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.

Performance Comparison

Flotation

If you are looking to float high on deep snowdrifts, then 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, keeping them light and easy to move in. The Eva itself is actually quite light, but 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 take your snowshoe goals and locations into consideration during your search for the perfect fit.

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 solid stick on flat or lightly rolling hills of packed or icy snow. While the spikes don't provide the same level of traction as a shoe with large crampons and teethed side rails, they get the job done on the right terrain. The spikes will wear down over time, so additional replacement spikes are available for purchase.

Stride Ergonomics

The toe side of the Eva is quite wide, 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, at first, just feels straight-up awkward. That being said, once you find your footing, the shoes are actually pretty fun. Taking longer steps or even upping the pace to a light jog improves stride ergonomics immensely. Each step feels as though it is propelling the foot forward, so moving quickly in feels more natural than leisurely strolling along at a slower pace. If having a bounce in your step down groomed winter trails sounds like your jam, this is a great option.

Ease of Use

It doesn't get much easier than Velcro, right? Well, that thought is probably what 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 lack of float, but as we already mentioned, these shoes are meant more for packed trails than fresh powder adventures. The sneaker-like nature of the Eva makes stepping over logs or other obstacles a breeze, so feel free to parkour off whatever you please while sporting these puppies!

Bindings

While we felt mostly 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. Additionally, while we did not have any issues with the Velcro on our outings, we are all aware of the fact that most Velcro lacks durability and longevity. 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 may 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, we find them worth the price.

What Other Snowshoes Should You Consider?