These Aren't Your Granddad's snowshoes

High Tech or Traditional?

These aren't snowshoes...snowshoes are those big, clunky, wooden tennis racquet thingies you strap to your feet.

That's a common reaction we get when people see today's modern version of snowshoes, all sleek and shiny and metallic looking. Strapping them on gives a whole new perspective for anyone who is familiar with using the traditional harnesses made of lamp wick. It's more akin to stepping into a snowboard binding or buckling up a ski boot with its ratcheting, quick-release straps and buckles.

Modern-snowshoes

But it's these modern materials and designs that make them much easier to use, so easy a child can do it. In fact, some kids are naturals and often assist their parents in figuring out how to put them on. It's because they are so easy to use that today's light weight, high tech shoes have caught on in such a big way. That's really great news because there is no better activity to get the whole family outdoors and enjoying the winter.

Snowshoeing-Treks-in-the-Wild-Blog-1

Picture yourself hitting the trails as the sun peeks through a fresh sugary dusting of snow on the trees, it's magical. There is so much amazing stuff to see in winter, you can't help but realize it has a unique beauty and a solace all its own.

If you are looking for something new to do this winter, why not give snowshoeing a try? It's easy, fun and a great form of exercise too, a quintessential Canadian experience. 

About Andy Tonkin

Andy is a backcountry guide and the owner of Treks in the Wild, a wilderness adventure company based Ontario.  Growing up in Northern Ontario instilled his love of nature and the outdoors. He is an avid rock climber, mountain biker paddler and snowshoer.  He currently resides in Brantford with his wife and two sons.

Recommended Articles

Go Foraging in Ontario

Learn the basics of how to harvest wild edibles found across the province.

Learn to Skijor

Cross-country skiing with your dog just got better.

11 Things You Didn’t Know About Dogsledding

Ontario dogsledder Tanya McCready shares the magic of a winter activity she fell in love with 30 years ago.

FEEL THE RUSH

At Ontario's dog sled races

Best Northern Lights Destinations

6 places in Ontario for incredible Aurora Borealis viewing.

Bundle up for Snowy Horseback & Sleigh Rides

Ontario’s best winter equine adventures.

The Best Camping In Ontario

Discover the best car-camping and backcountry locations.

Beach Camping in Ontario

14 sandy places to pitch your tent and swim to your heart’s content.

Call Us Crazy

23 Adrenaline Rushes Found Only in Ontario

Rise and Glide

X-cross ski races and events this winter.

Ontario’s Most Stunning Winter Resorts

13 places to book a snow-filled getaway to.

Best Stargazing in Ontario

Can’t-miss night sky events for 2026

Dog Sledding in Ontario

Your guide to this exhilarating winter activity.

Ontario's Best Family Resorts

Your trip planning starts here.

Top of the Giant Trail

Get tips on this amazing Sleeping Giant hike.

Girls’ Getaways

21 ideas for an adventurous escape or bachelorette party in Ontario.

Insider’s Guide to Sleeping Giant

Everything you need to plan a trip to this iconic provincial park.

Take a ruff ride

Dogsledding adventure at Haliburton Forest

Winter Camping in Ontario

Find the best places to glamp, car camp & backcountry camp.

19 Winter Activities to Add to Your Bucket List

Must-do activities that are snow much fun.