Our snowshoe collection has decorative, usable, and museum quality snowshoes with unique shapes like the Ojibwa, Huron, Alaskan and Bearpaw. Some were made for hauling heavy trapper loads, while others were designed for speed and agility. Typically, the most prized snowshoes include the intricately woven Native American examples including the Swallowtail, Bearpaw, Alaskan, Huron, Penobscot, Attikamekw, and Beavertail snowshoes.
Despite the variety in size, shape and style, snowshoes typically were made from only two materials; wood and animal hide. Traditionally snowshoe makers would search for days on end to select the perfect tree to cut down. Once selected the process was on a strict timeline due to the hourly moisture loss occurring in the wood. Once cut and bent into shape animal hide was prepared, typically out of caribou, deer or moose. While weaving techniques differed in design, all were created to be strong and durable enough to hold the weight of the sometimes extremely heavy loads.
From the elegant curves of the Ojibwa to the sturdy construction of the Bearpaw, we offer a diverse range of snowshoe shapes, including the iconic Alaskan and Huron styles.
Discover the artistry and ingenuity of vintage wood snowshoes, each one a testament to the skill and dedication of its maker. Whether for display, outdoor adventure, or preservation of history, our collection offers something truly special for every enthusiast.