Snowshoes or Skis

Snowshoes

Backcountry Skis

Athleticism Required

Low.  Can you walk?

Medium to high; to achieve skills and exploit the terrain.

Breaking trail

More effort

Less effort

Cost

<$250; cheaper than backcountry skis and boots and poles.

$1,000 for a backcountry or alpine ski package; $500 for a high-end cross-country ski package.

Crossing obstacles

Much easier crossing obstacles like fallen trees

Requires more dexterity and control.

Down Slopes

Controlled

Faster and fun

Fun Factor

Bushwhacking and exploring

Slide and glide!

Getting up from a fall

Easier

Harder

Learning curve

You are likely become a proficient snowshoer faster than a good skier

High learning curve before a person becomes competent

Range

Comparable to hiking.

Most  people can travel farther on skis than snowshoes

Snow Depth

The proper snowshoes provide floatation in deep snow.

With deep, new snow cross-country skis can be hard to maneuver

Systems

Mountaineering or recreational

Alpine, backcountry or cross-country skis

Terrain

Snowshoes are easier to use in hilly, brushy or heavily forested areas

Skis will be faster, easier and use less energy on flatter ground, open terrain and/or packed trails.

Up Slopes

Using modern snowshoes with cleats, you can often take a direct route climbing up a hill

Requires “climbing skins” and/or switchback traverses

Use of Poles

Used for balance and for sensing the terrain.

Used for propulsion

Weight

Greater control when carrying a backpack of large size and weight

Large packs require extra attention to balance control