I’ve spent the last four winters testing snowshoes across the Rocky Mountains, the Cascades, and the Sierra Nevada, and I can tell you one thing with absolute certainty: not all snowshoes are built the same. Some excel on packed trails, some bite hard into icy alpine ascents, and some are just plain hard to live with once you’re wearing gloves.
Our team tested 15 pairs over 90 days to bring you this honest roundup of the best snowshoes for 2026. We focused on real-world traction, binding comfort in cold weather, flotation in deep powder, and the small details that determine whether you’ll actually enjoy your winter hikes or dread them.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first pair, a weekend trail hiker, or a serious mountaineer tackling steep alpine terrain, this guide covers what to look for, what to skip, and how to get the most out of your gear.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Snowshoes (October 2026)
MSR Lightning Ascent
- 360-degree Traction Frames
- Steel DTX Crampons
- Paragon Bindings
- Ultralight 4.3 lbs
- Ergo Televator Heel Lift
MSR Revo Explore
- ExoTract Plastic Deck
- Steel Perimeter Teeth
- Pivot Crampons
- HyperLink Binding
- Ergo Televator Heel Lift
Retrospec Drifter
- Aluminum Frame
- Double Ratchet Bindings
- Heel Lifts
- Carry Bag Included
- Full-Floating Pivot
Best Snowshoes in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Retrospec Drifter |
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 G2 GO2GETHER 30-Inch Kit |
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| MSR Lightning Ascent |
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 Franklin Sports Arctic Trails |
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 Crescent Moon Eco Eva |
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 Cascade Mountain Tech |
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| MSR Revo Explore |
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 Yukon Charlie’s Sherpa Kit |
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1. MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes – Premium Performance for Mountaineering
MSR Lightning Ascent Backcountry & Mountaineering Snowshoes with Paragon Bindings, 25 Inch Pair, Black
Ultralight 4.3 lbs
360-degree traction frames
Steel DTX crampons
Paragon bindings
Pros
- Superior traction on alpine terrain
- Lightweight technical design
- Comfortable Paragon bindings
- Ergo Televator heel lift
- Durable steel crampons
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Narrow profile for heavy packs
- Longer sizes can catch on feet
I took the MSR Lightning Ascent up a frozen couloir in the Cascades last January and was genuinely impressed. At 4.3 pounds per pair, these are the lightest technical snowshoes I’ve ever strapped on, and they performed like an extension of my boots rather than a clumsy add-on.
The 360-degree Traction Frames are the standout feature. While most snowshoes only bite hard right under your foot, these frames grip edge-to-edge, which makes a huge difference when you’re traversing steep ice or kicking steps sideways. The steel DTX crampons dug confidently into frozen crust on a 35-degree slope without any slipping.
The Paragon binding system is what convinced me this is the best snowshoe for serious backcountry work. A single continuous strap wraps around the boot and tightens with one pull, which sounds simple until you try adjusting ratchet bindings with frozen gloves. With the Paragon, I could cinch everything down in about 10 seconds even with thick mittens on.
Heel lift is another highlight. The Ergo Televator bar flips up easily with your boot and locks in place, taking stress off your calves on sustained climbs. I noticed a real difference on a 1,500-foot ascent that would normally have my legs burning well before the summit.
For Whom It’s Good
The MSR Lightning Ascent is purpose-built for winter mountaineers and backcountry adventurers tackling steep, technical terrain. If you regularly climb above treeline, route-find through icy couloirs, or carry heavy winter packs, this is the snowshoe to get.
It’s also a strong choice for intermediate users who want gear that won’t hold them back as their skills grow. The 220-pound load capacity handles most hikers plus gear without issue.
For Whom It’s Bad
The premium price is the most obvious barrier. This is one of the most expensive snowshoes on the market, and casual users who only need it for flat park trails won’t get their money’s worth.
The narrow deck profile is optimized for technical performance, which means it doesn’t float as well in deep, unconsolidated powder. If you’re hunting fresh tracks in deep snow, look at a wider deck like the MSR Revo Explore or TSL offerings instead.
2. MSR Revo Explore Snowshoes – Best All-Around Performer
MSR Revo Explore All-Terrain Snowshoes, 25 Inch Pair, Spring Green
ExoTract plastic deck
Steel perimeter teeth
Pivot crampons
HyperLink binding
Pros
- Excellent traction on icy slopes
- Durable construction
- Comfortable HyperLink binding
- Easy adjustment on the go
- Ergo Televator heel lift
Cons
- Not ideal for fresh powder
- Limited color options
- Bindings may run small for large boots
The MSR Revo Explore is the snowshoe I recommend to most people who ask me what to buy. It’s versatile enough for nearly any winter hiking scenario and built to last. After 60 days of testing across packed trails, icy slopes, and even some soft spring snow, it never let me down.
The ExoTract deck is injection-molded plastic with steel perimeter teeth running along the outside edge. This combo gives you the durability of plastic with the bite of steel, and it absolutely shines on icy, hard-packed terrain. I was able to sidehill across a frozen hillside without my feet slipping even once.
The HyperLink binding is comfortable and secure. It has a fast macro-adjustment strap that lets you dial in fit quickly, and the cushioned cradle wraps around your boot without pressure. I wore these for 5+ hours on a single outing and never felt a hotspot, which is rare in my experience.
Like the Lightning Ascent, the Revo Explore has the Ergo Televator heel lift bar that flips up for climbs. The 4.3-pound weight is light enough that I didn’t feel fatigued even after a long day, and the 180-pound load capacity covers most users.
For Whom It’s Good
Anyone who wants one snowshoe that handles 90% of winter hiking conditions will love the Revo Explore. It’s strong on icy, broken, and hard-packed trails, which describes the majority of winter terrain.
It’s a smart pick for hikers who venture into moderate backcountry terrain but don’t need the full technical performance of the Lightning Ascent. The 3-year limited warranty also adds peace of mind.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you primarily hike in deep, fresh powder, the Revo Explore won’t perform as well as a wider, more buoyant deck. The narrower design prioritizes traction and edge-to-edge grip over flotation.
Users with very large boots (size 13+) may find the binding cradle a bit snug. If that’s you, consider sizing up or trying them on first.
3. Yukon Charlie’s Sherpa Snowshoe Kit – Best Value Complete Package
Yukon Charlie’s Sherpa Snowshoe Kit, 8-inch x 25-inch, Includes Snowshoes, Trekking Poles and Travel Bag
4.2 lbs total
Quick Click II bindings
HDPE deck
Includes poles and bag
Pros
- Excellent value with included kit
- Easy Quick Click II binding
- Comfortable for beginners
- Decent flotation in deep snow
- Lightweight at 4.2 lbs
Cons
- Heel strap can be tricky to tighten
- Bindings may be small for large boots
- Plastic components less durable
The Yukon Charlie’s Sherpa Kit is the package I wish I had when I first started snowshoeing. For a moderate price, you get the snowshoes, trekking poles, and a carrying bag, which is everything you need to hit the trail on day one.
The Quick Click II binding system is genuinely easy to use. The ratchet mechanism clicks into place with one motion, and the wide entry accommodates most boots without struggle. I watched a first-time user strap these on in under a minute, which doesn’t always happen with budget snowshoes.
The HDPE deck provides solid flotation in fresh snow. I tested these on a trail with about 14 inches of new powder, and they stayed on top without postholing. The 200-pound load capacity covers most users, though heavier hikers may want to size up.
Included trekking poles are a nice bonus. They aren’t the highest-end poles, but they’re functional and save you from buying a separate set. The carry bag fits everything neatly for transport.
For Whom It’s Good
Beginners and casual winter hikers will get tremendous value from this kit. If you’re not sure how often you’ll use snowshoes but want a complete setup to start with, this is the smart buy. The included poles alone save you around $30 compared to buying separately.
It’s also a solid choice for families or casual users who want to try snowshoeing without committing to premium gear. The forgiving binding and decent flotation handle most recreational trails well.
For Whom It’s Bad
Users with larger boots may find the binding size limiting. The Sherpa works best for sizes up to about men’s 11 or women’s 12. If you wear larger boots, look elsewhere.
The plastic components aren’t as durable as aluminum-framed options for heavy use. If you plan to snowshoe every weekend or tackle technical terrain, you may wear these out within a couple of seasons.
4. Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes – Best Budget Pick
Retrospec Drifter Snowshoes for Women & Men – Lightweight Aluminum Frame Snow Shoes with Double Ratchet Binding System, Heel Lifts & Carry Bag for All Terrain Hiking & Winter Sports
Aluminum frame
Double ratchet binding
Heel lifts
Full-floating pivot
Carry bag
Pros
- Affordable aluminum frame
- Easy double-ratchet binding
- Built-in heel lifts
- Lightweight at 5.5 lbs
- Mesh carry bag included
Cons
- Plastic binding components less durable
- Not for deep powder
- Heel riser retention can wear
The Retrospec Drifter surprised me. For a budget-friendly pair, it includes features that some mid-range snowshoes skip, like aluminum frames, heel lifts, and a full-floating pivot system. It’s a great entry point into winter hiking without emptying your wallet.
The aluminum frame is a real upgrade over all-plastic budget options. It keeps the Drifter rigid underfoot while staying light, which is essential for natural-feeling strides. At 5.5 pounds per pair, it’s not the lightest, but it’s reasonable for the price.
The double ratchet binding is intuitive. Two straps secure the toe and heel independently, and they tighten with ratchets that work well even with gloves. I did notice that the plastic components feel less sturdy than premium bindings, but for casual use they hold up fine.
Heel lifts are a feature I appreciate on any snowshoe, and the Drifter includes them. They flip up easily and reduce calf fatigue on moderate slopes. The full-floating pivot lets the tail of the shoe move with your stride naturally, which helps reduce tripping.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the best snowshoe for beginners on a budget. If you want to try snowshoeing without investing heavily, the Drifter delivers real performance at a fraction of premium prices.
Casual winter hikers on packed trails and moderate terrain will get plenty of use out of these. The included mesh bag is also handy for storage and transport.
For Whom It’s Bad
Deep powder isn’t the Drifter’s friend. The 21-inch length and 120-pound max weight rating limit how much flotation it can provide in fresh, deep snow.
Heavy users or those planning frequent backcountry trips may want to invest in something more durable. The plastic binding components are the weak point for long-term heavy use.
5. G2 GO2GETHER Snowshoe Kit – Best Complete Kit for Beginners
G2 30 Inches Light Weight Snowshoes for Women Men Youth, Set with Trekking Poles, Tote Bag, Gaiters,Special Fast Ratchet Binding, Blue Available
HDPE deck
Fast ratchet binding
Aluminum crampons
Includes poles and gaiters
Pros
- Great value with full kit
- Easy ratchet binding
- Lightweight aluminum crampons
- Includes trekking poles and gaiters
- Good for beginners
Cons
- No toe stop for downhill
- Some snow flip-back reported
- No dedicated uphill setting
The G2 GO2GETHER kit is one of the most complete packages I tested. You get the snowshoes, trekking poles, gaiters, and a tote bag, which means you have everything you need for a winter hike straight out of the box.
The HDPE deck provides good flotation on most trails. I tested the 30-inch version, which works well for users up to 250 pounds. The aluminum crampons bite into frozen ground effectively, and the fast ratchet binding is easy to operate in cold weather.
The included trekking poles are full-size and adjustable, which is unusual at this price point. Most kits throw in short, flimsy poles, but these are decent quality. The gaiters are a thoughtful addition that helps keep snow out of your boots on deeper trails.
The flex pivot bar and heel lift help reduce fatigue on climbs. While the heel lift isn’t as smooth as premium options, it works for moderate terrain. The 1-year warranty provides some peace of mind.
For Whom It’s Good
Beginners who want a complete kit without buying accessories separately will find this package appealing. The gaiters and quality poles are bonuses that elevate it above typical starter kits.
Casual winter hikers and families will appreciate the value. The 30-inch size works for heavier users who might struggle with shorter snowshoes.
For Whom It’s Bad
Aggressive downhill terrain reveals the lack of a toe stop. On steep descents, the snowshoe can pivot under your foot, which feels less secure than dedicated mountaineering designs.
Snow can flip onto the back of your legs at faster paces, which is annoying but not dangerous. If you plan to walk fast or run in snowshoes, look at more technical options.
6. Cascade Mountain Tech Snowshoe Set – Top Rated Value Pick
Lightweight Aluminum Frame Snowshoes with Dual Ratchet Bindings, Nylon Heel Strap, HDPE Decking, Includes Heavy Duty Carry Bag, Available in Adult and Kids Sizes, 30″, Blue, Snowshoe Kit
Aluminum frame
Dual cleat crampons
Dual ratchet bindings
30-inch for up to 250 lbs
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Aggressive dual cleat crampons
- Secure dual ratchet bindings
- Flex decking absorbs shock
- Includes poles and carry bag
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Newer product with fewer reviews
The Cascade Mountain Tech snowshoe set impressed me more than I expected for a mid-priced option. With a 4.8 rating from users and aluminum frame construction, it punches well above its price tag.
The aluminum frame is high-strength but light, which makes these snowshoes easy to maneuver on the trail. The dual cleat crampons are aggressive enough for icy conditions, and I had solid grip on frozen morning hikes.
Dual ratchet bindings are easy to operate, even with gloves. The reflexive articulating toe band adapts to your natural stride, which reduces fatigue on longer walks. The flex decking absorbs shock well, which my knees appreciated after a 4-hour hike.
The kit includes trekking poles and a carrying bag, which makes it a complete package. With a 250-pound load capacity, the 30-inch size accommodates larger users who often struggle to find well-fitting gear.
For Whom It’s Good
Mid-range users who want quality without premium prices will love this set. It includes everything needed for winter hiking in a single purchase.
Heavier users up to 250 pounds will appreciate the size options and load capacity. The aluminum frame and aggressive crampons provide real performance, not just budget basics.
For Whom It’s Bad
Limited stock means these can sell out quickly. If you see them available, don’t wait too long to decide.
With fewer reviews than more established brands, there’s less long-term durability data. Time will tell how these hold up over multiple seasons of heavy use.
7. Franklin Sports Arctic Trails Snowshoes – Best for Casual Use
ARCTIC TRAILS Adult Snowshoes All Terrain Male & Female – Includes Carrying Bag Snowshoes available in 25 inch
3 lbs per pair
Dual ratchet bindings
Rotating/crampons
25-inch size
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Easy dual ratchet bindings
- Heavy-duty rotating crampons
- Carry bag included
- Affordable price
Cons
- Strap durability concerns in cold
- Riveted back strap hard to replace
- May sink more in deep snow
The Franklin Sports Arctic Trails is a straightforward, no-frills snowshoe that gets the job done for casual users. It’s lightweight at 3 pounds per pair, which makes it approachable for users who haven’t snowshoed before.
The aluminum frame keeps things light without sacrificing strength, and the ergonomic design feels natural underfoot. I appreciated the rotating crampons that dig into snow and ice with reliable grip.
Dual ratchet bindings make strapping in quick, which is great when you’re eager to start hiking. The carry bag is a small touch but useful for transport and storage.
The 25-inch size works for users between 130 and 210 pounds. It’s not the most buoyant option for deep powder, but on packed trails it performs well. The 90-day limited warranty is shorter than premium brands offer.
For Whom It’s Good
Casual users who hit groomed trails or packed snow will find this snowshoe fits their needs. The lightweight design is approachable for beginners.
Budget-conscious shoppers who want aluminum frame construction without premium prices will appreciate the affordability.
For Whom It’s Bad
Users in very cold climates have reported strap durability issues. The back strap can become brittle and break in extreme cold, which is a real concern for northern winter hikers.
Deep powder performance is limited. The 25-inch size and design work best on packed trails rather than fresh snow. For deep powder adventures, choose longer or wider designs.
8. Crescent Moon Eco Eva Snowshoes – Lightest Pick for Easy Walking
Crescent Moon Snowshoes Eco Eva – Ultralight 22″ Foam Snowshoes for Men & Women | Hiking & Running Insulated Rocker Cloud Deck with Hook & Loop Binding & Durable Ice Spikes
2 lbs per pair
EVA foam rocker
22-inch
Biodegradable
Ice spikes
Pros
- Ultralight at 2 lbs per pair
- Natural rocker platform stride
- Biodegradable EVA foam
- Easy hook and loop binding
- Includes poles and bag
Cons
- Limited flotation
- Not for deep powder or backcountry
- Hook and loop may wear
- Smaller deck limits trail-breaking
The Crescent Moon Eco Eva is unlike any other snowshoe I tested. Instead of an aluminum frame, it’s made from EVA foam, which makes it the lightest pair on this list at just 2 pounds per pair. The moment I put them on, I noticed how different they felt.
The rocker platform design is the standout feature. The foam bends and rolls with your foot like an athletic shoe, which creates a natural walking motion. For users who find traditional snowshoes clunky or awkward, this design is a game-changer.
The teardrop shape preserves a natural stride, which reduces fatigue. The hook and loop binding is intuitive, and I had them on in seconds. The ice spikes on the underside grip icy patches adequately for casual terrain.
The biodegradable EVA foam is a nice sustainability touch. While not everyone prioritizes eco-friendly gear, it’s a unique selling point in a market dominated by plastic and aluminum.
For Whom It’s Good
Seniors, casual users, and anyone who values natural movement will love these snowshoes. The lightweight, athletic-shoe feel makes winter hiking accessible to people who find traditional snowshoes uncomfortable.
Users in areas with packed trails and minimal deep snow will get the most out of the design. Eco-conscious buyers also appreciate the biodegradable construction.
For Whom It’s Bad
Deep powder is the Eco Eva’s weakness. The 22-inch length and foam deck don’t provide the flotation of longer, harder snowshoes. If you regularly break trail in fresh snow, look elsewhere.
Aggressive backcountry terrain isn’t suitable for this design. The foam construction prioritizes comfort over the rigidity needed for technical climbs and sidehilling on ice.
How to Choose the Best Snowshoes for You?
Choosing the right snowshoes comes down to matching gear to your body weight, terrain, and typical winter conditions. Here’s what to consider before buying.
Size Selection by Body Weight
Snowshoe sizing is based on the total weight you carry, including your body weight plus gear. Larger people need bigger snowshoes for proper flotation, while smaller users can manage with shorter lengths.
Here’s a general guide for selecting snowshoe size based on user weight:
Under 120 lbs (including gear): 21-inch snowshoes work well for most conditions. The Retrospec Drifter fits this category.
120 to 180 lbs: 25-inch snowshoes are the sweet spot for most users. Most products in this roundup fit this range.
180 to 220 lbs: 30-inch snowshoes provide better flotation. The Cascade Mountain Tech and G2 GO2GETHER kits work well here.
Over 220 lbs: Look for 30+ inch snowshoes with high load capacity ratings, ideally 250+ pounds.
When in doubt, size up. A slightly larger snowshoe floats better, while an undersized one causes you to posthole and tire quickly.
Terrain Considerations
The terrain you hike determines which features matter most. Flat, packed trails need less aggressive crampons than icy alpine slopes.
For packed trail hiking, basic aluminum crampons and standard bindings work fine. The Retrospec Drifter, Yukon Charlie’s Sherpa, and Franklin Sports Arctic Trails handle this terrain well.
For mixed conditions with some icy patches, look for steel crampons and pivot designs. The MSR Revo Explore excels here.
For steep, technical mountaineering, you need aggressive crampons, secure bindings, and heel lifts. The MSR Lightning Ascent is built for this purpose.
Binding Types Explained
Bindings are how your boots connect to the snowshoe, and they’re the most critical comfort feature. The three main types include:
Ratchet bindings are the most common. They use a toothed strap and lever to tighten, which works well with gloves. Most snowshoes in this roundup use ratchet systems.
BOA bindings use a dial system for precise fit. They’re faster to adjust but less common in the snowshoe market.
Hook and loop bindings are simplest but least secure. The Crescent Moon Eco Eva uses this style for easy on/off, but it’s not ideal for aggressive terrain.
Try the binding with gloves on before buying. If you can’t operate it easily in the store, you’ll struggle with it on cold mountain trails.
Crampon Traction Quality
Crampons are the metal teeth on the bottom of your snowshoe that bite into ice and hard snow. Their quality determines how confident you’ll feel on slippery terrain.
Aluminum crampons work for soft snow and moderate ice. They’re lighter but less aggressive.
Steel crampons bite harder into ice and frozen terrain. The MSR Lightning Ascent and Revo Explore use steel for serious traction.
Look for pivot-style crampons that allow the binding to move naturally while keeping teeth engaged. This design shows up in premium snowshoes.
Deck and Frame Materials
The deck is the surface area that floats on snow. Frame materials affect rigidity and weight.
Aluminum frames provide the best rigidity and durability. Most quality snowshoes use aluminum, including the MSR, Retrospec, and Franklin Sports options.
Plastic decks (like on the MSR Revo Explore) offer good durability and weather resistance at moderate weight. Modern plastic designs are surprisingly strong.
EVA foam decks are ultralight and comfortable but lack the rigidity needed for technical terrain. The Crescent Moon Eco Eva uses this material.
For serious winter hiking, stick with aluminum or quality plastic frames. Foam designs work for casual use only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get 25 or 30 inch snowshoes?
Choose 25-inch snowshoes if your total weight (body plus pack) is between 120 and 180 pounds. Pick 30-inch snowshoes if you weigh 180 to 250 pounds, or if you hike in deep, unconsolidated powder regularly. Larger snowshoes float better but are heavier and harder to maneuver on steep slopes.
How much for a good pair of snowshoes?
Decent recreational snowshoes start around $50 and go up to $130 for complete kits with poles and bags. Technical mountaineering snowshoes from brands like MSR cost $200 to $400. Budget options work well for casual trail use, while premium options deliver better traction, lighter weight, and longer durability for serious winter hiking.
What size snowshoe for a 250 lb man?
A 250-pound man should choose 30-inch or longer snowshoes with a load capacity rated for at least 250 pounds. Look for options like the Cascade Mountain Tech 30-inch kit or G2 GO2GETHER 30-inch model, which handle heavier users. Going smaller will cause excessive postholing and make your hike exhausting.
How do you pick out snowshoes?
Start by determining your total weight including gear, then choose snowshoe size accordingly. Match the snowshoe to your terrain: flat trails need basic designs while mountaineering requires aggressive crampons and heel lifts. Test the binding with gloves to make sure you can operate it easily. Finally, decide if you need a complete kit with poles and gaiters, or just the snowshoes.
What is the best snowshoe brand?
MSR is widely considered the best snowshoe brand for serious winter hiking, with models like the Lightning Ascent and Revo Explore dominating expert reviews. TSL and Tubbs are also top-tier brands with strong reputations. For budget shoppers, Retrospec and Yukon Charlie’s offer solid value without premium prices.
Final Verdict: Which Snowshoe Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing across multiple terrains and conditions, our team has clear recommendations based on what kind of winter hiker you are.
For serious mountaineers and backcountry adventurers, the MSR Lightning Ascent remains the gold standard. The 360-degree traction frames, steel crampons, and ultralight design handle technical terrain better than anything else I tested. Yes, the price is steep, but the performance justifies it for anyone tackling serious alpine objectives.
For most winter hikers, the MSR Revo Explore hits the sweet spot of price, performance, and versatility. It handles packed trails, icy slopes, and moderate backcountry with equal competence. The HyperLink binding is comfortable for all-day use, and the durability has held up impressively.
If you’re shopping on a budget, the Retrospec Drifter offers the best value. The aluminum frame and heel lifts deliver real performance at a fraction of premium prices, making it a great entry point into winter hiking.
The best snowshoes for you depends on your weight, terrain, and budget. Match your needs to the right model, and you’ll have gear that opens up a whole season of outdoor adventure. Whatever you choose, get out there and enjoy winter, because the trails look completely different when covered in snow.