Show shoe help

Call some shops and see if they're selling any rentals.

You may also want to look at the brand 'Tubbs'.

They can be a rather inexpensive snowshoe. For the lower end models the bindings are very basic and they have a minimal amount of crampons to provide traction. That being said they're a good starter snowshoe for someone who's only going to casually use them. You can find them at nearly any sporting good store.

The basic size of the snowshoes (and cost, bigger costs more) is determined by how much you and your pack weigh. Generally for someone weighing in at 180 pounds (with gear) need around a 24” long snowshoe. Of course snow depth and how packed it is will also effect the size of the snowshoe (harder the snow the shorter shoe you’ll need). For a casual user like you however I wouldn’t worry too much about the snow conditions and simply base the size on your total weight.

I hope this was helpful. Good luck finding the snowshoe and have fun!

Jeff- insure you get the correct length (based on weight)- also factor in any packed weight, if your snow conditions are on the wet/firm side you might be able to get by w/ a little shorter, if drier snow is the norm- probably want a little longer

I'd consider buying used- you can get into high end snowshoes used for about the same price as low-mid end ones new- ebay, craigslist and our own gear trade would be worth looking at, also shops that rent shoes often sell them at the end of the season

Mike

Snowshoes are pretty simple and if you are buying cheap, the differences may not matter that much. However, before I can give you any recommendation, I have to know: what do you mean by "day hikes" here. Does this mean well packed trails? Does this mean steep and exposed climbing? Does this mean bushwacking your own trail through deep snow? The conditions are going to determine what type of snowshoe will work best.

The better the trail, the more likely you will have to or want to carry them. Small and light would be best (northern lights?).

For steep climbing on mountain trails, the MSRs work very well.

For deep snow, the MSRs and other small light snowshoes are practically useless (I don't have tails on my MSRs, but I wouldn't think that would really make a big difference in deep snow). In deep snow, you would want to go big. I like my old school ones with webbing in those conditions.

There are also subtle and not so subtle differences in binding systems and quality. How easy they are to put on and off. How much they throw snow up your back. How maneuverable they are, particularly backing up.

Check WallyWorld – $49 at our tiny store.

Tubing and deck is ok.

Bindings are less than optimal, but could be greatly improved by moving the over-the-toe strap to the instep strap.

(Personally I have and love NorthernLites, but they ain't cheap.)

FWIW, campsaver.com has a bunch of snowshoes on sale right now (including MSRs) if you're considering going the brand new route…

You guys are awesome. Thanks for all the info and suggestions.
I weigh 175 and my pack should only be about 8 lbs. They will be used in southern New Mexicos White mt wilderness area and the National forest in that area. Main use will be on trails with some mild off trail use.
Thanks for all the help.
Jeff

I'd say 25 and maybe even 30 should serve you well

some of the MSR models allow the use of "tails" which lets you add 5" of flotation- pretty handy feature