How to attach snowshoes to a backpack?

If you are planning a winter trip, knowing how to attach snowshoes to a backpack can make your hike safer and more comfortable. Many beginners feel confused about when to wear snowshoes, when to carry them, and how to attach them without hurting their balance or damaging their pack. This guide explains everything in clear, simple language so anyone can follow it. Snowshoes are not worn all the time. On many winter trails, you walk on packed snow, rocks, or dry ground before reaching deep snow. In these situations, you need a safe way to carry snowshoes on your pack until you really need them. If they are not attached properly, they can swing, hit your legs, or even fall off during a hike.

I have worked with beginner hikers and winter gear users for years, and most problems come from poor attachment. People either attach them too loosely or place them in the wrong position. This guide focuses on practical steps that work in real conditions, not theory.

Table of Contents

When Do You Actually Need to Attach Snowshoes to Your Backpack?

Knowing when to attach snowshoes to your backpack is as important as knowing how to attach them. Using them at the wrong time can slow you down, damage your gear, or make hiking unsafe. Hikers and winter guides say it’s crucial to know when to use snowshoes. This helps with both safety and efficiency.

Situations Where Carrying Snowshoes Makes Sense

Early trail sections may be dry, rocky, or have a thin layer of snow at the start of many winter hikes. Wearing snowshoes in these conditions is unnecessary and can slow you down. Attaching them to your backpack keeps them out of the way while staying ready for later.
If your hike has snow, mud, or rocks, you’ll often switch between walking on snow and bare ground. Using snowshoes in non-snow areas can be awkward and tiring. Using a strap or compression straps makes carrying easy. Attach them with a firm grip until you need them on the trail.
Steep climbs can be tricky. On narrow or steep trails, snowshoes might snag on rocks, trees, or branches. Carrying them on your pack keeps your crampons from damaging your gear. This way, you can move without danger.

Pro tip: Use a cord or strap to keep snowshoes tight against your pack. Loose snowshoes can swing and throw off your balance.

When You Should Wear Them Instead

Wearing snowshoes is the best choice when trail conditions demand extra support. You should put them on when:

In deep powder snow, snowshoes help you float above the deep snow. Wearing them in these conditions saves energy and prevents sinking. Attaching them instead of wearing them would create significant difficulty in walking.
Flat, packed winter trails. On flat trails with thick snow, wear snowshoes. They provide stability and help to prevent fatigue.

Experienced hikers recommend checking the snow depth and trail conditions every few minutes. You might need to switch between carrying and wearing snowshoes in a short amount of time. This depends on the terrain.

Choosing the Best Way to Attach Snowshoes

Choosing how to attach snowshoes depends on the hike, the backpack, and the snowshoes. Using the wrong method can make your pack unstable, damage your gear, or slow your ascent. This section offers hands-on advice to help you make quick and safe choices.

Best Method for Day Hikes

For short day hikes, you want easy access to your snowshoes. Keep your pack set up simply.

Attaching snowshoes here keeps them within easy reach. Use the top lid or a buckle system if your backpack has one.
If your pack has side pockets, you can slide in a snowshoe. Then, use the side compression straps to secure it. This works best for narrow snowshoes.
Bungee cords or webbing loops: Use small bungee cords or nylon webbing. They attach snowshoes to daypacks with little effort.

Best Method for Overnight or Multi-Day Trips

Long hikes need a stronger attachment. The pack holds heavier loads, and snowshoes can stay on for hours.

Top of the pack with daisy chains: Use daisy chains or strong loops to strap snowshoes to your pack. This keeps them secure and evenly distributes weight.
Compression and Strap Layering: Use side compression straps and bungee cords. They provide extra security.
Protect bindings: Use padding or a nylon sleeve on the crampons. This helps to prevent damage to your backpack on long treks.

Experienced hikers often rely on affiliate links for MSR snowshoes and gear. These links help them find reliable reviews. They also ensure a good fit before buying.

Best Method for Small or Lightweight Backpacks

Small or ultralight packs have limited attachment points, so simplicity is key.

Vertical attachment: Slide the snowshoes onto the back. Then, secure them with the top lid strap and one or two buckles.
Use loops: if your pack has webbing loops or daisy chains, thread the straps through them. This gives a strong hold.
Avoid excess weight: lightweight packs cannot handle large snowshoes plus heavy gear. Consider wearing them on the trail when possible.

Tip: Store the axe or ice axe in a separate compartment. This helps maintain balance, especially when climbing.

Best Method for Heavy or Large Snowshoes

Large or metal-frame snowshoes can be bulky and difficult to attach. Handle them with caution.

Top of the pack with many straps: Use all attachment points. Buckles, side compression straps, and bungee cords can all help secure the snowshoes.
Side positioning: For long snowshoes, secure one on each side. Use side pockets or compression straps.
Padding Protection: Wrap crampons in nylon or a protective sleeve. This keeps your pack and other gear safe from scratches.

Snowshoe Size	Recommended Attachment	Notes
Small/Light	Top of pack + 1 strap	Easy reach, minimal weight
Medium	Top + side compression straps	Balanced, stable
Large/Heavy	Top + sides + bungee cords	Secure, prevents swinging

Real experience: When climbing steep terrain, secured snowshoes keep you balanced. This prevents sudden shifts that can throw you off during the climb.

Select the correct method for attaching your snowshoes. This keeps them secure and your pack balanced. Choose based on pack size, snowshoe size, and trail conditions. This helps avoid swinging snowshoes and damaged gear. It also boosts comfort and safety.

The 4 Most Reliable Ways to Attach Snowshoes to a Backpack

Correctly putting on snowshoes is key to safety and comfort during winter hikes. Experienced hikers have tried many setups over the years. But only a few methods work well for most people. Here are four reliable ways to attach snowshoes to backpacks. These methods help protect your gear and keep your balance. These methods focus on stability, ease of use, and real trail conditions.

Side Carry Method

The side carry method is one of the most common options for beginners. It works well when your backpack has side compression or side straps.

How to Attach Snowshoes to the Side (Simple Steps)

Place the snowshoes flat against one side of the pack.
Make sure the tail of the snowshoe points downward.
Run the side straps through the snowshoe frame or binding.
Tighten the straps until the snowshoes do not move.
Check that the crampons face away from the pack’s fabric.

This setup keeps the snowshoes close to your body and reduces swinging while you walk.

Pros and Cons for Beginners

Pros	Cons
Easy to set up	Can feel uneven if only on one side
Good access during hikes	May catch on a branch in tight trails
Works on many backpacks	Needs good strap placement

Front Carry Method

Front carry means attaching snowshoes to the front of your backpack. This method works well when there’s little side space or when someone else is using them.

How to Attach Snowshoes to the Front of a Pack

Place snowshoes vertically on the front panel.
Align them with the centre of the pack.
Use front straps or compression cords to secure them.
Tighten evenly from top to bottom.
Confirm that nothing blocks your movement.

When done right, snowshoes at the front stay stable and easy to remove.

When Front Carry Works Best

When the side pockets are full.
When carrying extra winter gear,
When you need fast access to a changing terrain.

Front carry works well for short hikes and mild terrain, but always test it before moving.

Top Carry (Under the Lid)

Top carry means putting snowshoes flat at the pack’s top, under the lid. Many hikers prefer this method for longer trips.

Step-by-Step Top Carry Setup

Place snowshoes flat at the top opening.
Slide them under the lid or top flap.
Use lid straps to hold them securely.
Tighten until there is no movement.
Close and lock the lid completely.

This method helps you pack and carry snowshoes without blocking side or front access.

Stability and Weight Balance Tips

Keep weight centred.
Avoid overloading one side.
Check the balance before walking.

Top carry works best when the snowshoes are not too long or wide.

Strapping Snowshoes Using Compression Straps or Bungee Cords

Some backpacks do not have clear attachment points. In this case, you can still attach snowshoes to a pack using straps or cords.

When Your Backpack Lacks Built-In Attachment Points

Use compression straps across the back.
Add bungee cords for extra hold.
Thread straps through snowshoe frames.
Tighten with gradual and uniform pressure.

This method is flexible and works with many pack styles. It is especially useful for older or minimalist backpacks.

How Backpack Type Affects Snowshoe Attachment

Different manufacturers build backpacks in various ways. The way you attach snowshoes depends a lot on the type of pack you use. Your backpack design matters. It affects how you attach snowshoes in the backcountry. It can be easy or very frustrating. Here’s simple, experience-based advice for securing your snowshoes with different backpack types. This way, you won’t damage your gear or lose your balance.

Backpacks Without Straps or Loops

Some simple backpacks do not have outside straps or attachment points. This is common with older or basic packs.

In this case, your best option is to use the top opening and lid of the pack.

Place the pair of snowshoes flat across the opening.
Slide them under the lid so that the lid presses them down.
Tighten the lid straps firmly.

This method places snowshoes at the top of the pack and keeps them stable during walking. It works best when the snowshoes are not very large.

Key tip from experience: Always check the weight of the snowshoes. Heavy snowshoes placed too high can affect balance, especially when using trekking poles.

Backpacks With Daisy Chains or Gear Loops

Backpacks designed for hiking often include daisy chains or gear attachment points. These packs give you more flexibility.

You can:

Run a strap through a loop on the daisy chain.
Attach one snowshoe per side for better balance.
Tighten from top to bottom to prevent movement.

This setup works well for side carry or even front attachment. Using one snowshoe on each side distributes the weight evenly across the surface. This also lowers the strain on your shoulders.

Tip: When moving through brush, keep your snowshoes near your pack. This helps avoid hitting branches.

Ultralight Backpacks

Manufacturers build ultralight backpacks to save weight, not to carry bulky gear. This means that we have limited attachment options.

Best practices:

Attach snowshoes to the front of your pack only if it is necessary.
Use minimal straps and avoid overtightening.
Keep snowshoes narrow and close to your body.

Because ultralight packs flex more, always test the setup before moving. Walk, bend, and adjust using your poles to see if the pack shifts.

School-Style or Travel Backpacks (What Actually Works)

These backpacks are not made for winter hiking, but people still use them. With care, they can work.

What works best:

Use the top zipper area with the lid or flap.
Position the snowshoes against the back in a vertical alignment.
Use any available loop or handle for extra support.

Avoid side attachments on these packs because they lack structure. Also, be careful when removing your snowshoes, as travel packs do not handle sharp edges well.

Important note from experience: School and travel backpacks aren’t great for the backcountry. If you must use one, move slowly and check attachments often.

Backpack Type	Best Attachment Method	Stability Level
No straps or loops	Under lid, top carry	Medium
Daisy chains or loops	Side or balanced carry	High
Ultralight backpack	Front or minimal top carry	Medium
School/travel backpack	Top or vertical carry	Low to Medium

Snowshoe Size, Shape, and Material — Why It Matters

Snowshoes are not all the same. Their size, shape, and material change how you carry them and how they feel on your back. Many beginners focus only on attachment methods and ignore this factor. In real winter hiking, this mistake leads to poor balance, damaged gear, and fatigue. To master snowshoe attachment, know how their design affects placement on your winter backpack.

Long vs Short Snowshoes

Snowshoes come in different lengths. Each size behaves differently when attached to a pack.

Long snowshoes:

Designed for deep snow and heavier users.
Harder to attach due to the extra length
More likely to hit your legs if placed low.

Short snowshoes:

Easier to manage in a pack
Better for mixed terrain.
Fits well on smaller backpacks

Snowshoe Length	Best Carry Style	Stability Level
Long	Top or vertical	Medium
Short	Side or front carry	High

Long snowshoes work best when placed at the top or in the centre. Short snowshoes allow more flexibility and faster attachment.

Wide Snowshoes and Balance Issues

Wide snowshoes help you float on soft snow. But they can make balancing more difficult when attached.

Problems that wide snowshoes create:

Pull the weight away from the centre.
Catch the wind in open areas.
Hit your arms while using trekking poles.

To reduce balance issues:

Keep the attachment tight and centred.
Avoid loose elastic cords.
Adjust until movement stops.

If you feel pulling while walking, stop and fix it. Ignoring small shifts always leads to discomfort later.

Metal-Frame vs Plastic Snowshoes

Material matters more than most beginners think.

Metal-frame snowshoes:

Strong and durable
Heavier
Sharp edges can damage packs.

Plastic snowshoes:

Lighter and quieter
Easier to attach.
Less risk to the backpack’s fabric

Material	Carry Comfort	Pack Safety
Metal frame	Medium	Low without protection
Plastic	High	High

Experienced hikers often use a nylon bag or padding for metal snowshoes. This protects the pack and extends its life.

How to Position Snowshoes Based on Shape?

The shape of the snowshoe determines where it sits best.

Best positioning tips:

Narrow shapes work well with front carry.
Rounded tails fit better at the top.
Flat designs sit closer to the back panel.

Backpacks like the Osprey Talon have flexible panels. They hold narrow snowshoes securely when tightened.

Real-world advice: Keep snowshoes away from tools like shovels. Sharp edges rubbing together can cause damage during long hikes.

Expert Tip from Field Experience

Always check how snowshoes interact with other gear. If your pack holds a shovel, probe, or extra layers, test the setup before walking. A poor attachment can shift and affect balance within minutes. Knowing the size, shape, and material helps you pick the best position and attachment method. Experience brings this knowledge, ensuring comfort, safety, and control in winter conditions.

Step-by-Step: How to Attach Snowshoes Securely

Attaching snowshoes correctly is key to maintaining balance and avoiding fatigue. These steps are based on real hiking and climbing experiences. A poor setup can lead to balance issues and fatigue. Follow each step to avoid common mistakes.

Step 1: Prepare Your Snowshoes Before Attaching

Before you place snowshoes on your pack, always prepare them.

Close all straps and bulky bindings.
Remove packed snow or ice.
Check for sharp edges that could damage the fabric.

Snowshoes are often used to carry sharp crampons and thick bindings. Leaving them loose can cause damage or make attachment harder.

Field advice: I always clean the snowshoes first before I attach them. This small habit saves time and prevents slipping later.

Step 2: Position Them Correctly on the Backpack

Correct positioning is the key to comfort and safety.

Keep snowshoes centered on the pack.
Avoid placing them too high, as this makes the pack top-heavy.
Balance both sides for proper weight distribution.

If your backpack is a roll-top, place the snowshoes vertically and keep them close to the back panel. This reduces movement and keeps balance steady.

Backpack Type	Best Position
Standard pack	Vertical, tight to the back
Roll-top	Vertical, tight to the back
Hiking pack (Stratos style)	Side or top, balanced

Backpacks like the Stratos series are great for snowshoes. They work best when the snowshoes rest flat against your body.

Step 3: Strap Tight — But Not Too Tight

Tightening straps is important, but overdoing it can cause problems.

Tighten until the snowshoes stop moving.
Do not crush packed fabric or frames.
Make sure snowshoes do not dangle.

Snowshoes should feel firm but not forced. If the pack bends or the straps strain, loosen them slightly and adjust.

Expert tip: If your snowshoes swing or dangle, they can pull on your shoulders. This may lead to fatigue in a few minutes.

Step 4: Walk Test Before You Start Hiking

Never skip the walk test.

Put the pack on.
Walk for 20–30 steps.
Turn, bend, and simulate uphill movement.

If anything shifts, stop and fix it before you start the hike. This step prevents long-term discomfort and safety issues.

This quick test helps save energy and prevents adjustments on long winter trails.

Final Beginner Advice

Attaching snowshoes securely requires practice. These steps work because they rely on real outdoor use, not theory. When snowshoes are set up and tested correctly, they stay stable and comfy during the hike. This method improves safety, comfort, and confidence for anyone new to winter hiking.

Safety Tips Most People Don’t Talk About

Carrying snowshoes on your backpack seems easy. Mistakes can cause gear damage, discomfort, or accidents. Many guides overlook key details. But real winter hiking and mountaineering prove that these tips are essential. Follow these practical steps to stay safe while venturing into snowy terrain.

Preventing Sharp Crampons From Damaging Your Gear

Snowshoes often have metal crampons that can tear your pack or other gear if left exposed. Protect your pack with these steps:

Place a thin nylon bag or sleeve around the crampon.
Secure the snowshoes with straps to prevent them from dangling.
Keep heavier snowshoes closer to the back to avoid a top-heavy imbalance.

Pro tip: On packs like the roll-top style, place snowshoes at the top inside the lid for added protection. This method also allows access without delay if you need them unexpectedly on a trail.

Keeping Snowshoes From Hitting Your Legs

Incorrect attachments can cause snowshoes to swing. This can lead to them hitting your legs with every step. To prevent this:

Keep snowshoes tight against the backpack.
Use many attachment points to secure them from top to bottom.
Avoid letting bindings or frames stick out too far.

A small tweak keeps the snowshoes tight. This way, you can hike freely, even during a steep climb on icy slopes.

Balance and Stability on Icy or Narrow Trails

Carrying snowshoes can shift your weight unexpectedly, affecting balance. Follow these tips:

Position snowshoes to keep the weight close to your centre.
Avoid placing them too high, as this makes the pack top-heavy.
Test your setup on a flat surface before venturing onto narrow trails.

A stable setup helps beginners avoid falls. It also lets them move with assurance, even on tricky terrain.

Visibility Issues in Snowy or Windy Conditions

Snowshoes can hide your view or your poles. This can cause accidents when visibility is low.

Make sure nothing dangles in front of your eyes.
Bright-coloured snowshoes or reflective gear can increase visibility.
Check that straps do not twist or block your field of vision.

Expert insight: If you have a lot to carry, put essential items like your poles or map in separate pockets. This way, you can grab them in no time. This avoids fumbling and ensures a safer venture in harsh weather.

Safety Concern	Solution	Tip
Sharp crampons	Nylon bag/sleeve	Keep top-heavy packs balanced
Leg strikes	Secure with multiple attachment points	Avoid dangle
Balance	Center weight	Test before narrow trails
Visibility	Reflective gear	Quick access to essentials

Adjusting Your Setup for Weather and Terrain

Winter trails show significant variation. Attaching snowshoes to a calm, packed trail is different from doing so on a windy alpine ridge or in deep powder. Understanding how to adjust your setup improves safety, comfort, and efficiency. These tips draw from real hiking and mountaineering experience. They show how to attach snowshoes in any condition.

Deep Snow vs Packed Snow

Deep snow needs a different way to carry snowshoes than on packed trails.

When the snow is soft, it’s often better to wear snowshoes instead of carrying them.
If you must carry them, place the snowshoes at the top of your pack to avoid dragging in the snow.
Secure the straps to prevent snow and ice from accumulating on the pack’s fabric.

Pro tip: Keep your gear high. This stops snow from packing around your EVO or backpack frame. It makes removal faster during a quick ascent.

Windy Conditions and Open Terrain

Strong winds can affect balance, especially when carrying bulky gear.

Avoid letting snowshoes dangle, as this can catch gusts and pull you off balance.
Distribute weight evenly to prevent a top-heavy feel.
Use many attachment points and make sure all straps are secure.

This setup is especially important when you carry a lot of stuff like poles, shovels, or extra layers. A firm setup prevents surprises in gusty conditions.

Forest Trails vs Alpine or Exposed Areas

Different terrain affects how snowshoes interact with your pack.

Forest trails:

Snowshoes can catch on low branches if not close to the back panel.
Side carry may work better for short hikes, but always check the clearance.

Alpine or exposed areas:

Use snowshoes when not in use, tightly strapped to avoid swinging.
Keep the pack balanced from front to back to handle wind and sudden terrain changes.

Expert tip: On tight climbs or technical trails, make small adjustments to your setup. Tighten your snowshoes, but make sure they have quick-release options for easy on and off. This ensures safety and fast transitions on varying terrain.

Quick Setup Comparison Table

Terrain Type	Recommended Carry	Tips
Deep Snow	Wear if possible	Pack on top if carrying
Packed Snow	Side or front carry	Secure straps, easy access
Windy/Open	Top or vertical	Avoid dangling, balance weight
Forest Trails	Side carry	Watch for branches
Alpine/Exposed	Top carry, centre	Quick access, stable setup

Conclusion

Attaching snowshoes to your backpack doesn’t have to be hard. In this guide, we talked about smart ways to carry your snowshoes when not in use, choosing the right spot for snowshoes to the top, and how to avoid damage from sharp snowshoe crampons. Whether you’re going on a short hike or a full ski tour, knowing how to pack your gear makes a big difference. We also looked at choosing the right pack, balancing the tail of your snowshoes, and keeping your gear safe and dry. If you handle your snowshoe crampons carefully and pack smart, your snowy trips will be easier and more fun, just like they should be.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you tie snowshoes?

Adjustable bindings and straps are used to attach snowshoes securely to your boots.

2. Can I put snowshoes in my pack?

Yes, but only when they are clean and dry. If they are wet or dirty and not in use, it is better to attach them outside using side straps or a loop.

3. What is the best place to attach snowshoes to the pack?

It depends on your pack style, but you can go with snowshoes to the top, side, or back. Avoid letting them hang, and ensure they are secured tightly.

4. Do all backpacks come with snowshoe attachment points?

No. Some outdoor or ski packs, like Osprey or Strato, have built-in attachment points and side compression straps. Others may need added cords or bungee cords.

5. Are snowshoes good for longer trips?

Yes, but a pair of snowshoes can add weight. With proper weight distribution, your hike will still feel balanced. For lighter options, use models like Lightning Ascent or Evo.