Crescent Moon Eva Foam Review

The Crescent Moon Eva Foam is nothing if not unique. It is made entirely of foam and has a very simple velcro binding. The small metal spikes on the bottom help with traction, but this shoe is best used on flat, packed snow. Read on to see how it performed throughout our testing.

Flotation

If you want to float high on deep snowdrifts, you may want to continue your search. The thick foam decking of the Eva is one solid piece devoid of the spaces and holes you see on most snowshoes. Those holes are designed to allow snow to clear the top of the shoe. We found that the shoes folded in on themselves like a taco in deep drifts, and the snow that gathers on top weighs them down. While you will avoid post-holing the way you would without a snowshoe, this isn't the model to consider for deep snow excursions. The Eva is best used on packed trails, so be sure to consider your snowshoe goals and locations during your search for the right snowshoe.

Traction

The unique design of the Eva does not stop at its rocker shape or simplistic foam material. Instead of toothy crampons like most modern snowshoes, the underside is highly ridged and textured. It almost resembles the bottom of a soccer cleat. The shoe has optional ice spikes for added traction, which provide a good stick on flat or lightly rolling hills of packed or icy snow. While the spikes don't offer nearly the same level of traction as a shoe with large crampons and teethed side rails, they get the job done on suitable terrain. The spikes will wear down over time, so additional replacement spikes are available for purchase.

Walkability

The toe side of the Eva is quite broad, which forced most of our users, petite or not, to widen their gait while walking. This is a unisex shoe with thick foam decking, which initially feels straight-up awkward. That said, they are pretty fun once you find your footing. Taking longer steps or even upping the pace to a light jog improves stride ergonomics immensely. If having a bounce in your step going down groomed winter trails sounds like your jam, this is a great option. The sneaker-like nature of the Eva makes stepping over logs or other obstacles a breeze.

Bindings

It doesn't get much easier than Velcro. Well, that thought probably inspired the simple Velcro binding system on the Eva Foam. Slide your foot in and then cinch down the sandal-like straps. Done and done. There is no fancy binding attachment — instead of the foot pivoting separately from the shoe, as on most models, the entirety of the footbed stays connected to the foam platform. This means the decking collects more snow and, in turn, contributes to the lack of float, but as we already mentioned, these shoes are meant more for packed trails than fresh powder adventures.

While we mainly felt secure in the Eva, some of our testers reported discomfort. Because the shoe does not hinge, it may pull on the heel of your boot a bit. A few of our testers ended their hikes with small blisters on their heels, so make sure you strap your feet down tightly and wear appropriate socks, or you may suffer the same fate. We had trouble with ice clogging in the Velcro over time and reducing its stick, and we are aware that most Velcro lacks durability compared to other binding materials. If you choose to purchase this snowshoe, be mindful to take care of the Velcro and keep it clean, or you may find that these shoes do not last you as long as you want.

Should You Buy the Crescent Moon Eva Foam?

The cost of these snowshoes is on the lower end of our tested models, but they aren't worth it if you need a technical setup for floating out in deep snow and traversing steep, icy hills. But if you plan to stay on trails and possibly run? Then, yes, you might find them a fun option for casual snow play.

What Other Snowshoes Should You Consider?