes. With an aggressive stainless steel crampon system on the outer sole of the boot, you get excellent traction for running on harder snow-packed trails. Then, when your run takes you to deeper snow, you simply click into the FLIGHTdeck frame and you have a conventional snowshoe with more flotation. 

Crescent Moon Gold Series 12

The Gold Series 12 frame allows for comfortable running at all speeds with its distinct teardrop-shaped design. The tapering prevents hitting the inside of your ankles and legs with the snowshoes and the lightweight aluminum, three-claw traction system offers excellent grip on even the steepest climbs or descents. The Single Pull Binding on the Gold Series 12 provides an equally distributed, secure fit that won’t loosen under any running conditions. 

::GEARBOX
Atlas
http://www.atlassnowshoe.com
Model: Run
Weight: 1.24 kg per pair
Dimensions: 20 x 56 cm

Model: Race (not pictured)
Weight: 0.95 kg per pair
Dimensions: 20 x 56 cm

::GEARBOX
Dion
http://www.dionsnowshoes.com
Model: Sprint 121
Weight: 1.07 kg per pair
Dimensions: 17.78 x 53 cm

::GEARBOX
GV
http://www.gvsnowshoes.com
Model: Cat Trail
Weight: 1.28 kg per pair
Dimensions: 20 x 64 cm

::GEARBOX
Kahtoola
http://www.kahtoola.com
Model: FLIGHTsystem
Weight: 

• 1.28 kg per pair (boot)
• 1.13 kg per pair (frame)
• 2.41 kg per pair (combined)

Dimensions: 20 x 58 cm

::GEARBOX
Crescent Moon
http://www.crescentmoonsnowshoes.com
Model: Gold Series 12
Weight: 1.18 kg per pair
Dimensions: 20 x 56 cm