The best Snowshoe rental activities

Snowshoe Rental: Explore Winter Landscapes at Your Own Pace

About Snowshoe Rental

Snowshoe Rental: A Practical Guide for a Peaceful and Active Winter Adventure
Snowshoeing is one of the most accessible and underrated ways to enjoy the beauty of the mountains in winter. No need for ski lifts, technical skills, or steep slopes—with a pair of snowshoes, you can walk through snowy forests, climb scenic trails, or simply discover nature in total tranquillity.

Whether you're looking for a family outing, a fitness activity, or a peaceful solo adventure, snowshoeing is suitable for everyone—regardless of age or experience level. And thanks to rental options available directly in resort, there's no need to invest in equipment.

In this article, we’ll explain:

• why renting snowshoes is a great idea
• the types of equipment available
• how the rental process works
• the best destinations for snowshoeing
• and the health and wellness benefits of this winter activity

Snowshoe Rental: Why Rent Your Gear?

Snowshoeing doesn’t require much equipment, but choosing the right gear makes a big difference in terms of comfort and safety. Renting is often the best option, especially for beginners or occasional hikers.

Cost-effective
You don’t need to buy snowshoes for just a few outings per year. Rental gives you access to quality gear at a low cost.

Adapted to conditions and terrain
Rental shops offer different models depending on the snow type (powder, compact snow, icy trails) and terrain (flat, hilly, mountainous).

Comfort and practicality
The right snowshoes prevent slipping, allow for better grip, and reduce fatigue. Shops also offer adjustable poles and boots, so you can walk more easily and stay warm.

No need to carry or store gear
Everything is ready for you at the resort. Just pick up your gear, explore at your rhythm, and return it at the end of the day.

Ideal for occasional use
For many, snowshoeing is an activity they enjoy once or twice per winter. Renting is the most convenient solution—easy, flexible, and worry-free.

Snowshoe Rental: How It Works

The process is simple and quick—here’s how a typical snowshoe rental works:

1. Booking online or on-site
You can reserve your equipment online with Manawa before your trip, or rent it on-site at one of our partner shops. Booking in advance saves time and often guarantees availability.

2. Equipment fitting and adjustment
In the shop, the team helps you select the right snowshoe size based on your weight, height, and the type of activity. Adjustable poles and warm boots may also be offered.

3. Safety tips and route advice
Need ideas for trails? Rental staff often recommend itineraries adapted to your level and the day’s weather. You may also get advice on safety, layering, and timing.

4. Option to rent extras
Many shops offer additional equipment such as baby carriers, backpacks, gaiters, or headlamps if you're planning a longer trek or night walk.

5. Easy return
Just bring back the equipment at the end of your activity—no cleaning or maintenance required.

Snowshoe Rental: What’s Typically Included?

Most rental shops offer a complete set of snowshoeing gear:

• Snowshoes: Designed to stay on top of snow and provide traction
• Poles: Adjustable trekking poles with snow baskets for balance and stability
• Boots (optional): Warm, waterproof boots compatible with snowshoes
• Gaiters (optional): Protective covers to keep snow out of your boots
• Backpack (optional): To carry water, snacks, or extra layers

Snowshoe Rental: Top Destinations for Winter Hiking

Snowshoeing can be done almost anywhere with snow—but here are some of the best places to rent gear and explore on foot:

Chamonix – Mont-Blanc (France)
Discover snowy forests, quiet trails, and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Snowshoe-friendly trails for all levels.

Lapland (Finland)
Experience Arctic landscapes, frozen lakes, and Northern Lights on peaceful snowshoe walks through the tundra.

Trentino – Dolomites (Italy)
Explore UNESCO-protected alpine landscapes and panoramic trails with easy access from villages like Madonna di Campiglio.

Val d’Aran (Spain – Pyrenees)
An ideal mix of nature, culture, and adventure. Snowshoe trails range from gentle walks to high-mountain hikes.

Black Forest (Germany)
Marked trails through dense forests and peaceful valleys, perfect for family outings or romantic snow hikes.

Québec (Canada)
A snowshoeing paradise, with vast forests, frozen rivers, and dedicated snowshoeing centers close to national parks.

Snowshoeing for Beginners: Key Terms

Traction: The grip your snowshoes provide to prevent slipping—important on icy or steep terrain.

Floatation: How well the snowshoe keeps you on top of the snow. Wider models are better for powder.

Heel lift: A feature on some snowshoes that reduces calf strain on uphill climbs.

Crampons: Small metal spikes under the snowshoes that improve grip on hard-packed snow or ice.

Layering: Dressing in layers to manage heat, sweat, and cold—important for comfort and safety.

Snowshoeing: The Benefits of Moving Slowly in the Snow

Unlike skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing is a low-impact winter activity. But that doesn’t make it any less rewarding—physically or mentally.

Improves endurance and balance
Walking on snow activates muscles in the legs, hips, and core. Using poles also strengthens your arms and improves posture.

Accessible to all ages
Snowshoeing requires no previous skills. It's ideal for families, seniors, or anyone looking for a gentle physical activity.

Boosts mental well-being
Walking through quiet winter landscapes is deeply calming. It offers a real break from daily stress and digital distractions.

Connection with nature
You can observe animal tracks, listen to the silence of the forest, or enjoy a sunrise above the snowy peaks. Few activities offer this kind of connection.

Snowshoe Rental: A Peaceful, Authentic Way to Enjoy the Mountains

Snowshoeing is more than just a sport—it's a way to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore winter differently.

Whether you’re heading out for a one-hour walk or a full-day adventure, renting the right gear makes your experience safer, easier, and more enjoyable.

With Manawa, you can book your snowshoe rental in advance with trusted local partners, chosen for their knowledge of the terrain, quality of service, and attention to detail.

Wherever your winter holidays take you—France, Europe or beyond—discover all our snowshoe rental offers on Manawa and make the most of your time in the snow.