When is it worth renting snowshoes?
Buying snowshoes is mainly worthwhile if you are on the road very regularly and know exactly which model suits your use. In many cases, renting is the much more sensible choice – especially for beginners, occasional hikers or anyone who wants to remain flexible.
Renting instead of buying is ideal if:
- Occasional tours: You only plan 1–3 snowshoe tours per season and don't want to buy expensive equipment that remains unused for the rest of the year.
- Compare models: You want to try out different snowshoe models and sizes before you decide to buy one.
- Save space: You have no storage space for bulky winter equipment at home and want to remain flexible.
- Act sustainably: You want to rent consciously instead of buying rarely used sports equipment and consuming resources unnecessarily.
Typical practical situations
The classic: Group trip to the snow
Are you planning a winter trip with friends, family or colleagues where not everyone skis or snowboards? Snowshoeing is the ideal, uncomplicated alternative. No previous knowledge or technical course is required, everyone moves at the same pace and can experience the winter landscape together. That is why snowshoes are particularly suitable for mixed groups, company outings, clubs or if you have visitors and want to be out in the snow together.
You are considering buying snowshoes
Are you faced with the decision to buy your own snowshoes but are unsure which model really suits you? Weight, binding, climbing aids or wearing comfort play a major role – but can only be properly assessed in use. By renting, you can test various high-quality models and gain your own experience before deciding to buy. So you make a well-founded choice and only pay for the days you are actually on the road.
Rent snowshoes for a trip
It had fresh snow and Marco from Winterthur only needed the equipment for one day for a guided snowshoe tour. Instead of buying snowshoes, he quickly found a suitable offer on Sharely very close to him. He picked up the snowshoes easily, was perfectly equipped and simply returned them after the tour – exactly as flexible as renting should be.
✔ These examples show how versatile snowshoes are in use – from spontaneous day trips to planned group tours. Sharely makes it easy to find the right equipment for every situation. You rent flexibly, locally and for exactly as long as you really need them.
Selecting snowshoes – briefly explained
The following criteria serve as a guide when selecting the right model. They are not exhaustive, but help you get started. If you are unsure, you can contact our lenders directly on Sharely in advance and get advice.
1
Body weight + luggage
Crucial is not only your body weight, but the total weight including backpack. This determines how well the snowshoe carries you in deep snow and how strenuous the tour will be.
2
Terrain (flat, hilly, alpine)
For easy winter hiking trails or gentle terrain, lighter models are often sufficient. In steeper or alpine terrain, robust snowshoes with pronounced spikes and good lateral stability are important.
3
Binding & climbing aids
A good binding is easy to use even with gloves and sits securely on the shoe. Climbing aids relieve your calves on longer or steep ascents and make tours much more pleasant.
4
Poles: yes or no?
Poles are highly recommended for most snowshoe tours. They provide stability, help with balance and relieve knees on descent. Many offers already include matching poles or offer them optionally.
Guidelines for snowshoe sizes
To find the optimal snowshoe size, the following guidelines help you as a first orientation. The decisive factor is always the total weight including equipment.
up to approx. 70 kg: Size 22
approx. 70–100 kg: Size 25
over 100 kg: Size 30
Some manufacturers also offer special models for women and men with slightly adapted shapes or bindings. The exact details in the respective rental offer and in the manufacturer information always take precedence. If you are unsure, you can contact the lenders directly via the platform before renting.
Equipment & Preparation – what you additionally need
Snowshoes are only part of the equipment. For a safe and pleasant snowshoe tour, it is worth paying attention to a few basic things. The following list serves as practical orientation.
Equipment
- Snowshoes suitable for your weight
- Poles with large snow baskets
- Ankle-high, waterproof hiking boots
- Clothing in layers (onion principle)
- Dry base layer for breaks and descent
Preparation
- Start with secured, simple routes
- Check the avalanche report before every tour
- Inform yourself about basic techniques such as duck walk and traversing slopes
These notes do not replace a safety course, but are a solid start. Further recommendations can be found in the SAC snowshoe tips.
Why rent snowshoes via Sharely?
On Sharely you rent snowshoes from private individuals, clubs or organizations in your region who want to share their equipment wisely. You don't rent anonymously, but directly from local lenders – transparent, fair and flexible instead of buying.
Marketplace instead of mass rental
Sharely is a marketplace, not a classic rental company. You can see profiles, reviews, and locations of the lenders and can contact them directly before renting if you have questions. This way, you know who you are renting from – and find offers in your area.
Insured through Zurich
All rentals via Sharely are insured through our partner Zurich. Damage during regular use is generally covered. You can find the exact services and conditions in the insurance information on the platform.
Secure payment & personal support
Payment is secure and convenient via Sharely. In case of questions or problems, you can reach our team personally – straightforward and without waiting in line.
This way you combine local offers with clearly regulated insurance, secure payment and central support – and use exactly what you need, only when you need it. Find insights into our community on Instagram and Facebook, and learn more about our mission and how Sharely works at "about Sharely".
Rent snowshoes by mail order
Some lenders also offer their articles for rent by mail. So if you don't have time to pick up an article or the article you want is too far away from you, you can have it conveniently shipped to your home. You can find articles with postal shipping
here.
