Shoes for dashing through the snow

If you’re worried about maintaining your aerobic fitness on your next ski trip, set aside a couple of hours for the sport that some people can do just outside their doors this time of year -- snowshoeing. There’s nothing to learn; just strap a pair of snowshoes onto some hiking boots and start hoofing. Even at a moderate-paced walk, the effort and calorie burn can approach that of running. But surrounded by the natural beauty and crisp air of the mountains, you might not even notice that you’re out of breath.

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Roy M. Wallack

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Everyone’s snowshoe

Tubbs Altitude: Aluminum-framed snowshoe with a convenient fit.

Likes: Good, general-purpose performer for most on- and off-trail conditions. No-hassle entry and exit with “Bear Hug” binding -- just insert your foot and buckle one strap. Women’s models, like the floral model pictured, have tapered rear ends (for easier walking) and narrower foot bindings.

Dislikes: So-so handling on aggressive, steep terrain. Foot tends to move around because of the lack of a toehold on the binding.

Price: $229 to $269 (based on length). (800) 882-2748; www.tubbssnowshoes.com.

Speed demon

Crescent Moon Gold 13: Aluminum shoe designed for women and light, fast men.

Likes: Superb for running and fast-paced walking. Although technically designed for women, the 13 works great for anyone under 165 pounds. Crescent Moon’s signature teardrop shape and pointed tail allow you to stride, one foot ahead of the other without overlapping, unlike rounded-end models that force a wider (i.e. more masculine) stride. The binding cinches tight around your foot with one quick pull. Foot claws placed at the toes, not farther back as with others, encourage a fast, forward-lean position and keep the foot stable no matter the terrain.

Dislikes: None.

Price: $219. (800) 587-7655; www.crescentmoonsnowshoes.com.

The plastic long-hauler

MSR Denali Evo Ascent: Plastic snowshoe loaded with comfort and stability features.

Likes: Ideal for carrying a heavy backpack or a snowboard into the backcountry. One-piece plastic frame has great traction. Ridges molded into the bottom help stop you from sliding downhill on steep descents. The flexible plastic contours to the slope, providing stability on odd angles. Swing-up “Televator” heel riser keeps your foot at a right angle on steep inclines, greatly reducing calf fatigue.

Dislikes: Three-strap binding takes longer to cinch tight than single-pull designs.

Price: $199. (800) 527-1527; msrgear.com.

Wooden trail breaker

Faber Winter Guide 1030: Hybrid modern/traditional snowshoe with a wooden frame and plastic decking.

Likes: Ideal for “breaking trail” -- hiking into areas of thick, virgin snow with no designated trail. Foot placement in the middle provides better “float” and stability on thick powder than the forward-foot placement of most other snowshoes. The wooden frame is also slush-proof, meaning it won’t get the icy build-up of metal-frames in wetter conditions.

Dislikes: The nose is too long and foot too centered for comfortable hiking on groomed trails.

Price: $129. (866) 842-8476; fabersnowshoes.com.